Recently, the Philippines has been the "talk of the town" through trimedia. Criticisms from all over the world struck the country because of a tragedy; a tragedy which involved a Filipino and 17 Hongkong nationals. Our country was described as chaotic, corrupt, violent and "the kidnapping capital of Asia" by sina.com, the largest news portal website in China.
This horrible incident happened unexpectedly. I know certainly that NO ONE would want this thing to happen. It hurts too much on my part that we Filipinos are being blamed as a whole. The Philippines consists of hospitable and generous people. We treat others fairly, regardless of his or her nationality or whatsoever. Not all of us are like Rolando Mendoza. We are known for our hospitality. And you shouldn't look at us the same way as you did with Mendoza. We all commit mistakes. We admit that in this case, we've committed one.
To my fellow Filipinos, let us be strong and be open for criticisms. I know for sure that you feel the depression and sadness that I am feeling right now. We can't blame China or Hongkong from their abhorrence of us; although it is disheartening to hear the Chinese people reacting acrimoniously. We just need to be strong in order for us to fight for what we think is right. Also, let us be logical in all aspects.
To China/Hongkong people, we know that we are held responsible for what had happened last August 23,2010. Please give us time to amend our mistakes. And furthermore, allow us to prove to you that WE ARE NOT MONKEYS, yet we are noble persons too.
ON BEHALF OF THE FILIPINO PEOPLE.. WE ARE VERY SORRY.
- Jerome Infante