"Heroism is at once the noblest form of self expression"
Each individual in this world has its own function. Each one is responsible as a catalyst of the different things that our society has became through time. All the improvements we have reaped and enjoyed emanates from the in-depth dedication and passion shown by our societal "heroes" in the real life actuation. Through this actuation, these heroes take an extra opportunity for them to express themselves without any expectation of returns. This is the real and exact definition of what a hero is.
A hero can be anyone who has done and touched several lives-even thousands of lives in a society. This definition brings me to the memory of Democrito Otaza- Plaza, the first governor of the south of Agusan as a legitimate province of Agusan del Surt after its separation from Agusan del Norte. It had happened also after the long time proposition of breaking region 10 into two regions namely; Region 10 (Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon,Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, etc.) and Region 13 (Surigao, Agusan Norte and Sur ,Siargao). This man, according to the facts presented by the one who has witnessed the heroism had almost lost his life fighting for the issue of separation. At that time, big provinces won't allow separation because it would lessen their Internal Revenue Allocation.
Risking his life, Gov. Plaza was able to sustain the dangerous travel from his place to the capitol of just enforcing the principle of his co-Agusanons. He was able to withstand the horrifying threats of the rebels and private armies by the ones who are in high authorities. Armored with his bravery, he insisted the need for separation because of several necessary reasons. One of which is the economic status of the area. Insufficient attention are being given because of wide area responsibilities. Poverty among indigenous people worsen and even famine was not properly addressed. In addition, most vacant pieces of land that is suitable for agriculture are not being cultivated. It created an atmosphere of prejudice among those who live in the remote areas.
Gov. Plaza succeeded in doing his part in the revolution against the change. According to one of his colleagues in the fight, Gov. Plaza ought to establish different programs in the province of Agusan del Sur. Primary Schools were made Elementary Schools and High Schools. Education has been the most concerned part of the new Governor. The provincial government collected no any miscellaneous fees. Further, some agricultural advancement were also owed to him for his project in using farm equipment such as tractor, thresher, shredder and many other new technologies to increase production in food and to help farmers. All these equipment were given to the different municipalities for free.
I was fascinated with the extreme effort of the new and pioneering governor. The establishment of the new government offered the improvements of Agusan del Sur. Highways were built on local areas that is mostly devastated with too much rain and flood. Bridges were made which was before the ultimate fear of Agusanons especially during flood seasons. According to some of the informants, he is fun visiting different places in the province to ensure that the needs of "lumads" were somehow fulfilled in his governance. One thing I salute him most is his passion for environment. He had implemented wildlife resources when he realized the need of preserving those species that was not the minds of his co-Agusanons.
Truly I can call him "the man of actions" because by thoughts, words and actions, he had shown his fullest potentials of what he can do for his co-Agusanons in his place. That only proves that heroism radiates from the heart of a man that expects for nothing in return. It is the true and eloquent expression of our thoughts and feelings that in turn, has influenced thousands lives. Though, he had already passed away, the rise of the new generation withstand as a living proof of his unending passion for the humanity. May I also take this opportune of saying thank you to my ever respected hero- Gov. Democrito Otaza-Plaza, job well done Sir!
Gov. Plaza succeeded in doing his part in the revolution against the change. According to one of his colleagues in the fight, Gov. Plaza ought to establish different programs in the province of Agusan del Sur. Primary Schools were made Elementary Schools and High Schools. Education has been the most concerned part of the new Governor. The provincial government collected no any miscellaneous fees. Further, some agricultural advancement were also owed to him for his project in using farm equipment such as tractor, thresher, shredder and many other new technologies to increase production in food and to help farmers. All these equipment were given to the different municipalities for free.
I was fascinated with the extreme effort of the new and pioneering governor. The establishment of the new government offered the improvements of Agusan del Sur. Highways were built on local areas that is mostly devastated with too much rain and flood. Bridges were made which was before the ultimate fear of Agusanons especially during flood seasons. According to some of the informants, he is fun visiting different places in the province to ensure that the needs of "lumads" were somehow fulfilled in his governance. One thing I salute him most is his passion for environment. He had implemented wildlife resources when he realized the need of preserving those species that was not the minds of his co-Agusanons.
Truly I can call him "the man of actions" because by thoughts, words and actions, he had shown his fullest potentials of what he can do for his co-Agusanons in his place. That only proves that heroism radiates from the heart of a man that expects for nothing in return. It is the true and eloquent expression of our thoughts and feelings that in turn, has influenced thousands lives. Though, he had already passed away, the rise of the new generation withstand as a living proof of his unending passion for the humanity. May I also take this opportune of saying thank you to my ever respected hero- Gov. Democrito Otaza-Plaza, job well done Sir!
