Boholanos should not despair. Slowly, Bohol will rise again. It has weathered many “storms,” foremost of which was when the New People’s Army held sway in the province some years back.
The Boholanos were able to drive out from their island the rebels who made their lives difficult, and they banked on tourism to lift up the province. Their experience has been dubbed “the Bohol experience.” The Boholanos proved that peace can be achieved by mustering unity and cooperation. Yes, they understand that there can be no progress without peace.
Bohol is a popular tourist destination like Boracay; it also has its many beaches and scenic spots. I am sure Boholanos—and Filipinos who have had the chance to visit Bohol before the quake will agree to this—will overcome this new trial—the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that devastated the province.
I know that each Boholano will contribute his or her share to bring the province back on its feet, and on the road to progress and growth soon. Bohol wasn’t ready for the earthquake, but it is ready to come out of the rubble.
—JOJIE S. DEL MUNDO
Lemery, Batangas