Friday, March 29, 2019

ANAO-AON: AKO GIKAMINGAWAN NA LUNGSOD NA NATAWHAN

by: Norberto Betita


Eleksyon na sab! Sugod na sab an bago na hugna pagpili nan mga magdumaya sa ato pinayangga sanan gikamingawan na lungsod na natawhan, para tana sa pagasenso sanan paguswag nan lungsod sa Anao-aon. Pero hantod kuman ya pa gajoy makita na dako na pagkaotro sanan progreso sa ato lungsod.

Isa ra siguro an nakahatag kabantog sa Anao-aon, an pagilis nan ngayan ngadto na sa San Francisco, kapangayan sa bantog na lugar sa California sa America sanan sa iban pa na lugar sa kalibutan na jaoy parehas na pangayan. Sa ato pa entero kalibutan na an pagkilaya sa ato lungsod. Kaluoy sa ato mga unahi na mga kaliwatan na amoy naghatag nan talagsaon na ngayan na way kaparehas, na sumaya pa gani ni Francis Tom Paredes, isa sa mga mayunglaki na manunuyat nan ato Sinurigao na Linguahe, possible na gibasi sa mga nagpalibot na mga katubigan sa ato lungsod. Laong pa ni Tom Paredes sa ija paghalungkat sa possible na kagikan nan sinultihan na Anao, ija nakita na possible na may koneksyon an amo na sulti sa Anao na naggikan sa Autralia na an buot ipasabot tubig kon hamok na katubigan.

Bago pa man noabot an Santos na si Senyor San Francisco sa Anao-aon, sino amoy gibasihan sab ago na ngayan, daan na kilaya an ato lungsod sa amo na ngayan. Gani dali ra sija makilayan kay lagi, waya may kaparehas. Pero sige rakan, jaon na man. Hinaot na dili na gajod tana utrohon pa an ngayan nan barangay Poblacion na Anao-aon, para jaoy gihapon handumanan sa ato mga kapopopopoan.


Trantay singko anyos na an nakalabay, pagplano nako na magbayay an una sa ako hunahuna adto gajod sa Anao-aon ako magtukod. Naghanap na ako didto. An ako nabatian jadto na panahon jaon lupa na natungaan nan kan anhin yo Demo Besario bayay sanan ila Mende kuman. Pero ya ako modajon kay ya may supply nan mainum na tubig sa gripo. Gana tana kay suod ra an iban na mga gamit sanan mabarato ra an pagpanday sa bayay. Kaso lisod gajod kun way tubig para sa ato banyo sanan sa ato hugasan.

Sa kadugayon na nan ako pagkawaya sa Anao-aon, kada jaoy ako panahon na mobisita sa ako lungsod na natawhan amo ran waya gajoy ako makita na asenso o progresibo na kabaguhan. An mga karsada amo ra gihapon kahamok; an kadakon sa poblacion bagan waya gajoy pagkabalhin. Nangutana ako sa ako mga kalumunan kun ya bay mga plano nan mga nag dumaya sa lungsod na mga proyekto para sa pag pagpalapad sanan pagdugang nan mga karsada para magamit jadton mga kalupaan na amoy mahimo na lugar para sa pagimbetar nan mga katawhan paghuya sa Anao-aon. Laong nan ako mga lumon, jaon tana, pero babagan man nan kontra sa politiko. Ka way nada na katarungan.

                 

Kun amo jaon an panlantaw nan ato mga politiko didon sa Anao-aon na an ila partido amoy mas importante, dapat kita na bomoboto pillion rakan an isa ka linya, gikan sa mayor ngadto sa mga konsehalis, para kun sino man galing an makadaug ya nay mobabag sa mga plano nan Mayor para sa kalambuan nan lungsod.

Parehas kuman, kun nagtuo kita na si Mayor Guiea and angay, botaran rakan nato diretso an ija mga kandidato pagka bise mayor hangtod sa tanan mga konsehales. Kun pananglit gusto nato na an ija kontra na si Penat amoy ato botaran, hudton rakan nato an jaon sa ija linya pagbotar. Despwes kun sinoy makadaug, ya nay katarungan na dili malahos an mga plano kay waya na may mobabag. An bantayan rakan wayay kawat.

Inin ako komentaryo ya may gidapigan na partido, an ako panlantaw para sa kinatibukan na pagasenso nan ato lungsod na natawhan, sanan pagusad nan panginabuhi sanan kahimtang nan ato mga lumulopyo.

Kaisa, nobisita ako iban sa ako mga apo, nangadto kami sa baybay dapit sa parki. Ako nakita na jaon nay sinimento na “sea wall” pasingod ngadto sa Banbanon. Ako sab nakita na jaoy estraktura na waya kahuman, na laong pa nila taguli rakan an kwarta sa DTI kay pirme man babagan nan kontra partido na konseho. Ako nahunahuna na pagkagana jaon na lugar pasingod na ngadto sa Banbanon himoan nan “boulevard” labi na kay makita an pagsayop nan suga, amo ra nan sa Manila Bay. Tapos himuan nan mga karsada para hamok na mga katawhan sa iban na lugar na mamuhunan pag mohamok na an mga katawhan.


Jaon sab mga karsada sa lungsod mismo dapat masumpayan jaon ngadto na sa Cayansan diin jadto an dako na kapatagan, tapos koruskoruson jaon na mga karsada sumpay na ngadto sa iban na baryo para modako an lugar para bayajan sanan mahamok an mga katawhan. Sigurado ako na hamok an mobayay didon tungod kay suod ra man sa syudad sanan sementado na man an karsada.

Kun mohamok an mga katawhan sa isa ka lugar sigurado na moasenso jaon na lungsod kay an mga negosyante entresado na man mamuhunan kay jaon na may mamalit. Dugang pa, jaon na may elektrisidad sanan tubig sa gripo.

Sa bata pa ako nasuroy nako jaon tumoy nan punong sanan jaon lugar sa Cayansan. Jaoy didon tuyo ka tubod na way paghubas---jaon sa punong, sa Cayansan unahan sa Anao-aon river na an ija tubig adto manaog sa dako na suba, tapos jaon kabanan hangtod kuman nan imnanon na tubig. Inday lamang kun jaon pa ba jaon sa punong sanan sa Cayansan. Kun jaon pa man galling, pwede jaon sila mahimo na proyekto para turismo.

