So many topics, so little space

I have made a habit of “collecting” topics, writing down people’s concerns and a list of ideas, all of which I believe are relevant and have value for everyday Filipinos. My problem is I have a self-imposed word limit of 950 words per column.

- CITO BELTRAN

So today I'll do a little experiment where I'll write about those assorted topics and hope that one or two or a few resonate with you or confirm a sentiment not often mentioned or talked about.

Are you aware that there is an alarming number of “suicides” in the military as well as the PNP? The authorities concerned don’t or refuse to talk about it because it reflects badly on the services — or so I thought.

That may be so, but there is another reason why the establishment chooses to be silent on the matter. A high-ranking official told me that instead of calling out the suicides, they are labeled as “accidental fire” or accidental discharge of a firearm.

I learned that if a uniformed officer or personnel’s death was declared a suicide, that person’s family would not be entitled to any benefits or pension, etc. The compassion is well-placed, but the solution is not.

There are an increasing number of “accidental fire” incidents which reveals the uniformed services’ failure or inability to recognize a serious mental health issue within, lack of support and policies that add insult to injury for families left behind.

Speaking of “untimely deaths,” I received a photo message of the late Bubby Dacer, who was kidnapped and ruthlessly murdered for still unknown reasons during the Estrada administration.