Askers supporting the president in detention are equally wondering why the authorities arrested the former president without a warrant of arrest. That wayward question went viral and ignited a sentimental reaction from the gullible lot of blind followers. It ignited calls for supporters to rally behind their president in detention to call for his return home to the country that he wrecked with mayhem in a bloody war on drugs. It was a campaign promise that duped those who were victims of drug addicts wanting to end drug addiction in the country. They were swayed into a bandwagon that turned into a mob of blind followers ranting at the police and military officers who arrested their idol. The throng stayed behind while their idol was flown into space without details of its destination.

Getting confirmed information of their idol’s whereabouts, they directed their ire against the International Criminal Court (ICC) that issued the warrant of arrest. Likewise, they barked at the International Police (Interpol) that coordinated with Philippine law enforcement authorities to implement the warrant of arrest. Aside from the police and military officials who surrounded to protect the president in detention, the mob of blind supporters are barking at the magical president for cooperating with the ICC that resulted in arrest of their idol. All efforts went to naught as their idol was placed in detention had been subjected to pretrial under the ICC.

In the meantime, laymen came out to raise sentiments supporting the president in detention posing as experts in international law. The sentimental proposition mostly calls for humane treatment, portraying their idol as a victim of injustice and oppression for having been denied what they call as due process of law. It is the same due process of law that their idol president in detention deprived innocent victims of the bloody war on drugs. Hapless poor victims were butchered in that bloody war on drugs that were never given the right to be heard and defend themselves, much more the right to due process of law.

Peace loving people are united in the position that the president in detention must be afforded that fundamental due process of law. Lawyers who have true credentials as international law experts had opined that the president in detention was given his desired due process of law. The allegation that the law enforcers who arrested the president in detention was arrested without the requisite warrant of arrest is blatantly false. In many expert opinions, the arrest may be effected without the copy of the warrant and may be shown should the suspect require a copy. The opinion is in accordance with the rules and jurisprudence but there is one true common interpretation of existing laws, rules and rules that indeed the arrest was based on a valid warrant.
comments to alellema@yahoo.com

Amidst the Philippines’ varied cultural landscapes, the Waray people are pleased to be the custodians of a rich legacy that embodies fortitude, warmth, and a strong feeling of belonging. In addition to honoring the heritage of their ancestors, the Waray, who have their roots in the center of Eastern Visayas, have emerged to show off their extraordinary potential on a global scale.

The Waray, however, are still battling the age-old conflict between regionalism and tribalism, which both defines and threatens their identity in an increasingly interconnected world.

Waray culture is an intricate tapestry woven from threads of rich traditions, linguistic pride, and a fierce attachment to their homeland. This is beautifully reflected in their local cuisine, with delicacies like binagol (a rich, sweet coconut pudding wrapped in banana leaves) and moron (chocolate rice cake rolls). These culinary treasures speak to the Waray’s creativity and culinary ingenuity. Known for spirited festivals such as the Pintados-Kasadyaan in Tacloban City, which celebrates their ancestors’ tattooed warriors, and the Sangyaw Festival, which honors the cultural and religious heritage of the region, the Waray exude a spirit of joy and unity. These festivals are vibrant manifestations of their pride in their culture and history.
Beyond the celebrations and food, the Waray’s connection to their land is evident in the breathtaking locations that define Eastern Visayas. The majestic San Juanico Bridge, an engineering marvel that connects the islands of Leyte and Samar, stands as a symbol of unity and progress.
The Waray people have already made great strides in demonstrating their world-class potential. Michael Cinco, a Dubai based Designer and others had shown just that.
Their resilience, as seen in their response to challenges like Typhoon Yolanda, is a testament to their unwavering spirit. Their contributions in various fields, from arts to public service, further cement their place in the broader narrative of excellence and achievement.
To truly claim their place as a world-class people, the Waray must transcend the barriers of tribalism and view regionalism not as a dilution of their identity but as a gateway to greater opportunities. By showcasing their rich culture—through iconic dishes like binagol, festive celebrations such as the Pintados-Kasadyaan, and iconic landmarks like the San Juanico Bridge—the Waray can share their vibrant heritage with the world. With their inherent resourcefulness, creativity, and compassion, the Waray people have all the qualities needed to shine brightly on the global stage.
In a world that increasingly values diversity, the Waray people can lead by example, proving that a deep connection to one’s roots can serve as a foundation for reaching new heights. They are not merely keepers of a unique culture—they are trailblazers, ready to show the world that to be Waray is to be world-class.

THIS is what we can gather from that gospel parable about a certain man who planted a fig tree in his vineyard and who after 3 years sought for a fruit but did not find one. (cfr. Lk 13,6-9) Frustrated, he wanted to cut it down, but was appeased by the vineyard dresser to give the tree a grace period of one year.

Indeed, God expects us to bear the fruit of sanctity since he already has given us everything we need to achieve that goal. God had to become man in Jesus Christ so that we can be given “the way, the truth and the life” that we need in the context of our wounded condition here on earth.

We really have no excuse why we cannot achieve that goal, since with Christ any condition and situation in our life, including the worst scenario in our life, can be an occasion to gain and regain sanctity. As St. Paul once articulated, “all things work together for good to those who love God.” (Rom 8,28)

We just have to see to it that everything in our life—our work, for example—should have as its main purpose the achievement of holiness, and not just the fulfillment of some technical requirements and the attainment of some worldly goals, no matter how legitimate they are.
And the secret is always to do everything with Christ and for the glory of God. We should not just do anything with our own intention and on our own effort alone, because such way of doing things negates the plan that God, our Father and Creator, has for us. We should be guarded always against this strong tendency of ours to do things simply on our own.
It’s also interesting to note that the above-mentioned parable is preceded by a warning Christ gave to some people that we should stop comparing ourselves with others, especially when we think we are better than them, and thus, would feel self-contented.
Christ wants us to always acknowledge our need for repentance and conversion, since we cannot deny that in spite of the many good things we may already have done, we still are hounded by weaknesses, temptations and sin itself.

Let’s see to it that our work, for example, should have as its main purpose the achievement of holiness, and not just the fulfillment of some technical requirements and the attainment of some worldly goals, no matter how legitimate they are. Remember Christ saying, “What does it a profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul.” (Mk 8,36)
We should see to it that the Christ-and-Church provided instrumentalities lead us to have a living encounter with Christ, something that can happen only when we activate our faith, hope and charity through a functioning life of piety.

“Do you think that these Galileans were sinners above all the men of Galilee, because they suffered such things?” he asked those who told him about those Galileans that Pilate put to death. “No, I say to you, but unless you shall do penance, you shall likewise perish.” (Lk 13,2-3)

We can never over-emphasize this need for our conversion and renewal. In spite of our best intentions and efforts, we somehow would find ourselves in some irregular, imperfect if not completely sinful situation.
God will always welcome us back, even if we appear to be already abusing the goodness and mercy of God. We should just put our mind and heart to this fact of life that we are all sinners and that we need to convert.