Jaon ato mga kahumayan didon na gikan pa sa mga katiguyangan, moabot an panahon, gani amo na jaon an nanghitabo kuman, na bisan sa pamilya nan mga kaliwatan, dili na paigo na maka suporta sa ila kaugalingon panginahanglan, kay an sa una isa ka pamilya na tagija nahimo na man na hamok na pamilya pagpangaminyo nan mga anak. Amo na an mahitabo jaon ipamaligya rakan, tapos manhanap nan trabaho sa lain lugar. An magpabilin na way pagkahurot na kapaninguhaan amo rakan an halapad na kadagatan atubangan sa ato lungsod.


Amo na dapat moasenso gajod an ato lungsod para dili na mobija an mga lungsuranon palajo kay makapanginabuhi na man sila mismo didon sa bunsuyan nan lungsod.

Amo na tana kuman na eleksyon maniguro na kita na pillion adton Mayor na tinujod gajod na moserbisyo para sa pagpaasenso sa ato lungsod ngadto na sa kalambuan sab nan kinabuhi nan mga lungsuranon. Tapos ya nay likoliko, diretso na isa ka linya rakan para ya nay babag sa mga plano sa kalambuan. Total jaon may auditor na magbantay para sa sakto na paggamit nan pundo para sa isa ka proyekto. Kun dili gajod mapugngan na jaoy gihapon kawat, diretso na kita tawag sa hotline na 8888 kay sigurado aksyonan gajod jaon nan goberno.

Sa taglaong ko na ya may ako tagdapigan na partido, an ako ra na pilion nato jadton isa ka linya sa mga kandidato na an panlantaw dili para sa ila kaugalingon o sa ila partido, kundili an karajawan sa umaabot na mga generasyon nan mga naghuya didon sa Anao-aon.

O, Anao-aon, an ako gikamingawan na lungsod na natawhan. What a beautiful place! How enduring the cherished and treasured memories of childhood and youthful amusement and laughter of the delightful long ago! How grand are the sparkling reflections of its deep blue sea! How awesome are its beaches with fine pebbles and stones! How wonderful are its crystal clear rivers and springs! How green are its sceneries and the surrounding hills and mountains of its ecosystem! What wonderful picturesque of scenic beauty and splendor that the sunset brings as the day concludes with the super sun slowly dimming its light rays down the verge of the shimmering sea! How peaceful and tranquil the atmosphere of its municipal state of affairs! How hospitable are its people! Indeed, what an inviting place for family habitation! Yet, how sad that progress and development seem to be aloof and unapproachable, notwithstanding its many resources and geographic location and proximity to the nearest capital city.


May those who have the chance to run for public office during this local election, dedicate their hearts and minds to truly perform the mantle of authority that may be placed upon them by the people and serve faithfully without fear or favor and partisan biases. May those who will be elected, initiate pending plans for progress and create new programs for development in one united effort to bring about growth and advancement for the municipality and its people which are long overdue. This they should do in acknowledgement and gratitude for the trust and confidence that the people may give them. May God open the pavilion of His hiding place and distill His blessings and let it flow in gradual stream upon our town of Anao-aon. May it be so!

Monday, March 4, 2019

CHILDREN’S GARDEN: A LEGACY OF LEARNING

By: Norberto Betita 

Teacher Angeline L. Tandan, incumbent Director & the late Teacher Irene L.Tandan, the Founder

The CGL:CI am not sure whether my meeting and shake hands with teacher Angeline L. Tandan yesterday have registered some thoughts in my sub-conscious mind that when I awoke early dawn today, Monday, March 4, 2019, the first thought that entered my consciousness was about the Children’s Garden Learning Center as a legacy of learning for many of the children and youths in Surigao City. 

The thought lingered even after my restroom call and it just didn’t leave as to have me awake until the alarm rings. What was in my mind is a sense of sincere personal gratitude to the founder of one of the pioneering kindergarten school in Surigao City---the late teacher IRENE L. TANDAN-- and those teachers, many of whom were already retired and with some having already slipped into the other side of the veil, in molding and building the educational foundations of all my five children, who studied and finished kindergarten from that beloved institution of foundational learning. It hits me so much that after my regular prayer I was kind of dragged in front of my computer and started to write those inspired thoughts while still fresh in the mind. 

The late Teacher Irene L. Tandan, CGLC founder & Husband, the late Atty. Enrique Y. Tandan
 
The memories of those many years of parent-teacher-institution partnership in molding the foundations and building blocks of our children’s quest for learning and education remains, as its alumni now occupies competitive positions in government and private institutions; and are pursuing private professional advancements in the field of medicine, law, science and technology, engineering and architecture and other progressive professions, during the last 40 years of its existence. I do not boast the fact that from the early foundational learning competencies in communications and mathematical literacy gained by my children from that humble and simple environment of the Children’s Garden Learning Center, four out of my five children had qualified to study in one of the nation’s premiere university---the University of the Philippines---although only two of them survived, the two having relinquished their scholarship in favor of reasonable priorities. Such learning foundations also motivated them to seriously endeavor to earn college degrees.

The founder of the Children’s Garden learning Center---the late teacher Irene---as she is fondly addressed by her pupils, was herself a teacher. She graduated with a degree in Elementary education and with a master’s degree in English. She should have gone far into the leadership hierarchy in the Surigao City Division of the Department of Education Culture and Sports (DECS), but having herself observed the foundational learning deficiencies in many of Public school pupils, she chose to instead establish a pre-school learning center, which by then there was only one available in the city, with a noble vision to better help prepare children for formal education. 

The CGLC founder as a young educator
       
Although her husband---Atty. Enrique Y. Tandan, a prominent lawyer---had been very supportive of her sublime and admirable vision for the children of Surigao City and the Province of Surigao del Norte, they were not that affluent as to have enough capital. Hence, they started the kindergarten school in a rented building. I knew of several plans of expansion, early on, using their real estate resources. However, according to their eldest son Enrique, Jr., a brilliant young man, who was then a first year college student at UP Diliman College of Economics, during our personal interviews and dialogues, the costs and the plight of the student’s family had always been a consideration and concern of her mother. She always justified her generous and benevolent disposition in favor of the children and their families as a token of affection, because from its inception she never wanted to make business out of the education which the school offered, but to make education its business. Consequently, the expansion plans did never materialize, except the converting of the kindergarten school into an elementary school. But through the years and until her passing, teacher Irene, left an endowment of learning that will forever be carved in the tablet of the hearts of those dearly beloved pupils she helped mold towards success, and the rest of the alumni of the school she patiently established not for material gains, but for a noble vision to help prepare children for better learning. 

Children celebrating Christmas

Therefore and up to this time, the Children’s Garden Learning Center remains to be the cheapest private preparatory and elementary school in Surigao City. Yet, its competitiveness in so far as learning capabilities of its students are concerned, continues to be at par with its sophisticated counterparts.

