In Eastern Visayas, ghost projects are far from being rumors—they are for real. From provincial highways to barangay-level footpaths, paper roads and phantom buildings have bled public funds dry while communities remain stuck in poverty. This is corruption in its ugliest form, and it must no longer be tolerated.

Anyone who has lived long enough in the region knows how ghost projects operate. They begin with project proposals that sound noble and necessary—farm-to-market roads, multipurpose halls, school buildings, water systems. The budget is approved, the funds are released, but the project either never materializes or exists only in a token form: a half-poured foundation, a rusting post, or a short gravel strip that leads nowhere. On paper, it is complete. In reality, it is a monument to theft.

Barangays, the smallest units of government closest to the people, have not been spared. There are cases where barangay funds have been appropriated for projects that villagers never even saw. Sometimes the name of a barangay is used in liquidations and reports, yet when residents are asked, they shake their heads in disbelief—no such project was ever done. This is not just stealing; it is mockery. It insults both the people and the very concept of governance.

The culprits are not ghosts but flesh-and-blood politicians and contractors who have mastered the art of vanishing money. They thrive on a system where signatures matter more than substance, where inspection reports are signed without inspection, and where collusion between officials and contractors is treated as normal. These are not mere lapses; they are carefully orchestrated crimes that strip resources from the poor while fattening the pockets of the already powerful.

The irony is stark: Eastern Visayas, a region that has endured calamities and is in dire need of infrastructure and services, suffers from deliberate sabotage by those entrusted to rebuild it. The typhoons tear down homes, but it is corruption that ensures they are never rebuilt properly. Ghost projects do not simply steal money—they steal opportunities, delay progress, and deepen the misery of the people who deserve better.

Accountability must be the weapon against this plague. Those involved should be dragged into the courts, not coddled in political alliances. Dismissal from service is the least punishment for officials who betray their mandate. Private contractors who conspire in this racket should be blacklisted permanently, stripped of the privilege of ever handling public funds again. Anything less is complicity, a wink at corruption disguised as governance.
One wonders how many school children could have studied in safe classrooms, how many farmers could have reached markets faster, how many communities could have had clean water, if not for these shameless ghost projects. This is why tolerance of such thievery is not just negligence—it is cruelty. It tells the poor they are meant to remain poor, while their supposed leaders live off stolen riches.

The fight against ghost projects in Eastern Visayas must not stop at exposure. It must be pursued with the ferocity of people tired of being fooled, demanding proof of real work before the release of funds, and insisting on citizen oversight in every barangay. Ghost projects must be exorcised, and public service returned to the living, breathing people who own it.

Amid the political noise in our country today, it’s easy to feel discouraged.
I have no intention of painting a grim scenario in this column. But an open discussion on what we are experiencing may help us better understand the real challenges we collectively face.

This seemingly endless mudslinging and squabbling among our political leaders is doing our country more harm than good.

Constant bickering and the exchange of derogatory words are nothing but black propaganda, resulting in character assassination in the hope of gaining people’s sympathy and blind loyalty. This is creating animosity and slowly eroding our essence as one nation.
Where has our reputation gone as the most dominant Christian country in Asia? Along with East Timor, the Philippines is one of two predominantly Catholic nations in East Asia, with approximately 88.66% of the population belonging to the Christian faith.

The outdated term “third world” no longer accurately reflects the modern-day realities of the Philippines. With solid economic growth, a skilled workforce, expanding infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment, the country is undeniably an emerging market with vast opportunities.

Recent reports from the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DepDev) as well as the Department of Finance (DOF) revealed that the Philippine economy maintained a steady gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 5.6% in 2024 — the second-fastest in ASEAN — despite multiple challenges.

Moreover, the outlook for 2025 remains positive, fueled by lower inflation and higher consumption and investments. Numbers don’t lie; that’s why many detractors of the current administration are throwing all sorts of accusations — trivial or otherwise — to discredit President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s governance and leadership style.
His former political allies, the Dutertes of Davao, for reasons they alone know, have demonized him since Day One by persistently calling him irreverent names such as “bangag” or “adik,” a weak leader, and, worse, accusing him — along with Speaker Martin Romualdez — of masterminding alleged widespread corruption in cahoots with favored legislators, private contractors, and other government officials.

Critics are demanding accountability, citing pending petitions involving the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) fund transfers that have yet to be addressed.

