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At last Saturday’s induction of
officers of the Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry,
the President gave her assurance that she continues to lead with the
objective of guiding the nation to a new election and new
leadership. She asked for support in ensuring political stability,
continued economic growth and sustainable peace and order to prevent
our slipping into the uncertainties that mark an election year.
The President also exhorted her
audience to tell the politicians they support to get on with the
people’s work. Months after the May elections that ushered in a new
Senate and House of Representatives, the negative political rhetoric
that does nothing to bring about legislation has not abated. Thus,
the President challenged our legislators to stop partisan wrangling
and start legislating, a call expressed earlier by Senator Edgardo
Angara who asked his colleagues “to stop politicking and buckle down
to work”. Clearly, she said, Congress has demonstrated in the past
that when it sets aside self-interest, it can produce legislation
that improves the quality of life of all Filipinos, such as the VAT
law which has tremendously boosted our government’s revenue
generation.
We call on Congress to pass the
much-needed cheaper medicines bill. We also look forward to the
early passage of the 2008 General Appropriations Act. Let us work on
the issues and concerns that unite us while respecting each other’s
views on those that we differ on.
This is not to say that there is no room for dissent.
However, while a certain amount of conflict and contradiction may be
part of the process of moving the nation forward, we must all still
be bound by unity of purpose and collectively knowing where we want
to go as a nation.
Calls for snap elections and the
endless criticisms leveled against the administration have no value
added to our people’s determination to overcome economic
difficulties through hard work and a sharp focus on the future. As
the President said, her term ends in 2010. Much work needs to be
done to preserve the gains of our strong economy and spread its
benefits throughout the country.
*****
One area where unity is called for, particularly
during the holiday season, is ensuring that the needy throughout our
nation have access to affordable rice and protect them from high
prices.
Rice is not only a staple for our people. It is also symbolic of our
ability and collective responsibility to help the less fortunate.
*****
The sad story of Marianet Amper, 11
years old, who took her life at such a tender age, left all
Filipinos in a state of shock. For us in government, it served as a
stern reminder of how critically important it is to uplift the lives
of millions of Filipinos living below the poverty line.
President Arroyo ordered the release
of P1-billion to fight hunger. She also ordered the Department of
Agriculture and other agencies to ensure a steady supply of
affordable rice. On the jobs front, the labor department continues
to work with local communities and the private sector in promoting
skills and livelihood training. The President has maintained a sharp
focus on bringing the gains of the economy to the people, but the
transformation cannot happen overnight. It takes collective
political will and an engaged citizenry to add more milestones to
our ongoing battle against deeply-rooted poverty.
In her letter to a popular television
show, Marianet’s requests may appear simple to others but clearly
meant the world to her: a new pair of shoes, a new bag, and steady
jobs for her parents. In all corners of the archipelago, we would
likely find children yearning for nearly the same things, silently
echoing the same wishes.
While government certainly has a
major role in poverty eradication, the grant of a poor child’s wish
is also at the fingertips of many Filipinos. For families that have
much more than others, let’s look for opportunities to share our
blessings and spread peace within our own communities. The spirit of
giving is upon us, and we must not forget that we have it within us
to spread joy to the less fortunate. The Department of Social
Welfare and Development welcomes partnerships with civic
organizations, concerned companies, and even private citizens who
wish to share what little they have or services that they could
offer, to poor communities.
*****
Note: You may email us
at totingbunye2000@yahoo.com |
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