The so-called participatory approach and bottom-to-top planning are twin strategies in a development exercise which if realistically pursued almost always bring laudable results. it is people empowerment in its authentic sense because the ordinary constituent is afforded the privilege to share in the all-important task of determining what government projects are urgent and necessary and will truly touch the lives of intended beneficiaries. For indeed, who else knows best what one needs except the person himself.
We in the CRANE believe these twin strategies are hallmarks of a sound governmental system in a democracy. And we trust that these concepts which emerged in the late 1970’s are still being seriously and sincerely considered by the government. We believe that the principles involved in these twin and corollary strategies are still being recognized especially by President Arroyo as the pillars of programs for rural development.
That belief emboldened us to push for the completion of the long-stalled Presentacion-Caramoan coastal road which we are certain would pave the way to accelerated growth and economic upsurge not only in the Caramoan Peninsula but also the province of Catanduanes which will eventually use the road segment. Aware that alone by ourselves the task of convincing the national government to consider the project as a priority among its long list of development imperatives was formidable and a herculean one, we left no stone unturned to be able to reach our objective. We appealed to government leaders for support and we were received with heartwarming encouragements. We sought the involvement of other non-government organizations explaining lengthily in the process why individual and collective endorsements would be of inestimable value. The outcome was exhilarating. Only one solon was unmoved like a sphinx in the arid desert who predicted like the Prophet of Doom that the project would never materialize.
He has to eat his words.
The highest official of the land, after sifting through the voluminous documents gathered by CRANE for over a year and of course, with the recommendation of judicious men like secretary Mike Defensor around her, who knew how to read the true implications of a genuine development undertaking, lost no time in giving her imprimatur to the project.
We are overwhelmed, Madam President, by your deep concern for the people of the Caramoan Peninsula unmistakably manifested in your approval of the project and promptly allocating the necessary funding. Here is a classic example of a leadership that is truly responsive to the clamor of the people and the local officialdom. Here is a leadership that treasures partnership between the government and the people.
Thank you, Madam President.
We shall cherish forever the very special attention you have given us in the Caramoan Peninsula and for this you shall have an enduring niche in our hearts.
Our Mission
In Bicol, particularly in Camarines Sur, where tabloids abound every time a new publication emerges eyebrows are invariably raised. What for? Are these dozens of local newspapers not enough?
Maybe yes. Maybe not.
For our purpose, no local newspaper can sufficiently crystallize before the public, the target readers especially,
What we in the CRANE would want to be imbibed by those who can turn the wheels of development.
We want a focused direction towards an accelerated development pace for the Caramoan Peninsula that has long lagged behind despite its reputed abundance in agricultural, mineral, marine and tourism potentials. We want Caramoan Peninsula to be accorded a fair share of development funds. We want equitable development for Caramoan for the area to be able to yield economic benefits not only for the people but the government as well in terms of bigger tax collection.
Caramoan Peninsula may have stagnated because decision makers knew little about its needs, more so its resources. Worse, some leaders may have been so preoccupied with politics and self-interest more than the welfare of the people.
These weaknesses and lapses the CRANE Monitor hopes to minimize.
