Opinion: NORTH EXPRESS By Reginald B. Tamayo (Marikina City)

Aesop’s Fable of the Two Crabs and the Art of Conflict Resolution in Politics

THE on-going dispute between the Senate and the House of Representatives regarding the proposed amendments to the 1987 Philippine Constitution mirrors Aesop's Fable of The Two Crabs. These two branches of government are expected to collaborate effectively, akin to a dynamic duo. However, their recent behavior more closely resembles Aesop's two crabs, awkwardly walking in opposite directions, or feuding siblings quarrelling over the last slice of pizza.

Aesop's fable tells the story of two crabs walking along the seashore that come across a group of politicians. The crabs observe the politicians bickering and competing with each other, much like the crabs themselves, always moving sideways and never making progress. One of the crabs points out the similarity, noting how the politicians, like them, are unable to move forward in a straight line. 'These politicians are just like us, always moving sideways and never making progress,' one of the crabs says.

The crabs' inability to walk together in a straight line symbolizes the division between the Senate and Congress. Just as the crabs could have reached their destination more efficiently by working together, so too could senators and congressmen achieve greater success by uniting towards common goals, despite their disagreements.

This fable serves as a poignant reminder of the fruitlessness of political conflicts and the necessity of cooperation towards shared objectives. The Senate and Congress must strive to move forward in unity, avoiding petty disputes. The fable underscores the importance of collaboration in political decision-making and the power of working together towards common goals.

The on-going disputes between the Senate and Congress have long been a contentious issue in the realm of politics, with implications that reach far beyond the walls of government. As these two branches of the legislative body continue to clash and struggle to find common ground, the effects of their discord are felt throughout society, impacting the welfare and well-being of the public. It is increasingly clear that the lack of collaboration and coordination between the Senate and Congress not only hinders the effective functioning of government but also poses a significant threat to the interests of the people they are meant to serve, leaving them feeling like they are caught in the middle of a political circus.

Given these challenges, it is crucial that both entities prioritize unity, cooperation, and a shared commitment to serving the greater good. Embracing the valuable lesson taught by Aesop's Fable of The Two Crabs could greatly benefit both the Senate and Congress. This fable illustrates the importance of working together towards a common goal, despite differences or obstacles that may arise. By heeding this lesson, the Senate and Congress can work towards a more harmonious relationship that ultimately benefits the citizens they serve. (RBT)