Farm-to-pocket roads

Many are fascinated at the public romance of “Lolo” Freddie Aguilar with his “apo-aged”, 16 year old lass whom he married in Muslim rites — seemingly seeking shelter under the Koran due to criminal cases being filed. We are happy for them but many eyebrows are raised. An example of a lolo’s “apostolic” work in action!
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The investigation into another set of corruption is underway involving some congressmen. This is now called the “farm-to-pocket roads” fund.
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It’s heartwarming to know that many Christmas parties are being cancelled in deference to the tragedy caused by Super Typhoon Yolanda. As we are always reminded: Give until it hurts!
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I met Vice President Jojo Binay in Bacolod last week. Although he appealed to the Jaycee Senators in assemby to help the typhoon victims, he did not also forget the work that still needed to be done for the innocent victims of the recent MNLF siege in Zamboanga City. Remember that his peace “formula” of getting a ceasefire with the MNLF forces of Misuari was rejected by President Aquino. Up to this day, thousands of affected civilians are still suffering.
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I have been talking with people in all walks of life asking them what they think of the Zamboanga incident.
Many of them favored the military option of ending the siege. There is preference always for an iron fist in dealing with trouble makers. This is understandable if we are NOT directly affected. But for those who lost lives of loved ones, lost houses — yes, direct victims of the incident, they abhored use of force and violence. A peaceful settlement is complicated to pursue. But pulling that trigger is much easier to do.
Fr. Angel Calvo, a local priest active in advocacy is calling for a stakeholders forum next week to see how Zamboangenos can rise from the ashes.
Our Archbishop Romulo Valles, who spent a good many years in Zamboanga before assuming the Davao bishopry is familiar with the concerns of the parishioners there. They still need some help now.
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