Words by Gilda Francesca G. Flores
“Who are your safe persons?” I immediately answered, without hesitation, “My orgmates, my beloved Editorial Board.” And the list goes on.
In July, I was riddled with unforeseen and heartbreaking circumstances. Matters of the heart that although we believe to be inevitable, remain unbearable because of the genuineness of the human emotion–to love fully and to act wholly, with good intentions.
As of writing this, we are now in November, a month filled with melancholy as we commemorate our departed loved ones and the nearing conclusion of another year. With sadness and grief being defeated by time, I expected nothing less but fleeting moments and emotions; sadness and grief need time, but I was proven wrong.
This first issue was inspired by the hit TV Series, “The Good Place.” I was particularly drawn to the question: What do we owe each other? As we went through the process of editing and interviewing though, I realized this issue was inspired by my safe persons and all the stories we have gathered.
In 1954, the story of outstanding Bedans de la Fuente and Regalado came to light as they attained record-breaking scores in one of the most difficult qualifying examinations in the world, the Bar Examinations. In 2023, young Bedans who aspire to uphold the standards they have set, strive to become their own victors and beat their own records.
In 2000, the SOGIE bill was first filed, and to this day, it is still heavily scrutinized by those in power, with the main argument of our being a predominantly Catholic nation. In 2023, the Quezon City Government established the Right to Care Card, allowing same-sex couples, through a Special Power of Attorney, to represent their partners on medical occasions. This is a step towards inclusivity and not just mere tolerance.
In 2016, the War on Drugs was brought about by the Duterte Administration, leading to several, unjustified and undocumented killings and deaths. In 2023, the International Criminal Court denied the Philippine Government’s appeal regarding the War on Drugs, casting a bit of light on justice that has long been denied.
From the way Jai, Cindy, Ella, and Elijah act as my “kids” on the Board, to the way Rey serves as my guidepost. How Micah, whom I interviewed during her application to thebarrister, turned into a lifelong companion; how Clarisse entertains my random ideas and musings; how Sofia translates my visions into art.
How Alex, Gabbie, Carlo, Alyssa, Liza, Milli, Sarah, and Arky know so much about my quirks and my dedication to the publication, that they have continuously supported the organization through their hard work since the beginning.
When our newest members, Angelita, Maltha, Vianca, Gin, Alexis, Shen, and Art willingly volunteered for tasks and assignments and built stronger bonds, even while at work.
A lot has happened. The stories in this magazine and the memories we made are not just a testament to previous and current events but are also mirrors of the potential the future holds.
July was so long ago, and I only realized in November that nothing is fleeting, because the things that matter to us, and even to a wider spectrum, are resolved by finding people who truly resonate with us, by fighting the good fight, and by making the most of what we have.
When we give time, effort, and energy to ensure the comfort and security we are feeling, especially when we are in a position to do so, it answers the question this issue revolves around: What do we owe each other?
Hopefully, we’ll be alright.
THE BARRISTER 