Romblon Political Cyber Forum Formed

Through the invitation of Nic Musico, a very active civic leader of Honolulu, Hawaii, cyber aficionados with Romblon roots formed the Romblon Political Forum on July 5, 2003. Mr. Musico, also an active RDL Board Director, explained that he created this forum in order not to complicate RDL agenda with political issues considering that it is a non-political organization. He, however, stressed that this group is not affiliated with any candidate, party, or political issue.

Response to the invitation was enthusiastic and discussions immediately ensued. It showed the genuine desire of Romblon expatriates to be part of the political process even though most of them have acquired citizenship of another country. Driven by the same sanrokan spirit as that of RDL-CLEAR, they found a common sense of duty to fill the brain drain vacuum they have left when they immigrated to foreign lands for professional or business adventure.

One of the hottest initial topics was next year's election in Romblon. Several names surfaced as potential candidates for gubernatorial and congressional posts. The group wanted to know the political platforms of the parties and the candidates and make sure that the group would be able to play a behind-the- scene or catalyst role in solving economic problems in Romblon. The group listed the following priority issues:

1. Circumferential roads for Romblon, Sibuyan & Tablas.

2. Water supply systems.

3. Solids and wastewater disposals.

4. Protection of remaining coral reefs.

5. Tourism development.

6. Enforcement of zoning and land use regulations.

7. Drug problem

8. Improve/strenghten marble and coco industries. Diversify industry.

9. Continue funding for the protection of Mt. Guiting-guiting.

10. Illegal logging

11. Improvements to major seaports.

12. Tugdan Airport

13. Power

14. Agriculture

15. Fishing (control and improve)

16. Transportation

17. Improve/strenghten inter-island trade commerce

18. Health care

19. Completion of East-West Road for Tablas

The catalyst role of the political forum is essentially to act as an advocacy group to bring about change in the politically incorrect situation in Romblon. It has to establish a good name for itself by engaging in more than just a cyber café chatting and eventually transform itself as lobbyist group with an all-around agenda. It is hoped that through open and honest discussions, Romblon voters can be better informed and result in the election of accountable and responsible public officials.

For those who are interested in participating in this forum, Mr. Musico suggests subscription to: romblon_political_forum-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.