Solon wants House to honor Nida

A Mindanao congressman wants the House of Representatives to honor slain actress Nida Blanca — Dorothy Jones in real life — for the "good deeds and examples" she made in her lifetime.

In Resolution 287, Rep. Juan Miguel Zubiri (Lakas, Bukidnon), a member of the "Spice Boys" in the House, said the chamber should express its gratitude for Blanca’s "great deeds and sacrifices for the cause of the arts and patriotism."

She was not only a multi-awarded actress for 50 years from 1951 up to her death but also served, although informally, as a peace negotiator during the Hukbalahap (Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon) rebellion, Zubiri said.

"Nida Blanca’s role as an informal government peace negotiator in 1948 during the time of President Quirino and in 1954 in the surrender talks held with the Huks led by Luis Taruc during the term of President Magsaysay was not officially recognized by the Philippine government," he said.

He pointed out that the humility, bravery and camaraderie shown by Blanca during her talks with Taruc eventually turned into a close friendship between the two.

Filipinos should now acknowledge and recognize such acts of patriotism, he said.

Zubiri also lauded the late actress’ decision to stay in the country. — Jess