Wednesday, November 22, 2006 Of ninangs, ninongs, mistresses tonight
IF YOU want to see politicians, head to a church on weekends. Chances are, you'll see them standing in as godparents to a child or as wedding sponsors to a couple.
Having politicians as godparents has long been a part of our culture. Some see it as a way of building connections to powerful people, or as a way of showing off one's clout in the community. Often, too, it strengthens bonds between friends.
But by any standard, to be a wedding sponsor or godfather once a week is a bit too taxing, physically and financially.
In this week's Palaban, Malou Mangahas explores the politics behind the selection of ninongs and ninangs, the tag price it usually entails, and who really foots the bill.
Meantime, Miriam Quiambao talks to women who fall into the trap of being the "number two."
Miriam finds a woman who is in a relationship with a young and famous but married politician. How does a politician fund a second family? Who really foots the bill?
Palaban airs every Wednesday night, right after Saksi, on GMA-7.