Weekly Roundup [March 22, 2015]

Random readings and musings that made my week interesting.

Illustration by IGAN D’BAYAN

1. Who's Afraid of BBL?

The key ingredient in stemming extremism and terrorism is the ability of a strong and responsive government to meet the basic needs of its people and provide the security and protection that everyone desires. 

I just feel the need to post this one to spread awareness. A lot has been said about the BBL. But more than bits and pieces that make up the issue, we need more in-depth reports about it-- something that is easy to understand especially for the "masa." Usually, we're bombarded with data that is composed of technical terms and highfaluting words, which in turn make us overwhelmed and confused. This report, as such with Talk of the Town articles of The Philippine Daily Inquirer, is enlightening and an easy read.

2. Peace, but not at any cost by F. Sionil Jose

But P-Noy, it seems to me, is conditioned by ego which hinders him from adhering to the established requirements of protocol, of duty. 

What more can I say? It's F. Sionil Jose. Of course it's worth a read!

3.  Break in war on BIFF sought for graduation

School and provincial officials have asked the military to halt its all-out offensive against members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) for at least three days to allow the graduation of 13,000 students in Maguindanao province, where towns and communities had become either battlefields or evacuation sites in the ongoing war.

It's graduation season once again. Hope springs. But with war in the midst, how can students and families --everyone-- fully enjoy and celebrate this milestone? I have lived in Mindanao for most of my life. It's heartbreaking to hear the plight of our brothers and sisters in the area. You can help. Even spreading awareness will do. Use it responsibly.

4.  An enlightened way of moving forward by Gina Lopez

The lesson here? Stay positive. Enjoy life. We choose the lens through which we view life. If our lens is clear, compassionate and positive, then we not only live happier lives, we affect everyone else around us in positive ways. And we crystallize the web of life and love that should be rightly flowing through the planet.

There you go! :)