Wednesday, August 27, 2008 Speak-out: Panlilio's recall
WE, THE founding members of Kaya Natin! A Movement for Genuine Change and Ethical Leadership, strongly oppose the move to recall Governor Eddie Panlilio of Pampanga.
We believe that this attempt to recall him is politically motivated and would only serve to benefit the vested interests of a few politicians in Pampanga.
While we are aware that there are escalating problems in Pampanga such as the continuing conflict between Gov. Panlilio and the Provincial Board, the unresolved issue on the striking BALAS Quarry Workers and the calls for the resignation of the current Provincial Administrator, among others, we believe that a genuine effort to resolve them will be more beneficial to the Kapampangans than a political exercise the will further polarize and divide the community.
We also recognize that there are members of the civil society, church groups, business organizations and supporters of Gov. Panlilio that have expressed disappointment with his performance during the past year. Thus, while we continue to support Gov. Panlilio's crusade to promote good governance in his province, we also believe that he should listen to the voices of these groups and work at immediately addressing and resolving these growing concerns in order for him to become a more effective governor.
As current local government leaders, we believe that all these issues arise as a result of the changes and reforms being implemented in the province. Reforms do not come easy. It requires continuing engagements between the provincial leadership and the other stakeholders in the locality. We do believe that given time, Governor Panlilio's initiatives will ultimately result in better delivery of basic services to his constituents.
In light of all these, we urge the people of Pampanga not to support the recall initiative. We ask the Kapampangans to give Governor Panlilio a chance to fully serve his term and continue the reforms that he has began. Moreover, we ask all Kapampangans to be patient with Governor Panlilio because we believe that despite the current situation, he is at the moment still the best person who can govern the province in an effective and ethical manner. Should there be a need, the members of Kaya Natin are willing to help organize and/or facilitate a dialogue between Governor Panlilio and disgruntled members of the civil society, business groups, people's organizations and his former supporters in Pampanga.
Finally, we sincerely hope that this movement to recall Gov. Panlilio will be put to rest soon so that we can unite towards working for a better Pampanga and ultimately, a better Philippines.
(Sgd.) Hon. Grace Padaca
Isabela Governor
(Sgd.) Hon. Jesse Robredo
Naga City Mayor
(Sgd.) Hon. Teddy Baguilat Jr.
Ifugao Governor
(Sgd.) Hon. Sonia Lorenzo
San Isidro, Nueva Ecija Mayor
