Press Release
November 29, 2007

Press statement of Senator Richard J. Gordon on the Manila
Peninsula Incident

I deeply regret the incident that has happened at the Manila Peninsula as it primarily puts people in harm's way and, secondly, adversely affects the economic impetus that has been building up in the country which is good for the country particularly for the poor. Nobody wins in this kind of situation - not the people, not the institutions and not the instigators - the whole country loses!

The rule of law must be followed which was recognized and affirmed by all government officials, including senators, when they took their oaths of office. All government officials, and private citizens, seeks change for the better under the provisions of the Philippine Constitution, laws and regulations. In fact, the instigators recognized the process and were in the middle of it but now they are refusing to do so - it is like changing the rules in the middle of the game when you feel that the game is going against you.

I am presently in Geneva at an International Red Cross meeting and I am watching the events on BBC. I saw an APC ramming its way into the Manila Peninsula Hotel, one of our best hotels, and it gives a picture of instability which the country does not deserve! This will adversely affect our tourism sector which generates a lot of jobs. And what kind of feeling does it leave to the millions of OFWs as they watch on BBC and CNN! It is truly said to see these events and the Philippines does not deserve this image of instability! Again, it is very sad to see these events and I hope and pray that it is peacefully concluded!

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