My Brother-in-law & other stories
By Johnny P. Novera

My barber and I

Even when the first class barber shops or hair saloons for men and women have opened in the malls, I never changed my barber. I always go to Berting for my haircut in our subdivision. He does not only cut my hair, but he reads the newspaper and usually he has a comment or two about current events which he would discuss while he cuts my hair.

But this time, when he said that he has found very honest officials in government, I am totally puzzled.

I cannot understand, Berting, I said. The last time I was here you were fuming mad about corrupt public officials especially in the two notorious agencies that you cited to me.

Who are these honest men in government? I asked.

“Haven't you read the headlines lately about jueteng? The police officers and public officials were given money by the jueteng lords, and without a written contract of any kind, they kept their word to allow the operation of jueteng unhampered.”

My barber and his ideas. I think this is what you get when you read too many bad news!