Argosy S. Nazareno

The Leader We Need

Attention to all registered voters: we should keep in mind the characteristics and qualifications of a good political candidate. At any cost, don’t be seduced with their money. As we hear from different perspective in numerous gatherings, people are inclined to accept money. However, the majority will still vote for their favored candidate. Most importantly, we should think of the future of our family, our children and the entire country. So, wise up!

The current issues today are important basis for our selection. Their agenda, platforms, plans, and promises should address the current situation of our Nation/Province/Locality. The moves and suggested solutions of the candidates should be considered in choosing the right persons for the different positions in the government.

I have summarized some issues and concerns that needs attention. We should see how the candidates plan on solving these problems, viz:

1. Drug menace still rampant in some areas. (seek and subdue drug lords & protectors, not to ask for political funds)

2. Local officials especially the barangay officials should stop tolerating or even endorsing tigbakay. (do the game in the legal cockpit arenas instead, do not use the illegal act in order to justify your need of funds for your barangay, seek proper legal financial assistance)

3. An official should not be biased, he should avoid protecting his own men especially when they violate the law. No one should be above the law. Violators should be punished accordingly without considering political affiliations. (“way pabor-pabor”)

4. They should not use people’s money without gaining anything that can benefit the general public (“lakbay suroy”, etc.)

5. Leaders should strictly enforce national laws and local ordinances (guide local law enforcement agencies and closely coordinate with them)

6. Ease the problems of the people (regulate the unreasonable price of commodities of fish in their respective areas of concern, provide livelihood programs, improvement of farm to market roads, etc.) 

7. Support and alleviate the burden of ordinary workers (implement the minimum wage and do something to help the workers who are earning below minimum wage)

Actions speaks louder than words. Break the notion that goes, “promises [of politicians] are meant to be broken.

I just hope we learned a lot from this Pandemic. Let us choose the right leaders, if not, we will keep on complaining for the coming years. After all, it’s the voter’s fault if incompetent leaders are elected.