As of this writing, PBBM’s economic advisers say the Philippines currently ranks as the 8th fastest-growing economy last year compared to 46 countries that have released their fourth-quarter GDP data.

The continuous destabilization efforts of the opposition and dissatisfied minority are creating a negative impression of our country abroad. Yet deep inside, we know there is no perfect government. Regardless of who is in power, there will always be opposing forces attempting to pull down the government’s image — whoever is the President of the Republic.

This adversarial stance can be likened to an incurable social illness hurting our country’s soul.

Purposely or not, this uncalled-for behavior triggers hopelessness in the Filipino psyche. The good news is, you (my dear readers) are not the only ones feeling that way.
Looking at our country today, I can surmise some common root causes of discouragement:
Perceived failure or setbacks in achieving goals

Lack of progress or improvement despite efforts

Feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a difficult situation

As an ordinary government worker preoccupied with multifarious tasks, I always try my best to be busy. I work day in and day out to accomplish the agency’s projects and activities assigned to me. Yet, I often end up feeling unappreciated by top management and discouraged.

Honestly, I dread the day when my enthusiasm and optimism will be replaced by doubt and negativity. If ever that happens, remember: the French origins of the word “discouraged” refer to “courage taken away.”

But even though I sometimes feel this way, I have to remind myself that our collective efforts, passion, and resilience can drive positive change. We should never give up because:

1.Our voices matter: Every individual has a unique perspective and contribution to make.
2. Change is possible: History shows that collective action can lead to significant progress.
3.We are stronger together: Unity and solidarity can help us overcome challenges.
4. Our future is worth fighting for: We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to strive for a better tomorrow.
Let’s channel our energy into constructive dialogue, advocacy, and community-building. Together, we can create a brighter future for our country. Uswag Otso, Padayon! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

Small businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability and are actively seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact. Renewable energy solutions offer a compelling path towards both environmental responsibility and significant cost savings. While large corporations often have the resources to invest in extensive renewable energy infrastructure, small businesses can also benefit from a range of accessible and cost-effective options. This article explores the various renewable energy solutions available to small businesses, highlighting their benefits and considerations for implementation.

Solar Power: A Versatile and Popular Choice

Solar power remains one of the most popular and versatile renewable energy solutions for small businesses. Rooftop solar panels are a relatively straightforward installation, converting sunlight directly into electricity. The initial investment can be substantial, but government incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, can significantly reduce the upfront cost. Furthermore, the long-term savings on electricity bills can quickly offset the initial investment, resulting in significant financial returns. Solar panels also require minimal maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability and reducing operational costs. The scalability of solar power is also advantageous, allowing businesses to install systems tailored to their specific energy needs.

Wind Power: Suitable for Specific Locations

Wind power, while less common for small businesses than solar, can be a viable option for businesses located in areas with consistently strong winds. Small wind turbines offer grid-independent electricity generation. However, the effectiveness of wind power depends heavily on location and wind conditions, requiring careful assessment before investment. The initial cost of wind turbines can also be higher than solar panels, and they may require more extensive maintenance. Businesses should carefully consider the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of wind power based on their specific circumstances.

Geothermal Energy: A Consistent and Reliable Source

Harnessing Earth’s internal heat, geothermal energy offers consistent, reliable power, especially in geothermally active regions. Geothermal heat pumps further reduce energy use and costs for heating and cooling, despite higher initial investment. Long-term cost savings and environmental benefits make geothermal systems a worthwhile consideration. However, the feasibility of geothermal energy depends heavily on geographical location and geological conditions, making it less widely applicable than solar or wind power.

Hydropower: For Businesses Near Water Sources

Hydropower utilizes the energy of flowing water to generate electricity. This is a viable option for businesses located near rivers, streams, or other water sources. Small-scale hydropower systems can be relatively cost-effective and environmentally friendly. However, the availability of suitable water sources is a limiting factor, and environmental considerations, such as the impact on aquatic ecosystems, must be carefully assessed. Regulations surrounding hydropower development also vary depending on location, requiring careful navigation of legal and permitting processes.

