Manny Pacquiao's English

            English is a universal language. It is widely spoken in many countries around the world in many different circumstances, most especially in business and other academic setting. To further emphasize the great reach of the English language, it has engulfed the Filipinos since it was introduced by the Americans to be part of our educational system being one of the official languages used as a medium of instruction in classrooms. Fortunately, being exposed to the language and learning it at an early age affords us a plethora of advantages; one of which is our being able to communicate with the world. 

            A number of Filipinos take pride in their English skills. However, the belief about the Filipinos superiority in English among other Asian neighboring countries and non-English speaking countries is on the brink of becoming a myth. In my opinion, English in the Philippines has greatly deteriorated. Why do  I say so? I have been an English Trainer to both professionals and paraprofessionals alike. And most of the professionals I have handled in my classes have the English communication skills which range from high beginner to high intermediate. This scenario is quite unlikely but the sad truth.

            To rub more salt into the wound, some academicians, politicians, businessmen, lawyers, accountants, and even some journalists have undeniably embarked on the use of second-rate English for whatever reason it serves them. Others admittedly profess their inferiority with regards to the use of the language while others take pride despite the obvious diffidence. Our very own world boxing champ and lawmaker Manny Pacquiao is definitely not an exemption.

            Recently, I have read an article entitled “Manny Pacquiao slams grammar critics on Twitter” dated Monday, March 21, 2011 8:36 AM PHT. This has caught my attention especially that many words have been said already about the issue. But before I would go into the different comments, I would like to share my two cents about this matter.

            Manny Pacquiao is an icon not only to the Filipinos but to the whole world (please don’t call me exaggerated especially those who are against him) so it is expected of him to speak in a language that is understood by people from different linguistic orientation and background. In the said article, the boxing champ says that “it doesn’t matter of the grammar as long they understand the message thanks.” While to a certain extent I agree with his statement, I am more inclined to refute such claim. Why do I agree? It is because we have the so called local errors which do not necessarily affect the meaning of the sentence. For example, “Sheryl have a car.” The sentence still expresses clear meaning despite the obvious ungrammatical structure of the sentence should we consider the basic rule in subject-verb agreement.

            Notwithstanding, one reason why I differ with his statement is that communication requires utmost clarity in meaning and that can only be established if the sentence is well-structured. This means that the sentence is free from fossilized errors in syntax and of course semantics. Clarity in meaning is universal and it should not be confined to only one cultural context.  The whole world listening to you should understand you. Hence, I am steadfast with my claim that correctness in grammar is very important.

            Furthermore, one should not only be concerned about his grammar. What other aspects should an individual consider to improve his English communication skills?

           

a.    Pronunciation and Global comprehensibility. An individual should make sure that his pronunciation is clear and that L1 interferences should not affect the clarity of speech nor pose any difficulty to the listener. However, this doesn’t mean that a person should sound like a native speaker.

b.    Language Range and Lexical Accuracy. This means that for an individual to communicate well, he must consider to use an array of grammatical structures (from simple to complex structures) accurately and correctly. Grammar counts but minor errors in structure which do not obscure meaning should never be taken a big issue.

c.    Interactive Ability and Strategic Competency.  An individual should not only possess the confidence in speaking the language in which Manny Pacquiao is oozing with. For an individual to be able to communicate well, he must have the ability to control the interaction. Also, he should know when to take turns. In addition, he should have the ability to repair miscommunication instantly. Finally, he should manifest excellent cultural understanding.

d.    Discourse Capability. An individual should exude an excellent awareness of the discourse nature of the spoken texts. His speech must always be clear, logical and to the point. Moreover, he is able to build effectively on what has been said.  He must be able to predict moves and take control of the interaction. He must think and react in English.

            However, this issue has escalated to a more complicated thread of argument-counterargument. And worst, some of the points laid are striking below the belt? This led me to raise a question: Since when has the Philippines been a sanctuary of egocentric blabbermouths? Conversely, I commend those who post sensible comments.

