PCIJ reports about Bohol barangay

Avigail M. Olarte writes about life in barangay Magsaysay, Sevilla, Bohol and how little life has changed for the people there through all the years, both in war and in peace. The barangay, which almost a decade ago was the site of constant clashes between the New People's Army (the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines) and Armed Forces of the Philippines, and which has been declared "free" from insurgents, continue to top all poverty indicators for barangays that you can think of.

This serves as a grim reminder to our dear politicians in Bohol, especially those now running for positions in the coming May 2007 elections. We have always wondered why Bohol, with all its resources and woderful tourist destinations, continue to be among the poorest provinces in the country. It's time for them to finally face the issue and to really commit to addressing the problem. Otherwise, we might end up seeing the last of the people's frustration, and the beginning of their anger. Read the full report at pcij.org.