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22 March 2004

The Editor

Baguio Midland Courier

Kisad Road, Baguio City

Dear Editor:

For too long now I have been targeted in your “True of False?” column with the irresponsible accusation that my candidacy for Mayor is just a gambit to divide the opposition, and/or that in exchange for it I was paid a hefty sum, etc.

I could understand it if those underhanded lies would come from my political enemies.  That it comes from a newspaper that has become an institution highly esteemed for truth and fairness is incomprehensible.

To be sure, nobody can fault you for endorsing your pick of a mayoralty candidate, as is no so plain from the slant of your newspaper’s overall reportorial treatment.  But has it now become your editorial policy to promote your candidate at my expense?

My name is all that I have.  I have toiled to build and protect my honor though the years if only so my children will proudly bear our name.  I have not enriched myself while in public office.  In fact, I and my family continue to live in a rented apartment.  I would still have kept my peace if I alone was affected.  But your campaign now has unfairly distressed my family.

If you still care to know, I filed my candidacy to offer the people of Baguio a better alternative, publicly announcing my intention months before filing was officially open.  Without any undue influence or promise of reward, I thoughtfully planned my candidacy, unlike the others whose decision to stand for election came at the last moment.  It will be noted that among the candidates, I was the first to file his certificate of candidacy.

In the passion of this political season, please resist those who would use your paper a tool for oppression and black propaganda.  Let us instead together strive to bring the political discourse to a higher plane, as should be, to enlighten our people on the real issues together we confront.

Very truly yours,

(Signed)

Atty. RICHARD A. CARINO