MISSING THE ACTION by: Kiko Ortelano

Good Things from Bad.

A good manager will always extract something positive about things that are not good.

The RECALL action against governor Ed Panlilio has created quite a stir in Pampanga. Everyone in Pampanga is a winner and a loser on this issue.

The initiators of the RECALL were able to generate so much opportunities to discredit the governor to his constituents. Even if (I do not think it will) the RECALL does not prosper, it could have generated a lot of negatives against the governor. This allows the opposition to the governor to have a better chance of beating the latter in the 2010 elections (If he decides to run again). The RECALL will also cement the loyalty of the initiators to their benefactors. This can mean continued support in a lot of terms, including financial, and the opportunity to wield so much political power, if and when their benefactors or their benefactor's "chosen leaders" wrest total control of PAMPANGA.

On the other hand, the RECALL woke-up a lot of Panlilio supporters. This allowed the emergence of a stronger group of people's organizations that came together to counter the RECALL. Civil Society Organizations who were initially believed to have fully supported the governor before, specially during the start of Panlilio's term at the Capitol, seem to have faded away during this crucial time in Pampanga. They made a lot of noises before but were alarmingly very quiet during the height of the RECALL actions and reactions.

The RECALL also allowed this emerging stronger group of people's organizations to consolidate their forces, rebuild their mass bases, and present to the Kapampangans a voice for the silent majority. The best thing about this group is the obvious synergy of support that came from different religious denominations in the country. Hopefully, the Iglesia ni Cristo can discern better next time and throw their support to a leader who will truly espouse Good, Righteous Leadership in governance.