The 2022 elections are coming up, and a variety of people has already declared their candidacy. Most of the names are nothing new, these are predictably people from powerful families, the congress, and those who failed the previous elections. Since the upcoming national election is just around the corner, and as a first-time voter myself, I have heard a lot of perspectives from different kinds of people regarding this matter. Whom are you voting for?
Interestingly, the Filipinos are very diverse in terms of political preference. Each one has a different understanding of good governance. Some people would want to vote for the philanthropist, who could donate loads of money for good causes. Some believe that years of experience in congress would make someone a trustworthy candidate. While others think that relatives of someone who was once a good politician automatically make their relatives competitive as well. But what does it really take to be a good public servant? Are these enough reasons to trust someone with the future of the country?
Here in the Philippines, voting is given as a right, but we must understand that rights come with obligations as well. Popularity, family, experience, and generosity should not be our basis alone when it comes to choosing our leader. Every candidate would want to have a good appeal to the public prior to the elections, which is why it is expected of them to have paid advertisements and do good deeds to hopefully win the trust of many. It is not hard to qualify as a president in the Philippines, making it possible for almost anyone to run for the highest position. Nonetheless, I believe that these issues are a systemic problem that allows questionable people to run for office and take advantage of people’s vulnerabilities. Some might think that this is fair, however, we must also understand how big the responsibility is. The future of our country and the lives of our countrymen is in our hands, and it is irresponsible to just vote for a random candidate thinking that it is “just one vote”. That vote could change everything. If a million people had the same mindset, then a million votes would be wasted; and an undeserving candidate might win.
It is our duty to educate ourselves and the people around us to register to vote and how important it is to do our research prior to voting. Not everyone has pure intentions, and those who are greedy for power would do everything just to look kind and win the votes of many. Don’t be easily manipulated by traditional advertisements and a good upfront. Do your background evaluation and choose sensibly. Choose someone who you think has the best principles, experience, skills, and advocacies. Someone with the purest intentions for the betterment of the country and its countrymen. A true leader that envisions a place of peace and order, with fair treatment, justice, and consistency. Your vote is important, so practice your right and vote responsibly.
Illustration by: Franklyn Mancio
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