Where is she?

Published by the Visayan Daily Star Publications, Inc.

NINFA R. LEONARDIA Editor-in-Chief & President

CARLA P. GOMEZ Editor GUILLERMO TEJIDA III Desk Editor NANETTE L. GUADALQUIVER Busines Editor ERIC T. LORETIZO Sports Editor (On Leave) RENE GENOVE Bureau Chief, Dumaguete MAJA P. DELY Advertising Coordinator

CARLOS ANTONIO L. LEONARDIA Administrative Officer

One question that has been ringing in the ears of local government officials in the Western Visayas provinces being threatened by the destructive oil slick that continues to defy efforts to contain it for several days now is, "Where is she?"

The whole country, even the whole world, now knows what a disaster the sinking of a tanker carrying bunker fuel is causing the environment in our area in the Visayas. With the sinking came the stream of oil that has continued to spread and suffocate living creatures along its way. Now, everybody knows that oil floats on water, and even bunker oil, thick as it is, is no exception. What is worse about it is that it is so thick and sticky that any plant or living creature that it covers has practically no chance of surviving.

Up to the time of this writing great efforts are being made by local officials and residents, some government agencies and concerned non-government organizations to prevent the slick from reaching the shores of towns and provinces, especially those with very useful and successful marine reserve areas. One cannot imagine the dismay and helplessness of those who have worked so hard on their projects, as they consider decades, perhaps even scores or centuries of contending with a damaged environment. What officials, as well as residents in the affected areas are wondering is, why has Malacañang not been taking a more dominant role in addressing this tragedy? Because that is what it is, a tragedy that has befallen our people, a calamity they are ill-equipped to handle.

Everybody also knows that everytime there is a calamity or a disaster, flooding here, mudslides there, landslides, earthquakes, typhoons, their President is almost everytime, among the first to fly to the area, offer moral as well as logistical support to those affected. Just the sight of her, showing her care and concern could do a lot to assuage their sorrows. This time - up to this writing, that is - they haven't seen her, or even heard a message directed to them.

That is why they are asking: Where is she? Why hasn't she come?*