            As far as my understanding is concerned, some argue that since Pacquiao has brought honor to the country being a boxing champion, he is already exempted from negative criticisms. I believe that this is a cynical understanding of the real essence of criticisms. An individual regardless of his social status is always subject to either positive or negative criticisms. For an icon like Pacquiao himself, his fame does not exempt him from such disparagement.   An act of heroism does not exempt one from criticism because being a hero is not tantamount to being perfect. However, everyone should be reminded that whenever we have some message to put across, it is always wise not to attack on a personal level. Instead, stay on the issue not on the person who we want to criticize. I mean freedom of expression means responsible expression.

            On the other hand, before the supporters of Pacquiao incite a fist fight, I think it is also wise to look into reasons why he is being criticized. Why is there such a high expectation in Manny to speak English correctly if not fluently and perfectly? It is my resolve that Congressman Manny Pacquaio’s English is criticized because of the following reasons:

First, he is a world icon. He is expected to speak a global language correctly so he will be understood not only by the Filipino community but also by the members of the international community. It is imperative that his being an iconic figure makes him an ambassador of the Filipino people to the world and his being able to speak English plays a pivotal role to carry out such responsibility without being much dependent on translators.

Second, he has travelled to and stayed in English speaking countries and so he is expected to have mastered the language even without formal training. I believe that immersion is a great avenue for one to learn faster.

Third, he deals with foreigners most of the time and his immediate circle of support is composed of English speaking individuals like his promoter, coach, and sometimes sparring mates. This means that the need to speak the language is high and it should be one of his motivations to learn more and polish his skills.

Last, he is now a lawmaker. A lawmaker himself should be adept in the language spoken within the four walls of his respected office. Otherwise, his capacity to create laws will be questioned.

            Finally, should I rate Rep. Manny Pacquiao’s English based on the article which can be found through URL: http://ph.news.yahoo.com/manny-pacquiao-slams-grammar-critics-twitter-20110320-173600-320.html, I would rate him 2.5 out of 5.0.

MY FIRST LOVE...

To be or not to be? The query which until this time serenades my intellect, has been an inspiring aphorism for my very own existence. I knew my nascence was not a mere coincidence but parlayed for a noble purpose. Since I have developed my sense of rationality, I have learned that I would be traversing a road less traveled. A road which most in a preponderance of dreamers would not dream of taking for it has the most intricate blueprint.

I entered the Leyte Normal University at an early age of 15 and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education four years later. While in school, I was trained and prepared by my mentors to be a TEACHER, who in actuality I AM. When I entered the university, I had the qualms in my heart whether to pursue the choice I took. Despite overwhelming doubts in myself, I opened my mind to a broader perspective- looking through the future, the promise of touching lives and shaping dreams of the youth especially.

The question which has been etched in my mind is already answered. I have chosen to become A TEACHER in every essence of the word. I have been teaching ENGLISH to foreign and local students for more than six years now. Six years is nothing compared to a lifetime indulgence of those who have come ahead of me but what is important, I could say that I am on the top of it.

TEACHING, MY FIRST AND LAST LOVE.

Since the very day I stepped in my classroom as a TEACHER, I promised myself to be the best that I could be. I was very strict. I even acted as if I were a stone-blind. But it didn’t last  until one student of mine ( a high school sophomore) stood up and said ” Sir, why don’t you try to smile. Never let teaching stress yourself. We feel that we are the most stupid students around because you never accept the fact that we make mistakes.” I deeply contemplated into this utterance and I realized that it was a genuine statement. From this,  I learned my very first lesson as a real TEACHER and since then, I have declared it to be my first love.

It has been more than six years now and I am happy to have been given this opportunity. I am so delighted that I have made my part as a mentor to a preponderance of intellectuals. And what makes me happier is the thought that I have made my contribution not only in the lives of my students but also to their communities. 

I hope that I would be given more opportunity to touch lives...

You'd be Proud of Me

This blog was originally created by Mina Ajan. Mina was such a good student of mine. She is now a Law Student. 

Do’s and Dont’s I’ve learned from Mr. Ariem Cinco:


1.) Do not disappoint yourself. (Always do your best in everything you do.)

2.) Do not be bashful. (Shy person never gets successful in life. You must go out of your shell.)

3.) Never compare yourself to anyone. (You should think of yourself as a PRECIOUS DIAMOND. No one compares to you.)

4.) Never say “Ahm” when you speak. (Only idiot person utters the word “Ahm”.)