The school is now headed by teacher Angeline L. Tandan, a Bachelor of Science in Child Psychology graduate from the Xavier-Ateneo de Cagayan University in Cagayan de Oro City and daughter of the late teacher Irene L. Tandan. It is still housed in the same rented building of long ago. 

Cultural show and recognition

Economic development and progress and the significant appreciation of real estate market values and appraisals, attracted and enticed the owner to take advantage and dispose of the property, and thus threaten the school’s existence. But its grand and majestic vision and mission as enshrined by its founder will surely remain hallowed and consecrated to the same ideals when it was first established. Thus, it will stand on the rock of principles upon which it was built, no matter the storms, and the children will continue to recite the pupil’s creed more loudly and clear:

“We believe in the value of education.

“We thank God for our parents and guardians who care.

“We thank God for this chance to study at the Children’s Garden Learning Center.

“We shall not waste this golden opportunity to improve ourselves and be useful to God and country. We take pride in this school which is our second home.

“For optimum growth, we shall use every moment profitably, we shall obey rules and regulations. We shall respect teachers and all school authorities.

“At all times, we shall behave, upholding the good name and honor of our Alma Mater.

“To Almighty God, we return all blessings and praises.”

Then with greater fervor and solemn conviction, perform their whole-souled cry of the school’s motto:

“In the Children’s Garden Learning Center, we don’t make business out of education. We make education our business.”

In time, a new door will be opened to accommodate its enthusiastic pupils and parents, with renewed vigor and commitment for an enduring parent-teacher-institution partnership. Then the Children’s Garden Learning Center will live on forever as a provider of competitive foundational learning environment for our children and our children’s children. 

CGLC faculty and staff

As a parent, I cherished and treasured the time when I was humbled by the memory of the late Atty. Enrique Y. Tandan, who even beyond the boundaries of his prominence, had to convey our son Robert Sherwin home because we forgot to fetch him at school due to our very busy work schedule. Now as a grandparent, I cherish and love to witness my grandchildren show their respect, honor and fondness, tenderly expressed for their teacher Buding (Angeline), the school director, and other teachers for that matter, wherever and whenever they met, a substantiation of an atmosphere of tender and affectionate relationship in the school room and campus.

Then I am reminded of the words of Daniel Webster (1782-1852): “If we work upon marble, it will perish; if we work on brass, time will efface it. If we rear temples, they will crumble to dust. But if we work on men’s immortal minds, if we impress on them high principles, the just fear of God, and love for their fellow-men, we engrave on those tablets something which no time can efface, and which will brighten and brighten to all eternity.” I know that such ideals are part of what the Children’s Garden would want to leave as a legacy of learning for its students.

Friday, January 11, 2019

MEMOIRS: REUNION FOR ALL FORMER SURIGAO PHILNABANKERS

by: Norberto Betita



When the realities of waning physical strength lead us down and closer into the borders of life’s ultimate destiny, the chronicles and recollections of those long and wonderful days gone by, enliven back the amazing memories of friendships and camaraderie and rekindle the grand moments of joyful acquaintances. Such memoirs resuscitate the seemingly deflated energy that dwells on the soul of the weary travelers, as to create enthusiasm to reconnect the links and reinvent those memorable fellowship and alliance.

For some real and varied reasons our employment bonds were broken by the upshots of our search for individual fate and fortune. As we are chauffeured into the different boundaries of life’s thoroughfare in search of opportunities for growth and development, we somehow momentarily forget the ties and closeness of long ago. Yet, as some of us now sit in comfortable couches of success and with others on the limiting rocking chairs of retirement---when feet seems hard to steady and hands hard to grasp---the sweet echoes of the jubilant past ring back anew into the ears of our memory those long treasured flashes of gladness.

In plans to physically regenerate and refresh those missed instants of warm employment associations, while time is still available for disposal, especially for those who are already in the twilight of life’s journey, a group of Philippines National Bank (PNB) retirees called for and organized a grand reunion for all former Surigao Philnabankers.

As of this writing the following are listed: 

 1. Nards Balagulan (bxu)
2. Ardon Rasonabe (bxu)
3. Fred Amadora (bxu)
4. Sioney Uygioco (bxu)
5. Dindin Sembrano (bxu)
6. Bal Melgar (bxu)
7. Yanyan Cayomo (bxu)
8. Pensoy Fernan (cdo)
9. Lorna Royo (cdo)
10. Sarah Carbonilla (cdo) 
11. Yvonne Ariar (cbu)
12. Bessie Villamor (cbu)
13. Sylvia Becina (mla)
14. Jennifer Poblete (mla)
15. Manny Llesol (mla)
16. Trif Col (cbu/usa)
17. Jaque Del Carmen (can)
18. Caroline Balaba (can)
19. Lito Fortun (can)
20. Alex Ungab (usa)
 21. Raymund Vissara (usa)
22. Inday Tandan (usa)
23. Annging Alas (usa)
24. Elvie Guazon (usa)
25. Ningning Sering
26. Cholo Bathan
27. Lito Daguipa
28. Nora Bermudo
29. Bersai Ledesma
30. Evelyn Cayasa
31. Ricardo Gonzaga
32. Aquiles Besinga
33. Joane Ferrer
34. Ced Tantoy
35. Levie Lisondra
36. Bert Betita
37. Marlo Nambatac
38. Zita Maquiling
39. Romy Maquiling
40. Ronil Salmayor 

 41. Candi Lanugon
42. Judith Pajo
43. Boy Coniate
44. Bon EstaƱo
45. Cesar Bagaipo
46. Gloria Rutaquio
47. Virgilio Mendoza
48. Romeo Kwan
49. Nanding Rutaquio
50. Malu Madelo Pilorin
 51. Antonette Roma
52. Floy Paler
53. Gloria Rocha
54. Ospar Ebol

Guests:

1. Romeo Orozco
2. Domingo Gordonas
3. Erlinda Morandante
The organizing committee and conveners of this grand event are therefore inviting all former Surigao Philnabankers to join our reunion scheduled on June 21-23, 2019 in Surigao City. Should you have been missed in the list, please be counted. 

It is unfortunate that some of those who had been a part of such wondrous days---Mario R. Hatague, Eduardo Ajero, Avelino “Jun” Tiu, Dodong Milana, Luis Gomez, Jingjing Felicio, Rey Carbonilla and several others---were already summoned to the other side of the veil and have made the grave their mansions. Yet the nostalgias of them will linger through our lifetime as we try to memorialize the friendships which we shared during the short times we were together as Surigao Philnabankers.

We may have been quiet sentimental and saddened by their passing, but as in the words of the Psalmist, “…weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5.)

