AS USUAL, coffee talks abound — it has become an everyday scene in this generation of coffee shops, cafés, coffee bars, and what have you. Our usual role remains the same: to listen in on debates and the exchange of opinions over coffee.
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“We are very impressed with a city mayor who has the political will to take a stand on what needs to be done and what must happen for the good of the city. This kind of leadership is rare in today’s political landscape, where most politicians — if I may put it frankly — seem too afraid of displeasing their constituents,” began the businessman.
“Well, I’m a businessman myself, but if I ever do something wrong, I wouldn’t mind being called out by the city leadership — so long as it’s done reasonably,” he added.
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“This mayor has the strength of character to call out even private companies when they do wrong. His constituents should be proud of him,” the professor chimed in.
“I recall the likes of mayors such as Dick Gordon, Bayani Fernando, Rodrigo Duterte, Ed Hagedorn, and others. They all governed with political will at the forefront of their leadership,” he said.
“Richard Gordon, for instance, instilled discipline in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone when he was in charge. Everyone followed the rules,” the engineer recalled.
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“In Marikina, the late Mayor Bayani Fernando was incredibly strict when it came to cleanliness,” the engineer continued. “There were no trash bins on the roadsides — not even in the subdivisions. You had to keep your trash and wait for the garbage trucks. Collection was impressively efficient under his leadership. There is discipline. You wouldn’t see barbecue stands or people half-naked in public. That’s how orderly things were.”
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“As for Tatay Digong,” the priest added while sipping his black coffee, “smoking was strictly prohibited in Davao. Liquor could only be served until midnight. Firecrackers were banned during celebrations, including New Year’s Eve. Hospital services and ambulance amenities were provided free of charge. That’s what a strong-willed mayor can do for his people.”
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“If personal interest isn’t the top priority, city leaders can always do a great job,” the professor remarked.
To quote the late MMDA Chair Bayani Fernando: “Wag kayong matakot na ipatupad ang batas; hindi kayo mawawalan ng boto—lalo pa kayong madadagdagan ng boto.”/PN
