By Niña Catherine Calleja/MANILA, Philippines

Paquito “Paq” Yu, whose name sounds like an obscenity, is a satirical character created by Pagbabago! members Bibeth Orteza and Chris Millado.

Pagbabago! is a group composed of activists seeking government reforms.

Paq Yu, sporting a trapo’s (traditional politician’s) outfit—red checkered polo shirt, black slacks and shiny shoes—was the main guest in Pagbabago’s founding assembly held at the University of Makati Tuesday.

He entered the auditorium, smiling and very agreeable for photo ops. He gave speeches, answered questions during the forum and shook hands with everybody and asked for more photo ops.

Platform

Onstage, Paq Yu announced his presidential bid and presented his platform: “I want the Philippines declared the 52nd state of the United States.”

He had another bright idea: “We should reuse the tarpaulins of politicians for my low-cost housing program,” and held up an illustration board which read, “Applause.”

And the audience of 300 cheered.

Expect to see more of Paq Yu as he will make public appearances until the 2010 elections.

Seriously

Pagbabago organizers said Paq Yu embodied the trapos’ greed and superficiality, politicians whose platforms are based on political patronage and corruption.

All the negative traits of the trapos were collected and poured into this ironic character, said comedian Gabe Mercado, who plays Paq Yu.

But seriously now, Paq Yu, like any other politician, will file his candidacy with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), attend presidential debates and launch campaigns.

“I hope no one will vote for Paquito,” Mercado, no longer in character, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer (parent company of INQUIRER.net).

Long-term change

Rolando Tolentino, University of the Philippines professor and spokesperson of Pagbabago said his group aimed not just to end the Arroyo administration, but to change the system of poverty, injustice, corruption and selfishness.

He said they were looking for someone who would adhere to the drafted 11-point agenda. “As of now, we haven’t seen anyone, but deserving people might emerge from our grassroots building.”

Pagbabago will set up chapters and small groups in communities and barangays (villages) to consolidate the efforts of people who want long-term change.

The group’s elected chair is Sr. Mary John Mananzan, head of the Association of Major Religious Superiors of the Philippines (AMRSP), while Edith Burgos, mother of missing activist Jonas, is a member of the organizing committee.

NBN-ZTE whistle-blower

NBN-ZTE whistle-blower Rodolfo “Jun” Lozada Jr. attended the Pagbabago launch although he continues to be under the Senate custody while battling a perjury case.

“I was invited to the first meetings of [the group] and we had the same ideas for change,” he said in Filipino. “Why not contribute?”

Asked if his participation in Pagbabago was a sign of his intention to run for a national post, he said: “I am focusing on my case. Perhaps when Malacañang finally leaves me alone.”

What’s new?

What makes Pagbabago different from other groups?

Dr. Carol Araullo, chair of the militant Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), said: “This is an attempt to put together a platform for governance, including reforms.”

She added that this movement was an evolution of groups and personalities aiming to remove President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo from office.

“Unfortunately it has not happened,” Araullo said.

Unlike other groups or coalitions that are issue-based, Pagbabago aims for strategic change which cannot be achieved by a single rally, she said.

But she noted these groups had not lost hope that they could oust Arroyo before her term expires in 2010.

“That is to make her liable to all the corruption, stealing and cheating she has committed,” Araullo said.

Other anti-Arroyo personalities like Linggayen-Dagupan Archbishop Oscar Cruz and national artist for literature Bienvenido Lumbera attended. With a report from Thea Alberto, INQUIRER.net