Ben Contreras
HOW do people react to news about government officials signifying their intention to help in the crackdown on illegal gambling, illegal mining, illegal quarrying or illegal drugs? Those who do not know who these government officials would likely say “Good!” or “It’s about time!” But knowing who they are, the reactions go like “hohum,” “Look who’s talking?”, “Nothing will come out of it” or “It’s going to be a whitewash just the same,” etc..
Cagayan de Oro is a relatively small city that it would not be difficult to hear or know who’s who in a particular trade. It’s just that they’re so used to the old ways of sharing the loot or bounty and anything and everything can just be swept under the rug.
Now that we have a new President who intends to deliver his promises, it is expected that everybody in the government would toe the line and be serious about it.
The campaign against drugs is in place, and is seriously being pursued. Curbing corruption has been demonstrated with the removal of certain officials. Criminality has been shown to be on a downtrend as a result of the campaign.
It’s not going to deliver us a perfect world or society but definitely a big change is afoot. It’s either we accept or go back to the old ways.
The deployment of marshals has been reported as being considered. Who they are is unclear. Perhaps, any citizen can be recruited as one as long as one is willing and qualified.
Even the best intention to attain change will be met with resistance. But as always, after the storm, there’s calmness and serenity. It’s how we play our individual role.
•
My nephew Bayou flew in from Manila with his barkada. They will be the messengers of good news to Manilans. They would be talking of their experiences at Mapawa Nature Park in Malasag, the Agutayan Island in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, the Dahilayan Forest Park and Water Rafting in our very own city.
Another nephew, Eric, from Canada is coming with his wife Raquel. I already have the idea where they would be going. His adventurous mom was here two years ago and had enjoyed the beautiful places available to them. There, they would be going for sure.
Raquel was able to trace her roots and met some of her folks. It was a very nostalgic meeting, I suppose. Eric is coming for the second time. His last was in 1986 when we had our first grand reunion and Eric was just a little boy. It’s going to be his first meeting with my children Kevin and Kacy.
Although we are still on high alert, it has not dampened the spirit of young ones to enjoy our scenic spots known not only nationwide but also internationally.
Let us all promote our place and help keep the peace.
