Our Continuing Journey in Democracy

In a few weeks from now our citizenry will be exercising their right of suffrage and thus choose the deserving officials who shall run the affairs of government in the term. It is of significant importance that the electorate choose the deserving officials who shall govern them. We are happy to note that the COMELEC has shown its determination to have a credible election, hence we have seen several instances where candidates were required to comply with COMELEC rules and regulations- otherwise they will be banned from running and rendered disqualified.

It is hard to comprehend how the nation shall ever be freed from the long-standing problems of dynastic and patronage politics, vote-buying, and the complex psychological and cultural factors that go into voting for incompetent but popular candidates such as celebrities. Worse, the voters always seem to end up choosing “the lesser evil” believing that there really is no “trustworthy candidate”. The power and influence of digital platforms in recent elections have also been used as an organized machinery for disinformation, fake news, smear campaigns and propaganda against political opponents. Always, every election becomes an avenue for both hope and at the same time skepticism and disillusionment.

Despite these, let us hold on to the small victories that carry with them our desire for political reforms. Such is the story of our continuing journey in democracy. Our vote still matters, and yes- real change remains possible. We persist in our hopes and aspirations.

TRIVIA:

Birthday greetings to Archbishop Emeritus Rolando J. Tria-Tirona, OCD, DD, Mgsr. Rodel Cajot and Rev. Fr. Emil Valera.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:

“BAD OFFICIALS ARE ELECTED BY CITIZENS WHO DO NOT VOTE.”

- GEORGE JEAN NATHAN

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:

“THERE IS NO AUTHORITY EXCEPT THAT WHICH GOD HAS ESTABLISHED”

- ROMANS 13:1