EDITORIAL: The provincial government must launch an immediate and impartial investigation into the allegations surrounding the distribution of “Lapang Bagas” to barangays. This is not a trivial issue that can simply be dismissed as political propaganda. Rather, it is a matter of public trust and accountability that Governor Joseph Cua’s administration must take seriously. The people deserve clarity—whether the allegations hold truth or are merely attempts to discredit the administration.
If it is proven that spoiled rice was indeed distributed, immediate corrective measures must be taken. The affected relief goods should be replaced, and a thorough review of the distribution process must be conducted to ensure this does not happen again. Transparency in the handling of relief efforts is crucial, and those found responsible for negligence must be held accountable. The welfare of the people should always be the priority.
However, if these allegations are baseless and driven by political motives, legal action should be pursued against those who spread misinformation. False accusations should not be used as a weapon to manipulate public perception, especially at the expense of those who rely on government aid. Political mudslinging should not overshadow the real purpose of disaster response—providing genuine and effective assistance to those in need.
The provincial government, along with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Governor Peter Cua, must handle this matter with utmost care. Simply dismissing the issue or responding defensively will only fuel further controversy. Instead, a thorough and transparent inquiry should be conducted, and the findings should be communicated clearly to the public. Ignoring the matter or failing to act will only deepen the distrust among the people.
It is also important to consider external factors. The recent shear line and continuous rainfall may have contributed to the alleged spoilage of the rice distributed. If this is the case, better quality control and improved storage methods must be implemented to prevent similar issues in the future. Disaster response should not only focus on immediate relief but also on ensuring the sustainability and quality of aid.
As the election period approaches, political tensions are expected to rise. However, governance should not be dictated by political interests alone—it should always prioritize public service. Rather than allowing this issue to turn into a political battle, the provincial government must take decisive action to uphold truth, accountability, and efficiency in relief operations. Only through responsible leadership can public trust be preserved. (Editorial/Rice)
