Congratulations  

Congratulations to the Filipino nation in ushering in a new era of Philippine governance. With the election of a new president, national and local officials, there is a renewed sense of hope and optimism that a transformation for a better country is in the horizon.

Much has been said and promised during the elections. What remains to be seen is how these words turn into actions. We are in a new and different time unlike any other. The pandemic is still raging, the economy is teetering, prices of basic goods and services are skyrocketing, unemployment is on the rise, our borders are still threatened, and wars happening in some parts of the world are affecting our domestic capacities.

These and more are the challenges waiting for the new Marcos administration. If he fails, we all fail with him. He needs all the support he can get from every one of us. The election is done, it’s time to get back to work.

I have to admit my bias here. With a healthcare background, I would like to see the new administration seriously take a look at the plight of our healthcare workers.

As they have proven their worth during the pandemic, our brave men and women in medicine, nursing, physical therapy, medical technology, allied support staff, and other professionals in healthcare deserve not only words of praise but also a careful consideration in improving their standard of living not only for those working in big urban areas and nationally-funded government hospitals but also those in private hospitals, rural and locally-devolved health units.

Improving the lot of healthcare workers must be equitable, fair and across the board. COVID did not affect cities alone. It ravaged all of us and all healthcare workers are called to action regardless where they work.

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Tomorrow, July 4, the United States of America will celebrate its 246th Independence Day. It is the nation’s most beloved holiday where every nook and cranny of American sovereignty celebrates the values of freedom and independence.

Here in the Philippines, July 4 is also observed as Filipino-American Friendship Day. Though not an official holiday, this day commemorates the alliance between the two countries in its intertwined and complex history. It is important to note that each has its own interests to pursue and as such must adopt its own policies independent of each other. There are areas of cooperation and collaboration but certainly there are issues in which one must not interfere with the other. Be that as it may, this mutual friendship between the two countries is not only beneficial in the short term but would prove to be very strategic in the long term given the varying issues faces by both nations.

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The US Supreme Court has issued two important decisions concerning immigration which I find to be very instructive for all of us. I can foresee that it’s going to need a full length column so I reserved it to be tackled here next week.