Monday, August 27, 2007 Seares: Ace, Cerge and Raul By Pachico A. Seares News Sense
AT THE Sun.Star Economic Forum last week, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano was speaking of road maps for domestic tourism in the country.
A businessman participant whispered: “There are three Cebuanos now who have both power and authority in the national scene: Ace Durano, Cerge Remonde and Raul del Mar.”
As tourism czar, Ace plans and implements programs that bring in people and money from abroad and stimulate economies of local communities.
Cerge Remonde, director general of the Presidential Management Staff, steers activities of Malacañang and the President. He also oversees flagship projects and the conduct of his peers in the Cabinet.
Raul del Mar, senior deputy speaker of the House, wields enormous influence on flow of vital bills. He has honed skills in managing stormy sessions on controversial issues. His access to corridors of power in the capital has helped his district and the rest of Cebu.
Power, authority
The businessman said “power and authority.” One is often confused with the other. Is there a difference?
G.K. Chesterton, British essayist, novelist, and poet, said: “If a rhinoceros were to enter this restaurant now, there is no denying he would have great power. But I should be the first to rise and tell him that he had no authority whatsoever.”
Ace, Cerge and Raul are not known to be fierce or brutal, otherwise the simile to explain the difference between power and authority can’t be more apt and clear.
The three Cebuanos have both power and authority, by the strategic offices they hold and the precious trust of the President.
