The eerie silence of the outspoken

THERE ARE many important and significant issues that have to be brought to the fore and discussed thoroughly. But they are seemingly set aside and deliberately ignored, to the chagrin and consternation of well-meaning sectors. Take note and consider the following: • The agonizing slow pace of the trial of those accused of the Maguindanao massacre—which had newspapermen among the victims—in November 2009;

• China’s alarming and provoking intrusions into and occupation of Philippine territory in the West Philippine Sea;

• The presidential candidates’ repugnant and uncouth exchanges and “debates” that insult the intelligence of the electorate;

• The disgusting exhortation of a presidential aspirant for the people to accept bribes from politicians inasmuch as “that money belongs to you anyway,” or words to that effect;

• The use of gutter language and threats that are in violation of the provisions of the Philippine Constitution, by a candidate seeking the highest post in government;

• The slow grind of the wheels of justice against the persons involved in multibillion-peso pork barrel scams which have caused a gigantic drain in the government’s treasury;

• The misplaced accusations and tirades of a leading vice presidential candidate every time his party and its presidential contender suffer a setback in rulings and decisions of a constitutional body;

• The nauseating braggadocio of two notorious politicians regarding their exploits and “escapades” with a number of women; and

• The use of social media in peddling lies, indecent photographs and illustrations that are designed to demean the reputation of political opponents.

The abovementioned issues, and many more, need to be assiduously addressed in every available forum such as newspapers, panel discussions, interviews and press conferences.

But it is disgusting to note that supposed leaders, heretofore known as activists and firebrands, are now tight-lipped as if avoiding from getting involved in the discussion of pressing issues, thus restricting the free exchange of ideas and views.

What happened to the idealism and principles that they claimed to possess or espouse? Why are they so quiet amid the need to air and discuss issues, standpoints and views? Where are the voices of the party-list representatives of the so-called militant and progressive sectors and organizations? Have they lost their principles-driven sense of participation and involvement in the discussion of public issues?

Their silence is deafening!