| RES GESTAE | By Francisco B. Lindero, Jr. |

I was waiting for my flight at the Iloilo International Airport one Thursday morning when I met a long lost friend, Art. He was leaving for a business meeting in Manila, while I was scheduled to attend a conference in Makati City with Honorable Rufus Rodriguez, the Representative of the Second District of Cagayan de Oro City.

After short pleasantries, I took the opportunity to introduce to Art my newest affiliation which was also instrumental to my meeting with Hon. Rodriguez – the Centrist Democratic Movement.

Art showed interest to hear a bit more of the movement. So, I invited him to sit for a while with me on the bench.

I was aware that I had only few minutes to explain CDM to Art. My goal then was to help Art consider joining in the movement. I know Art. He is not only a hardworking employee but also a compassionate and responsible head of a family.  More than that, I know Art is deeply concerned with the future of his two sons, one of whom has a special need.

Like most parents, if not all, Art does not only see what is close ahead; he thinks long term, especially for his two sons. This is what makes me interested to share Art the CDM.

CDM is one of the newest interesting developments in the country's political landscape today.

The movement was started in 2010 by young professionals who believe that the country deserve better. These professionals do not only admit the development impasse  in the country but also see and very hopeful of the key out to this problem.

As the movement turns two years this month, the handful professionals then grew exponentially into ten regions nationwide. Thus, even before 2011 ended, the CDM as a national federation is already composed of ten regional assemblies.

The growing movement is an indication that many Filipinos still believe that this generation can correct the mistakes of the past.

I did not elaborate to Art what those mistakes are. I didn’t think it was necessary. Realities around us bespeak the apparent failures in our democratic system – the environment of political patronage, corruption, social injustice, and name what.

But because these realities are right before our eyes everyday, they become ordinary; and, unfortunately, we also become immune and apathetic.

The first call for departure was called. It was Art's plane leaving ahead of mine.  So, I have to skip some details of my presentation, knowing that it was not our last meeting after all but a prelude to more table discussions ahead.

Before the final call for boarding was announced, I held Art's left shoulder with my right hand and, with a smile, I told him my commitment after I decided to join in CDM.

"Art, as you know it, I have a five-year-old daughter Janna."

I knew I sounded corny that time but I didn't have an option, thus I continued.

"I want to discuss more about CDM with you, but I think it is impossible for now."

I didn't want to appear emotional. However, I could not help myself but to be honest. I further told Art.

"Art, I know that - for the future of your two sons - you got a lot of options. For me, CDM has helped me make an option for the future of my daughter. For the future of my five-year old daughter, I have made an option on the kind of Philippines that I will leave her. I want for her a Philippines where individual freedom and rights are protected. I want for her a Philippines where justice, equal opportunity, and solidarity are promoted. I want for her a Philippines where the individual enjoys security, self-determination and the fulfillment of personal potential."

Unfortunately, as I was about to deliver those lines, Art excused himself as the last and final call for boarding echoed in the hall.

I stood watching Art as he hurriedly proceeded for his flight and wishing that someday our paths will cross again. When that opportunity comes, I will never forget to tell him the option that I made for my daughter's future.  It might catch his heart and consider making the same option for the future of his two sons.*( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )