EDITORIAL — Love of country

The nation celebrates today the 128th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence as the Senate braces for what the new majority has described as a “very serious” security threat and “clear and present danger” to the chamber.

While no details were provided by acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian and his colleagues, the threat is believed to be linked to the continuing bitter warfare between the two blocs in the 24-member chamber.

That warfare paralyzed the Senate last week as the majority at the time boycotted sessions for three days. Sen. Francis Escudero finally broke the impasse when he showed up, allowing 12 senators to declare a quorum and get things moving again, with new Senate President Pro Tempore Gatchalian presiding to adjourn the session sine die alongside the House of Representatives.

Escudero has brushed off criticisms that he jumped to the other bloc for personal reasons. Even if he might be trying to save his own skin as he faces possible criminal indictment, it is also undeniable that his presence at the plenary hall did save the Senate from paralysis. The deadlock, Escudero correctly pointed out, had become untenable.

Some of the other members of the bloc led by Alan Peter Cayetano may want to consider similar reasons and follow Escudero’s example, to save the institution from the continuing uncertainty and perdition. There are people who think this Senate is now beyond redemption. But the nation, stuck with the current bunch of senators, can still try to save the institution.

Business confidence is down and economists have warned that prolonged political instability could further slow down growth. The instability is aggravating the serious problems arising from the Middle East crisis and the unresolved flood control and budget scandal.

Perhaps remembering the sacrifices and heroism of those behind the Philippine revolution will inspire senators to work for the greater good and show love for their country. That love made the revolutionaries rise up and declare independence from colonial rule despite being heavily outgunned.

Sadly, for too many politicians, there is no more space for love of country. But the people can still show such love, by rejecting venal politicians at the polls and punishing their cohorts, both in government and the private sector. The nation urgently needs independence from selfishness and greed in government.