October 17 th in Manila :
The point of wiew of Sana S. Sta Ana, a friend of Fourth World Movement in Philippines
Like the previous years, Oct 17 in Manila was held by the commemorative stone in the Rizal Park. It was the official start of the National Week of Overcoming Poverty (Oct 17 - 23).
Since it was a Saturday (surprisingly a very sunny day since we have been experiencing rainy and cloudy weather), there were many people who came inspite of the intense heat. The commemoration was participated by local city officials of Manila, government agencies, United Nations, and poor communities. Most of the speakers were representatives of government agencies who were responsible for attaining the UN Millennium Goals. Thus, speakers from the Department of Social Welfare, Department of Health, Department of Education, Congress and the United Nations spoke on the progress of attaining these goals. Most of the speakers talk about the statistics (e.g. we have achieved 80% of the millennium goal of reducing infant mortality)
But I think these statistics were not understood by the public, especially the families living in poverty. For them, they do not see this progress. Among the speakers, Secretary Cabral (who has met the ATD volunteers and friends at Nina’s house) of the Social Welfare gave the most enlightening message, we (rich and poor) have to rely on ourselves to rise above poverty, difficulty or hardships and not be dependent on anyone to help out.
For me, the highlight was the testimony of the ATD youth (a girl and a boy) regarding their dreams. They spoke in behalf of all youths, regardless if you are rich and poor… to have a good education. I think this was the essence of the day, listening to the voice of the poorest.
The event ended with a solemn walk towards the commemorative stone as visitors offered flowers to honor the victims of poverty.
My only regret is that the commemoration was concentrated in the city of Manila. Like all the ATD volunteers, families and friends, our dream is that Oct 17 will be universally known everywhere.
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