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PAGTATAP FOUNDATION, INC.
c/o Dr. Robert Peter Alojipan
OPD, Makati Medical Center
Makati, Metro Manila
Philippines
November 18, 2002
The President
Malacanang Palace
Philippines
Madam:
You have become an integral part of Pandan, Antique's history and your name
is synonymous to "hero and savior" in our minds and hearts because you
declared the Northwest Panay Peninsula as a "Natural Park" during your
momentous visit to Pandan on April 25, 2002.
By designating the NW Panay Peninsula as a Protected Area pursuant to
Republic Act No. 7586, NIPAS Act of 1992, you are showing the world that
under your administration, protecting the environment is paramount. You gave
credence to the fact that the NW Panay Peninsula is "ranked as one of the
highest conservation priorities in the world based on the degree of endemism
and threat" (Oliver and Heaney, 1997) and too precious not to try to salvage.
At this juncture, we come to you with our problem. The National Power
Corporation (NAPOCOR) wants to build a diesel power plant in Patria, Pandan,
a peaceful community that depends on the sea, fields, and forest for
livelihood and subsistence. Patria is our own little "Boracay" with the
added amenities of a coral reef, abundant marine life, fresh air, gentle
breezes, and lush greenery. It provides a sanctuary for solitude and
temporary escape from the hub of city life. The power plant will destroy all
these, as evidenced by numerous researches we have accumulated. Furthermore,
the "protected area" of NW Panay will be endangered by the existence of the
power plant.
Good resolutions acted out in the best of motives could come apart if they
are not enforced and just taken for granted. That is why we come to you for
your help and intercession. Although we are on the side of the law,
NAPOCOR's power and influence are beyond our means as simple, ordinary
citizens who are but little pebbles on the beach that can be easily ignored
or washed away in the arena of big corporations, power mongers, and
unscrupulous predators. We can only fight with slingshots and bows and
arrows against their big guns and cannon balls.
"Find out what people will quietly submit to and you find out the exact
measure of injustice and wrong that will be imposed on them. The limits of
tyrants are prescribed by the endurance of those whom they oppress"
(Frederick Douglas). We are saying NO to NAPOCOR. Please help us sustain our
endurance in our uphill struggle to save our people, our land, and our
heritage.
I have the honor to remain,
Most respectfully yours,
(SGD.) Robert Peter Alojipan
President, Patatap Foundation, Inc.
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