TAKE A VOW, SAY AN OATH, MAKE A PROMISE

                                                                                  by Ritchelle Blanco Dejolde

                                                                            

During the flag ceremony, I realize that there are so many vows/oaths that are recited. A vow or "panata" or "panunumpa" speaks of a promise or commitment to do everything that's listed. The list in every vow or "panata" is a string of  highly desirable , moral, exemplary and eminent acts and values that a public servant or citizen of this country shall possess.

Now, even if one spends hours and even days with the right hand raised or positioned on the chest area while reciting all these vows ( around 5) coupled with a voice that resonates adherence, if we watch the current news regarding leaders who continually dupe our countrymen, the surreptitious invasion of foreigners in our political mainstream with shameless display of arrogance and splatter of lies, the grave incompetence of supposed guardians of sovereignty and justice, I cannot help but feel sorry for this country. 

Just drop those numerous vows, "panunumpa" or "panata". Take one or two seriously and honestly follow each to the core. JUST DO IT! Do not let that right hand slap each one of us with shame.

*Panatang Makabayan

*Panunumpa sa Watawat

*Panata sa Bagong Pilipinas

*Panunumpa ng Kawani Ng Gobyerno 

*Panunumpa ng Lingkod Bayan