Ben Contreras
YES, the weather can be very unpredictable but we seem to be moving toward better days with clearer skies.
After a few visits to my clients and a few feedbacks from businessmen, I feel sad for their losses. When flood water entered their offices and warehouses, losses ran to a few hundred thousands to millions of pesos. Office gadgets and computers, cars (new and old), rice, sugar, flour, feeds, groceries, supplies, etc.--these are just a few to mention.
Flooded homes wallowed in thick mud and drifted garbage. Cleaning up can be exasperating especially when there’s no water for this purpose and the lack of hands to help.
Calamity brings the best of men/women. There were many unsung heroes who brought food, potable water, clothing and anything that may be of use under the circumstance.
I would like to mention one group for their continuing assistance to those who may need them--the Fire Brigade Volunteer group. Although most of them come from well-to-do families, their heart to lend a hand and be of service to the community is truly admirable.
This group not only responds when there is conflagration but also when any disaster strikes. I can imagine in their golden years when their children and grandchildren will proudly boast of a few pictures hanging on their walls and say: This is my father or grandfather carrying that hose to save a home.
Of course, there were many other unsung heroes. Whoever they are, they will come again in time of need. Kudos to all of them!
Putting politics aside, I believe the city government has not been remiss in its duties. It may come a bit late but it did.
Pointing fingers will no longer help. It’s time that we all contribute and do something for our community. Oh no, I am not going to repeat them. Just follow your conscience on what we should do to keep our city clean, safe and more livable.
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Who holds the purse of the city government? Is it the city accountant, the city treasurer or the mayor? Let’s not even forget the budget officer who is also a key figure in the management of the city coffers.
If they have secrets, it is imperative to hold on to one another. This is the reason why when talk about Glenn Bañez resigning and the mayor, not accepting the former’s resignation floats, I could only respond with a “hohum.”
If ever, it is not a first for Bañez. He is a “pro,” and he’s got a PhD. His loyalty to the mayor may be unquestionable but he’s got a mind of his own, too, so that sometimes, he may opt to stick to what he believes and should be done.
Is this again about getting the right (?) taxes from business or the deadline for the renewal of business permits?
Businessmen are said to be up in arms due to another round of increases. The city council recently approved a budget of more than P4 billion. Where is that money coming from if not from higher business taxes and permits?
I feel the bottom line is that businessmen are in agony to what has just happened. They are not getting what is due them and the whole community, too.
Sans the nasty stories about Bañez, I believe he is just trying to do his job. In the meantime, let’s wait for more details to unfold.
