By Jerina Andres
Although we still have less than a year before the 2022 elections, there are now widespread reports about campaigning across the country, even though the candidacy filing has not yet taken place and the campaign period has not been started yet. Hopefuls of the current administration are making their bids in order to be ahead of the opposition, carrying out banners to show their support and admiration all over the country, especially in provinces.
Political and educational crises are the most publicized because they affect the economy of the country. Our leaders are being challenged on how they can handle this kind of crisis and on how they further develop and improve the rights and welfare of society. Many of our public officials tend not to be quite effective as they are way far behind our expectations in running the affairs of the government. One good example is the COVID-19 pandemic problem. Our public officials are always on the tail-end, while other countries around us are past resolving the same problem.
In the country, leaders serve as the symbol of the moral unity of the society. However, going back to the different past issues where our public officials are involved, such as the violent anti-drug campaign, errors and inconsistencies, threats and state of lawlessness, puppets of another county. Our country is still mostly run by the same breed of leaders called the trapos or the traditional politicians with the same collars and the same colors. The question is, can we afford to live again with these threats and bungled responses to our country’s problem?
Having the same leaders with the same colors would be the greatest threat to the Philippines. Filipino voters have often been labeled as “uto-uto” and, worst, ignorant to problems arising in our country brought by our leaders. It is now the time that we should vote smarter by choosing a leader who is walking in the corridor of justice atoned to the rule of law no matter how crucial it is—the leader who carries the genuine hopes of change and development for the people. Keep in mind that it is not up to just one Filipino to save our country; it is in the hands of the majority. If we do not vote for more competent, honest, and wise leaders in the office, and if we do not get ourselves involved in a fair election, we would not be able to save our country. This is why we should register as voters and be part of the caravan to promote a better Philippines where the welfare and voice of the Filipino people are being heard. As a young Filipino, we need to be critical in choosing the leaders of our country, it is also important to vote for a new breed of servant leaders with a strong sense of hope and dreams for the Philippines and its people. We, Filipinos, have the power to decide how the narrative goes. We should vote wisely in 2022.
Jerina Andres is a 2nd Year Legal Management student in Colegio De San Juan De Letran. She is a dean's lister and an active student leader in her academic organization. She is enthusiastic about knowing more about Philippine Politics.
YSPACE is a platform open for young writers to contribute their worth-sharing thoughts and stories to the world. It is a space for young people and by the young people which aims to promote a strong sense of empowerment and inspiration to young Filipinos.
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