Revisiting the chronicle of my journey into the perimeters of the PNB Surigao Branch, there shines the names of Domingo Gordonas, who was the guard who informed me about the competitive qualifying examinations; Mr. Mario R. Hatague, Chief L & D and Mr. Eduardo Ajero, Credit Investigator, who conducted the character investigation, as a pre-employment requirement, after I passed the test. Their favorable narrative of my character and personality eventually awarded for me a secured PNB seat which to me was like a conceptual beautiful rainbow that forms after a distressing storm, having been without employment for some time.

Personally, I cherished those humorous memories with former PNB Surigao Branch associates. The branch was then housed under the Vasquez athletic field grandstand. It was a small space, which turns like a smoke chamber after all clients are served. Most men are smokers. It seems to be their stress antidote while balancing voluminous transactions using mechanical machines. One of the first funny thing that I witnessed as a newly transferred personnel from Tandag Branch, was when Bessie eventually shouted, “Please stop smoking, my husband is already complaining about my undergarments already smelling cigarette.”

Bessie was the best singer in the group and during bankers programs and parties, she was always one best and applauded performer. I’m grateful that she finally transferred and the performer’s mantle was passed on to me. Nobody could argue with the pictures below as evidence. However, with the original title holder coming back for the reunion, I will be returning the crown. 






I neither drink alcoholic beverages and smoke. But during our parties, they try to gather empty bottles of beer and place it in front of me for a picture. I look like the real drunken master. 



As a current account bookkeeper, it was my charge to make sure that checks with stop-payment orders, which are common during my time, should not be posted. There was this woman supplier of DECS books, whose check for encashment in the amount of P500,000, which signatories acted like table tennis players and used the check as their pingpong ball. They serve stop payment orders and then encashment notices for several times in a row. Until I finally got hold of the encashment notice attached to the check and I immediately have it posted and approved by Chief Alex. The following day, we received a complaint why it was encashed when a hold payment order was submitted. Chief Alex immediately asked for the ledger from me and checked. He found that on top of the ledger was a stop payment order. He was kind of punctured by the sad reality. The amount of P500,000 was such a huge accountability for him as the approving officer and for me as the bookkeeper. But I assured him that there was attached to the check an encashment order and there was no payment order during the day issued for the same check. Concerned about our joint accountability, I carefully checked on the notices enclosed and stapled on the ledgers and arranged those by dates. I found that the latest notice was for encashment. I shouted “Yes,” we were both relieved. 




Indeed, there were many sad and funny experiences which are worth remembering together. Sad when we were short in our cash transactions, because we were required to pay, and even sadder when we are over for we are not allowed to get the excess cash, but are made to explain why.

Boss Ardon was lucky because Miyot did not immediately dispense the content of the trash box into the trash bag for final distribution to the garbage collector. He first checked on the box and found a bundle of P50,000 worth of late deposit wrapped in newspapers.

I am ungrateful should I fail to recognize my mentors by whose managerial authority I was under direct supervision. Of course, I am enthralled by the persistence and perseverance of Manager Bagaipo that I oftentimes found myself late in my central bank clearing waiting for deposits he has to bring from marketing with checks for clearing. I respect and honor the paternal type of leadership and diligence of Manager Kwan. I am fascinated by the wit and brilliance of Manager Madelo, who was also my boss while in Tandag Branch. I loved the strict but straightforward attribute and generosity of Manager Hatague, and I enjoyed the company and leadership of Manager Gomez, Manager Amadora, Manager Melgar and Boss Ardon and his humor, although I am no longer under them during their managerial stint at PNB Surigao, although we were working on the same roof.



But most of all, I treasured the motherly style of management that Ma'am Sylvia Becina---the only woman manager I was under supervision---which she introduced into our team. Her soft and tender voice even in bad mood mirrored a menu which broth is delightful to the taste despite heat and the content tender and soft to swallow. Her profound leadership techniques where like those bits of fatty bone marrow in the same menu which provides energy to the heart and brain as to motivate each to contribute towards attaining the overall goals of the branch. She is very concerned of the well-being of his subordinates. Her motherly leadership even at work, represented the kind of a mother which Victor Hugo wrote in his classic: “She broke the bread into two fragments and gave them to her children, who ate them with eagerness. ‘She hath kept none for herself,’ grumbled the sergeant. “Because she is not hungry,” said a soldier.” “No,” said the sergeant, “because she is a mother.” 


 
I conclude with some funny memories when two of our security guards held hands together like frightened newlyweds, because of bomb scare, and when Miyot revealed in a Christmas Party, with sincere apologies to the late Manager Mario R. Hatague for tasting his coffee by the teaspoon each time he prepares a cup for him. I don’t know if you have ever experienced using a lip gloss as perfume; Miyot had it and later complained to Cholo why her perfume is gluey.

For sure each has his or her own story to tell and it’s worthwhile to listen and enjoy together the wonderful reminiscences of those pleasurable and congenial yesteryears. Joseph B. Wirthlin said, “Some memories are unforgettable, remaining ever vivid and heartwarming.” As such it is said that, “No matter how much suffering you went through, you never wanted to let go of those memories.” (Haruki Murakami.)

We, therefore, most cordially invite all former PNB Surigao Philnabankers to come and join our grand reunion on June 21-23, 2019. BE COUNTED AND LET US ENJOY TOGETHER!

Friday, January 4, 2019

REMEMBERING AN HONORABLE MAN OF GOD: THE LATE REVEREND EFEGENIO HUELMA AZARCON


(Complete text of a memorial service message---December 30, 2018)

By: Norberto Betita 


In the bitter reality of the natural wear and tear of my mortal coil attendant to aging, I stand today fairly bereft of intellectual reflexes as to prompt me to write my message for this special memorial event in the life of the late Reverend Efegenio Huelma-Azarcon. I pray that the words I have to say today may merit and be worth King Solomon’s description when he wrote: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11).

As we memorialize the unfailing virtues of those loved and lost, who served in righteousness and in truth to the end, we rise from the deepest depths of our sorrows to the pinnacle of a joyful assurance of an eternal reward promised to the faithful and of a coming grand and glorious reunion with him in the hereafter.

When I received Effe’s invitation for this service in memoriam of the 19th death anniversary of her father---Reverend Azarcon---which to me is such a great honor and privilege, the first thing that came to my mind were the words of James M. Barrie, “God gave us memories that we may have June roses in the December of our lives.”

Indeed, the December of Pastor Azarcon, as we fondly called him when we were in college, was long since gone, but the June roses of each passing December remain fresh and immaculate as loved ones revisit and review the prints of his memorable journey from the tablet of their hearts. 

