(no subject)
There was some controversy in the Philippines when Cebu was named the location of the summit for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations this week. Some critics thought the honor should go to Manila, which is more accessible for Asian leaders and the news media. However, it is not uncommon for countries to highlight locations other than their capital with international events, and Manila was the site of a previous ASEAN summit.
As I write this, I’m watching the ASEAN live. Initially I tuned in because of my interest in this momentous occasion in Asian politics and economics. However, upon turning on my tv, what I saw could have been anything but political or economical in nature. Afterwards I felt like I watched a cultural show, a concert, a fashion show and a clip of broadway in an hour and a half. The singkil and the presentation of Lea Salonga were of particular interest to me. The presentations were great until it got to the last part where some old guy brandished an electric guitar and sang “a community of untiy.” However, I won’t let that odd segment ruin my wonderful impression of how they prepared for the ASEAN summit though.
I wish I could have been back in Cebu, sitting among the dignitaries and talking about what wonderful hosts we Filipinos are and how progressive the country seems to be. While I was in Cebu, the changes were evident as we drove along its newly paved roads and finely constructed edifices. I suppose it’s easier to create the image of improvement instead of producing the actual improvements. I’m glad though that it was held in Cebu. I was there over the Christams break and I loved it, as usual. Even if I’ve been there about seven times, the place always seems to be so alive with the breathe of the city and the beauty of the province (but far cleaner than Manila, of course).
As I write this, I’m watching the ASEAN live. Initially I tuned in because of my interest in this momentous occasion in Asian politics and economics. However, upon turning on my tv, what I saw could have been anything but political or economical in nature. Afterwards I felt like I watched a cultural show, a concert, a fashion show and a clip of broadway in an hour and a half. The singkil and the presentation of Lea Salonga were of particular interest to me. The presentations were great until it got to the last part where some old guy brandished an electric guitar and sang “a community of untiy.” However, I won’t let that odd segment ruin my wonderful impression of how they prepared for the ASEAN summit though.
I wish I could have been back in Cebu, sitting among the dignitaries and talking about what wonderful hosts we Filipinos are and how progressive the country seems to be. While I was in Cebu, the changes were evident as we drove along its newly paved roads and finely constructed edifices. I suppose it’s easier to create the image of improvement instead of producing the actual improvements. I’m glad though that it was held in Cebu. I was there over the Christams break and I loved it, as usual. Even if I’ve been there about seven times, the place always seems to be so alive with the breathe of the city and the beauty of the province (but far cleaner than Manila, of course).