Cheapening the ARMM

It was a double jeopardy for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). First, the regional election scheduled this month was canceled. Second, appointees to soon-to-be vacant (unless the Supreme Court rules otherwise) are being recruited in the same way mall personnel are being recruited. That’s how I felt when I saw in the newspaper the news titled “Application for ARMM posts now open.” (Inquirer, 8/21/11)

The government is treating the ARMM so shabbily and undeservingly. The cancellation of the ARMM elections in order to “institute reforms” in the ARMM is an insult to the intelligence of ARMM voters. The government is acting as if those designated in the selection committee know better than ARMM’s 1.8 million voters about what to do with their political and social affairs.

It is highly premature for the government to seek applicants for the various positions in the regional government, considering that the question on the legality of cancelling the ARMM elections last August is still with the Supreme Court for decision. Is the ongoing recruitment an indication that the Aquino administration already knows what the decision of the high court would be? Some officials in government are bragging that the high court will vote 9-6 in favor of cancellation. Why? Has the government bought the justices? I beg to disagree! I believe, despite rumors, that the Court will render judgement based on the merits of the case. I do not believe our honorable justices can be bought!

It is also hypocritical on the part of the so-called selection committee to even pretend they are still in the process of selecting prospective appointees when they, in fact, have already made their choices. I do not think that the members of the selection committee or process will ever be objective in selecting the most well-meaning, most competent, and the most dedicated individuals to govern ARMM.

If at all, the recruitment process will only allow the selection committee to know who among the applicants are hell-bent in getting the post and exact a compromise in exchange for some future favors in the next elections.

Filipinos are not stupid to believe that something good will come out of the selection process. Maybe, some will even earn money in the process, knowing there are people willing to pay just to get the posts they desire.

I believe that President Aquino himself does not have any vested interest in the appointment of individuals to the various ARMM posts. But I certainly believe that those around him, those with known ambitions to become a senator and/or president will do everything within their means to win in 2016.

It is saddening to know that there are individuals who are well-placed in the current administration and value ARMM only as an election cheating machinery. Let me tell you, the people of ARMM know far better than what they think!

—MARGARITA “TINGTING” COJUANCO,

1226, Dasmarinas Village, Makati, City