Continuing to stay strong in faith
The news about the Abu Sayyaf in Bohol and now, the Maute and ISIS siege of Marawi City in Lanao del Norte are changing the tone for this year's merry Mary month of May.
So much conflicting reports about what is really happening there.
Martial law had been proclaimed for the whole of Mindanao in the midst of military statements that they have the situation under control in Marawi. Some local officials interviewed are saying there are or there are none from national government coordinating the situation. One is confused about the various news that it is, it is not ISIS, it is just a local group in the besieged areas that is trying to call attention. Another news reported that members of the Maute, MILF and Abu Sayyaf attacked the city, and so on.
Confirmed genuine news include the BBC news that British nationals have been advised to avoid Western Mindanao. Archbishop Socrates Villegas of the Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines urged all to pray for the safety and early release of the hostages, including Fr. ChitoSuganob and other members of the Cathedral of St. Mary. This Cathedral, according to aFacebook post, is dedicated to Mama Mary Auxiliadora, the Help of Christians whose Feast Day is May 24. May Mama Mary intercede for Fr. Chito and all other hostages and for peace and protection of all in Marawi and the rest of the Philippines and the world!
We all deserve to be informed about the true situation in Marawi. Which group initiated this so-called siege? If ISIS-related, how widespread is the influence of this group in the city and the rest of Mindanao and the country?
Is it possible that this could be a staged situation so that Martial Law can be declared? What is the implication of the declaration of Martial Law for all Filipinos?
How to filter the truth, the authentic news from the fake news? Whether we are in an emergency or normal situation, our people should demand for real, genuine information to be relayed, especially by government sources.
Affected persons and communities in Marawi have been reported to have not received any instruction or assistance from any government office or agency. How prepared are our people and our government in dealing with this type of crisis situation?
How safe is the rest of the country from possible "terrorist" attacks and how well prepared is government to manage these threats and attacks?
Understandably, during such crises moments, people start to be afraid, rather to continue instead to stay in strong faith. Let us join hands and pray together that all take courage that God is in control and that all He wants us to do is believe and trust that He is our almighty God Who has conquered evil.
Rather than stay home and cower in fear, venture out in faith and courage and enjoy several big events this May sponsored in Cebu City which you may all be interested to look up. Edna Lee kindly shared that the Gabii sa Kabilin (GSK- Heritage Night) falls on May 26, from 6pm to midnight, with special events lined up. The Museum of Native Art (MoNA) will facilitate a pre-GSK Rangoli workshop with special visiting artist, Yasha Dabas at the West Gorordo Hotel from 1:30 pm.
Kinue Castillo also sent us an invitation to the May 26-27th Bon Odori Event at SM Seaside Cebu City. A Yukata demonstration as well as dance and special drum presentation by the Japanese drum team GOCOO, who did the sound effect for Matrix, are among the highlights of this year's event.
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