Culion... then and now?

I remember during my elementary years our teacher asked us to define some common pilipino quotations. And one that i can't forget was this, "ang hindi lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay di makararating sa paroroonan". One interpretation was one who does not know how to look back like the gratefulness to the kindness of our parents or the appreciation of the past where we came from, or neglecting all these good legacies, the person will not reach his destination.

 That was more than 30 years ago and it still lingers in my mind until this very moment. Because we have another analysis now and that is for our beloved town Culion. My town had a great history if not meaningful journey too from its wonderful past to reach its true destiny in curing this dreadful disease. It’s wonderful history threading the beautiful path of services and genuine cares not only for the patients but also to its people in general as signs to follow. From the missionaries like the Jesuits to SPC sisters to the managing directors, doctors, nurses, nursemaid, engineers, clerks and even their music band up to the street sweeper or cleaner, etc. A joy in true sense of service like parents’ love in taking care of their children. This was Culion in a productive past amidst the stigma and isolations or prejudices of the world but in truth it was a haven of peace and joy not to mention its natural resources around the place especially the blessings and its abundance.

Ahh was it the great past? We can only wonder… We might be questioning now the present situation of our dear town in order to bring back the sense of belongingness to our community and families, or to look back at least from its effective and great achievements including their values. So what are great achievements of the present? Why does it seem that while we experienced the accomplishments of our ‘past’ we find the equal deterioration of the ‘present’ lost in apathy or indifference? Where leadership has been assign to a mere survival that denounced involvement? Losing its legacy or the ethics of life only deteriorate the place, worst than its stigma. Was it only the cause of misguided decision or actions?..