The Philippine Online Chronicles

The Batangas provincial government's proposal to put a “Hollywood-like” sign bearing the word “Batangas” across Taal Volcano became the topic of debate and discussion on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter since Thursday

Satirical photoshopped images of different places in the country bearing Hollywood-style signages have cropped up around the Web, similar to the recent meme of photoshopped pictures of three  Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) workers.

A Facebook page “Hollywood Pilipinas” was created, wherein those who liked the page “shared their own interpretations of the meme.”

Netizens, including Jim Paredes and Carlos Celdran, have also posted negative comments regarding the issue on Twitter.

Still being studied

In a statement, Batangas vice governor Mark Leviste reacted to the issue, saying the proposal is still being studied.

“I actually expected to see mixed opinions on the idea, but I hope our kababayans will remain mature, responsible and objective with their comments. We appreciate their participation and will always welcome their insights,” Leviste said.

Leviste also defended Batangas governor Vilma Santos-Recto from the negative comments addressed towards her.

“Gov. Vilma was unaware of the interview and article that came out...therefore it's unfair to judge and criticize the Governor with regard to the issue. Gov. Vi always means well and she'll do what is best for the province,” said Leviste.

'Don't overreact'

In a phone interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Santos said she was greeted with negative comments when she woke up on Thursday.

The governor also clarified that the proposal is not yet final.

“It's not as if it's a done deal. It's not as if there's already an allocated budget for the constructions. It was just a plan that was tackled in a meeting,” she said.

Santos pointed out that the proposal is still being discussed with the Protected Area and Management Board (PAMB), whose task is to oversee areas protected by law, including the Taal Lake and Taal Volcano.

The proposal also aimed to reclaim the area as part of Batangas, as people denote the area as part of Tagaytay, Cavite, according to Santos.

She also clarified that the suggested sign was “Ala Eh,” a Batangueno term, and not “Batangas.”

Santos was also saddened with the linkage of the issue to political agenda and the upcoming 2013 elections.

“Bahala sila sa buhay nila. I have no time for politicking. I'm not motivated by self-interest. I am here to serve the people of Batangas he best way I can,” she said.