Pangan: Love, Unrequited

Sunday, February 12, 2012

TOMORROW may see the global observance of Valentine's Day, in every imaginable way, manner or forum, degree and intensity.

After all, love can be a common denominator even among warring factions, except perhaps PNoy and the beleaguered Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona, who may now be sporting a crown of woes, if not thorns and not that of roses, the flowers symbolic of the romantic day.

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To these unofficial protagonists, there being no formal declaration of animosities, albeit a bitter exchange of words had been thrown each other's direction, the important day for lovers and the love-struck might not signify anything for each other and it is love unrequited or love unreturned or un-repaid.

For some of us, it may only be noticed in passing and not join the clamor for flowers, chocolates and parties or the wearing of red and its color variations or shades. Still, others may pause and find time to arrange that important meeting with or a date or a loved one and do what is best for the senses. You guess what this is now.

The degree and intensity of the observance and acceptance of Valentine's Day may depend on one's character, predilection and personality, status in life and vision (vices?).

Local celebrities, singers, movie actors and stage personalities were polled on the observance of Valentine's Day and varying responses were elicited. For example, prolific singer Rachelle Ann Go was asked: Is Valentine's Day overrated or does it deserve its special observance? She wittingly replied: "It is overrated if you have to wait until then to express your love for someone. For that, everyday should be Valentine's Day. As it is, on that special day, we should all exert extra effort to make the people around us feel loved."

For us ordinary mortals, we can manifest our love for somebody in our own unique way. It need not be expensive nor does it involve incessant showering of gifts or things. It just needs sincerity in giving it.

Love takes on many forms. It may be filial, parental or love for a sibling. It comes from the heart and requires no price or estimation for its showing or exertion. The recipient need not requite its giving. It is enough that he or she manifests its blessings.

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Issues bearing on the ongoing CJ Corona's impeachment trial get muddled each day of the trial. Precious time which should be focused on legislative work of the Senate is being eaten up by the litigious proceedings which may last for months despite the efforts of the prosecution to fast-track them. And to think it has lined up too many witnesses for its cause. And to think, again, and consider that the defense panel has to present its own coterie of witnesses next turn!

The sorry spectacle that is now booked in Philippine history as a sordid recital of wrongdoings of the top magistrate of the land goes on does more harm than good not only on the judiciary but also on our image on international scale. Of course, the seasoned defenders of Corona will throw and employ every trick in the book to exculpate their client who, ironically, should be the first among peers to uphold the sanctity of our laws, but instead, is at the receiving end of the harsh, blistering pace of an impeachment trial, for violation of the provisions of the Constitution and suppletory laws, he (Corona) was sworn to uphold and respect in the first place.

A mere cursory review of the evidence thus far adduced will show that, indeed, the Chief Justice has amassed wealth and accumulated properties not proportionate to his position and calling, despite his protestations that all of these have been legally acquired.

Are we aware then that members of the Bench are supposed to be role models of simplicity, prudence and frugality? Not to mention probity and integrity? Why, all of a sudden, the exposition of CJ Corona's irregular, if not patently anomalous dealings which summarily tainted his erstwhile intact and unsullied good reputation and character?

Now, how should one expect all other justices and even members of the Bar to behave properly, judiciously and decorously when their top gun allegedly misbehaves and lies through his teeth? Well... Damaged goods, anyone?

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Preparations are underway in ushering in the cityhood conversion of Mabalacat town, this, according to expectant Mayor Marino "Boking" Morales. Aside from heightened infra project activities, streamlining of operations at the soon-to-be city hall, as well as its personnel with upgrading of positions and compensations, are mulled by the mayor and his team. In sum, all the ramifications of the city hood law are scrutinized for smooth implementation after all its refinement and eventual signing into law are not that distant.

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I'd like to applaud the excellent service at PNB Dolores Branch in the City of San Fernando which is manned by Charry, the branch manager and ably assisted by Lou, SSH, Lyra, SSO, Glo, RO, Cors, new accounts clerk and tellers Raiza and Wendy. Complementing these ladies are guards Fer and Dennis and Edward the utility man. Thanks a lot guys!