This is the first time I write on politics here.
Now I say that that it pains me to learn that not one member of the Otso Diretso team which run for senators won in last Monday’s election. I believe that they are more qualified than most of those in the winner’s list.
Talk about Philippine election now, power and influence matter. You have power and influence if you have money or support of those in power with more money and influence.
From an FB friend, here is a food for thought:
“The First Senators in 1916, 11 were lawyers, 4 were lawyer-journalists, 4 were lawyer-agriculturists, 3 were businessmen, 1 was an agriculturist, and 1 was a physician.
“This time we have criminals, plunderers, smugglers, action Star, comedian, Boxer, basketball player, TV Host, TraPo, etc.”
The pain I feel I could no longer put into words. Nevertheless, I would like to give my thanks to another FB friend and former student who expressed exactly what is in my mind. Here is what she said:
“”May there be perpetual joy for those who know the real nature of things.”
“My heart is breaking. I’m angry, I’m disappointed, the assault on my logical brain is too great to be borne.
“There was a point at my yoga practice this morning that I just wanted to sob right there on my mat and let it all out. Then I came across the line above and it made me more sorrowful. I lament for my loves Louella E. Alix, Rudy Alix, and Perry Fajardo for your efforts, for fighting, for going against the tide, for actively campaigning for the less popular choice because you know them to be the RIGHT choice guided by research, study, actual knowledge and, more importantly, morals and principles. I lament for this country for what it means: a lack of feeling, of sense, and of depth.
“It is sad that at this time of our lives we should be elevating the levels of discussion to material things: the environment, improving the quality of life, social justice… we still have to fight something so basic as to unseat a Bong Revilla on the Senate. Like, why is that even a thing God dammit!
“But that’s done. My heart breaks anew for my loves who fought for their just principles. I said it over and over again, pouring tears and all good intentions my heart could muster: May there be perpetual joy for you! You deserve it. And don’t think that you lost. You’ve done something: You’ve kept the fire burning. You’ve made impact you can’t even imagine. You are very much admired and your efforts are not unappreciated.
“There is hope. There are brilliant people in this country – not in the Senate, obviously: right now it’s murderers, plunderers and typical Trapo Politicos – but in this country are the seeds of great men and women being sown. I know them. I brush elbows with them. They are great people who do so much with what little they have.
“Mga beshies, padayon la gihap kita. Ma-iaato ta pa ini. Yana pala tikangan ta na.”
Yet, life goes on and on. As long as we live there is always hope. Tomorrow, if not the day after tomorrow, maybe a better day.
Until 2022 dear brother and sister Filipinos.