A salute to Sec. Jesse

This is a reaction to Ma. Ceres P. Doyo’s reprinted article titled “Robredo’s Naga: Ants in a happy place” (Inquirer, 8/23,12), and the news item “Race to bag DILG post up; LPs have the edge” by Gil C. Cabacungan and TJ Burgonio (Inquirer, 8/23/12).

While reading Doyo’s article, I couldn’t help but feel proud of my being a Bicolana, although not born in Naga City which Jesse, as he wanted to be called, served so efficiently and sincerely. I truly feel proud that this government official, whom I admired even when he was yet a first-termer mayor of Naga City, was an intense and sensitive leader. His empowering style of servant leadership, coupled with his simplicity and sincere desire to truly serve his constituents, was very apparent when Naga hosted the Palarong Pambansa. I was then the regional director of the Commission on Higher Education, Region 4 (composed of of the Southern Tagalog provinces) and I was so impressed at how he handled such gargantuan challenge at that young age. Our experience in Naga City was made so memorable because of his leadership which awed us no end. Doyo’s description of Jesse as a no-nonsense leader fits to a T, that is why in my not-so-often vacations to my hometown in Gigmoto, Catanduanes, I always make it a point to pass by Naga City, even it entails additional travel time, just so I can revisit a former third-class city and see for myself its growth and development which inspire me so much. Jesse’s good example as a servant leader has left an imprint in my heart and I’m grateful that I am a Bicolana, ka Bicolano man giraray ni Jesse.

On the other hand, the article “Race to bag DILG post up; LPs have edge” shows the true colors of some of our politicians. For delicadeza, and out of respect to the grieving Robredo family and nation, during the period of national mourning, they should at the least have restrained from showing even an iota of interest in the position left vacant by Jesse’s passing. Unfortunately for these politicians, the Filipino voters are wiser now.

—IMELDA TUBALINAL DARAUG, PhD, Ceso III, president,

Good Shepherd

Montessori Academy,

Camp General S. Aquino,

San Miguel, Tarlac City