A question of credibility

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

Proclamation Number 1017 has been lifted by the President who is now trying to assure the people that, truly, the danger that she and her most faithful officials had discovered has passed. This should be a time of rejoicing and thankfulness because their fears have not been realized, but why are so many still skeptical and unbelieving? Almost every sector affected by the proclamation that seemed so uncalled for to the citizens of this country, continue to warn that people must not let their guard down, and must continue to be vigilant.

What is ironical is that they are not saying that this guard must be against the enemy as perceived by their leaders, but against what those leaders could think up and adopt to curtail their freedom. In Bacolod City, for instance, no less than the Bishop of the Diocese himself has decided to push through with a scheduled gathering where his flock can hold a prayer rally on Wednesday.

In his statement, Bishop Vicente Navarra said that "The Church should remain even more resolute in being the conscience of the society, a staunch defender of the oppressed and guardian of civil liberties." This, he added, should prevail despite the president's act of lifting the proclamation she made declaring a state of national emergency. It is a sad commentary on the credibility of our highest officials that their constituents no longer seem to accept what they say at face value. But one cannot blame the people because they have gone through so many instances when what is announced or promised to them had been forgotten or set aside without regard for their aspirations and dignity.

If only our leaders could see and accept the fact that it is only truth, transparency and accountability that can earn for them that powerful armor of credibility.*