Biomass Energy: Utilizing Organic Matter

Biomass energy utilizes organic matter, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and other organic waste, to generate energy. Businesses with substantial organic waste can cost-effectively utilize biomass boilers for heating and biomass gasification for electricity generation. However, the efficiency and environmental impact of biomass energy depend heavily on the type of biomass used and the combustion process. Careful consideration must be given to sustainable sourcing and responsible waste management practices.

Financing Options and Government Incentives:

Accessing financing for renewable energy projects can be a significant hurdle for small businesses. However, various financing options are available, including loans, grants, and tax credits. Government incentives at both the federal and state levels can significantly reduce the upfront cost of renewable energy installations. Businesses should research available incentives and explore financing options tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.

Energy Audits and Professional Guidance:

Before investing in any renewable energy solution, businesses should conduct a thorough energy audit to assess their current energy consumption and identify areas for improvement. This will help determine the most suitable renewable energy options and optimize system design for maximum efficiency. Seeking professional guidance from energy consultants can also be invaluable, ensuring that the chosen solution is appropriate for the business’s specific needs and that the installation is carried out correctly.

Embracing Sustainability and Cost Savings

Renewable energy solutions offer small businesses a compelling opportunity to embrace sustainability while simultaneously reducing energy costs. The range of options available, from solar power to geothermal energy, allows businesses to choose the most appropriate solution based on their specific needs, location, and resources. By carefully considering the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact of each option, small businesses can make informed decisions that contribute to a more sustainable future while enhancing their bottom line. The commitment to renewable energy is not merely an environmental responsibility; it’s a strategic investment that can lead to long-term financial benefits and enhanced brand reputation.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!

THAT’S what Christ told his disciples, James and John, who, feeling aghast that the Samaritans were not welcoming to Christ, suggested that fire come down from heaven to consume them. (cfr. Lk 9,51-56) Of course, Christ rebuked them, telling them straight that they did not have the right spirit.

The proper spirit is precisely what Christ showed them and to all of us which is that of all-out charity, full of understanding, mercy and magnanimity. It’s a charity that can continue loving even the enemies and would enable one to continue serving everyone even to the extent of giving one’s life as a ransom for all of us. (cfr. Mk 10,45)

We have to be wary of our tendency to fall into what is termed as bitter zeal. While it’s true that we should try to be always zealous in our life, we have to make sure that our zeal is righteous, holy and charitable, not bitter, with a clear and proper sense of purpose, not just aimless.

Righteous zeal is always respectful of legal, juridical and most importantly of moral standards, especially that of charity and mercy. Bitter zeal wants instant results while ignoring legal and moral requirements, let alone the requirements of charity and mercy. It may pursue a valid cause, working for truth and justice, but without taking care of the appropriate means.

Bitter zeal makes a person hasty and reckless in his assessment of things. It fails to consider all angles, to listen to both sides, so to speak. He is prone to imprudence. In the end, it’s animated by the evil spirit of self-righteousness.

Inflammatory, incendiary words are its main weapons. Being belligerent is its style. It relishes in rousing controversies and sowing intrigues. It’s actually not as interested in looking for the objective truth and justice as carrying out one’s own personal agenda.
Especially when we engage ourselves in matters of opinion, we have to learn to practice restraint and moderation since no one has the exclusive ownership of what is right and fair. Opinions are views that are hardly based on absolute truths of faith and dogmas. They are more expressions of one’s preferences and tastes, and therefore we should expect a wide spectrum of differences, since things depend on people’s different temperaments, backgrounds, cultures, etc.

We have to learn how “bear each other’s burdens” as suggested by St. Paul in his Letter to the Galatians (6,2). It’s the surefire formula of how to live genuine charity, one that is down to earth and easily and abidingly doable.

In this regard, we have to learn how to be magnanimous, knowing how to suffer since suffering is an unavoidable consequence of evil. Magnanimity is part of the charity as described by Christ. “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” he said. (Mt 5,44) “If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also…”
We need to enlarge our heart, to make it more universal to accommodate everyone and any situation and condition properly. We should evade being caught by the grip of our strong views, and even our positions that we think are so essential that they are not anymore subject to opinion.

We have to see to it that our thoughts, desires and intentions, our words and deeds are always animated by charity. There should no negative elements in them. We have to have a good grip on our emotions, able to dominate and properly orient our biases, preferences and other idiosyncracies that constitute our differences and even conflicts with others. We have to learn to focus more on what we have in common rather than what divides us. We have to learn how to dialogue with everyone.