Politics and Web 2.0

November 9th, 2009

Hi all,

First, let me say that it’s great to have settled down again after an amazing honeymoon experience in Japan. As soon as I got back to the country though, a lot of my friends wanted to know if it was really me and Korina who were ‘tweeting.’ Let’s just say that I found the question amusing. Just so everyone knows, I’ve been using Twitter since late last year; Facebook, for over two years now (although these days I prefer looking at the comments in my fan page rather than my personal account). I’d also like to call myself a blogger but I don’t think the number of articles I’ve written will justify the title, haha. Hanggang ngayon parang newbie pa rin : )

At first, I thought that these social networks were just for getting in touch with my contacts online, sort of like e-mail only more social. Later, I was pleasantly surprised to find many of my schoolmates from high school and college adding me up as friends. People from work and even constituents from all over the country started sending me messages. Medyo na-overwhelm ako.

I particularly like it that Facebook has a fan page that doesn’t limit the number of contacts I can have.

Reading messages came by the hundreds on some days. I’d add people up only to find out that I was limited to just 5000 friends. Now that I’ve gotten a hang of it though, I’ve limited myself to occasionally reading and answering messages, posting photos, and tweeting when time permits. I particularly like it that Facebook has a fan page that doesn’t limit the number of contacts I can have. My good friend Noynoy now has over 100,000 fans supporting and listening to him. Sobrang impressive ang pag-dami ng supporters! I am very proud that the internet population is doing its share in bringing about change to the country.

For the record, let me state that these are amazing tools for a country like the Philippines, a country so divided by geographical boundaries that it’s almost impossible to tell what’s going on without news coverage by national TV networks and newspapers. These physical limitations are now so easily beaten by two-sentence tweets or status updates. Nakakamangha.

Who would’ve thought that something that allows for so much transparency in government could be so easy and fun to use at the same time?

Some say that these social networks belong to the younger generation and that us politicians should stay out of it. Sa palagay ko, hindi e. It’s an interesting experience, to say the least, both for the politician and his constituents. What better way for us to hear what people have to say than having comments appear real-time in a medium which everyone treats as their online identity? I remember when Congress attempted to railroad cha-cha with HR1109, the web exploded with so much negativity that one can’t help but be impressed with the online reaction. When the $50,000 dinners were held in the states, the net once again erupted in anger. When the flooding occurred in the metropolis, I remember reading dozens of contact details spreading virally because of both celebrity and non-celebrity tweets. It’s no secret that the the relief effort after the typhoons was largely a product of “bayanihan 2.0” – a combination of web and Filipino culture. Ang galing talaga!

I’d go even as far as saying that it might be a good idea for all our officials to have Facebook and Twitter. For one thing it would make them more accessible to those who’re interested in reaching them. For now, just for myself, having both Facebook and Twitter accounts, reading about what people say about current events, and tweeting every now and then about my own public, personal, and even married, life seems like a good way to start. Who would’ve thought that something that allows for so much transparency in government could be so easy and fun to use at the same time? Until my next update, feel free to let me know what you think about politicians and the internet in the comments below. Thanks!

Share this

charter change, graft and corruption, social media, volunteer relief

http://www.facebook.com/people/Ana-Roxas-Ojeda/100000238121810 Ana Roxas Ojeda

love it when you tweet!
http://www.facebook.com/people/Ana-Roxas-Ojeda/100000238121810 Ana Roxas Ojeda

love it when you tweet!
http://twitter.com/eaola2005 Elkie Almoro Ola

I enjoyed following your tweets while you werehere in Japan!
http://twitter.com/eaola2005 Elkie Almoro Ola

I enjoyed following your tweets while you werehere in Japan!
http://twitter.com/eaola2005 Elkie Almoro Ola

I enjoyed following your tweets while you were
here in Japan!
http://twitter.com/eaola2005 Elkie Almoro Ola

I enjoyed following your tweets while you were
here in Japan!
http://www.facebook.com/johnalvero John Alvero

It's interesting to note that some of our leaders appreciate the value and importance of the web as a tool. I just hope that more and more of our leaders do the same as you did Sen. Mar.

