On state funerals
The governor’s veto of an expanded state funeral statute–accommodating more public officials than necessary–is most appropriate. To affix his signature approving the proposed measure is to make a mockery of the dignity associated with such accolade only accorded well deserving public servants.
In his veto message, Governor Tenorio mentioned a more appropriate alternative–a joint resolution adopted by the legislature–extending such honor to members of the community who deserve such distinguished service. If lawmakers eliminate their re-electionist attitude, definitely they could draw fair assessment on who rightfully deserves such honor. Too, one need not be an elected official to be accorded such service.
As explained by the chief executive, such an honor must be based on merit, i.e., major contributions and accomplishments that lifted the well-being of the entire NMI community.
This issue also deserves a set of criteria to be used as a guideline, manned by a non-political panel, to ensure that decisions are fair. Politicians are incapable of such task and are more proned to turning these isles into “Islas De Las La State Funeral”.
Imagine if the measure had been inked into law. These isles would be marching to cemeteries every other day. Under this case scenario, it wouldn’t be surprising to find out at year’s end that our bills–for what would have turned into a routine event–goes beyond a million dollars. We hope this isn’t the unintended intent of the measure lest we might as well turn these isles into one large funeral parlor.
This accolade should be jealously granted to, i.e., governors who have made a difference bringing the livelihood of their people to greater heights, legislators who proactively made inroads to greater prosperity, judges who made landmark decisions, and others similarly situated. Being an elected official must not be used as a given for such accolade. It simply compromises the very dignity and honor so intended for such service supposedly founded on merit and exemplary contributions or accomplishments. Si Yuus Maase`!
