Wednesday, October 08, 2008 Nalzaro: Wake up, Brod Soc By Bobby Nalzaro Saksi
THE arrest of Joavan Fernandez, adopted son of Talisay City Mayor Socrates Fernandez, means Talisayonons can now sleep well. Makatulog nag maghayang ang taga Talisay.
But the relief could be temporary because I am sure Mayor Soc will come to the rescue of his son and move heaven and earth to free him by helping him post bail. Joavan was charged with illegal detention and robbery, a non-bailable offense.
He was arrested by elements of the National Bureau of Investigation 7 inside a massage parlor in Tabunok the other night. The warrant of arrest was issued by RTC Judge Manuel Patalingjug.
The case stemmed from the complaint of two vulcanizing workers, Winston and Osbert Abel-lana, that they were abducted and mauled by Joavan and his cohorts.
Winston has executed an affidavit of desistance along with his aunt, Mercedita, after they were allegedly offered money and employment at City Hall. But Osbert, through his father, promised to pursue the case.
What Mayor Soc did can be considered scandalous and immoral for a city official and for a Catholic faith defender. He used his power and influence to prod the complainants to settle the case.
If Brod Soc really loves his son, he should allow the law to take its course. I advise him not to intervene, like asking the court to allow Joavan to post bail. It is better for Joavan to be locked up in jail than to remain free.
In jail, he can no longer commit a crime. But if he is allowed to roam around, the possibility is that he may commit more crimes. I am afraid that one day, Brod Soc will lose Joavan forever.
If the mayor did not listen to the advice of his political mentor, Rep. Eduardo Gullas, and some of his well-meaning friends, I think it is time that he listens to the advice of His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, his religious superior.
The cardinal told Soc to discipline his son---not to inflict physical harm but to initiate a move so he will reform. The mayor, he said, should get into the bottom of why Joavan behaves that way.
Soc should admit that his son is a drug user. I know that he is just being blinded by his love for his son. But it's high time he opens his eyes to the truth that his beloved adopted son is a menace to society. Amen.
