By Anthony A. Araos
Can you imagine how hard it is to accept the task of heading the committee on peace and order and public safety for a neophyte legislator in Ifugao?
For years and in many places, legislators were under the impression that this committee is “not attractive.” Easily heard, “I would not even dare to dream of it.” Taking it rarely comes to the thought.
Councilor Jansen Roldan was already aware of the various challenges ahead. He knew that it really entails engaging actively with several stakeholders each day of the week. The very idea of safeguarding the people from harm’s way and far away from criminals keeps him busy.
To bone up in the real world, Roldan accepted the chairmanship of the peace and order and public safety committee at the Sangguniang Bayan of Lagawe.
And so it goes: The committee’s composition is now completed. Vice chairman is Councilor Eric Jason Dugyon. Members are Councilors Clarence Buhong, Michael Patnaan (ABC) and Lex Ford Bokiagon (SK).
Lagawe is the province’s capital. It is the nerve center and heart of Ifugao. It serves as the core around which revolves the entire social, economic and official wheels of this upland province. Old and new commercial buildings dotted the main poblacion area (with four villages). This turned the once-farming landscape into a commercial jungle. I knew this is the heartland of the business community. Or so it seems.
Over and over again, the question arises: how important is the committee? Without peace and order, the attainment of economic development is nearly impossible. Perilous conditions can be disadvantageous to the interests of investors. They come in to make more money in business. Let me put it this way. Investment shall accelerate job creation. How about doing that in a town where unemployment rate is high.
Criminals continue to hatch plans on helpless folks. Lawless elements don’t lack imagination, harming, harassing and intimidating folks here and there. These things the law violators do. Timidity then is giving birth to a feeling like bitter ampalaya juice. These are real situations ordinary folks face here and now, day in and day out.
One looks in vain in the implementation on the use of helmets by motorcycle riders. Without stern action on defiance to use helmets, especially among youngsters, the problem would only worsen. That would only put at risk the safety of riders.
Training of village watchmen (tanods) is vital. Their duty often puts them in dangerous situations where they take physical threats, harassment and even acts of violence.
The remainder of my wish list: increase police visibility in schools and the public market, increase the number of CCTVs and streetlights in the four poblacion barangays and deter the use of electronic cigarettes or vape products infused with cannabis or marijuana or marijuana oil as well as liquid methamphetamine hydrochloride or horrifying “shabu”. Indeed, the drug problem is horrifying. Former President Rodrigo Duterte many times said “soft gloves” don’t make any sense, and I reckon he’s right.
Hard at work is Councilor Roldan’s hallmark. He remains motivated to perform his duties effectively despite these challenges. He is also known for his dedication. Likewise, Roldan is expected to take an active role in the municipal peace and order council.
All of these bear the responsibility of being at the forefront of ensuring tranquility and stability in Lagawe. For leaders are the bedrock of their committees and many rely on their strengths. They should always be a step ahead in laying the blueprint for growth and development. As we continue to live in a time that has thrown enormous and unprecedented challenges at leaders.
A large portion of the public has a tremendous interest in the prevention of crimes. It is the truth with which Councilor Roldan and all others must deal squarely. This is a goal that cannot be overstated.
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