Editorial - HELPING TO LIGHTEN THE LOAD

           Many of the rosy predictions that came at the start of the Year of the Rat have been eclipsed by hard realities. The first quarter of the current year was going smoothly. Suddenly, by the beginning of the second quarter the equation has changed. The source of our new discomfort: Oil.

           As a country greatly dependent on this intrinsic energy, any appreciation in its international cost affects us. Only the timely intervention of the government can cushion the economic burden that’s affecting us all.

           The situation comes at a time when we are faced with financial difficulties in several fronts, starting from our most basic need—food. There was a time, we recall, when we did not have to worry where the next plate of rice will come from because the price of the basic staple was generally within reach. But one day we woke up to find its cost doubling, as did other grain products.

           We are fortunate that there is no queue here-around just to purchase NFA rice. We have enough supply, as assured by authorities. We are also fortunate to have sizeable areas devoted to rice production and this lessens dependence on imported rice. The local government unit is not remiss in monitoring the situation. There is no rice hoarding among traders which would create an artificial increase in the cost of the commodity. We appreciate the cooperation of the grain retailers and vendors associations in helping to stabilize the rice market.

           The other area of concern is the cost of meat and poultry products. All of which we have sufficient quantity in the market still within the general consumers’ reach. And the advantage locally is its availability.

           Transportation is another concern. Many do not know it, but travelers, especially students going to the capital city are greatly benefited by our low fares. The local transport groups are not only entrepreneurs making a living from their line of business. They are also concerned citizens caring to ease the burden of commuters by raising fares for the most popular public conveyance – the tricycle. This situation is the result of a constant dialog between the operators and the city officials.

           With the opening of classes parents are hard pressed once again coping with expensive school materials. This is true even in the elementary level. We are grateful for the timely intervention of the district congressman and the city officials to assuage the situation. The assistance by was of much-needed school supplies is a boon to parents, particularly for those who are financially disadvantages. Whatever little they save can be utilized for other purposes. We still have a long way to go to overcome the current crisis. But we take heart to see our leaders helping the constituencies promptly.

           There are other areas where local authorities and the private sector play vital roles to meet exigencies. Cooperation is of prime importance in this critical times. In the long run, as many lend a helping hand, it makes the economic load for every one lighter to bear.