Arm Chair General Reflections on the Manila hostage crisis

Before anything else I would just like to say, that this post is purely commentary observation on recent events that shockingly awaken the nation. I do not wish to be named an experts of such, rather only as a personal reflection on  events as they happened or a least as reported. With this being said I decided to take time in posting as more information is needed to create a more accurate picture as they unfolded in the long days ahead.
To recap last Monday the 23rd of August an ex-police offer Senior Inspector R. Mendoza seized a bus, with 22 Hung-Kong tourists and three Filipinos on board, in a desperate attempt to have himself cleared of extortion and illegal detention charges that had led to him being discharged from the service. The whole affair lasted 12 hours which ended  with the demised of 9 people included the hostage taker. The ordeal became a total fiasco from the outset down to the very last minutes, when it was drench with compromises after another at every turn that gave a very unfortunate conclusion for both the victims and the nation as a whole.

Where did it start.
Police in the midst of a self inflected plague, the cancer of corruption.
While everyone is focusing themselves on the tragic event itself, we tend to forget the bigger picture that led to it, not just the case that prompted the ex-police to acted idiotically but the whole police organization and indeed the entire public service structure.  For many years since the Marcos dictatorship the nation's police organization has been tainted with abuses and  disturbing corrupt practices that made it impotent to do its ordain constitutional mandate. Stories like political body guards, apathy, undisciplined and barely equip to do event the most simplest of policing jobs.  I can even recall a time when majority of the police force were actually plague with obesity which was the very least of its problem. Majority of the populace has a very low perception about the national police ranging from abuses both social and authoritative, and as if that is not worst of things, like many other branch of government it also lack proper training, equipment and the lack of major foresight in almost everything else. Growing up I remember old folk and I myself admittedly use the phrase "ayahay pa sa polis" the phrase is use commonly to describe a person lounging about and getting paid for it. . In fairness compare to the PNP before this new generation fared a bit better though still found wanting. Even a few years back the PNP even acted somewhat perfectly in situations such as hijacking of a bus carrying school children in Manila in 2007, and the standoff at the Manila Peninsula Hotel also in 2007.

A different book altogether.
The tragic event last Monday had the same genre like many other hostage taking incident in the country except for some major details that made it a different book altogether. For one, the perpetrator has the same background training as those who are opposing him, that by itself already negates what ever tactical advantage the police had at the onset. It is also clear that there were many factors that put a seal on the tragic affair. The lack of tactical intelligence of the area of operation particular the inner working of the bus itself, the isolation of the area in question, more importantly media and crowd control, and lastly tactical and logistical readiness of the assault team.



Adding fuel to the fire.
Prior to the violence the negotiation went well until it  was compromised by meddling personalities particularly the brother of the hostage taker and someone else which the hostage taker seem to be taking advice from, at the height of the crisis, as reported today in the news, aside from "brother boy bulabog" idiotic meddling, local television media also broadcast boy bulabog's resistance and subsequent arrest including interview, which was view by the hostage taker at the very comfort of the besiege bus adding fuel to the fire.

Finger pointing.
Its a common behavior of self righteous arrogance none so true as this one. The police already admitted their shortcomings of the affair yet I personally feel that their are more to consider and take account. Boy Bulabog and the mysterious adviser for one, also I feel the media should take up some responsibility of the matter as well, for over indulging itself in the pretense of responsible journalism.which I personally think centers on ratings rather than the consequence of such violent event.




As to who ever is to blame for a tragic effort an obvious conclusion is clear and changes should be made and learned by heart. The people given the task failed and that's a clear button lime Yet worst is still to come if those who have the power to influence both media and law enforcement failed to make changes on themselves. It is sad that such tragedy became a catalyst that brought light to the lingering problem in the government and it would be worst if we failed to correct it. The task now is if these people have the guts for positive and active change.Or  would we still  settle for " OK na yan!" attitude.

The Capacity to Learn is a gift,
The Ability to Learn is a skill,
and the Willingness to Learn is a Choice

Who is the victim
Aside from the obvious direct victims of the tragedy, I also feel that the entire nation is the victim. The victim of the egotistical idiot of Mr. R. Mendoza. And the victim of whole sale corruption.

