IN strongly denying his alleged involvement in the murder of Ermita barangay captain Felicisimo “Imok” Rupinta, the “former political has-been” used me and opposition Councilor Joel Garganera as proof that he has no intention to kill anybody. In a report published in The Freeman last Wednesday, he dismissed insinuations by his political rival on the death of Rupinta. He said he does not have any reason to kill the village chief because the latter had already sent feelers to join the Bando Osmeña-Pundok Kauswagan (BOPK).
“Why would I kill him (Rupinta)? In fact, Joel Garganera is still alive, Nalzaro is still alive, ako pang unahon si Imok nga he wants to be with BOPK?” the “former political has-been” said. He also defended Winefredo Miro, market operations head, who was tagged by the police as the mastermind in the killing of Imok. Miro is facing complaints for murder with the prosecutor’s office. Miro already resigned from his position but is still doing personal errands for the “former political has-been.”
When the opposition linked the “former political has-been” to the killing of Imok, I defended him. I said he has no criminal mind and that I see him as a peace-loving individual. I said he is not a political warlord like those in Mindanao. But with his recent statement about me and Garganera, I am now inclined to believe he has that “criminal instinct.”
I cannot speak for Garganera. But in my own understanding, his statement was a threat. It was like telling us to watch out because what happened to Imok might also happen to us. Garganera is a politician and any statement coming from him is always construed as part of the political game. But did Joel’s statements hurt him? Pilde lang ang maglagot sa pulitika.
In my case, I am part of the mainstream media. What does he want me to do? Close my eyes to the abuses he committed to ordinary people like stomping on a barbecue stand, insulting people, running after establishments that do not succumb to his personal demands and the blatant corruption committed by his people at City Hall?
I am not claiming to be a protector of the oppressed and the voice of the voiceless but I express my opinion and thoughts on issues confronting his administration as a way of calling his attention. What is the use of the media if we will not use our voices as catalysts of change? Media has no power to influence our political leaders but we make things different. Unya iyang ikasuko ning akong trabaho?
My commentaries on issues involving him are not all negative. I supported him in several issues like when he encouraged vigilantes in 2000 and when he initiated various projects. There is only one thing I don’t like in him, his arrogance. He deals with people as if he is a genius. He is a dictator and is using his power for his personal needs like the way he managed the South Road Properties.
So, after Imok, who’s the next target? Ako o si Joel? And if something will happen to me, God forbid, I am asking in advance our authorities to include this person in the investigation. Maybe the solution to my murder would be in the hands of this person. Amen.