During one of the seminar-workshops back then sponsored by John Hopkins University and San Miguel Corporation in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, keynote speaker Ms. Shiela Coronel encouraged the local media practitioners to always write about children – their health, their education, their plight in dealing with their family and with the community etc. She emphasized the importance of caring for the children because they will be the ones to rule our country in the future.
In all the televised fora, interviews and debates involving political aspirants that I’ve watched so far, it’s quite noticeable that none asked about the children except Dr. Eleonor Cardona during the recent SMNI Senatorial debate held at Okada Manila on March 2, 2022. She wanted to know how the senatorial aspirants would uplift and/or solve the problems of children found in conflict with the law. This subject must be tackled and resolved because children are found being used by syndicates in their unlawful activities knowing that they cannot be held criminally liable.
The senatorial aspirants gave varied views about the issue but it appears that all of them agreed that no child was born with a criminal mind. That if ever the child does something in conflict with the law, he must have been neglected by the people in charge of nurturing him. The welfare of the children is a significant issue that must be given utmost attention by everyone in the community. One great Asian said that “it is the social being that determines the consciousness of a man and not the other way around” so, it is my opinion that our leader(s) must establish a society conducive to the moral, physical, social and spiritual development of a child.
Honestly, it is so frustrating to hear politicians promising the moon and the stars to the voters but obviously neglecting the welfare of the children. They seem too busy impressing the public and the media with their life’s accomplishments and educational background but giving too little or no attention at all to the needs of the children. Lucky are those who were born and raised in the urban communities with available hospitals, schools, internet cafes, amusement parks and recreational facilities. Life may be hard for the poor children in urban areas but harder for the indigenous people who live in the mountains or isolated barangays.
During the aforesaid debate, one of the natives, a young girl from Mindanao I think, asked the senatorial aspirants what concrete step they can take to preserve their ancestral domain and how they can get the kind of education accorded to other kids. The answer to the question progressed into a heated argument between Atty. Luke Espiritu and Atty. Larry. Gadon was softly criticized by panelist Dr. Cardona as “being juvenile”.
If we want a better Philippines, let us begin at home by teaching our children the moral values they need. Teach them the biblical lesson about the correct way they should go so that when they grow up, they will not depart from it. I am also quoting here two lines from a song. “Show them all the beauty they possess inside, give them a sense of pride” so they will be inspired to strive hard to be a better person.
Melinda Bagsic Evangelista
I was born to write and I believe that’s my calling. I love writing because it brings me to the realm exclusively of mine. It is also my opinion that “immortality” can be achieved not by searching for the Holy Grail and drinking from it but by living your life worth-writing or writing something worth-reading. Since I cannot promise you a life worth-writing, I keep myself busy writing something worth-reading. I am thankful to God for giving me the talent and skill to see life in different perspectives not seen by many and the courage to share it to my readers. This first ever Tutubi Digital News Magazine is a perfect avenue to bring you the many facets of life that you can ponder upon in this time of the pandemic. Enjoy reading all the articles.
