Today, Jun Lozada himself and the Sumilao Farmers were present in the same place for the very first time!!! @ Ateneo de Manila University the Church of the Gesu.
There was a Truth and Accountability Mass >>> walking to Katipunan Avenue >>> automatic Noise Barage >>> walk back to the Gesu >>> Jun Lozada's speech
I was really surprised how much a "hero" Jun Lozada was and at the same time was excited for the Philippines, praying that this case may change or rather become the start of a change in the government system.
But at the same time, i could not stop but thinking how the Sumilao Farmers are feeling, also sitting in the Gesu and having done a Hunger Strike, marched 1700kms, came back to manila, all to also tell the truth about the injustice done in the Philippine governent.
Lozada is such a hero, and it was as if the farmers did not even exist there in the chapel after Lozada made his speech...(don't take me wrong! his speech was good and the Prayer..the LaSalle's prayer was beautiful..i want a copy : ) haha) but did the people cheer and clap for Kuya Yoyong when he spoke before Lozada, just because they are excited to hear Lozada speak and are in the mood to do so?
What can we students do??
These days, i want to believe in the power of small and minority groups to make a change in the world today.
The other day i talked to my dad about my future..what am i going to do after i graduate college?
me : " I want to work in the grass roots, in the field, it is so much better than being in the office or having your actions limited in an big international institution where you need to take into consideration what other governments or institutions would think if you took a certain action. It is not flexible i think."
dad: "where are you going to work then?"
me: "in asia i guess, i hope in the Phillippines again."
dad: "why do you have to do something for the development of the Philippines??"
me: ......(i did not want you to ask me that) because i want the people to be able to live fuller lives
dad: but if you really want to change a nation, especially one like the Philippines where governent is very strong, you have to have power!! Good power.
Your ability reflects the power that you have and the leadership you have.
it is true, i must admit that if power is used well for helping in solving the problems that a nation has, that is great
But, it is also true that when you are part of a powerful institution, there are many limits to your actions and restrictions since there are strict rules or external relations that need to be taken into consideration.
Working in the community level or working in the big international developmental organizations?
Both can work for the people, but who can work with the people and actually start up something without having to be concerned about others think, as long as it is for the good?
Anyway, as much as international institutions, being popular due to their catchy branding and activities (UN) can make differences, what about community-based organizations? Jun Lozada is popular and much more easy to relate to for the mass just like a international instituions are popular for its name and brand and acitivities, but community-based people organizations or the sumilao farmers need the support of those who are really willing to give up their lives to help out in that specific sector.
Sorry for the unorganized blog..haha
i feel for you aya... mabuhay ka! 