A wolf in sheep’s clothing?

"Is this just black propaganda or a legitimate concern?"

One needs to be extra careful nowadays, in all facets of life, especially when dealing with people who exhibit a rather calm and clean exterior yet. For all we know, he or she could be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Several days ago, we came across a Facebook post of one of the candidates for the chancellorship of the University of the Philippines in Los Baños  telling everyone to be “wary of someone who presents himself in sheep’s clothing.” 

Of course, since the one who wrote the said post and his target were both candidates for the same position mentioned, we surmise that it could just be a simple case of black propaganda. We knew we had to dig deeper into the claim.

The “wolf” referred to in the social media post is described as a former student activist who has now supposedly become an opportunist, conveniently shedding his principles so he could get a shot at the most coveted seat at the top. 

Indeed, how can this person advocate “future-proofing” when he can as easily throw his principles to the waste bin?

Until now, as well, this person has been eerily silent about his connection to a high official of the Commission on Higher Education and UP Board of Regents?

Are they not, in fact, cousins who grew up in the same town – Bayambang, Pangasinan, in particular?. Is this swaying things to his favor? Their mutual silence regarding their relationship has been deafening.

Should there be a prohibition against nepotism, it being a form of corruption and abuse of authority? How can this candidate be leading UPLB well into the future if he will be forever beholden to his patrons? How can he claim to be “the alternative” when he has already sold his soul and be the minion of the powers-that-be? 

More importantly, how can he be progressive in his thoughts and subsequent actions as the top honcho of the University when he has already chosen to be a trapo? 

And yes, finally, what would happen to the educational system if this person becomes the next UPLB Chancellor while carrying two distinct and opposing sides—the Marcoses on one side and the leftist groups that he has been supporting all his life on the other? 

The choice wouldn’t be that easy for this candidate. But there is a way for the UPLB Board of Regents to avoid a grim scenario.

**

The other day, as I was browsing through my social media account, I came across a post of a very dear friend, Jenni Munar, professing her undying love for her mother, Lilia Albon Munar.

While there’s nothing wrong in posting something like that as I, also share posts dealing with love for parents, siblings, partners and children, I just feel like something’s not right as, knowing Jenni, if she were to post something like this, it would come with their family picture, enjoying some moments together.

So I immediately gave her a ring and my worst suspicion was confirmed – Mommy Lilia just passed away. I could feel exactly what Jenni was going through that very moment. I lost my mother just a couple of months back. The pain of losing a parent is just unimaginable.

My deepest condolences to Jenni and her family. May Mommy Lilia rest in peace. Our prayers for her.