LUNA, Apayao – “It is not all about money or bonuses, the essence of Christmas is sharing the love and being compassionate in giving your full service to the people.”
This is the substance and combined view of Apayao Governor Elias Bulut, Jr. and Congresswoman Eleanor Bulut-Begtang as they delivered their Christmas messages during the Christmas program of the provincial government of Apayao (PGA) on December 22, 2016, at the newly inaugurated Aliwa Gymnasium at Apayao Capitol.
Governor Bulut delivering his message before the officials, employees of the PGA with their families, friends along with the national line agencies officials and other visitors, pointed out the real meaning of love as celebrated during the Christmas season is expressing your passion through sincere service to the people.
“I don’t know why we keep on complaining that we have little bonuses. Your position and work alone are indications of God’s favor in us. Don’t count alone the blessings that come or you might receive this Christmas, rather, you should also ask what things or services have you contributed in the Province,” Governor Bulut posed.
The Governor also expressed his sadness at the “tragedies” the PGA experienced due to the death of PGA’s two medical doctors and his Chief of Staff. In his message, he recognized the brevity of life, hence, the necessity of doing something good now that we are still alive.
“The death of our beloved doctors, first Dr. Nicolo Gañac and Dr. Thelma Dangao and then this December Atty. Jemar Apada has brought sorrow among us. I am also deeply saddened because I knew them personally. However, I believe, there is a secret message to us, that is, we need to value ourselves and give importance to our health. Not because you are a doctor, you will be spared. Life is short and only God knows when we get to the end, so do something good,” he stressed.
In turn, Congresswoman Eleanor Bulut-Begtang invigorated the audience by challenging them to be thankful despite the adversities and trials that come in ones’ lives. “Amidst hardships, still be thankful that we are alive and can still work for something,” she articulated this as she told the story about her personal encounter with an old lady whom she gave a 100-peso bill, her only money that time which she believed a small one which, however, turned out to be so precious to the old lady.
Rep. Begtang also pointed out the need to be generous to those who are less fortunate in life. “We should not forget the essence of Christmas. Haan kayo nga agked-ked nga tumulong kadagiti tattao nga marigrigatan. I am happy that when my father (Mayor Elias K. Bulut) died, people appreciated much his generosity. We can also do the same. Keep on thanking God always in your life,” Congressw Begtang concluded.
BY GERRIAHZON S. SEBASTIAN