Btw, the site looks great. I dont have time to read all these today but will read some other time.
http://www.facebook.com/johnalvero John Alvero

It's interesting to note that some of our leaders appreciate the value and importance of the web as a tool. I just hope that more and more of our leaders do the same as you did Sen. Mar.Btw, the site looks great. I dont have time to read all these today but will read some other time.
aries17aries

.i'll like it that your always thier.. joining new generation..
aries17aries

.i'll like it that your always thier.. joining new generation..
http://twitter.com/mctastie anton villaluz

Waiting for more tweets!
http://twitter.com/mctastie anton villaluz

Waiting for more tweets!
http://twitter.com/prinzesita1907 Liandel Santos

more tweets please? I hope MS.Korina is okay.. )
http://twitter.com/prinzesita1907 Liandel Santos

more tweets please? I hope MS.Korina is okay.. )
dominiqueanne

It's good to see my post as one of the related articles here in your site. I totally agree with your reasons why it's very helpful even for politicians to join Web2.0. Internet users have a lot to say about local issues like calamities, house bills, and others. You can get real time feedback from the perspective of different kinds of people.Btw, I'm from the clan of Roxases of Tanauan City, Batangas.
dominiqueanne

It's good to see my post as one of the related articles here in your site. I totally agree with your reasons why it's very helpful even for politicians to join Web2.0. Internet users have a lot to say about local issues like calamities, house bills, and others. You can get real time feedback from the perspective of different kinds of people.

Btw, I'm from the clan of Roxases of Tanauan City, Batangas.
deborahgin

So glad that politicians such as yourself would like to touch base with the mamamayang Filipino. As Executive Director of a community service organization, I am a staunch pusher for the transformation of our country into a godly and prosperous nation by 2026 by through values education. I believe that this is doable and attainable with the help of our national government, whoever may be in the position for the next 16 years. On this note, i would like to know if your platform of government includes strict implementation of teaching values to the community. This issue is important for me as a voting individual because i firmly believe that if we would like to see real transformation in our country, we have to change the mindset of the Filipino people. A mindset that is always looking for someone to blame instead of accepting responsibility for one's actions. A mindset that looks for solutions to problems instead of being a part of the problem.I am hopeful that i will be able to get some commitment or assurance from you and Noynoy regarding this matter.
deborahgin

So glad that politicians such as yourself would like to touch base with the mamamayang Filipino.

As Executive Director of a community service organization, I am a staunch pusher for the transformation of our country into a godly and prosperous nation by 2026 by through values education. I believe that this is doable and attainable with the help of our national government, whoever may be in the position for the next 16 years.

On this note, i would like to know if your platform of government includes strict implementation of teaching values to the community. This issue is important for me as a voting individual because i firmly believe that if we would like to see real transformation in our country, we have to change the mindset of the Filipino people. A mindset that is always looking for someone to blame instead of accepting responsibility for one's actions. A mindset that looks for solutions to problems instead of being a part of the problem.

I am hopeful that i will be able to get some commitment or assurance from you and Noynoy regarding this matter.
wella072089

wow.. well goodluck for this coming election hope you and mr. Aquino will win
wella072089

wow.. well goodluck for this coming election hope you and mr. Aquino will win
wella072089

SIR MAR.. I'm hoping na kapag nanalo kayu is mapatakbo nyu ng maayus ang government natin and improvement po for our country.
wella072089

SIR MAR.. I'm hoping na kapag nanalo kayu is mapatakbo nyu ng maayus ang government natin and improvement po for our country.
medelmbalgos

Sir Mar, and father ko po ay taga Bonga, Panay, Capiz, pero almost 48 years na po kami naninirahan sa Bgry. Balian, Pangil, Laguna, pero madalas naman po ako nakaka uwi sa atin-seafoods capital of the philippines, sa panahon pa po ni sir dinggoy kami po ay sumusuporta na, labis po ang aming katuwaan ng magpahayag kayo na kakandidato kayo bilang Pangalawang Pangulo, sa pagkakataong ito nais po namin tumulong sa inyo bilang campaign people dito sa aming lugar, noon pong mga nakaraang mga panahon wala po kaming malapitan na liberal party representative dito, kaya nga po sa pamamagitan ng email ko ay makarating sa inyong kaalaman ang aming pagpapahayag ng pagtulong sa inyong kandidatura, sino po ang pwede ko lapitan para makahingi ng mga paraphernallas na aming gagamitin sa pag campaign, more power- Medel
medelmbalgos