5.) Learn to eat Nouns, Pronouns, Verbs, Adjectives, Adverbs, Prepositions, Conjunctions and Interjections everyday. (All of these must be part of your everyday living.)

6.) Learn to cook your dictionary at home. (Enrich your vocabulary.)

7.) Learn to accept criticism. ( It is part of one’s life so he/she must learn how to deal with it.)

8.) Laugh at your mistakes. (Don’t fret. Everyone commits mistakes.)

9.) Please yourself first before other people. (If you can’t please yourself then, do not expect it from others.)

10.) Do not watch “DYESEBEL.” (Hahaha! i mean, local films and always practice (R2W3T) to READ english books, magazines,etc. WATCH english films and WRITE, THINK, TALK, and TEXT in English.)

Thank you so much Mr. Ariem Cinco! The next time we meet, i’ll make sure that you would be proud of me.

Smiles and Laughter

There is indeed no other better way to spend a day than to make people smile and laugh despite your longing for the very reason for you to do just the same. Don’t mistake me for being hypocrite but I am just being selfless .I owe YOU this wonderful moment.

Smile means a lot to me. Most importantly, it means contagious happiness. Indeed, a beautiful smile and a genuine laughter soothe a heart in despair. Today, March 19, 2011 marks a new milestone in my life – very ostentatious, indisputable, and truly a moment to treasure.  It is a moment worth more than any fortune because it gives me LIFE.

– Ariem Venezuela Cinco

LEARNING ENGLISH IS FUN

Denice Reignel S. Estanislao

University of the East Caloocan

“Language, as well as the faculty of speech, was the immediate gift of God.”

- Noah Webster

I’ve always believed that the ability to speak well can help people boost their confidence and improve their well-being. Knowing that you are able to convey your message with fluency and spontaneity gives not only the feeling of satisfaction from being heard and understood, but also the thought that some people envy you for your communication skills.

The ability to speak well doesn’t come in gift boxes; it requires continuous study and practice. Many times, we choose not to speak English because we are afraid to make mistakes. Oftentimes, we are afraid to speak in English because insecure people would make us feel intimidated. According to the quotation above, Language was the immediate gift of God. It tells us that everyone has the gift of language; what we need to do is nurture it. We should not be afraid to make mistakes because from it, we learn.

Learning English doesn’t have age requirements. As long as you are eager to learn, you will surely improve and eventually be fluent and spontaneous in speaking the language.

These are just few of the many things that I have learned from Mr. Ariem V. Cinco at Achievers’ English. He doesn’t just teach; he teaches with passion and enthusiasm. He combines learning and fun, making every meeting a fruitful and meaningful one. He encourages interaction among the students and blends in the atmosphere, making the class feel at ease and unpressured. He relates life stories and lessons and imparts his knowledge and experiences. Knowing how he started learning English would inspire you and give you hope that you can still improve your communication skills.

Learning English is indeed somehow hard and it requires effort. But at Achievers’ English, learning the language becomes interesting and fun. You would be surprised at how better you’ve become in English in just a few meetings. At Mr. Cinco’s class, your three-hour class becomes a four to five-hour class and you wouldn’t even notice the time.

As long as you are willing to learn, nothing can hinder you from improving in English. 

TOEFL REVIEW EXPERIENCE WITH MR ARIEM CINCO

Disclaimer: I hope this will help you and by the way if ever you will use this article pls dont include my surname but you can use my name thanks and have a good day. 

---- here is the story----

I'm Gerald. I would like to thank Mr. Ariem Cinco for helping me pass the TOEFL Test.

I took the test and failed for 4 times when I was in the U.S.A.  I started to lose my confidence because I tried everything even hiring a private tutor in the US ( American English Tutor) but still I couldn't  get a 26 on the Speaking part of the test.

With all these frustrations, I decided to go back to the Philippines hoping to find a better review center to help me with my problem. Then my employer suggested to me to try having a private tutor to evaluate my problem and help me pass the test and this is how I met Mr. Cinco.

During our review, Mr. Cinco made me realize my problems (which the other tutor in the US did'nt notice) and he gave me a lot of drills and exercises in order to improve my skills in speaking.

