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Change has come to the Philippines?
Just when we thought that the Philippines will see change after 2 People Power, we are still waiting for our own Messiah. The Americans are looking forward to change with the rise of Obama to the Presidency. Is our hope for a better future lie in one person? Or should we stop pinning it on someone and get disappointed in the end?
As early as now, you may have seen “public service” ads by Senate President Manuel Villar and Senator Loren Legarda. BF has been very vocal in his intention to seek the highest office of the land. He even joined a reality singing contest so he can have funds for his campaign. VP Noli de Castro remained on the top spot on surveys conducted by SWS. Supporters of Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay even urged him to run for the Presidency calling him the Pinoy Obama.
Though these people are seasoned politicians, the Filipino people have still a lot to learn in selecting public servants who will run this country. While we have to focus on national issues that need to be addressed, some prefer to vote based on personality.
Erap received the highest mandate in Philippine history. The masses apparently were still mesmerized with his appeal that they could not differentiate him from the role he immortalized in the silver screen. It lead to an impeachment complaint and later on his eviction from Malacañang.
On the other hand, GMA proved that she is a hardworking president. She started her political career using her resemblance with Nora Aunor. But her appeal with the public has seen spiralling down, her image has been tarnished by scandals left and right beginning with the First Gentlemen. Moreover, her decisions do not sit well with everyone.
I reckon that, as early as now, we can start educating the public about the importance of elections. Knowledge can empower us so we can utilize our privilege wisely. We can start with defining the job description of each post and the requirements to be eligible to run for office. I know that this is taught in school but I doubt if even 10% of the voting public even remembers what they have studied in Social Studies in High School.
As voters, we can observe the performance and lifestyle of aspiring presidential candidates. It is our responsibility to be vigilant so we can make right decisions come election time. We have to get leaders who have vision and good work ethics. How can you trust people with decisions on national issues that have more leaves than days present in Senate or Congress?
It is one thing to appear makamasa and another thing to have a genuine compassion and offer action plans to improve their standing. Being a President, you need to put national interests in mind that’s why it’s tough to balance clashing advocacies like the issue on reproductive health bill.
Let me quote Chester Bowles, “Government is too big and too important to be left to the politicians.” In running this country, we work hand in hand with the government. Exercise our rights, be aware of the issues, and work hard rather than just blame our miseries to one person.
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