Definition

Definition of Maritess: a true "tsismosa" who judges a person without batting an eyelash based on the made-up stories by others taken from questionable sources. 

Who cares about the truth ... what is important is the juicy lies and salacious innuendos spread against the victim. That is the GASOLINE that FUELS and drives a roving Maritesses of the world to continue what they do best.

The Gossip Culture

 

Why do people gossip?

Aside from being a favorite pastime... talking about the life of others has high entertainment value. You can ask Cristy Fermin, the high priestess and a guru of chismis, chica-chica, and rumor-mongering.

Talk is cheap and gossip is considered the cheapest of all recreational activities. A friend from America admits, that gossiping using the internet maintains her sanity ... a good scandal perks up her energy  ... it is like a blood transfusion - it gives color to her otherwise anemic existence and a much-needed breath for another lease of life.

Gossiping can be a simple chat on Facebook, ... or browsing political dirt on YouTube and keeping yourself updated with what's going on in the lives of your favorite actors and actresses.

For your mental health, gossiping is socially connecting with friends, and talking with them gives you some feel-good emotions recognizing you are in a better situation - that makes you feel good about yourself.

When you indulge in an idle talk with your group ... it gives you the green light to be human. It allows you to embrace your imperfections and learn from your mistakes. It permits you to laugh and cry ... and gives you the freedom to tell stories that you enjoy ... and share details and knowledge with people you are bonding with ... and the group you can trust.

While behavioral scientists and social pundits believe that gossiping is harmless and generally thought of as healthy ... some people cross the line and go beyond what is proper and unacceptable.

When rumors are being spread in a workplace maliciously and the rumor-monger's intention is to destroy the person's name ... that is where gossip turns around from HARMLESS to HARMFUL. 

When one feels happy about the misfortune of the person he loathes ... that's a big turnaround. This is when gossip bloom and metamorphoses from being HEALTHY to UNHEALTHY.

The mere fact that you are happy ... is SICK.  And being petty and vindictive. 

There Oughtta Be A Law

Gossip is a spice of life. 

But when can one realize that the culture of gossip you indulge in (especially the way you disseminate information ... and the motives you have sharing its juiciest details) is paving you the way to the Twilight Zone.

Some people think that spreading fake news and painting the town red by spreading hearsay information from unreliable sources is harmless and normal.

I am sorry to burst your bubble ... but when gossip is done to tarnish and blemish the reputation of another person ... you can't have your cake and eat it too. You are either liable for a fine, pay damages, incur civil liabilities or in the worst-case scenario ... you can land in jail.

Intriguing against honor ... is gossip in the real sense of the word. So the operative word here is that when the principal source of the gossip is undisclosed or concealed yet the individual continues with liberty and perked up renewed enthusiasm to peddle his gossip wares ... and his motives are transparent that he just wants to discredit the little guy ... destroy his credibility ... and drag him to mire ... "pwede ka maghimas ng rehas." 

Gossiping is not a criminal offense but if the hearsay and innuendos are commensurate and are equal to cyber-libel, oral defamation, slander, and unjust vexation ... be prepared to pack your bags.

You heard it right. So if you are a hometown CCTV ... or to put it bluntly you are a Marites inside and out ... where you thrive on dishing out hearsays and gossip ... be careful because a lawsuit may just be a stone-throw away. It is just a matter of time ... before somebody teaches you a lesson or two.

So if you are a restless and compulsive hometown peddler of gossip ... be careful. KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT ... and mind your own business.

USC Thornton Chamber Singers: “Sa Ugoy ng Duyan” by San Pedro

Tempest In The Teapot

Former Miss Universe Organization President Paula Shugart Releases Statement Regarding Recent Allegations of Anne Jakrajutatip

Paula Shugart :

Since announcing my resignation in November of 2023, I have sought to stay out of the spotlight, electing not to comment on any of the changes within the Miss Universe Organization, seeking only to quietly help the brand and its stakeholders, when requested, with my historical knowledge and guidance.

However, recent false and outrageous comments made by Miss Universe owner Anne Jakrajutatip impugning my character have compelled me to break my silence.

Normally, I would choose to ignore such assertions but, by suggesting that I am corrupt and took money “under the table” to secure placements in Miss Universe competitions, Jakrajutatip not only defames me, but she also discredits the women who have won the Miss Universe crown by implying their titles were “bought” and not earned by merit. I cannot abide by such dangerous and reckless assertions, which degrade the Miss Universe brand and its Titleholders.

I am presently considering my legal options in Thailand and what actions I might take. However, given that my complaint will be just one of many legal actions currently facing the owner of JKN, it is imperative for the Miss Universe brand and its legacy that I immediately speak the truth and condemn these words before taking any action in Thai courts and I am reserving all rights to claim for damages.

I have no intention or need to engage in drama on social media and I will not do so. Anyone who knows me knows the truth and what I stand for. I will let my years of work with some truly incredible women speak for itself.

All reactions:

545Anna Leah Enerio Naliponguit, Mel Lapiz Birao and 543 others

Statement of Support

Two former Miss Universe Brooke Lee and Lupita Jones came to Paula Shugart's rescue after Anne Jakrajutatip shaded and impugned her character letting the former Miss Universe President think about exhausting all legal action and remedies in Anne's home country Thailand. As expected the rest of the previous winners followed. I need popcorn fast ... as in NOW!

Political Memes

Last February 14 2024 ... former senator Juan Ponce Enrile is 100 years old. He is now a CENTENARIAN!

I always heard people saying LIFE IS SHORT.  Not in the senator's case.