Sabah Killings

I almost missed reading a news article in the national papers reporting the recent killing of 3 minor Pinoys in Sabah during a raid conducted by Malaysian police on illegal immigrants. We need a full disclosure of what actually happened. For sure, this will again light up the already dimming issue of the Philippine claim to Sabah if not handled properly. Our government must protest this incident and not just whimper quietly. Otherwise, this will again fan the dying embers of the Sultan of Sulu’s proprietary claims into a big fire. Let’s not forget that Mamasapano is also stoking the issue of Malaysians being in the peace process that deals on ancestral domain. And the inevitable question is: why is the MILF not pressing on the bangsamoro right to its ancestral domain in Mindanao but conveniently excludes Sabah in the discourse.

******

DIVORCE—The issue of divorce being allowed in the Philippines has reared its ugly head again. The Catholic Church position on this issue is clear, unequivocal and will remain constant and will not change.

We have seen what divorce in other countries has done to families, especially the children. If families are considered the basic social unit from which communities and societies evolve, then we should strengthen this union rather than provide some loopholes to put married couples asunder.

******

PULSE ASIA SURVEY—The recent Pulse Asia survey results show that Mayor Duterte has become, over a short period, a serious contender in the presidential derby next year. This despite his consistent position that he is not interested to run. On the proposed bangsamoro basic law in Congress, there is an overwhelming objection from the public due principally to what happened in Mamasapano. Members of the Senate and the House being politicians, they will go where the public sentiment goes. No question about it.

******

HOLY WEEK—For the next week, all Christendom will again re-live the passion and death of Jesus Christ. It is a reminder to humankind of the inevitability of death. But it also gives hope to our own glorification as Christ rose, resurrected and ascended to fulfill the prophesy and give meaning to our faith. To God be the glory.