I apologize to all our readers for missing some issues carrying this column, especially in the past few days where it has been erratic in coming out. I can only quote the saying that “The spirit is willing, but, alas, the body is weak”. It is embarrassing to admit that after almost 40 years of publishing this paper, but as another saying goes “The spirit is willing, but the body is weak”. But I would like to thank with all my heart our readers, advertisers and supporters who continue to support and help us, just as they done since the “birth” of the DAILY STAR.
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In less than seven months, the DAILY STAR will mark its 40th anniversary. Who would ever think it would last this long? Our media friends supportive as they were, all warned us that many had tried, but none have persisted. They did not reckon with the stubbornness of our staff and officials and other supporters in our community, who showed their love and support for it through all those difficult and trying years that we surrounded. But those doubters did not reckon with the power of prayers, combined with persistence, which has kept it going.
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I am writing this virtually from my sickbed, because after a bout with pneumonia that I barely survived, I have not returned to the DAILY STAR office, although I still help with editing the news, and preparing myself up to be able to write. So, I hope our readers in Bacolod and other cities and provinces, as well as those abroad, who have been inquiring about it. Such concern, I believe, has kept me going, although I am asking for their understanding, if I mess a deadline every now and then.
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Two days more to go before the feasts of All Saints and All Souls, which Philippines observe by visiting the cemeteries where their departed loved ones have been entombed. There is, however, a prohibition from going to such places because of the possibility of encountering this vicious virus that has spread its effects worldwide. I am sure, however, that many will still persist, but if they inquire from their parishes or parsonages, they will probably be told, that their prayers, wherever they are, will still find a way to reach heaven, as well as their favorite saints and intercessors.
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The most interesting development now concerning geography, is that between Taiwan and China, that the latter seems bent on appropriating. Actually, such problems are beyond our concern, although naturally, we sympathize with Taiwan, that is a small country but a very successful one, too. And because we, in the Philippines continue to be glad that the United States generously granted us independence, we sympathize with the people of Taiwan, who have been enjoying their independence and the respect of other countries. It will be very interesting to watch the developments along these lines.
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In the meantime, elections are still way off, but there are already hints of controversies, especially in the choice of candidates. If it is true that our incumbent president Rodrigo Duterte, is no longer interested in “replay”, who is ahead in the race that is forthcoming? Will he allow his daughter to run for the post and even campaign for her, or will he, speaking from experience, do everything in his power, to convince her that it is not worthwhile? But “Inday Sara,” as she is known, I am sure, has a mind of her own. Will Daddy Digong, be able to dissuade her? Abangan!
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Now we understand why the expression “changeable as the weather” was adopted. While before only a few countries were known to suffer from floods, now there are countries that are beginning to cope with them. News reports tell us that rain continues to fall in Sicily, and have caused floods in several areas. I guess that is something new to them, unlike our people who anticipate floods whenever the rainy season starts. I also heard reports that Southern Italy is also experiencing floods. Of course, floods are nothing new in our country, and somehow, we have learned to cope with them.
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Meanwhile, it is good to know that our people in Bacolod have somehow lost their doubts and fears of vaccination, and are now voluntarily presenting themselves for it. At first, it seemed that the vaccines acquired by the city may not be used up, but it now looks as if they are presenting themselves voluntarily. Let us commend our medical people in the city who, I understand, go out even at night to vaccinate night workers and those willing to undergo it. Such attitude gives us strong hopes that this virus may be conquered, not only in our city, but in the whole world as well.*