The speaker

Perhaps during this yearly commemoration of his death which coincidentally was only a day past the anniversary of the passing of our National Hero, we can best imagine their common feelings as they bade their sad goodbyes to their loved ones and slipped into the other side of the veil. Such poetic farewell was so beautifully written by Dr. Jose Rizal, in his Mi Ultimo Adios: “I go where there are no slaves, hangmen or oppressors;

“Where faith does not kill; where the one who reigns is God.”

I know Reverend Azarcon as an schoolmate at the Northeastern Mindanao Colleges sometime in the early 1970’s. I was then in my second year in college and he must have been on his third year. I was also seven years junior his age. Although our fellowship was not that close because we were taking different courses, yet such occasional engagements in the campus left imprints of wonderful memories that has long since stayed in my mind and heart. He was then taking up Bachelor of Arts and mine was leading to a degree in Commerce. I know him to be a pastor, because he was a classmate of my best friend Jose Fuertes who was also taking Bachelors of Arts.

One of my most memorable encounter with Reverend Azarcon was when we were both chosen as contestants in an oratorical contest for the NEMCO College Day celebration, which used to be one of the grandest celebrations we have in Surigao City at that time. He was representing Bachelor of Arts Department and I was representing the Commerce Department. I only knew he was the contestant when we were already sitting on the stand. His being chosen to be a contestant must have been the reason for our Department’s original contestant to backtrack, probably knowing the oratorical virtue and skill of him.

During the presidency of Jose O. Paloma of NEMCO, the college day is the most celebrated event and during such activities the quadrangle and the second floor foyer were always filled with people--- parents, students, friends, and guests. By the view alone of the audience, you’ve got your knees quaking, especially if you are not used to a large audience. Such condition was most favorable for Pastor Azarcon, because he had been regularly exposed to a large congregation being the preacher of the UCCP Central Church, while I was a neophyte-trying-hard oratorical contestant for the first time in my college life. 

With host, Ms. Effe Ping Barker (3rd from right) and other guests

As Reverend Azarcon started his piece, and his solid and penetrating voice thundered all around the open arena of the NEMCO quadrangle, I knew then that not one of the other contestants have the chance of winning the grand prize. His piece was well written, his delivery was exceptional, his presence of mind and memory was perfectly consistent and his voice bellowed with precision as to invite audience applause and heads up for the judges. He seemed to be like the Apostle Paul delivering his powerful testimony before King Agrippa and the accusing Jews, to which the king replied, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” (Acts 26:28). That made me shiver and wished that I would be allowed to use the podium to cover my quivering knees or just hold on the microphone stand at least. I was in such dilemma to the end that when it was my time I forgot part of my piece and immediately skipped to the last paragraph. The same must have been the predicament of other contestants that they also lost their power. Fortunately, I still placed second to Reverend Azarcon.

However, such was not the best memory that was planted in my mind and heart for Reverend Azarcon. I remembered him most during those silent moments and quiet encounters we have at the campus. He must not have known it himself, but I found him to be a very humble man of God. His gentle smile and soft tone, when not in an oratory, reflected kindness and meekness. His manly bearing and countenance invited honor and respect. Even his ever enduring style of a flat-top hair, when most men were sporting “tagalog” cut and I was even wearing a long hair and beard, to me manifested his moral consistency, bearing his integrity with conscious dignity.

He used to ride a semi-racer bicycle to school with his notebooks and a book, which I sensed to be his Holy Bible, fastened on the back carrier, while wearing his dignified ministerial outfit of polo-barong. I saw him on several occasions passed by our makeshift resting benches at the SNNHS cottages along Paradise Street, where I lived with my brother, towing by his side the same bicycle up the hill to the Surigao del Norte National High School, perhaps on his way to or from his ministerial duties for his flocks. I viewed this unpretentious straightforward display of his guileless circumstances to be an example of true discipleship; a classic and most admirable way of magnifying his pastoral election and calling.

His most noble attribute of humility reminds me of the words of Marlin K. Jensen: “...it should come as no surprise that, in the estimation of some, humility ranks quite low on the scale of desirable character traits. Popular books have been written in recent years on integrity, common sense, civility, and a host of other virtues, but apparently there is little market for humility. Obviously, in these coarsening times when we are taught the art of negotiating by intimidation, and assertiveness has become a byword of the business world, those seeking to become humble will be a small and overlooked but critically important minority.” (To Walk Humbly with Thy God, lds.org.) Yet, in his being a part of that critical minority, I placed Reverend Azarcon, with his humility and manliness, in high pedestal.

I am most confident that as a minister and student of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, he was most familiar with the account in Matthew when the Lord’s disciples asked Him the question, “...Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven? In response of which, “...Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:1-4.)

As revealed by my PNB colleague, a member of his congregation, who truly loved his sermons, whose marriage he administered and solemnized, Reverend Azarcon’s childlike humility also radiates the kind of ministerial leadership, which the Lord taught to His disciples as recorded in Matthew. “...Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant.” (Matthew 20:25-27.)

It is only occasional that we witness childlike humility from one who bears the mantle of authority to preside over a Christian congregation, dressed in dignity and honor in accord with his assignment and calling and then act implicitly as a servant. It is very uncommon for a leader to consciously show his humility. Reverend Azarcon might not even have recognized that he sent an undying message to me, during those times when we were yet schoolmates, for if beforehand or during those quiet moments he knew that he was humble, he might not have probably acted the way he did. For one to recognize himself as being humble, he is not.

His noble character, in unity with the exemplary motherhood of Mrs. Azarcon, must have been a great influence for good in the lives of their children as to motivate them to attain the highest possible education they could. The eldest, Reverend Dr. Azriel, is a Doctor of Theology, and dean of Asia Graduate School of Theology, Philippines; Atty. Casel, is educated in law and a member of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines; and Ms. Effe, is a Master in Education, with further studies in journalism at the University of California, Los Angeles. Such achievements are grand parental endowments.

The way Effe described his father’s consecrated life in Christian ministry, voiced anew the legendary words of Dr. Jose Rizal: “It is a useless life that is not consecrated to a great ideal. It is like a stone wasted in the field without becoming part of an edifice.

“You must shatter the vase to spread its perfume, and smite the rock to get the spark.” (El Filibusterismo).

