Let’s be clear, this near-sighted Ibaloy writer is all for the Cordillera in becoming an autonomous region. We believe that autonomy will be of great benefit to our beloved region and its people. However, we have this strange feeling in our gut that the great Baguio City and the equally great province of Benguet may not vote for autonomy in a plebiscite or whatever.
Reasons are the following: Those who were born and bred in the Cordillera and migrated here for many years but do not have “Igorot” blood may feel that they will be discriminated upon if we become an autonomous region; another is that full blooded Igorots like my fellow Ibaloys may feel that if we become an autonomous region, most of its leaders will come from one northern tribe who happen to already dominate Baguio politics for many years now and continue to do so.
Again, this is not a scientific survey but just coming from my layman’s gut feel. I hope that my trying-hard analysis is wrong. It is about time that the Cordillera becomes an autonomous region. I wouldn’t want Baguio and Benguet to go back to Region 1 if that is what happens in not voting for autonomy. So there.
Although it isn’t obvious with my size, hehe, I actually like to eat a lot to the obvious displeasure of my kumander since I happen to be a hard-headed diabetic. Anyway, it’s great to witness the transformation of Baguio into a “foodie haven” where one can enjoy cuisine from various parts of the country and the world. This was so unlike decades ago, when the selection of where to eat and the kind of food in the menu was very limited indeed. As the saying goes, “Variety is the spice of life,” and we do feel so lucky to live in a city that is booming with so many food choices. Some affordable, some a little pricey. Of course, we should always practice moderation when it comes to eating and also choose the food we intake for our health’s sake. Easier said than done, believe me, I know. Cheers!
Here’s “Love So Amazing” by Elaine Chetty: “My love for you is like the raging sea,/So powerful and deep it will forever be./ Through storm, wind, and heavy rain,/ It will withstand every pain./ Our hearts are so pure and love so sweet./ I love you more with every heartbeat!”
Let’s end with a prayer: “May my life be filled with thanksgiving and praise for your countless blessings. Give me assurance that you supply my every need through your generosity. May grace, mercy, and peace be with me, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Son, in truth and love. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.”
May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ continue to bless and keep us all safe.