Sir Mar, and father ko po ay taga Bonga, Panay, Capiz, pero almost 48 years na po kami naninirahan sa Bgry. Balian, Pangil, Laguna, pero madalas naman po ako nakaka uwi sa atin-seafoods capital of the philippines, sa panahon pa po ni sir dinggoy kami po ay sumusuporta na, labis po ang aming katuwaan ng magpahayag kayo na kakandidato kayo bilang Pangalawang Pangulo, sa pagkakataong ito nais po namin tumulong sa inyo bilang campaign people dito sa aming lugar, noon pong mga nakaraang mga panahon wala po kaming malapitan na liberal party representative dito, kaya nga po sa pamamagitan ng email ko ay makarating sa inyong kaalaman ang aming pagpapahayag ng pagtulong sa inyong kandidatura, sino po ang pwede ko lapitan para makahingi ng mga paraphernallas na aming gagamitin sa pag campaign, more power- Medel
http://www.facebook.com/people/Celi-Bates/100000131497053 Celi Bates

Hi Mr. Senator! In 2010 election will be my first time to vote for president and vice president. A sad reality that for the past two presidential elections my ballot line for those slate are N/A… hehehhehe..i have so many things in my mind that i really would like to email. things that i know will be of big help to us Filipinos..Our country is rich both in resources and people, we must start to realize and act on it now for our preservation and for our children…..Sana pagyamanin natin ang ating resources sa paraan na tama at hindi nakakasira ng kalikasan at ng tao… please include with ur agenda to really have a regional development so that jobs will be equally distributed to all regions. at hindi na sa metro manila nakafocus kaya ang mga tao pumupunta pa dun kahit na alam nila they have only shelter in the slums…andaming problema sa bayan natin… im praying that ur tandem will make a difference for once to our beloved country, SO THAT THE TRUE MEANING OF DEMOCRACY WILL BE BEAUTIFULLY PAINTED IN THE SKY:” BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE AND OF THE PEOPLE,,,, EQUALITY AND FREEDOM…” let us always include in our prayers the wounds of our country and be united to illuminate to all Filipinos the virtues of kindness, love, patience, charity, generosity and forgiveness…
http://www.facebook.com/people/Celi-Bates/100000131497053 Celi Bates

Hi Mr. Senator! In 2010 election will be my first time to vote for president and vice president. A sad reality that for the past two presidential elections my ballot line for those slate are N/A… hehehhehe..i have so many things in my mind that i really would like to email. things that i know will be of big help to us Filipinos..Our country is rich both in resources and people, we must start to realize and act on it now for our preservation and for our children…..Sana pagyamanin natin ang ating resources sa paraan na tama at hindi nakakasira ng kalikasan at ng tao… please include with ur agenda to really have a regional development so that jobs will be equally distributed to all regions. at hindi na sa metro manila nakafocus kaya ang mga tao pumupunta pa dun kahit na alam nila they have only shelter in the slums…andaming problema sa bayan natin… im praying that ur tandem will make a difference for once to our beloved country, SO THAT THE TRUE MEANING OF DEMOCRACY WILL BE BEAUTIFULLY PAINTED IN THE SKY:” BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE AND OF THE PEOPLE,,,, EQUALITY AND FREEDOM…” let us always include in our prayers the wounds of our country and be united to illuminate to all Filipinos the virtues of kindness, love, patience, charity, generosity and forgiveness…
deleugene

Dear Mar, You will be surprised to know that I am a 71 yr old lady who is also into FB and Twitter(my daugter introduced me to this) Anyway I am happy to make contact with you and maybe later with Noynoy. I am not only a big fan of you and Korina but banking on your great ability to move, together with Noynoy, the country to a better place for our kababayan, especially the underprivileged. We support you all the way.
deleugene