Indeed, the memorable story of Reverend Azarcon’s ministry will endure well forever as being part of that Christian edifice he pioneered in Surigao City---The Presbyterian Church. The pleasant scent of his exemplary life and the illuminating rays of the light demonstrated in his remarkable Christian life and ministry, warranted for him a state of peace and rest, where no tears should be shed and no sorrows remain. His lifetime of service to God and His people qualified and guaranteed for him an exalted sphere in the place, which John, the beloved apostle, described as a condition where, “…God shall wipe away all tears from [his] eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.” (Revelation 21:4, 7)

As I now picture the present reality and the glorious state where Reverend Azarcon is right now, my thoughts are steered anew to the wondrous words of Lord Alfred Tennyson in his poem “In Memoriam”:

“Forgive my grief for one removed,
Thy creature, whom I found so fair.
I trust he lives in thee, and there
I find him worthier to be loved.”
(In Memoriam A.H.H., par. 10.)

In expressions of gratitude to God for him whose wonderful memories of long ago still lingers---even the late Reverend Efegenio Huelma-Azarcon, I quote these words most popular among Christian ministers, and perhaps also a favorite of him, the 23rd Psalm of David:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”

Thank you very much.

Tuesday, January 1, 2019

NEW YEAR’S WISHES: MY PERSONAL PUBLIC PRAYER FOR PRESIDENT DUTERTE



By: Norberto Betita

PRESIDENT RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

More than ever, our country today needs more participants than idle spectators in the affairs of government. We need to be evermore aware of our duties and responsibilities as citizens of this republic and therefore contribute in whatever way and how little we can towards progress and development, setting aside the contentious approach of partisanship.

We are a nation of genuine democracy where majority rule is permitted and recognized by the supreme law---The Philippine Constitution---which also articulate the protection of the rights of each individual citizen.

Among the many functions of majority rule in a democracy is to establish the mechanisms in deciding and choosing representatives of the people into the different branches of Government through the process of election. However, as it is when elections end and the voice of the majority are determined against our favor, we remain adamantly locked and immovable in our personal belief and partisan convictions in opposition to the principle of majority rule and thus critically wrestle with an established government. Consequently, we are divided, and such a reality is the very reason why for the last many years we have remained to be a nation documented and labelled as poor.

We are short of understanding the words of Dr. Jose Rizal, many years ago, when he wrote: “I can concede that the government has no knowledge of the people, but I believe the people know less of the government. There are useless officials, evil, if you like, but there are also good ones, and these are not able to accomplish anything because they encounter an inert mass, the population that takes little part in matters that concern them.” (Noli Me Tangere).

We are a free nation and a free people, but such freedom of navigation to the blissful economic shores are being subjugated by the selfishness of those who are in the minority---the economically rich and the socially and politically powerful---who, until now are hooked at using the weaknesses of the poor for their personal gains and pushed them hard down the deepest depths of poverty and woe.  

Now we have a leader who, from the start of his presidential journey, has always wanted to liberate our people from the mire of poverty by cleansing the government and changing the bureaucracy; dismantling the giants of corruption and drug cartels; fighting terrorism and insurgency; and suppressing the oligarchy. He is hated and criticized by his political rivals; mocked and despised by the skeptics; spurned by the unbelievers and doubters; and even considered an enemy to the church. But he is resolute in fighting his battle with faith and courage; he is honest in his convictions and unperturbed by the magnitude of opposition that is before him; and he has always expressed his willingness to die for the people he is elected to serve. His obstinate zeal to stand by his plans and programs of government for the benefit of the majority and the coming generations, brings to memory the words of Dr. Jose Rizal: “I don't see why I should bow my head when I could hold it high, or place it in the hands of my enemies when I can defeat them.” (Noli Me Tangere).

In his leadership I found the significance and the hope that come from the words of Dr. Jose Rizal when he wrote: “I do not mean to say that our liberty will be secured at the sword’s point…but that we must secure it by making ourselves worthy of it, by exalting the intelligence and the dignity of the individual, by loving justice, right, and greatness, even to the extent of dying for them,—and when a people reaches that height God will provide a weapon, the idols will be shattered, the tyranny will crumble like a house of cards and liberty will shine out like the first dawn. (El Filibusterismo).

The dawn of our common victory through President Duterte will not shine unless we remain united in supporting his presidency and his honest efforts to bring about the changes, we need so long a time. We could not attain liberty from the bondage of poverty if we continue to stand idly by as useless spectators and frustrated political pedestrians. We could not find the gate to a bountiful life until we become willing participants in our government’s cause.

Therefore, in this New Year of 2019, if only to give my diminutive personal support to his noble cause, I offer my personal public prayer for President Duterte.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte taking his oath of office

Heavenly Father,

In grateful acknowledgement of Thine intervention
In inspiring our people to vote for an unlikely President
Of our Republic, we raise our voices high unto Thee
In praises of thankfulness and adoration.

With devotion and reverence for the divine manifestation
Of the mantle of power through the people upon President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,
Notwithstanding his earlier reluctance to run for the Presidency,
We are marvelously grateful unto Thee. 

We thank Thee for President Rodrigo Duterte,
Our beloved president, for working so hard,
Together with his cabinet members, in fulfilling
His promises to bring about changes in our government.

We unitedly express our heartfelt gratitude
For the strength and physical health and vigor
Thou hast blessed him, despite natural deterioration
And corporal limitations attendant to aging.

Most profoundly, we thank Thee, O, Father
For the marvelous unsung accomplishments
His administration has introduced toward progress
And development in our nation in this so short a time.

We thank Thee for his sincere love and concern for the Filipino people,
Not only for the present, but for the coming generations,
And his ever sincere desire to build a nation worthy
To provide a peaceful haven for its populace.

In the hollow accusations and unwanted critical opposition,
Daily thrown against him to put down his name and presidency,
We thank Thee for the continued blessings of boldness, willpower
And courage to withstand, which Thou hast powerfully endowed upon him.

We thank Thee evermore for the divine influence
Thou hast laid into the hearts of the people and the Armed Forces
And the loyal cabinet members of his administration,
As to openly and honestly support him in his program of government.

We are profoundly grateful that until the end of the year 2018
The majority of our people have remained loyal to the president
And are ever confident of his leadership and governance
Towards our country’s becoming an economically progressive nation.   

Dear Heavenly Father, in this day of developing culture of hate
In our Philippine Society, we pray for Thy divine hands
To lift up our beloved President Rodrigo Roa Duterte
Towards attaining his dreams for the Filipino people.

We ask Thee, to bless him with the mantle of power and authority
To continually incapacitate the critical assaults from the opposition,
As regards his method of governance in implementing intended changes
Aimed at bringing our nation toward economic growth and development.

We ask for Thy blessings upon the members of his cabinet
That all may be united in a common perspective to work in harmony,
In carrying and eventually transforming our country
Into a haven of peace and progress and contented life for all.

We ask for Thy most powerful influence and reconciling spirit
To touch the hearts of those who are critical of the President
That they may embrace, once and for all, a culture of healing
For our common good, as a nation and as a people.

