The amusing things about the security process is “always alert” and not “be alert” – why is that the Pinoy way? When there is a bombing, police declare a “red alert” and bring out law enforcements then, after a month or two, they are back relaxing at their respective headquarters. The same goes for airport security or when there is a dangerous situation at a school. Radicals, criminals, or terrorists are unable to attack a second time.

In addition, while there are police patrolling malls, schools, and hotels, what about public markets, bus terminals, seaports, or public plazas? Only after an explosion occurs at a public plaza, will all plazas will be subject to police monitoring.

However, some police officers can be seen stationed at street corners, for which they deserve credit; athough, in the past, they were provided with police vehicles.

With the election period underway, checkpoints have been set up but, after the election, they will all be gone. Why?

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The nation needs to appreciate the current administration because of its concern for other sectors. They have established Malasakit Centers, which provides free healthcare for low-income families; the imposition of Martial Law in Mindanao, which locals appreciate but those in Manila oppose; and the cleaning of Manila Bay, which opponents also object (when it’s dirty, they complain – when it is cleaned up – they will still complain).

Many also favor making the parents of erring children the culprit for crimes. Parental negligence should be the focus of discipline.

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This column greets my friends and readers Vicente Lovina, Bing Garaygay, Rey Balaan, Robert Javellana, Francis Velez, Jane Javellana, Ping Jimenea, Natalie Lim, Danny Dangcalan, Francis redil Villanueva, and Mimir Guanco./WDJ