A Look on Sins of the Solar Empire Trinity

I recently acquired a copy of Sins of the Solar Empire: Trinity, and I must say, I’m thoroughly impressed with what I’ve experienced so far! As someone relatively new to this particular style of strategy gaming, I initially found it reminiscent of other Real Time Strategy (RTS) titles I’ve enjoyed over the years. However, this game takes the genre to new, uncharted heights that I hadn’t anticipated. These games are designed to unfold on a grand, epic scale, where massive armies collide in ways that almost mirror the intensity of real warfare—all from the cozy comfort of your own living room or favorite gaming chair. My love for strategy games began with the original Dune back in the day, a classic that hooked me early on. While I’ve dabbled in various PC game genres over the years and found them entertaining to a degree, nothing has the power to keep me glued to my screen quite like a well-crafted RTS. That said, not every strategy game lives up to the hype—over time, I’ve played my fair share of lackluster titles that left me disappointed. Thankfully, Sins of the Solar Empire is a standout exception, a true gem worth celebrating. I’ll admit I came across it a bit late, which serves as a gentle nudge to venture out of my man cave more often and stay updated with the gaming world! 

What truly sets this game apart is its innovative approach to the strategy genre. Officially categorized under the RTS banner, Sins of the Solar Empire is uniquely designated as an RT4X game—a fusion of turn-based strategy elements without the traditional turns, replaced instead by a dynamic real-time format. This hybrid concept, a term the publishers proudly coined, blends the fast-paced action of RTS with the expansive 4X framework ("eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, and eXterminate"). For a strategy enthusiast like me, this offers a refreshing and exhilarating experience. Unlike turn-based games that often leave players waiting for their next move, Sins of the Solar Empire keeps you constantly engaged, always on the edge of your seat, strategizing and reacting in real time. The Trinity edition I picked up is a comprehensive package that includes the original game along with two significant expansions: Sins of a Solar Empire: Entrenchment and Sins of a Solar Empire: Diplomacy. These additions enhance the core experience with new features and challenges. Then, in March 2011, the talented team behind this masterpiece released Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion, a standalone sequel that promises an even more mind-boggling array of features and content than its predecessors. Having caught glimpses of the previews, I can confidently say it looks like a mouth-watering prospect that adds even more depth to an already impressive series. This post isn’t intended as a formal review—more of a personal reflection and commentary on my initial impressions. Given that the game first launched in 2008 and has since spawned numerous official reviews across the internet, I feel it would be redundant to attempt a full critique, especially as a latecomer to the franchise. Instead, I’d rather share my personal journey and enthusiasm for this title. 

Playing the Game 

One aspect that caught me off guard was the game’s approach to storytelling. In most RTS games I’ve played—think classics like Dune, StarCraft, or Red Alert—there’s typically a narrative woven into the gameplay, often centered around a hero or key character whose identity you assume. You guide them through a series of campaigns, shaping their destiny as they rise from humble beginnings to legendary status, conquering enemy fleets and planets along the way. I half-expected Sins of the Solar Empire to follow a similar path, perhaps with a captain of a dilapidated transport ship using tactical brilliance to climb the ranks to supreme fleet commander. To my surprise, that wasn’t the case. Instead, the game focuses on a broader main storyline featuring three sentient species locked in a brutal, all-out conflict. This shift in perspective adds a unique layer to the gameplay, emphasizing large-scale strategy over individual heroics, which I found both refreshing and challenging. 

Highly Recommended Sins of the Solar Empire and its subsequent sequel, Rebellion, have undeniably opened up a new frontier in the strategy gaming landscape. By pushing the envelope with its innovative RT4X blend, the series offers an experience that’s both thrilling and deeply engaging. For those new to the genre, I’d suggest trying a turn-based strategy game first to better appreciate the contrast and innovation here, but even without that background, the game’s accessibility and excitement shine through. The seamless integration of exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination keeps the gameplay dynamic and rewarding. For that reason, and based on my early adventures with Trinity, I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh take on strategy gaming. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, this title is sure to captivate and inspire!