Let the bowels of Thy divine love flow into the hearts of every citizen
That all may render support to our beloved President
And that love, unity, harmony and peace may bind us together
In building a strong foundation of a great and glorious commonwealth with charity for all.

May Thou bless and protect the Military and the Police as they support the president
In the battle against Insurgency, terrorism, drug abuse and criminality,
That lives may be preserved and peace be once more established,
And provide healing to our long battered economic landscape.

Grant, O, Father, that the youth of our land may ever be mindful
Of their inherent role in the constant renewal of leadership in our national life,
As envisioned by the president, and infuse upon their vulnerable minds
Personal discipline and brighter optimism for a glorious future.

May the ever yearning desire of President Duterte to cleanse our government
From the lingering cancer of corruption, be accorded Thine rectifying power
That the government may be washed of corrupt stewards and officials
And the treasury be filled with resources in greater abundance after a long dry spell.

Rather than running counter and opposing the government’s honest efforts,
May Thou, O, Father inspire the religious advocates to instead look for the good things,
And join in prayer for the president to accomplish his wondrous programs and plans
To establish a strong government and solid economic foundations for future generations to benefit.  

As Thou didst protect Elisha’s soldiers from the threats of hundreds of thousands
Of the Assyrian Army who wanted Israel destroyed, may Thou likewise send Thy “horses
And chariots of fire round about” our country, and thus help us realize
That, “they that be with us are more than they that be” with the enemies of the state.

We pray that as the dawn of 2019 signals the coming of a brighter day, Thou mayest bless the president with the best of health and physical vigor to sustain him in his most persistent efforts
To make good his increasingly intense longings to open bolted doors of opportunities
Upon which the poor Filipino people may find their way to an abundant life.

Of these things we pray in humble submission to Thy will,
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ. Amen.


Monday, December 4, 2017

WHEN PUBLIC SERVICE BECOMES PREEMINENT

By: Norberto Betita



Gratitude is the best compliment!

Sometimes no matter how I tried to be more patient there will emit from my physical system the feeling and drive to be impatient, especially as regards unwanted circumstances, not of my choice, that affect our daily living. Water is life and when faucets are dried despite waterlogged reservoir because of continued rains the beauty of peaceful living also drains. So on December 1, 2017, I posted on Facebook my short grievance, accompanied by my remaining undrained decency and respect for the provider.

Surprisingly in a few minutes I heard a call from Surigao Metropolitan Water District (SMWD) personnel reporting that they have already checked the connection and asked if there was already water in our faucet. As we affirmed, they requested to report the matter to Chairman Manny Kong as they have been monitored of their action.

Just about the time when I finished my post expressing gratitude for the quick response of SMWD personnel, my attention was called by my son and as I went over our door, to my greatest surprise, there was Chairman Manny Kong standing right on our gate with a smile reminiscent of those college days when we were classmates. It was the first time that we personally met since the 1970’s, although we have recently had some short communication through the social media.

He purposely came to follow up the action of his men as regards my Facebook request for SMWD to help restore our water supply as there were unfinished laundries and other chores that required water which were left undone because of the unscheduled water interruption. He was with a SMWD Engineer overseeing the operations. They apprised me of their resolves and assured of continuous water supply. Although I have long since discovered that the problem was not about any other resolves than monitoring, I never attempted to argue to the kind of tipsy engineer as I do not want the Chairman to be embarrassed. For me it was enough that the water has been restored and I felt the real concern of SMWD through its chairman of the Board personally coming into our place just to check and assure us that he is always on call and at hand when public service becomes preeminent. I see no robe of hypocrisy; no sheer display of ostentations, but a crystal clear view of honest expressions of concern for the water users and humility in public service.

His presence is a reminder of his sincerity and integrity in public service. When I apologized for having robbed his precious family time, his prompt and humble response has always been “that is the call I am appointed to do.” Every time I told him that I am reluctant and uncomfortable dealing with him about my water concerns out of respect for his office and position, he would remind me that public service is a public trust therefore position title should be the last consideration. When public service becomes preeminent, call of duty should not slip second in priority.

The festive season is not yet over and rainy days are still on the run. I understand that while water will be overflowing in the reservoirs the accompanying fast accumulation of sediments suspended in the water pipes, due to strong water pressures from the source, result to siltation and eventual clogging and choking of the water flow. Regular flushing of these stored sediments may result to interruptions which is understandable. However, I hope that after this procedural flushing, SMWD personnel in-charge should monitor the affected water lines at the Canlanipa reservoir, as they had been doing before when one personnel was daily stationed right on the reservoir, and to never forget that there is a small pipe that supplies only three households approximately a hundred meters away directly connected to the reservoir. This connection, small as it is, is often overlooked and perhaps ignored, until we raise our grievance, which we never should have wanted to do as it sometimes becomes an irritant both to us users and the SMWD personnel.

It seems absurd that unscheduled water interruptions for these three households very seldom happen in the hot of summer when water is scarce but on rainy days when water is overflowing from the source.

I hope, therefore, that with the Chairman’s candid response and assurance, we will not have to experience as it was last Christmas and New Year 2016 when water came at midnight.

The Lord Jesus Christ whose birthday we will soon celebrate once taught, “For…I was thirsty and ye gave me drink.” When asked, “Lord, when saw we thee… thirsty, and gave thee drink?” He answered, “In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25:35,37,40).

I express my deepest appreciation and most sincere gratitude to SMWD and Chairman Manuel Kong for his continued quick action to resolve even our trivial water problems.

Saturday, November 25, 2017

THE PENDULUM OF POLITICS IN SURIGAO


By Norberto Betita


In so far as my memory could contain, the Province and City of Surigao had been governed by a few familiar faces and family names which are connected by bloodline whose pendulumic perspective are motivated by yearning desires of freely swinging back and forth into power. It seems that the pendulum of politics in Surigao is generally characterized by multigenerational family substitutions on the seats of power, following the national trends of political dynasties. The contests of power continue to be participated by the same families or groups who had been in comfortable seats of government for several terms, even going back and forth from one political seat to another---from the Province to the City and back.

However, for these families, I do not see their career in politics as a quest to establish political empire. It is just that they are the only ones who had the guts and courage to gamble their resources and face the excoriating and condemning character assassinations bombarded upon them as are common in all political matches. I considered them to be the bravest few as to embark in the dirtiest degrading and humiliating battle of public discourses that harm their good reputations and destroy public confidence; and even risking their lives at times in order to gain power. I refuse even to think that their struggles are motivated by greed for power, otherwise I will miss the opportunity to see the good that they can do and are doing for our community and people.

