On re-cycled and extended ambassadors

Retired Ambassador Juan A. Ona has issued a very interesting challenge to the young career officers of DFA: sign a manifesto promising not to ask for extensions when the time comes. This is premised on the theory that in order to change the world, start with yourself. Also, it sends a powerful signal to those shameless recycled and extended ambassadors.

I have very high regard for Ambassador Ona. He has always been a voice of wisdom in the howling wilderness that has befallen the DFA. What's more important, he walks his talk.

It is unfortunate that nobody will be able to gather the nerve to take up his challenge. You see, this would be tantamount to a CLM (career limiting move). Any young officer who signs such a manifesto at this time would make powerful enemies in the likes of Seguis, Caday, Siazon and their allies down the line.

But, thank you, Ambassador Ona. You are quite right. We can't change others. We can only start with ourselves.