Scrutiny over fanaticism

It was my first time to participate in an election apart from student council. I could not fathom the long lines and the surge of watchers from both parties around the precincts. Yet I was giddy to finally be able to take part in nation building by asserting my right to vote. As a neophyte voter, I went all randy when I felt the drop of indelible ink on my right index finger.

For days now I keep on looking at the smudge that ink has done on my finger. A matter of a few shades went a long way to the country's future. But every time the partial unofficial results for the national candidates flash on the TV screen, I could not help but question the relevance of my vote. As usual, the same names surfaced - Poe, Binay, Villar and the likes. It seems like the vision of destroying political dynasties in the Philippines has not been realized. I could not help but be disappointed at the way Filipinos vote. The political landscape of the Philippines has become an avenue for fanaticism.

According to Comelec Provincial Supervisor Atty. Eddie Aba, the voters have become more mature this election. The justification is the change of political climate in the province of Cebu. Big names were toppled down like the position for governor and the mayor of Cebu. Even in Danao were family members fought against each other in the polls, there has been a change of preference from the old to the new.

I, however, do not agree to the Comelec official's observation because when it came to the national posts, the leading candidates were of little or no political experience at all. Senate posts require a lot from a person, in decision, as well as lawmaking.The holder of a Senate post must also be tough and assertive on issues that may shape the Philippines. Primarily, the job of the senator is to create laws that will aid the Philippines in its development, not create bridges, flyovers, skywalks and what have you.  Congress is not a reality show where you could just scoff and pretend to be smart in front of the camera - it is the real reality.

But the votes are all in and there is nothing much that we can do. According to those who have served the public for a long time, election protests seldom reach the higher authorities. These complaints do not have an impact at the leadership of the person who was placed in position by votes.

My only wish is that those who have been rightfully elected to their respective posts also respect the trust of the people. It is time to focus on where to go next and what move to make.

By next week, the dark lining of my fingernail will fade and so are the election related issues that have been going on since last year - illegal campaign materials, Comelec versus the Supreme Court, gun ban and many more but the Fililpinos remain to be as they are. Sooner or later, the political maturity that we all want to have will come and a new leader will be selected out of scrutiny and not of fanaticism.