EDITORIAL
Voters are probably musing about the political extravaganza that is festering the whole nation. We are nearing the homestretch and we wonder if the squirming masa ever asked the question about who these gullible candidates are before they fielded themselves as politicians, champions of the people and dedicated public servants. Were they successful businessmen with proven track records? Were they men of moral decency and integrity? Were they great thinkers and noble benefactors? Do they have the capacity and reputation to lead, by example? And honestly do they know what it takes to be a councilor, mayor, congressman or governor? Chances are these candidates lack some or all of the above skills and qualities. Sadly these are not the people for those political posts. That is where the problem lies. It has become ordinary for people to expect that someone influential will be relied upon to lend his/her influence and endorse a particular candidate. This double edged scenario subverts the very reason for an election. It is the only time Juan de la Cruz exercises his right to choose the leaders who will lead and take care of him in the next succeeding years. Now, why must an influence be exerted on a man who has the will power and the constitutional right to make a choice? To do so is the greatest insult you can give to him. And for Juan de la Cruz to ask for guidance is also an insult to his intelligence and divine right. But these are the realities of the times. It is not the platform of government that is being discussed. It is how much funds is available on the election war chest. It is not track record, but popularity. It is a choice between negatives. It is not free will but arm twisting. It is not skills and capabilities because all it takes is the right age, able to read and write and be a Filipino Citizen to be eligible for an electoral post. So here we go on the greatest entertainment show in the Philippines. Where the electorate will vote for people whom they know nothing, who before getting the vote may have done nothing and who most likely will do nothing. As voters troop to the precincts on May 14, we extend our well wishes for whatever the country may have in the future. |