IN THE theory of dialectics, there is what we call contradiction of opposites and unity of opposites. At certain point in time, two opposite things meet and then collision takes place. After sometime, the contradiction is resolved; the unity of opposites took place. A new relation exists. Then a new process and new contradiction begins, and so on.
This occurs too in the conduct of social forces in pursuit of new arrangements and higher political goals. In view of this, the reported fall out of Bacolod Councilor Arche Baribar's group from the Monico camp, the clamor of the Chinese business community to have their own kind and voice in the Sanggunian, the cry for political change in the grassroots level, and the recent confirmation of Bacolod councilor and Chinese businessman Elmer Sy, a partner of Baribar, that he might run for Mayor, seem to fall into one process. From a dialectical point of view, this recent confluence looks like irreversible, and if completely done, the union of these political events and forces in Bacolod could shape a new political force outside the existing traditional political alignment. If it completes its process, and become successful in its goal, this could mean not only quantitative change in political climate in Bacolod, but could be a prelude towards a qualitative, substantive change in Bacolod politics. This confluence which looks a destiny in the making could hasten the process of shaping and formation of a new force. I would call this a force in the middle. Unlike the traditional middle force or middle of the roaders that connotes a weak, vacillating, compromising, opportunistic and transitory force that will eventually be drawn to the external forces, either the left or the right of the trapos (traditional politicians), the force in the middle is not dependent on the latter's tempo and dictates but on its own volition to assert its own political existence and leadership. This force in the middle has all the potentials and time to shape and grow into an independent political force because they seem to pursue only one political line, change the political landscape in Bacolod, push for new political leadership, and resolve the mass discontentment towards the present political leadership. On matters of machinery, resources and logistics, this force in the middle should not be underestimated. They don't say much about their war-chest, but their look seems to point only one thing - they are gearing to get loose. Obviously, this force in the middle points to the group of Baribar, Elcid Familiaran, Elmer Sy, Sonia Verdeflor and Catalino Alisbo. Certainly, there are more outside the confines of city hall. They may not have the resources that their opponents brag about but their past records show they can produce, and they can play lots of tricks and magic to finance whatever they want. Their individual and collective machinery may not be as well-oiled than their opponents, but past elections have won them formidable followers. Individually, they are a combination of great talents. Baribar is a season mass leader, human rights lawyer, staunchly pro-people and a sharp strategist and debater. So with Elcid, Catalino and Sonia who are also efficient service providers and excellent in community relations. Elmer Sy, the cool-headed, distinctly humble and quiet among them, is also an excellent business developer, a successful trader, and has the business acumen to spur economic activities and inspire more entrepreneurs, while being deeply passionate for the poor, the least and the lost. As opposition, they can serve very well as the rallying point of all the organized and spontaneous forces discontented with the ruling power in city hall. Unlike in their previous position where they are at the mercy of their political patrons, this force in the middle seems to have realized that they have the power to make things happen by themselves, with the support of their families, friends and allies. Being a force that is free from the dictates and control of the trapos, this force in the middle has the advantage of determining who they want to negotiate and deal with, and has wider latitude to engage in formal and informal alliances, tactical and strategic partnerships. They can also and always deal from a position of strength with any of the aspiring leaders, Monico Puentevella, Anthony Golez, Thaddy Sayson. Monico and Golez could still be their closest ally for being anti-Leonardia. Sayson could be another who has always been wanting to get out of Leonardia's political shadow and stand up on his own. But the most worrisome for the other political groups is the fact that this force in the middle is already getting overtures of support from Chinese business community, the discontented business groups, the environmentalists, civil society groups, and the broad political left. Just imagine if these groups come forward and rally behind them! If this happens, there would truly be a new political configuration in the city that could trigger a lot of realignments, and could involve a wide array of political forces. And the force in the middle could eventually mature, stand out among others, and turn into a leading force for change. Dialectics also say that the process of change can pass from quantitative to qualitative, or from form to substance. The force in the middle has all the potentials and opportunities to grow from being a marginal force to substantial and leading force out of the realm of traditional politics towards a more progressive politics. Well, all things said, may the force be with you! Karl Ombion Sun Star Bacolod
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