Arm Chair General “Dune”

Dune II “Battle for Arrakis”

Dune II was the first ever RTS game I’d ever played and I love it. For a game of its kind, it was an eye opener for self proclaimed arm chair generals. Unlike most games like first person shooter or rule playing games which personally I find a bit boring and which in those days were very common form of gaming same as now. Dune 2 offers a more wider perspective for players, and the concept is simple yet intricate.

Game History

Dune II: Battle for Arrakis was released in 1992 by Westwood Studios. Based upon David Lynch’s 1984 movie Dune, an adaptation of Frank Herbert’s science fiction novel of the same name. Though not the first real-time strategy game, Dune II became the bases that would be followed for years to come. The use of the mouse as interface for all unit has allowed players to interact with relative ease.



Dune 2 and the RTS concept

As the game (dune 2) laid the foundation of future RTS game.It follows a simple defined concepts.

Game concept



1.Build your base & Create your Army.
2.Manage your economy & Sustain your war effort.
3.Attack your enemy & Defend yourself.
Map & Mouse interface concepts. These are the bases of all RTS games

Game Plot

Set on a futuristic time of Intergalactic Feudal Empire where“spice melange” is the most valuable substance is being cartel and the planet Arrakis being the only source of “spice melange” in the know universe. Due to its value and demand the Emperor Frederick IV of House Corrino issued a challenge to all noble houses in the empire to harvest the “ spice melange” on Arrakis. And who ever harvest the most spice controls Arrakis
with no set of boundaries and no rules of engagements.

Armies began to arrived on Arrakis among them 3 of the most the most powerful houses all battle for supremacy.

Game Play

As a player you will take the role of a commander of one of the 3 houses of your choice. Each house has it’s own distinct characteristics which also dictate how the game is handled. The objective is to occupy as many territories and conquer other territories occupied by rivals houses. To accomplish this objective the commander (you) going to build and create base and facilities of operation. Starting of with the basic
structure/unit the “construction yard/vehicle”. From there the player expanse his/her base by harvesting spice.The more spice harvested the faster the construction of other vital facilities. A player also invest on raising an army for defense and attack. The game initially starts with a fog of war covering all area which is not covered by the player’s units range of view. As the units explore the map, the darkness or fog is removed. In
addition to enemy incursions, there are other dangers like the marauding and gigantic sandworm,
capable of swallowing vehicles and infantry whole but only capable of moving through sand. The player
can only build on rocky terrain, but must build concrete foundations (slabs) to avoid deterioration of the structures due to the harsh weather conditions although in general, structures
will gradually decay over time regardless of the presence of those concrete slabs due to the aforesaid
weather conditions. Spice fields are indicated by orange coloration on the sand, darker orange indicating
high concentration. Some spice may be concealed as bumps on the terrain (a ’pre-spice mass’) that become
spice fields when they are shot at, or when a unit runs over them (destroying the unit in the ensuing
’spice blow’).

Dune 2000





After the success of dune 2 Westwood studios release an updated version of the game. It basically means better graphics and everything. Though as good as red alert 2 I can grade it as somewhat disappointment.



My Thoughts

Dune 2 is the very first RTS game I’ve ever played, and it totally blow me away. As a kid growing up playing
with soldiers and massively building armies, it appealed to me instinctively. The early dune 2 and its subsequent update Dune 2000 put players like myself wanting for more RTS. And I never look at any other type of game ever since. The only disappointing factor is the graphic design of the latter update Dune 2000. For an update of the original Dune 2 unit graphic didn’t change much, soldiers and storm trooper didn’t change at all in size or in any form.

Click link Dune 2 Click link Dune 2000

For Dune fans the update Dune 2000 was a huge welcome though, I'm sure there was a huge cloud of disappointment in graphics end. But for RTS fan like myself it was as good as it get, by the time got my hands on Dune 2000, I was already playing StarCraft including its expansion StarCraft Brood War from game developer Blezzard. Though WestWood came with a similar graphic format as that of blizzard by its release of Red Alert 2. But it would have been nice if that same unit graphics was use on Dune 2000.

Nevertheless the dune 2 and its update dune 2000 did well. And enjoyed it very much I'm also looking forward to play Dune Emperor which is promising. I still need to get my hands on it though.