LAST May 12 was a special day for me not only because I had a chance to once again exercise my sacred right to suffrage, but doing it with my eldest son who was casting his vote for the first time.
How time flies. Twenty-three years ago, I was cradling my first born after he had just exited his mother’s womb via a delicate caesarian operation. Now standing at 5’10” and weighing about 10 pounds heavier than me, he was filling up the ballot with a seriousness I had not seen before.
About a week prior to the elections, I had a conversation with him on a range of topics, which included national and local politics. Though I know him to be a well-read young man who is updated on current events, he was not exactly vocal about his political views.
But during our more than an hour discussion, he openly gave his insights on the upcoming political exercise, the results of which could significantly change the trajectory of the nation’s political environment and impact on the alignment of forces.
My son shared that he had already prepared his list of national and local candidates weeks prior. He did this by meticulously going over their profiles to find out what were their advocacies, the issues they championed, and their accomplishments.
He began by saying: “Dad, I will not vote for candidates because they are the popular choice. I don’t want to be part of the ‘hive mentality.’ I will vote for individuals based on their platforms and the issues they stand for.”
Initially, I didn’t know how to exactly respond to my son as I have always considered myself a ‘centrist’ like my father. However, I was amazed at his level of maturity, considering that he was a neophyte voter. But I clearly understood his point and knew what he was driving at.
Having been an observer of political developments over the past 30 years spanning several administrations, I have witnessed how national and local politicians have wielded their power – either for the common good or for their personal or political party’s agenda.
I have seen how past presidents have used their mandate to boost our nation’s standing in the global arena, particularly through trade policies that have made our key sectors more competitive and responsive to emerging realities.
We also had commanders-in-chiefs who have bravely fought for the sovereignty of our nation in the face of international threats that seek to strike fear in the hearts of smaller nations and expand their sphere of influence across the Asia Pacific.
On the other hand, I have also watched how previous presidents have betrayed the trust and confidence given to them by the Filipino people, choosing to utilize the highest office in the land to benefit their allies while punishing their political opponents.
At the local level, I have seen how local chief executives have focused on implementing initiatives that aim to uplift the lives of their people, create a conducive business environment and ensure the safety and security of their constituents.
I have also been a spectator to face-offs among local politicians who are more concerned about projecting and protecting their ‘brand’ than carrying out their primary mandate of serving the people who elected them into office.
The recent midterm elections was expected to give our nation a chance not only to elect better and more competent leaders, but also give our country’s leadership an opportunity to recalibrate its priorities in response to current developments in the international front.
The current trade war between the US and China continues to escalate, with neither side unwilling to compromise as it could be seen as a sign of weakness on their part and consequently, weaken their bargaining position.
Sooner or later, the Philippines will be feeling the impact of this ongoing trade war, as the prices of products coming from these countries are projected to increase, while making it more difficult for our local exporters to do business with these nations due to higher tariffs.
With the Philippines being an integral part of the global electronics supply chain, it would be prudent for the country to weigh in its options and put in place the necessary safety nets to cushion the possible impact of the trade war, particularly on the export sector.
Continuing advancements in the field of artificial intelligence also pose a threat to workers in major industries of the Philippine economy, particularly in the services sector wherein big-ticket companies are turning more to AI to automate key aspects of their operations.
Although experts say that AI must not be seen as a threat but as an opportunity to level up and enhance processes, systems and performance, we must view AI with a certain degree of caution and consider how it could be best used to our advantage.
And of course, the looming threat from China, which seems to be bent on asserting its military presence in this part of the region. To this day, there has been no halt in its attacks against our nation’s vessels, which undertake re-supply missions in the disputed islands.
All of these challenges fall squarely not only in the hands of our national leadership, but also on our newly-elected officials who must use their fresh mandate to help their constituents navigate and confront these pressing issues.
My son hit the nail on the head when he told me, “Dad, we need to elect leaders who do only have the ability to inspire people but more importantly, deliver on their promises.” I can only say amen to that.