From the Inquirer:
But *** said there was a need to review policies on the assignment of military officers to civilian agencies. “By performing operations that are civilian in nature, our officers could be exposed to temptations which could also affect their career.”
&&&&&&&&&
Teka, teka. Let me think what that means. I’ve read and reread and reread it. Did he mean that officers shouldn’t be exposed to temptations that could affect their career but may be exposed to those that won’t? (And it’s okay if they succumb to the latter?)
Again, again, again. But my mind refuses to budge. I still get the same interpretation of his quote.
&&&&&&&&&&&&
Is it wrong to be exposed to temptation? Aren’t temptations not bad per se? Aren’t they a test of character? If a person is strong, should he not be able to resist temptation of whatever form, be he in the military, a public official, a Church official, an everyman?
See, I’m confused.
Quote was made in line with the manner by which Marine Major Ferdinand Marcelino led the drug bust operation involving 3 Alabang boys. In contrast to the above quote made by a Cabinet member, Senator Biazon, a former marine said:
“It’s about time we recognize good deeds performed by men and women in the public service.” A bribe attempt was reported by Marcelino who did not succumb to it. Biazon also said “To me that was a very great test to his integrity and he passed the test with flying colors.”
Brig. Gen. Renato Miranda said (in reference to Marcelino): “He is very idealistic and would fight for what he believe in. I don’t think anybody could bribe him nor corrupt him.”
I say, “yehey to Marcelino and his kind. May their tribe increase!”
*********
Top most quote came from a lawyer, the last two from men from the military though Biazon is now a civilian.
What could the lawyer *** really have meant? I’m confused. I guess I’m more into direct talk? I’m confused. Help. Reactions very much welcome. Did I miss anything up there?
Saw Marcelino’s giving his statement in the Senate. Hats off to the officer and gentleman! Sometimes the DOJ sec should just keep his mouth shut kasi lalo lang siyang…beside dignified personalities like Marcelino. And you quoted Defense sec above? What’s happening to the cabinet?! A, appointees kasi kaya….
P.S. I have always admired Biazon. Years ago, after he delivered a speech, I approached him for a research (on housing I think) I was doing then. No bodyguards at all (o baka akala ko lang yun?). He even handed me the draft of his speech because he presented data in the event. Bait!
Baka mga military mas okay pa? Biazon is masipag and mabait, marunong pa. hay buhay…Pilipinas/Pilipino
Re the DOJ sec, heard portions of his tirade directed at Marcelino. Failed to see it in the papers or I’d have written about it too. Sometimes he’s as funny as Maid M. Mga kababayan ko… (apologies to Francis M – o kababayan too!)