One thing that I really liked about the review is his flexibility with the schedule. He always finds time so we can finish the review on time and what really helped me during the test is that he helped me gain my confidence again. Most importantly, I got 26 for my speaking in the TOEFL iBT. 

by: GERALD M. (MEDPRO STAFFING, INC.)

COMPANY AND WORKERS: AN ESSAY MAKE OVER

An essay written by Vanessa, IELTS Student

-----------Here is the original script----------

The need to grow one’s business seems to have made companies prioritize “profit” over “employee happiness”. Although profit is important in keeping up with the high demands of any business, one should always take into consideration the state of their employees’ happiness especially in regards to their salaries, fringe benefits, and overall workplace condition.

There are several ways by which an employer could address this issue.

Foremost, employers could probably start standardizing their employees’ salaries. Not one of them should even go below the government’s allowable base income. On the other hand, those holding managerial and high-level positions must also be paid based on the demand and difficulty of their jobs as well as their overall performance. This would make them feel well-compensated.

Another thing to consider is the inclusion of fringe benefits to their base income such as additional allowances, insurances, and paid sick- or vacation leaves. The added privileges and security would definitely make the employees feel more special and well taken-cared of by the company.

Last but not the least is that of keeping the environment as conducive for work as possible. This could be in the form of having airconditioning units in the area, adequate supplies and stocks, efficient machineries and gadgets for production, and the presence of supportive superiors and colleagues. Being able to work in this kind of environment is a big factor in their overall well-being.

It is my belief that the abovementioned recommendations will greatly affect the state of happiness and satisfaction among all employees. This might even be beneficial to the company because of the tremendous effect it could have in the morale, motivation and overall output of the employees.

---------Below is the essay with the corrections in parentheses and the rater's comments------

The need to grow one’s business seems to have made companies prioritize “profit” over “employee happiness” (shouldn’t this be employee’s happiness, or happiness of the employee, or the general welfare of the employees?). Although profit is important in keeping up with the high demands of any business (do you mean to keep the business running?), one (who is one?) should always take into consideration the state of their (their does not grammatically agree with one) employees’ happiness (the word happiness has been repeated several times) especially in (shouldn’t this be with instead of in?) regards to their salaries, fringe benefits, and overall workplace condition.

Rater’s comment : The introduction, despite some grammatical inconsistencies and lapses, still expresses the main idea. The presentation of idea; however, is affected by the ineffective use of terminologies. On the other hand, the paragraph shows range in both grammar (especially the use of verb tense markers and vocabulary like fringe benefits. Also, the introduction shows a clear outline of ideas.

There are several ways by which an employer could address this issue. (which issue are you referring to?)

Rater’s comment: The thesis statement is very concise but it’s confusing especially that she mentions “this issue” when there wasn’t a specific issue raised in the introduction.

Foremost (this means first in rank - do you intend to present the reasons in order according to rank? Otherwise, the word choice is inappropriate), employers could probably start standardizing their employees’ salaries (the sentence is concise but what you can use the noun form of the gerund “standardizing” which is “standardization” as in ‘employers could probably start with the standardization of the employees salaries.’) . Not one of them should even go below the government’s allowable base income (The sentence has confusing syntax…are you referring to the employees or the salaries?). On the other hand (this is used to express contradiction, contrast, or opposing ideas, this also means conversely, and from other side or aspect. You may use In addition, Furthermore, Also, etc. should you be adding more ideas related to the first statement), those holding managerial and high-level positions must also be paid (you can use the following words salaried, compensated, remunerated, or compensated ) based on the demand and difficulty of their jobs as well as their over-all performance. This would make them feel well-compensated.

Rater’s comment: Inappropriate use of signal and linking utterance (e.g. on the other hand). Confusing syntax; however, the sentences still express the main idea and supporting details. Be more specific with your terminologies so your ideas will be expressed more clearly.

Another thing to consider is the inclusion of fringe benefits to their (do not use pronoun unless the identity is established, who is “their”?) base (this should be basic) income (income is general but if it is from employment, it must be referred to as salary, compensation, etc.) such as additional allowances, insurances, and paid sick or vacation leaves. The added privileges and security would definitely make the employees feel more special and well taken – cared (This should be taken care. Care is not a verb, it’s a noun) of by the company.

