I am still in shock while I was typing this blog post.
I can't believe that a handful of tourists, our foreign visitors were taken hostage and killed by a police captain that went amok.
I can't believe that the Philippine National Police's Special Weapons and Tactics Group (PNP-SWAT) is totally ill-prepared for incidents like this. I am enraged by the fact that the whole PNP is still green in dealing the crisis that I am worried about my safety if I ever fall in the same situation.
I am ashamed of the Philippine media who chose the ratings war over the safety of the hostages. The government should have issued a total news black-out in the incident to avoid the hostage taker from being informed of the plans of the police and also from being informed by his cahoots.
It is saddening that peaceful negotiations were not prioritized to resolve this crisis. The Police did not fully utilized all the peaceful options available.
Quirino Grandstand is the place where Philippine presidents are sworn into office. Now, the whole world will brand it as the place where innocent tourist are killed.
I am worried with what will happenb to the tourism industry of the country. I am worried with how the world will perceive our OFWs. I do hope that the world will not judge all Filipinos based on the action of Captain Mendoza.
I am still in shock. Today is one of the darkest moment in Philippine history.
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Dear God,
I earnestly pray for the peaceful repose of those who died in the crisis. Please do not look upon their sins and let them join you in Your heavenly abode. I also pray for those who are fighting for their lives in the hospital. Please heal them and let them live so that they could still be with their families.
I also pray for my country. Please help us to deal with matter. Please help us reforming the ruined sectors of our country, especially the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces. Guide the Filipino people.
I pray this, in the name of Jesus the Lord. AMEN.
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