EDITORIAL - Nuclear worries

The nuclear crisis in Japan has kept many of its neighbors such as the Philippines, as well as the rest of the world, on edge. Both the real danger of a nuclear fallout, and the scant knowledge most people have about how to deal with such a crisis, are responsible for this scare.

 Both the real danger of a nuclear fallout and the widespread ignorance about a nuclear crisis have in fact much to do with the ruinous text messages that swamped the Philippines last Monday.

 But the unfolding crisis in Japan is instructive, at least to those willing to see things for what they really are, as far as the potential for a nuclear holocaust is concerned. And the main lesson to be learned is that there is not much anyone can do about an atomic catastrophe.

 Japan is one of the leading countries when it comes to technological advancement. But as the events of recent days have shown, it still is no match against the terrible forces of nature when unleashed. Previously, the US and Russia have been dealt similar sobering lessons.

 This helplessness of humans in face of natural forces gone wild brings to mind a humorous poster displayed prominently inside one of Cebu's old watering holes. The poster was made to look like an official notice, a set of instructions to patrons in case of a nuclear bomb attack.

 The poster said: "Stay clear of windows. Keep hands free of glasses, bottles, cigarettes, etc. Stay away from bar, tables, orchestra, equipment, and furniture. Loosen necktie, unbutton coat and any other restrictive clothing;

 "Remove eyeglasses. Empty pockets of all sharp objects such as pens, pencils, etc. Immediately upon seeing the brilliant flash of nuclear explosion, bend over and place your head firmly between your legs. Then kiss your a.. goodbye."

 So you see, there is really not much anyone can do in a nuclear holocaust. The best way to confront the problem is not to create it. If Japan, the US and other developed countries are still at the mercy of their ticking bombs, let not the small boys aspire for the big toys.

 There are at present some attempts to revive the mothballed Bataan nuclear power plant. The Japan crisis should serve as the best argument as any for us not to even go there. The world is in danger already as it is. Let us not add ourselves to create even more risk and uncertainty.