Summer safety

REGARDLESS of nature’s whim, summer in the Philippines arrives even when the weather is still not dry nor hot. The more steady indicator, really, is when school is out and school children merrily start their long break.

And with the summer comes the usual threat of common diseases at this time of year, the “6S” according to the Department of Health: Sipon at ubo (cough and cold), Suka at pagtatae (diarrhea), Sakmal ng aso (rabies), Sunburn, Sakit sa balat (skin diseases), and Sore eyes. Health officials recommend simple, sensible solutions to avoid these ailments such as maintaining hygienic practices and staying out of the sun when it is at its hottest. But if struck out of plain foolishness or by unfortunate chance, go seek medical attention. Pangasinan prides itself in having one of the best public health systems in the country with its well-administered community health centers and hospitals.

Then there are the holidaying dangers. As the heat rises, many will be heading to the beaches to cool down and take it easy. But remember relaxing does not mean completely abandoning caution, especially when going into the water. Drowning victims in past years indicate that there is not one sector that is most vulnerable  — children, adults, men, women — everyone could potentially be at risk. Local government units in coastal towns and cities have the duty to look out for both the locals and visitors. LGU officials must organize safety measures, especially during peak periods like the Holy Week and fiesta celebrations. On the road, travellers, particularly those behind the wheel, should remember to enjoy the drive instead of rushing as if possessed by the devil towards their destination. Don’t let road rage spoil your vacation.

When it’s summer, be cool.

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Cudia verdict cruel

ALDRIN Jeff Cudia, the dismissed cadet first class of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), was not allowed to graduate on March 16. after he was found guilty of lying by a 9-person committee composed of his peers.  The verdict was subsequently upheld by the PMA’s CRAB (Cadet Review and Appeals Board).  Pnoy, the Commander in Chief, upheld the verdict. We find PNoy’s decision too cruel. We are not after the “Honor Code” here, but simply justice. If indeed Cudia lied as the charge sheet had alleged, was expulsion the only solution for redress?  Is denying him a diploma for his four-year education at PMA, where he was even supposed to graduate as No. 2 in his class, justified?

As running priest Robert Reyes said, “Granting that there is a case, Cudia’s punishment was like the death penalty for stealing a cookie.” PAO (Public Attorney’s Office) chief Presida Acosta also said, “What is an ‘Honor Code’ if it disregards due process of law?  It was clear as day that Cudia was not given his day in Court.” Evidence would also show that an 8-1 vote would have resulted if one of the “judges” was not pressured to convict Cudia because an 8-1 decision would have acquitted Cudia and thereby qualified him to graduate. .”

The Cudia case rages on when PNoy could have ended it with flourish: Judge on the basis of justice, fairness and, yes, compassion.

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