EDITORIAL - Threats to a way of life

 Two successive smuggling incidents involving high powered guns are no longer plain and simple smuggling incidents that deserve only the concern of the Bureau of Customs. It is time the anti-crime and anti-terrorism agencies start getting their interest whipped up.

To be sure, the smuggling of the guns could just be part of a lucrative business meant to satisfy the interests of gun enthusiasts, whose pleasure comes only from owning the bragging rights to possessing exotic gun species.

If that were the case, then the anxiety can be placated a little. At least there is nothing criminal in pursuing bragging rights, so law enforcers can shut the door to one area of grave concern.

But what if the guns were meant for something else. More importantly, what if the guns were meant for something else and those that got caught were just a small part of a more massive and steady flow of guns.

If that were the case, then the authorities have a truly big headache coming. All things considered, Cebu has by far been relatively peaceful compared to other urban centers in the country of comparable size and importance.

Cebu continues to have very bright prospects for more progress, and it owes much of this to the relative peace it enjoys. But Cebu cannot remain impervious to the very clear threats that continued growth and progress brings.

Cebuanos may be a very friendly and peaceful people. But Cebu does not belong just to the Cebuanos anymore. A key secret to its success is its willingness to embrace others who contribute to greatness.

 Open arms can have its drawbacks, as we can see from sifting through the details of the bad news. And that is why the smuggling of the guns should not be seen simply as simple smuggling incidents. They should be perceived as threats that demand prompt attention.