Time for mayors, kapitans to step up

AS the national and provincial government officials are doing all possible to contain the COVID-19 contagion at this critical stage when efforts are being balanced between restoring economic normalcy and minimizing the spread of infection, our citizens are visibly and grossly mistaking the relaxed community level.

We are beginning to see residents use their face masks less and do not observe social and physical distancing. They gather in front of stores, leave their homes unprotected, allow their children to play outside without masks with no concern about kids’ contact games.

It is not possible to leave it to law enforcers to check on activities of people, whether they are complying with the health protocol to prevent COVID-19 infection or not, because our law enforcers’ primary mandate is to help maintain peace and order, and fight criminality.

Our mayors and barangay kapitans must step up and be the active frontliners they are expected to be. They must be the primary frontliners in enforcing the health protocols, from compulsory wearing of facemasks and strict observance of social and physical distancing in the barangay level.

Teams led by barangay health workers and tanod must be seen patrolling their neighborhoods looking out for residents who violate the protocols.

And our mayors should be busy everyday by overseeing the campaign for strict compliance with the health protocols.

 

Oligarch defined

THE term oligarch grabbed headlines recently.  But what is an oligarch really?  The dictionaries essentially say that an oligarch has three main characteristics. One, he uses monopolistic tactics to dominate an industry. Two, he possesses sufficient political power to promote his own interests. Three, he controls multiple businesses, which intensively coordinate their activities.  Thus, a billionaire does not automatically qualify as an oligarch. While the Lopezes virtually dominate the TV industry with their ABS-CBN network, and are likewise owners of several companies to qualify for a conglomerate, they do not have the political clout to advance their business interests.  The absence of one immediately dismantles the overall definition of an oligarch.  Therefore, Congress killing the ABS-CBN franchise renewal is a clear proof that the Lopez family does not have sufficient political power.  As clear as day.

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