Gloria Arroyo's right to travel

The decision not to allow Gloria Arroyo to step out of this country is more than skin deep. Fears of her not returning to face numerous class suits is just one of many. Another suspicion is, Arroyo's persistence to leave shows how valuable her presence is before international bankers, since the bulk of her and her family's investments, according to some wiggle wagers, requires her most precious signature before its release, and use, come 2013.

The Arroyos fear losing power, and we know in Philippine politics that power depends on who has what. Money is still the root of all forms of lordism in this country. Without it, one stands to lose support.

Without support, a politician loses his life and his liberty. Many people want to see the former First Couple in jail, a vindication perhaps, after nine long years of tyranny and abuse of power committed under the guise of a constitutional leadership.

That Department of Justice Circular no. 1 was a creation of the former dispensation, a weapon used to curtain the rights of those who tried to correct the monumental societal wrongs the Arroyos did against the Filipino People.

That circular is now being used to justify the decision not to allow a sickly former Head of State to leave this country. The Arroyos are now getting the blunt end of a stick which they themselves created. As what Erap used to say, "weather-weather lang yan."

Of course, that Circular is both pathetic and patently, unconstitutional. The Constitution is clear--only the Courts and for some instances granted by special laws, the DOJ secretary, have the power to issue hold departure orders. The right to travel is an inalienable right, and only subject to restriction if there is sufficient reasons for it. First, if there is a case being tried against the one who want to leave. Second, for instances of national security, public health and public safety, the State has the power to limit or restrict one's right to travel.

Mrs. Arroyo is now being curtailed of that right. She is like being bonded or kept in a cage, the very same ones, she once prepared for her enemies. Again, as they say, weather weather lang yan.

Mrs. Arroyo's case is like releasing lolong in the underground river of Palawan, to terrorize tourists, foreigner and local alike.

Nah, let me let you in a secret...the palace will definitely deny this but I'll say it anyway.

The real reason why its of paramount interest not to allow Gloria is the fact that certain forces close to her wants her out of the country before they strike this government down.

Yes, they are patterning their plan to that of Shinawatra, former Prime Minister of Thailand. When Shinawatra went on exile, his supporters, including those from the armed forces, militated against the government. Of course, Shinawatra was not blamed for the armed attacks, but, God knows Hudas does not pay. :-)