Third Force

Something good for all of us to know and support is the newly-formed "Third Force" – the Bangon! National Movement. With all the hype on possible presidential-vice-presidential team-ups dominating the news, we’ve wondered whether the choices of teams are being based on the popularity or winnability of the partnerships.

It’s good news when an organization is created to pursue much-needed reforms in government through peaceful and non-violent means, not through mutinies or drastic suicidal acts. I like it that Vice President Guingona (who comes from Agusan del Sur and whose wife Ruth is from my beloved city of Gingoog) has declared that he is not running for any elective position in the May 2004 elections – you can bet he is not going to change his mind later – but will concentrate on seeking reforms in government, particularly in the areas of public corruption and social inequities.

It will be interesting to look at the power presentation made by one of the movement’s key organizers, which shows the current state of the Philippine economy and how past and present administrations have not addressed the problems of social injustice and inequities.

Bangon! is a non-partisan group, its supporters coming from the private and public sectors.

Let’s see how the movement grows and how it will tackle graft and corruption in government.

* * *

E-MAIL from reader J.C. Buenaventura: "It is only now after reading your article on Kate Gordon that it has become clear how the development of the planned port will impact on Olongapo‚s environment and population. I suggest that Mayor Kate Gordon and Secretary Dick Gordon launch a more intensive information drive on their objections and the soundness of their approach to the development of Central Luzon."

Muriel Gojo: "I’m still working overseas but hope to come home one day. When I do, I would like to see the Philippines with all its natural resources intact. It is truly sad how politicians and some big businessmen just do things for money, without regard for the consequences of their action."

* * *

E-mail: [email protected]