I HAVE been pondering about what to write this week considering the toxicity of most national news causing our brains to tune out for mental preservation. Oh yes, my brains do. This scenario is not helped at all by the same toxic local news confronting us as a Boholano community. Is there no relief from all this bad news, pray tell? But in the grand scheme of things, we would rather the wrongdoings brought to light than swept under the rug. The question is: When do we see justice?
In this country and elsewhere, justice is sought. It’s not a gift. We need to seek, even demand it. Thus, we should not begrudge those whose collective calling is higher than ours; those who file cases in court against perpetrators of corruption and other forms of abuses in government because it is not an easy task. In truth, it is an enormous responsibility. Easy for us to criticize, but what have we done so far, other than nitpicking and ranting? The best we can do is to support the move of the courageous and the brave hearts because they are the ones with gumption and backbone!
Moving forward, we’re still on the first week of January and although we have this inner excitement and exhilaration because another year is dawning, we are also confronted by the realities of living including routine bill payments, health management, school and work demand, and the like, that really bring us back to the equilibrium. Still, we are grateful for life.
We can still feel excited if we set our minds on the doable tasks. Like I am elated about the resumption of my talk show this weekend. For a time, I thought I am not returning to it, especially when I was in General Santos City for three months, but a few weeks after my return to Bohol, inspiration hit, thus, the change of mind. So, don’t punish yourself if you change your mind particularly if it involves your well-being. What about that travel you have long wanted? It doesn’t have to be outside the country. Visit a province or city in Region VII instead. That’s more practical. What about your environs? Have you visited the destinations of Bohol other than Panglao? There are really several exquisite places to explore. What about our Bohol museums? Have you been there?
You know traveling is really an eye-opener. Your world view expands, and your mindset opens. Naturally, there are accompanying bad experiences – the irritants, but these peeves also serve as a window into the peculiar behavior of people. These miffs happen everywhere: at the airport, seaport, restaurants, plazas, malls, even from taxi or tricycle drivers. Tell me about it. Worse incidents involve pickpockets and robbers. But these negatives do not outweigh the positives of even a short trip; how much more a longer one – when you can immerse in the culture of a community for a week or two.
We shouldn’t allow “busyness” to prevent us from traveling, nor the lack of resources. That’s why we plan early in the year, save for the trip, and execute it at the given time. There’s nothing more satisfying than implementing something you have planned and saved for in advance. Oh, I know, times are hard – aren’t they always, but if we keep on using it as an excuse, we will never leave our front yard.
So, write that travel plan now, save, and in time, embark on a journey that would open your senses to new sights, sounds, and a unique culture.
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Farewell is not goodbye.
My heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Ma’am Enriqueta Borja Butalid, a music icon of Bohol. I remember being awed listening to her play the piano at the courtyard of radio station DYXT. This was in college while I did DJ work.
Ma’am Equit became close friends with my parents, and I was favored with that. Following my mother’s passing, Gov. Rolly and Ma’am Equit were regular guests during Papa’s birth anniversaries. I saw her each time I visited home to attend Papa’s celebration. Then when I returned to Bohol in 2022, our paths regularly crossed through the “Grannies” which brought me joy.
Ma’am Equit, thank you for your music. You are loved.
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Woman Talk with Belinda Sales will be back on the air tomorrow, January 10, 2026, over 91.1 Balita FM Tagbilaran City. Send your email to belindabelsales@gmail.com. Follow us on X at @ShilohRuthie./PN
