Fulfill your vows to redeem our country,' Gordon tells politicians

Sen. Richard J. Gordon has called on the country’s politicians to make good on their vows to redeem Philippine politics and revive the transformational values that made the EDSA People Power revolt possible.

Gordon noted that many had aired vows to continue the causes inspired by former President Corazon “Cory’’ Aquino. He said the awakening of the people’s conscience was one more thing that the former president should be thanked for.

He stressed that the elections in 2010 would give the country a chance to begin a process of transformation that would lead to better governance, the eradication of corruption, better education, the creation of jobs, peace in Mindanao and an end to the yearly cycle of poverty and disaster.

“After our nation grieves, we must stand and face the challenge of redeeming our country from the rot of transformational politics. We must put national interest above our own; we must believe we can achieve a vision of ourselves as ennobled, enabled and free; and above all, all must do all the hard work that this will entail,’’ he said.

Gordon said vows are a good start but ensuring that they are fulfilled involves a lot of back-breaking and heart-rending work.

“When my father, who was the first mayor of Olongapo was killed, I vowed to save my town from the crime and corruption that led to my father’s assassination. With no money and just a platform of governance, I ran and won as mayor of Olongapo. With the help of my town mates, we were able to transform Olongapo from a Sin city to a Model city–but it took a lot of hard work and sacrifice,’’ he added.

For his part, detained Sen. Antonio F. Trillanes IV said any illusions of change are simply not possible under the Arroyo administration.

In his July 2008-June 2009 annual report, Trillanes said he has filed 168 bills and resolutions that cover various advocacies with the “faint hope that we would be able to institutionalize policies and long-term programs through legislation.’’ By MARIO B. CASAYURAN - Manila Bulletin