My heart goes out to the children who are too young to understand the horrors of war, and just when they are getting over the September 11 tragedy. As we brace ourselves for the repercussions of the US-Iraq hostilities, let us unite in prayer and trust that our government is doing its best for our country.
The following personalities share with us their thoughts on what they would do if war breaks out in the country.
Maritess R. Tantoco, Rustan Commercial Corporation executive: I’d find out where the nearest emergency centers are in my area and help out. I would call my closest friends abroad and find out if they are OK. I would pray.
PBL Commissioner Chino Trinidad: If war breaks out here, there’s really nothing we can do. I will gather the whole family, pray and leave everything to God.
Rep. Nanette Castelo Daza, 4th District, Quezon City: First, I will pray for the safety of the people caught in this war – the civilians in Iraq, especially the children, as well as the American soldiers and their families back home. I will pray that peace and love will eventually prevail in the world – discrimination to none regardless of religion. I will pray for the safety of OFWs and their families. And I will pray for us here in the Philippines, that we may not become victims of "collateral attacks" or terrorism. If war breaks out here, I would pray, take care of my family, look after the safety and welfare of my friends and constituents.
Malu Veloso, designer: Well, the first thing I would do is pray. Then I’d think of how to save my family. Now that the US-Iraq war has started, there’s really nothing we can do but pray.
Toby Gan, businessman: Go somewhere safe with food and my cell phone!
Noel Dela Merced, businessman: Write a book that would freeze the happiest moments in my life at least during and after all the chaos. I, my wife Ginggay and our son would have a manual of memories immortalizing minutes and seconds when we absolutely knew life was worth living.
MYX VJ Ala Paredes: I’d stock up on food and candles and build a bomb shelter where everyone can hole up safely, maybe like someone’s basement.
Anthony Pangilinan, businessman: I’ll seize whatever opportunities are available, improvise and go on with life. As Phil Jackson says, "Focus on recovery, not on regret."