We have a conversation with wowmao, a Filipino internet sensation. Topics include favorite videos, awkward encounter at a bar, influence of Lebanese politicians, leaked documents, reparations, racism, smoking preferences, and US influence on government ideology.
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Quick takeaways
Different world leaders would bring their own unique vibe to a smoking session, from chain-smoking and storytelling to awkward exchanges.
The Philippines has a capitalist and right-wing government aligned with US interests, but a militant communist group also exists in the country.
Mao's server became involved in a leak of Russian positions and intelligence, although his story didn't gain significant attention.
Deep dives
Smoking with World Leaders: Zelensky, Putin, Millet, Xi Jinping, Maduro
Smoking with Zelensky would be a great time as he would chain smoke and be a fun conversationalist. Millet, on the other hand, seems like he would offer an elite package of cigarettes without ever having smoked himself. Putin doesn't smoke and would likely judge you for smoking. As for Biden, he might collapse and die, but overall seems like a chill dude to smoke with despite his controversies and war crimes.
The Middle East and Smoking Culture
In the Middle East, smoking is common and cheap. It is a popular activity after a night out, especially since alcohol can be difficult to obtain. Hookah is a favorite and can be enjoyed while being drunk. However, smoking in general faces discrimination and restrictions in many places.
Cigarette Preferences and Prices
Riverstone is a preferred brand for its affordability, especially in comparison to the exorbitant prices of cigarettes in the UK. Other favored brands include Sobranja and Marlboro Gold. Cigarette prices vary by country, with the UK having the highest costs and some countries offering significantly lower prices.
Smoking with Communist Leaders
Mao's series on smoking with communist leaders was insightful and humorous. It would be interesting to apply the same concept to current world leaders like Zelensky, Putin, Millet, Xi Jinping, and Maduro. Each leader would bring their own unique vibe to a smoking session, ranging from chain-smoking and storytelling with Zelensky to awkward exchanges with Millet. Putin would likely not smoke and judge, while Biden might be a chill companion despite potential health risks.
Political and Cultural Situation in the Philippines
The current political situation in the Philippines is capitalist and right-wing, aligned with US interests. The government, led by Bong Bong Marcos, the son of the former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, has been relatively quiet in terms of power grabs and major decisions. The cultural situation includes the presence of the People's Liberation Army, a militant communist group primarily situated in the South Island. They are known for their acceptance of the LGBT and trans communities and provide assistance to people when the police are not present. However, the government's strength and alignment with the US make it unlikely for the communist group to take over. Smoking is also discussed, with traditional cigarette smoking favored over vaping.
Leaked Documents and Mao's Server
Mao's server became in the spotlight after leaked documents started circulating on Twitter. While Mao wasn't directly involved in the leaks, a mod from his server had posted those documents to impress friends. The leaked documents contained Russian positions and intelligence, indicating potential spies within the Russian government. Mao's server quickly wiped everything once they became aware of the situation. News organizations, including the BBC and the Times, reached out to Mao for interviews, but overall, his story didn't gain significant attention.
We managed to track down the illusive Filipino internet sensation and have a one hour conversation with him. This is what happened.
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