Rater’s Comment: The paragraph is near perfect but please be conscious with the use of pronouns as they can be tricky sometimes. Some of the words used maybe are correct but do not necessarily express the meaning you want to convey.

The last but not the least is that of keeping the environment (you can just remove the relative pronoun that…as in “The last but not the least is keeping the environment conducive for work as possible.”)  as conducive for work as possible. This could be in the form of having (this can be better expressed by saying, this can be done by installing airconditioning units in the area) airconditioning units in the area, (providing) adequate supplies and stocks, efficient machineries and gadgets for production, and the presence of supportive superiors and colleagues (This sentence has a lot of run-ons. You can minimize this by simply by splitting this sentence into two different sentences.) Being able to work in this kind of environment is a big factor in their overall well-being. (The sentence does not express a clear thought.)

Rater’s Comment: The use of different sentence structures in your paragraph can be a manifestation of your ability to use good range of grammar structure. Should it affect the way you present your thoughts, better keep your sentences in simple structure.  Make sure the sentences you have are succinct by avoiding the use of a lot of run-ons.

It is my belief that the abovementioned recommendations will greatly affect the state of happiness and satisfaction among all employees. This might (inappropriate use of modal verb – you can use “can”) even be beneficial to the company because of the tremendous effect it could have in the morale, motivation and overall output of the employees.

Rater’s Comment: The conclusion is concise and is well-constructed though there are some errors in grammatical structure.

Point for Point Critique

BY: Ariem Venezuela Cinco

This essay gets a score of 6.5

Task Response: The response answers the question though some of the details are not clearly explained. The response has an introduction, body and conclusion. The introduction does not have a clear main idea but it presents a clear outline of the whole essay. The candidate presents her ideas in full paragraphs. The response has more than  250 words. 

Lexical Resource: The candidate shows range in vocabulary as manifested in her use of phrasal verbs and complex vocabulary (e.g. could have, might even be, abovementioned, conducive, tremendous, etc.). However, there are evident systematic errors in the use of some terminologies. Some of the words are formulaic and are used repeatedly several times. She has the grasp of idiomatic language but there are some inconsistencies with the usage.

Coherence and Cohesion: The candidate expresses her ideas coherently. She is able to use linking utterances, signals, and cohesive devices effectively (e.g. foremost, another thing is, and last but not least, and however) except for some which are used inappropriately (e.g. on the other hand). The response is fully developed and the progression of ideas is clear.

Grammar Range and Accuracy: The candidate can express her ideas using a variety of sentence structures but systematic errors in the use of complex structures are evident. She has the grasp of the complex structures like the use of verb tense markers (e.g. the tremendous effect it could have in the morale, motivation and overall output of the employees). modality. and the like.  She has the full grasp of simple sentence structure. 

------here is the improved version of the essay--------

 By: Vanessa. IELTS Student

Note: The revised version of the essay receives a grade of 8.5

The need to grow one’s business and the pressure to be ahead of the competition seems to have resulted in many companies putting profit first before employees’ happiness and welfare. Of course, profit is a key factor in running a business because of its effect on sustainability. However, employers must not forget the fact that employee satisfaction and welfare are also of equal importance.

There are several ways on how to approach this…

First, standardize employees’ salaries. Workers who are currently being paid below minimum wage must have their salaries upgraded to meet labor laws. Furthermore, those employees holding managerial and high-level positions must also be compensated based on the demand and difficulty of their jobs taking into consideration the employees’ overall performance.

Second, fringe benefits such as allowances, insurances, and paid sick- or vacation leaves should also be included in the employee’s basic compensation. Studies have shown that the presence of additional privileges, whether monetary or in kind, greatly improve the degree of satisfaction among employees. This is because these added benefits somehow help improve the employees’ standard of living.

Last but not the least is the environment of the worker (do you mean the work environment). Employers and their managers must ensure that the overall ambience in the workplace is as conducive for work as possible. This could be done by installing airconditioning units, providing adequate supplies and stocks, as well as procuring efficient machineries and gadgets for production. Also, part of that environment is the presence of supportive superiors and colleagues who must be ready to assist and respond whenever needed.

I believe that the abovementioned recommendations, when applied, undoubtedly results to happier, more satisfied employees simply because of the tremendous effect these strategies have in their morale, confidence, and productivity.