EDITORIAL — It is not over until it is over

Anyone who looks at the present stage of construction of the proposed Cebu International Convention Center cannot be blamed for feeling anxious that the ambitious project may not be finished on time for the Asean Summit in December.

As a number of nervous observers have correctly pointed out, there are as yet no visible vertical structures rising at the site, and already the December date is lurking just around the corner.

But the project's primary endorser, Governor Gwen Garcia, does not seem to share the apprehension. So, either she is one tough cookie with boundless optimism, or there is something she knows that we don't.

It is true that December is just five months away. But then again, it is a good five months away. Until December actually comes knocking on the door, it will not be December until it is December.

Gwen has already said she is staking her name on the project. But what about us? The project is not just her project. It is ours as well. Or have we forgotten that it is Cebu that is hosting the summit, not just the governor.

Instead of trying to fill the air with discordant noises that can only serve to distract and delay those who are trying their best to finish the project, maybe the more patriotic thing for Cebuanos to do is encourage those doing the hard work, and pray if we have nothing to say.

Finishing the project by December is daunting but not impossible. God made the world in six days, but that was God. Imelda finished the Cultural Center of the Philippines in weeks, but that was Imelda. Derek Fisher won an NBA game with .02 seconds on the clock, but that was Fisher.

Gwen should be allowed her own game plan. If she says December, let us wait for December. It is unfair to criticize a worker over a piece of work still in progress. Gwen is nowhere near being fat, but this thought nevertheless applies --- it is not over until the fat lady sings.