Overreaction

This is about the March 12 episode on the TV5 show Willing Willie hosted by Willie Revillame wherein a six-year-old boy Jan-Jan Suan performed a sexy dance. Whether this was done willingly or unwillingly, there was violation of children’s right.

Personally, I agree with the statement of DSWD Secretary Soliman condemning such act done by the boy and should not be tolerated. The NGO umbrella group and concerned citizens have joined the outcry for immediate sanctions on controversial TV personality Revillame. Likewise, National Museum consultant John Silva sent out a press statement of his own urging a boycott of the products advertised on Willing Willie as a viewer’s way of getting even. Is this not an irresponsible and sadistic act coming from a consultant of a respectable group?

I noticed that some people have joined in criticizing Revillame as if what he did was so grave that deserved such unfair treatment. The giving of money to the boy is not a bribe but was an act of Willie’s appreciation, nor was his crying mean that Jan-Jan was forced by his father to dance, He only got scared because of the presence of the big man. I myself have seen the show including the three little girls in the gallery dancing happily simultaneous with the boy.

Isn’t it enough that TV5 admitted its mistake and apologized for the incident? I think the remark of Revillame was right in saying to the women’s group that more important national issues should be tackled instead of castigating his show over an episode.

In my opinion, these critics should instead focus on issues such as on how to curb corruption, a perennial morality problem besetting our nation. Why do they make a mountain out of a molehill? I myself is involved in children’s advocacies who need the support of concerned citizens to help raise a new breed of Filipinos for the next generation, in order to become better children of God and better citizens of tomorrow.

This is why I launched the “Crusade For A Better Youth Of Tomorrow”. With all due respect I am inviting everyone to join this group. I am giving out copies of the Pinoy Child book, a 1997 bestseller that can serve as a guide for parents in raising children properly during their formative years.

I believe neglecting these young children is the root cause of corruption and you will agree with me that “Ang Pag-Aruga Ng Bata Sa Tamang Paraan Ay Susi Sa Maayos At Payapang Sambayanan”.