Published in TODAY newspaper
05 March 2002
The past weeks have been a challenging period for us. We have attempted to clarify issues behind the PEACe bonds in many forums including hearings in both legislative chambers.
We believe we succeeded in clarifying matters to many that have given us the opportunity to explain. Many now understand that there was nothing irregular in the entire process, and that the government was not prejudiced in any way. What makes this continuing task of communicating what we have done easier is that we speak the truth.
However, our time, attention and energy have been totally consumed by this effort, and we expect this to continue in the weeks ahead. This has not allowed us to do justice to the roles we play in both CODE-NGO and The Peace Foundation, the foundation tasked with administering the proceeds of the bond transaction.
After much introspection and prayer, we have both agreed to request for indefinite leaves of absence from both organizations. We are fortunate that his request has been granted by the boards of directors of both organizations.
We do this so these two organizations can resume normal operations while we continue to explain the issues to all that care to listen. It is important that both CODE-NGO and The Peace Foundation continue and intensify all programs and projects for the poor and disadvantaged. Our commitment to the poor cannot be hindered by the personal circumstances of anyone. We also believe that those that will take our place will do justice to the tasks at hand. The continuing development of new generations of idealistic and competent NGO workers isa credo we have upheld. This decision will also hopefully allay the unfounded fears of some quarters that we may influence the use of the funds generated for purposes other than poverty alleviation.
We thank all those who have listened and supported us: many political leaders, members of the media, academe, the business community and the public who have taken an interest in the issues. We also thank those that have been critical, for we have learned much from them too.
We thank our colleagues in CODE-NGO, the Peace Foundation and civil society. They have kept faith with us and allowed us to serve and stand by their side in many just causes and projects for the poor through the years.
Above all, we thank the poor and disadvantaged. We are better people because they have allowed us to serve them. Our commitment to them remains unwavering.
The opportunity to serve is truly its own reward.
DANILO SONGCO and MARISSA CAMACHO REYES
Caucus of Development NGO Networks
Back to The PEACe Bonds debate
