Philippine elections: Choose upright leaders

The Philippine Flag

Elections are just around the bend. I pray that we Filipinos rise from our bad habits and elect rightful leaders. It is sad when we elect our leaders and then criticize them afterwards. We elect them, we stand by our decision. They commit something grievous we speak out, we press for an explanation, or bite our tongues and wait for the next elections to make sure these leaders will not win anymore. We cannot continue blaming our leaders for our bad choices. We have bad leaders, we made bad choices. It’s as simple as that. It’s not rocket science.

The sad thing is politicians belong to a party. Most times, individually they can no longer manifest their personal convictions because the party thinks otherwise. Sad but true. Politicians serve the party leadership, as well. There are dynamics. They cannot just deviate from party norms. If and when they do, they could stand the chance of being junked from the party.

So it really is up to us. Politicians come and go, well, they don’t literally go because of dynastic politics, but the electorate remains.

It is within our power to choose upright leaders, leaders with convictions, leaders who can keep their characters intact amidst political schemes and intrigues, and leaders who can rise above patronage politics. I know it’s a tough act. These ideals are very high but should we not impose the highest standards on our politicians? We must because we give them the mandate. A mandate is very sacred; given in trust. If it is given in trust, then it’s serious business. If it’s serious business then it’s time we take our elections seriously. No buts; no ifs.

If you love your country, and I assume you do, elect upright leaders.

Fire trees on the road

Fire trees along Maribojoc Highway

The best plants to grow along the highway are fire trees. Yes you heard me right, fire trees. They not only provide the needed shade, they also bloom during summer. Oh boy, they look magnificent on the road during the summer season. They serve as a canopy on the road. What could be prettier than that!

           

I found the fire trees alluring during my trip to my new work station early this week. It’s an hour’s drive from the city. I drove so I could assess how long the trip is, the road condition, among others.

I have planned to photograph the trees in another trip. Yesterday, I was finally able to do it. It felt good. I will probably write a blog about it.

I have been driving around since I returned to my home province in June last year. Going to my father’s hometown, I take the coastal road. The view is breath taking. In a strange kind of way, it’s like the sea view in Maasim, Sarangani province.

Meanwhile, driving to my mother’s hometown is trickier since it is an interior town complete with blind curves. But it’s a short drive so it’s not that taxing. On the other hand, the drive to my new work station is farther. In fact, the drive provides you with a variety of views. One can have a breath-taking view of the sea, fire trees and mangroves by the roadside, old churches, old houses, grand modern houses, and many more. Well, Bohol has been famous for its century-old churches and houses so Boholanos are no longer amazed. But I have lived outside Bohol for over twenty years, so seeing all these once again is novelty to me. I am relishing it.

I guess it’s the magic of revisiting your place with a new pair of eyes. 

The cloudy part appearing on the photo is a rain drop falling on my lens.

The green rally

What is it with colors? Well, for one, colors bring life. They connote diversity. They are powerful symbols. And these powerful symbols are most felt during elections. Hmm makes me wonder what color to use when I launch my political bid. Perhaps fuchsia pink? Haha. Dream on.

As promised, last night I attended another political rally. I did not stay long. I just wanted to feel the pulse and take my shots. For starters, the rally was organized. The stage was well set up, complete with the perks of technology. I must say this group is tech-savvy. I like what I saw.

         

Pundok Panaghiusa rally in Booy, Tagbilaran City

The stage was all green including the people sitting there. Some groups maybe green with envy? Talk about colors huh! I listened to about three short speeches. I did not see any performer yet. Maybe it was saved for the middle part of the program.

In an effective communication plan that communicators call a CommPlan, a political rally which is usually held outdoor is a very powerful strategy. It should be a product of careful planning, preparation, and organizing before the actual execution. One cannot be haphazard and just use the lame excuse: “It’s only a rally anyway.” A rally is a powerful symbol. You organize and manage a political rally admirably and people will see you mean business. 

Like I said, political rallies are a form of outdoor marketing. You want to promote your product, package your rallies professionally.