Ms. Ric
21 Aug 2007 

People new to this forum would think we’re all related with the way we go at it even with the most mundane stuff.

Mr. Pontaoe, I’m not much for these volleys. I’m still crossed eyed from the last one, but here’s my take on this “country” deal.

First off, your “FYI, Guam is not a country. It is a small speck of land in the US Trust Territories in the Marianas’ chain. The people are US citizens but can’t vote in a presidential election.” comment to Mr. Jazy is a little unnerving to me.

Residents of Guam with a third grade education and up would know this fact. It’s taught in their curriculum that early if not even earlier. And to the general public, if they’re smart enough to read the Punch Forum, I’m deducing they’re smart enough to know that Guam is a US territory.

Now, is it a country or is it not? Here’s what Mr. Webster’s big book of words say about country: – a large area of land regarded as distinct from other areas, for example because of its natural boundaries or because it is inhabited by a particular people, – an area that is farmed or remains in a relatively undeveloped state, as distinct from cities, towns, and other built-up areas – a region that is distinguished by particular characteristics or is associated with a particular activity, person, or group of people. Guam has the Chamorros, its indigenous people, I say it’s a country.

Now, FYI, Guam is an unincorporated organized US territory to be exact. Incorporated organized territory is where you and I currently reside. Incorporation would mean living with the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Declaration of Independent in its entirety. Guam doesn’t have to. Congress has determined that only select parts apply.

Yes, we share the same president and it’s not a commonwealth, but not for the lack of trying. They’ve been wanting their commonwealth for the past 25 years but Congress sat on this issue in the eighties and they haven’t lifted a finger, yet. I live in an unincorporated district of a county within the incorporated organized state of California in the US of A. Do I go around saying this when I’m asked where I’m from? Heck no! I say I’m from this certain city or town although we don’t have a mayor which to some identifies city hood or township.

Your lexicon may limit this beautiful little island of Guam and say it’s not a country, but I bet you’ll be hard pressed to find residents of this island to not claim it as their very own country.

Now let’s get back to Philippine news, shall we?

Share your Comments or Reactions

comments

Powered by Facebook Comments