As she talked about how the country is dependent on the money sent by people abroad, she failed to mention how that money is earned. She neglected to describe how some endure abuses to earn those dollars, although she did acknowledge the sacrifices these people have made by separating from their families so that they can have a better life in the Philippines. To me her speech seemed to basically encourage Filipinos to seek work abroad. I was not impressed by her speech at all because none of the more pressing issues in the Philippines was mentioned.
She asked the Filipino community for support and once more gave assurances that the Philippines is in good condition. To seal the 20 minute speech, the crowd gave loud applause, something which I refused to join. I noticed others who weren't applauding. Call my cynical, but I don't think the Philippines is in good condition, especially when GMA just sold us out to the U.S.
After the speech, I wanted to get some sound bites from the president, so I scurried to the front of her entourage. When I came face-to-face with her, I was caught a little off guard. I didn't think I could break through her bodyguards, one of whom was still trying to hold me back. But all she said was that CUFSA members should study hard and finish our studies. Feeling a little patronized, I asked her how she was going to address the Marinduque mining issue. With a big smile, she said it had already been addressed. And that was that.
I lost the entourage, but I managed to speak to a man who listened to the speech. He, too, felt insulted over being called a "new investor of the Philippines."
I remember thinking how it was all such a pointless gathering. I should have just stayed outside with the rest of the protesters. At least I would have had fun yelling my lungs out.
Next page