Dear Mar, You will be surprised to know that I am a 71 yr old lady who is also into FB and Twitter(my daugter introduced me to this) Anyway I am happy to make contact with you and maybe later with Noynoy. I am not only a big fan of you and Korina but banking on your great ability to move, together with Noynoy, the country to a better place for our kababayan, especially the underprivileged. We support you all the way.
KC_of_Mar_Roxas_Web_Support

Mar asked us to thank everyone for expressing their support for him and Noy. He always appreciates people’s feedbacks, no matter how short or long.We hope you continue to visit this site, and to follow Mar and Noy on Facebook and Twitter. Also, please tell your friends to do the same.Kami rin po na nagtrabaho sa site, natutuwa sa lahat ng mga tumatangkilik. If you have any suggestions on how we can improve on it, please feel free to e-mail us at support@marroxas.net. Maraming salamat po!
KC_of_Mar_Roxas_Web_Support

Mar asked us to thank everyone for expressing their support for him and Noy. He always appreciates people's feedbacks, no matter how short or long.

We hope you continue to visit this site, and to follow Mar and Noy on Facebook and Twitter. Also, please tell your friends to do the same.

Kami rin po na nagtrabaho sa site, natutuwa sa lahat ng mga tumatangkilik. If you have any suggestions on how we can improve on it, please feel free to e-mail us at websupport@marroxas.net. Maraming salamat po!
mercybaltazar

Hi “kuya” Mar hahaha! (lol, because I'm old enough to be your tita!). On a serious note, I just want you to know that you're no. 1 among a handful of politicians I believe in. I don't really consider you a politician in the way the word connotes, as though I really know you….but honestly, I think you're a real person as in “totoong tao”. Thumbs up to you and Noy!
mercybaltazar

Hi “kuya” Mar hahaha! (lol, because I'm old enough to be your tita!). On a serious note, I just want you to know that you're no. 1 among a handful of politicians I believe in. I don't really consider you a politician in the way the word connotes, as though I really know you….but honestly, I think you're a real person as in “totoong tao”. Thumbs up to you and Noy!
http://www.facebook.com/people/Fidencio-Ferrer/100000027382918 Fidencio Ferrer

Hi Sen.Mar! Actually early on, I already signed in your official website and even offered my services. I personally believe you are a big2 asset to our government (in whatever capacity) with your vast capabilities. Likewise, with your great personal sacrifice to team up with Noynoy, I sincerely believe that our country will soon rise again, albeit gradually, with all the support and help from all our patriotic Kababayans.

I am joining you in your fight “Laban” for my 2 grandsons in the photo.

Thank you and take care always. GOD loves you!
http://www.facebook.com/people/Fidencio-Ferrer/100000027382918 Fidencio Ferrer

Hi Sen.Mar! Actually early on, I already signed in your official website and even offered my services. I personally believe you are a big2 asset to our government (in whatever capacity) with your vast capabilities. Likewise, with your great personal sacrifice to team up with Noynoy, I sincerely believe that our country will soon rise again, albeit gradually, with all the support and help from all our patriotic Kababayans.
I am joining you in your fight “Laban” for my 2 grandsons in the photo.
Thank you and take care always. GOD loves you!
http://www.facebook.com/people/Jessica-Cuevas/818309653 Jessica Cuevas

Senator Mar, comment ko lang po, i know that there are several LAKAS members transferring to LP. They can help your campaign in the provinces and I appreciate it. Transferring to LP should rather not be advertise more in order not to be negatively understood by the people. What do you think?
http://www.facebook.com/people/Jessica-Cuevas/818309653 Jessica Cuevas

Senator Mar, comment ko lang po, i know that there are several LAKAS members transferring to LP. They can help your campaign in the provinces and I appreciate it. Transferring to LP should rather not be advertise more in order not to be negatively understood by the people. What do you think?
repablo

