Can we, as a nation, savor the economic gains measured by the gross domestic product (GDP), albeit lacking in inclusive growth, while our countrymen are being slaughtered daily under uncertain circumstances? Can we as a people bear the lamentations of our brothers and sisters whose loved ones fall prey to such injustice? We therefore pray that those who are mired deeply in the use of prohibited drugs will be able to mend their ways. No doubt prayer works, but there is no secret formula that could bring about the change everybody wants to see the easy way – the elimination of the drug menace in the country. As a nation of believers in the power of God, the people may well heed the call for prayer and faith – faith that God hears his people, ready to grant mercy upon us all.

Source: Manila Times August 20, 2016 14:15 UTC