AT this writing, the electrifying news has traveled faster than sound: Manny Pacquiao defeated his Mexican nemesis, Erik Morales, in the 10th round. As expected, Filipinos (a lot of government officials!) who flocked to Las Vegas to watch the fight were jubilant. As if claiming responsibility for Pacquiao’s prowess, a rapturous First Gentleman (FG) wormed his way up the ring and at his heels clambered an equally ecstatic Chavit Singson. However, while basking in Pacquiao’s limelight, they were booed, most probably by their own countrymen. Then the world was made to eavesdrop as FG called GMA to give the gratifying news, punctuated with a rather contrived declaration of love in Spanish. (How ludicrous.)
On the face of things, Pacquiao’s breathlessly anticipated victory will surely be the pretext to put everything on hold, even the momentous “great debate” on Charter change. Wild with joy, Filipinos will be expected to succumb to GMA’s siren song of unity and forget the imponderables. Let us hope the political capital of Pacquiao’s victory is not squandered on insuring a Lakas victory in 2007 (assuming there will be elections!) or wasted on GMA’s personal agenda to stay in Malaca?ang until 2010 and beyond. I hope Manny Pacquiao will have the strength of character to see through official blandishments and insist that his victory be used to establish a sustainable sports development program for both able-bodied and disabled athletes. Mr. Pacquiao, please do not disappoint your sincere admirers by converting yourself into a haphazard pop singer, or an accidental fly-by-night actor. We will lose our faith in humanity if you become a rabid endorser of trashy political products like cults, dynasties, fake parties, false promises, and disgusting trapo faces. Please remain steadfast on that sacred pedestal where a grateful nation has placed you. I hope you do not have clay feet but if you do, please show them now because we cannot laud anyone who will mindlessly tarnish and defame our cause.
This nation is on the brink of fragmentation. As the government has been criminally remiss in providing even basic necessities like food, clothing, shelter, livelihood or employment, peace and security, Filipinos are compelled to go abroad to work as whatever, just to support families back home. The pendulum has swung too far, Mr. Pacquiao. Yet, your victory has summoned up optimism. You have made us feel that the Philippines is worth fighting for so, we will pummel the enemies of the people with savage blows, like you did your opponent. Only then can your sublime victory become a factor for national unity.([email protected])
Tune in “Krus na daan”, DZRJ 810 AM band. Monday to Friday, 5 to 6 p.m. Watch “Only Gemma!,” RJTV, Mondays, 7 to 8 p.m. Sky 19, Destiny 79, Home 19, Sun 65, UHF 29.
