So. As it turns out, the so-called "terrorist bomb" wasn't that at all. I mean, not even close. No wonder no self-respecting terrorist group stepped forward to claim responsibility.
No, the conclusion by a group of Aussie experts as well as those of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation is that a "gas build-up" triggered the deadly explosion that snuffed out 11 perfectly good, decent lives while leaving over 100 others injured and scarred for life, both physically and psychologically. Said build-up may have been caused by a mixture of diesel and methane fumes from a "malfunctioning sewage pump." Apparently the Philippine National Police reached the same conclusion during their own initial investigation. At this time, however, the official report has not been released, although Ayala Land, owner of the sprawling Glorietta complex, have requested a copy so that they can respond.
Uh-huh. Just a few weeks ago, the national populace convulsed in collective indignation over the ludicrous Desperate Housewives "scandal." Jon Stewart of The Daily Show became the next target, the chagrined-but-still-highly-amused "victim" of an otherwise unfortunate -- and yeah, let's all say it together, people: STOOPID -- incident that should never have happened in the first place.
I have hopes that the Glorietta tragedy woke up a few sleeping, ignorant souls and will become the turning point in which the nation will realize the real s*** (no pun intended...well, okay, totally intended) it's in and actually do something constructive and meaningful to alleviate all these problems (crises!) that plague our beloved country. On the other hand, based on our gleaming track record of bleeding borders, rampant corruption regardless of who sits in Malacanang (or maybe because of), widespread greed from the highest office in the land to the lowest peasant in society, and a general indifference toward the future and any efforts to improve it, I wonder if it's foolish for me to harbor even the slimmest hope.
But I refuse to be cynical. I may have no choice but to remain hopeful. Otherwise I'll be no better than those who flee for safer, wealthier shores and never look back.
Of course, I am here. And they're over there. Am I really any better?
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