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Written by The Storyteller
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Monday, 15 June 2009 |
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IT was easily the grandest social affair in Malacañang Palace. Everyone of importance would be present. All the key government officials, politicians from senators to congressmen and governors. Big business tycoons, men of fame and influence and the diplomatic community. But strictly by invitation only.
First there was a thorough and detailed security check. Everyone had to pass the metal detector gate. Men and women were individually frisked regardless of rank and status. Handbags of the ladies were opened and carefully examined.
Next came the strict request for each one to present the personalized invitation card.
Everyone dutifully produced the exclusive R.S.V.P document. When the wife was not specifically included on the front page of the invitation, entrance was denied.
"I am sorry," explained the presidential security guard in fresh barong tagalog, "but we are under strict instructions. Please understand, I am only following orders." The guards were respectful but utterly firm.
A mayor presented himself pleading entrance. "I am sorry, but I forgot my invitation. My home is across town and will take hours to return. Can’t you at least make exception. After all I am a mayor … a representative of my district duly elected by my constituents. Is there some way you can confirm my identity?"
"Would you have an ID card, sir?" inquired the security guard in all courtesy.
"Unfortunately not. Even my driver’s license is at home. You see I have a chauffeur with me," explained the politician. "Any other way?"
"Well, earlier there were several artists. They were able to identify themselves through their arts," said the guard.
"What do you mean?"
"Mr. Gil Lopez Kabayao came without his invitation. But he had his violin so we let him in. There was Mr. Napoleon Abueva with his two foot high sculpture. We also let him access inside even without invitation. And just a while ago, we had Mr. Jose de Joya with his painting. We received him because his work of art proved his identity.
The politician thought for a while and inquired innocently. "Who are Kabayao, Abueva, and De Joya?"
The security guard brightened up and exclaimed, "You must be a mayor, please come in!"
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