Perhaps beyond their ostensive desires to serve the public are hidden agenda which eventually annoys the governed, most common of which are issues of corruption. Yet, they also have the daring to stand confident and bold against the melting power of public opinion. They know that those were part of the risk of their political illusions. True or not they are willing to face mounted accusations.

As the political pendulum continues to swing back again and again, the issues of corruption likewise go back and forth, accusations after accusations in unending marathon. The governed hopelessly sits in frustration, while those in power lean comfortably in sovereign seats accumulating resources, legally or maybe at times illegally, in preparation for the next round of political battle.

Time and time again we heard of people in the academe complaining about being governed by the least whose accomplishments are far below expectations. There are those professing statesmen and brilliant political strategists, active civic leaders who find fault of those who are duly elected in positions of leadership. We whine, grumble and criticize, but there is nothing we can do, they have the majority consent of the governed, whether it be through vote buying which seemed to be a common electoral contamination since time immemorial, or by honest individual choice. Such is the price for those who selfishly hide their talents and instead chose to be part of the tired and exhausted political pedestrians.

Through the years we the governed have our common cries for honesty and integrity in government service. We had been hungering and wanting for good and hardworking men and women to be in government seats. We find ourselves demanding, as Arthur P. Stanley had said: “Give us the man of integrity, on whom we know we can thoroughly depend; who will stand firm when others fail; the friend, faithful and true; the adviser, honest and fearless; the adversary, just and chivalrous;” but he said, “such an one is a fragment of the Rock of Ages.” May be they had been there, but we failed to recognize them. So that as the political pendulum continues to swing, our hopes of being governed by men and women of sound moral principle, uprightness, honesty and sincerity only ended up in vain.

Once in a short while the pendulum of politics in Surigao City rested in the middle, when a prominent lawyer, who had never been in the political arena was appointed acting Mayor for a transitory period during the shift of the reins of national leadership from the deposed Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos to Pres. Corazon C. Aquino in 1986. Attorney Enrique Y. Tandan was appointed for being a man of honesty and virtue; who bears his integrity with conscious dignity. He might not have known it himself nor would he have ever admitted, but in my intimate observation I found him to be such a humble person. Despite his prominence as a lawyer, he sported not an expensive car, but a vintage outmoded open type automobile. He is very straightforward and strict in so far as principles of governance are concerned. His booming voice and temperamental nature are at times misunderstood, but he always had a big heart for those whom he was called to serve, especially those most in need of help. He was determined to fulfill the trust placed upon him. He tried to introduce reforms with undeviating constancy, but he was faced with mounting opposition. It was no surprise though because, “Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. The mediocre mind is incapable of understanding the man who refuses to bow blindly to conventional prejudices and chooses instead to express his opinions courageously and honestly.” [Albert Einstein (1879-1955)]. After the two-year temporary appointment, he tried to run in the following regular elections, but lost.

So the pendulumic swings resume and the regular participants in Surigao politics are back in power. Since then there had been several shifts of power by the same groups and popular names. In my choosing during the many electoral processes that I have participated, I felt not being a failure for the candidates of my personal choice. I heard so much of the negative issues against those who are sitting in the couch of power, but I rather look at the things that they have done and contributed for the good of the community and people. I found that each of those who served in elective positions of leadership have their own contributions during each of their term of office. They might have been bombarded with negative issues, but it matters not to me, I just trust and observe every good deed that they performed, and be personally grateful. For such I find personal peace. Moral relativism appears to be a collective view among residents in the world of politics. I believe though that there are moral absolutes which can be a more productive basis for good government. But it seems just nowhere to be found.

Although there are many things to consider, one of my personal ways of measuring a government leader’s performance is poverty alleviation. Poverty is a problem that lives on with time. The Greek Philosopher Aristotle, in one of the most profound philosophical declarations said: “Poverty is the parent of revolution and crime.” Indeed, the poor had been the easy recruits to crime, terrorism, insurgency, drug proliferation and the like. For the government to be able to provide opportunities for people to level up and free themselves from pangs of economic deprivation is one best measure of successful governance.

In his inaugural speech about inequality, John F. Kennedy said: “If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich.” While the channel between the rich and poor remains wide and the chasm unswimmable for the economically deprived, we can in no wise have a peaceful repose.

In 2003, among the fifteen poorest provinces Surigao del Norte was ranked 7th with poverty incidence of 42.3%. In 2006 we were ranked 9th with 41.6%. And in 2009 we went up to 3rd with 47.9%. (Poverty in the Philippines: Poorest Provinces, http://www.focusonpoverty.org/poverty-in-the-philippines-poorest-provinces/).

In 2012 we dropped to the rank of 26th with poverty incidence of 34.6%. Since then and up to the present our province was never in the list of the top 10 or top 20 of the poorest provinces in the country. This goes to show that the efforts of the administrations during these periods as regards poverty alleviation are acceptable and laudable, although there are yet more that needs to be done. These are periods when Governor Sol F. Matugas was in the reins of the Provincial Government and Mayor Nestor Matugas was Chief Executive of Surigao City. Of course they have not been freed from ignominious negative allegations in relation to their governance. However, looking at the good that they have done and the economic progress and development they have introduced during their incumbency, they deserve the people’s gratitude, especially as they now are in their last term of office as governor and mayor, respectively.

Likewise those in the Provincial Board and the City Council deserve our thanks and appreciation. The Leaderships of Vice Governor Egay; the then Vice Mayor Menor and incumbent Vice Mayor Casurra are worthy of praise and sincere gratitude. So are those members of the Provincial Board and the City council, even those who sometimes are labeled as silent participants, but who had the hand to raise in approval for laudable proposed programs and laws and ordinances.

In about a year and a half the pendulum of politics in Surigao will again swing to another election time. Although we observed that each group of the same color are now starting their recruitment, we are never yet sure who will eventually receive the majority consent of the governed to hold the reins of the Provincial and City governments. What we are sure as it was in the past is that we will have the same popular families and common political personalities that will ring the pendulum sound waves as election time arrives.

While many find this pendulumic political exercise already annoying and ironically obnoxious, yet many of the onlookers amongst the political pedestrians remain like, “The man who goes up in a balloon” yet “does not feel as though he was ascending;” but “only sees the earth sinking deeper under him” (Arthur Schopenhauer).

Perhaps it is high time that we again try the pendulum to rest in the middle by encouraging independent intelligent minds to run for political office and request the majority of the electorate to provide outstanding support even just for a shift to see the difference, as they did to President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

We need not have to wait until our chances and the prospects of our children’s future hang in the balance. There is a need for more of those who are best qualified and fortified by moral ascendancy, now sitting idly on the bench, to turn participants and not just frustrated spectators.