Hi Sen. Mar Roxas, tanong lang po…”bkit pidekab ang ginamit nyu sa campaign commercial nyu”? sa tingin ko po kc ang pedikab ay isa sa simbulo ng kahirapan..ganito po bang sistema maari nyung ibigay sa ating lipunan? “lam ko po endi”..pero…/, naranasan nyu na po ba ang buhay ng isang pedikab driver?” lam ko po endi ulit” bakit po eto ang napili nyu?.. saludo po ako sa inyu nung sa DTI pa kayo..
repablo

Hi Sen. Mar Roxas, tanong lang po…”bkit pidekab ang ginamit nyu sa campaign commercial nyu”? sa tingin ko po kc ang pedikab ay isa sa simbulo ng kahirapan..ganito po bang sistema maari nyung ibigay sa ating lipunan? “lam ko po endi”..pero…/, naranasan nyu na po ba ang buhay ng isang pedikab driver?” lam ko po endi ulit” bakit po eto ang napili nyu?.. saludo po ako sa inyu nung sa DTI pa kayo..
ambetcerda

Hi Senator Mar, I hope you already recovered from your honeymoon! I wish you and Korina all the best in Life.By the way I wish to volunteer to your and Noynoy's cause. I theres anything I can do to help let me know. Thanks and God Bless to you both!
ambetcerda

Hi Senator Mar, I hope you already recovered from your honeymoon! I wish you and Korina all the best in Life.By the way I wish to volunteer to your and Noynoy's cause. I theres anything I can do to help let me know. Thanks and God Bless to you both!
deleugene

When you're there, I know it wi happen, both you and Noy must call on every best nationalistic minds to work double time on the horendous problems that hound our country. Inspire us Filipinos to really be serious in making change for the better the Philippines. God bless you Mar and Korina.
deleugene

When you're there, I know it wi happen, both you and Noy must call on every best nationalistic minds to work double time on the horendous problems that hound our country. Inspire us Filipinos to really be serious in making change for the better the Philippines. God bless you Mar and Korina.
MELINDA BITHAO VILLASOTO

Dear Hon. Senator Mar,
I was one of the recipients of GERRY ROXAS FOUNDATION-Hublag Capiznon Scholarship which your family founded with the great help of your beloved mother in honor of your father Sen. Gerry Roxas . I was able to graduate as Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) at Filamer Christian College March 1994. After graduation I ran for the local election and I served in our barangay as Kagawad ( for short period only) , wherein you're already serving the First District of Capiz year 1994. Since you've been in public service I and my family in Bonga, Panay,Capiz observed your integrity and dedication to your duties and responsibilities as lawmaker and a true CAPIZNON by heart. I know that you legislated laws and policies that benefited most Filipinos especially when you were assigned as DTI Secretary, you were able to protect the consumers rights and you're able to awaken Filipino masses through the awareness /campaign done and initiated for the consumers welfare. As senator you have proven that your heart belongs to the people. Your HUMILITY and COURAGE marked your name as a true leader of this country.
You have started right and I hope you will be successful this 2010 Election. Presently I am telling my colleagues about jobs you've done in Capiz and the whole country. I am hoping that you will continue to provide the Capizenos livelihood projects for all ages especially the senior citizens and the out-of -school youth in Brgy. Bonga,Panay.
GOD BLESS YOU & YOUR FAMILY . GOODLUCK AND MORE POWER !
jonathancaragos

To: hon. Mar roxas

We sensei will join @ ABS-CBN’s showtime program on feb.14, 2010 at manila. Our group is compose of 13 members. However, we don’t have enough funds for our transportation & costume.
Because of this, we would like to ask for your support for us to be able to represent our city,
ROXAS and our province, CAPIZ in this celebrated national program.

Thank you very much, more power, & god bless you!

repectfully yours,
Jonathan Caragos
Sensei group leader
jofelynanecesario

Dear Sen. Mar Roxas,

I graduated from The Sisters of Mary School Girlstown which is located in Talisay City, Cebu. I have this great desire and hope to pursue college but my father and mother can't afford my studies for we are 5 in the family and I'm the eldest. I would like to ask for your help to pursue my studies in college for me to help my family and also to serve my country more than what I can do today.

Thank you very much and may God bless you!

Sincerely yours,
Jofelyn A. Necesario