A gift of Peace and Hope

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 CEDELF P. TUPAS Sports Editor RENE GENOVE Bureau Chief, Dumaguete MAJA P. DELY Advertising Coordinator

CARLOS ANTONIO L. LEONARDIA Administrative Officer

Even as this is being written, rescue squads in Indonesia are still scouring the seas and the forests for the victims of the two major tragedies that occurred in that country just as the world was marking the start of a new year.

The first was the sinking of a ferry, said to be carrying about 700 people, including 57 crew members. Early reports said some 200 had been rescued, but later, there was some confusion as to how many, actually had survived. It seemed certain, though, that about 400 have perished, with some bodies already accounted for, and several still missing. Although searchers have pledged to continue their work for a week, it is not likely that more survivors will be found, especially because bad weather, worsened by huge waves, continues to prevail over the site of the sinking.

The tragedy was replicated with the crash of a commercial aircraft carrying 102 persons, including crew. The plane, a Boeing 747-400 had slammed into a mountain covered by thick foliage. Rescuers are having a difficult time reaching the site because of rain, and the terrain which has been described as thickly covered by big trees and bushes.

The days for celebration and happiness turned into hours or anguish and mourning for many people, members of the families of the passengers, especially those who still do not know the fate of their loved ones.

In Thailand, all plans for merrymaking and celebrating the New Year had to be canceled when a total of nine bombs exploded in various parts of its capital city, Bangkok, prodding officials to end the activities. There are suspicions that politics is behind the bombings that killed three people and caused injuries to many.

Even as we sympathize with the grieving people in Indonesia and Thailand, and for the scores killed by car bombs in Iraq on what was supposed to be a day of happiness and hope, let us give thanks that we in this country were granted a more peaceful season during which to worship the One who looks over and takes care of us all.*