Presidential expectations

University of the Philippines President Danilo Concepcion has apologized for hosting the reunion party of the Kabataang Barangay. The KB, the youth arm of President Marcos, was a "movement" that entrenched the Marcos family name deep within young, impressionable minds. Led by Presidential daughter Imee Marcos, the KB was a fertile training ground for Marcos defenders and apologists. And indeed, Imee herself was there during the reunion, visibly festive, smiling mode.

From 1976 until 1978, Concepcion was president of the KB Metro Manila branch. That must have been when he was in his twenties, enough to be considered an adult. Not much has been written about his role in the KB, his accomplishments during those times, and most importantly, what his ideologies were.

To the curious, that seems like an avenue to plumb the depths of Concepcion, to examine what makes him tick and motivates him.

Those must have been happy times because his apology admits of his "desire to be with old-time friends (he) had not seen for decades.” That sends the message that he hasn't associated with Marcos minions for decades (a plus point), although he still considers them friends (so he doesn't let politics get between friendships?).

Concepcion said he "deeply regrets" the pain he caused to the UP community, and he intended no offense. These are welcome words, signaling a desire to breach the rift caused by his participation in the reunion.

To end his apology, he sought to humanize himself, reminding UP he was only human ("Tao lang po"). That may have endeared him to some sectors, especially to those who believe that humility is key to leading the diverse community that is the state U.

If I were to offer some unsolicited advice though, I would have wanted him to include some assurance that this sort of tawdry event would never happen again. In addition, perhaps it would be good to have included a promise that a Marcos reunion will never be allowed to sanctioned by university officials within the grounds of the campus.

This lack of positive action moving forward was probably what triggered the rejection of the apology by professors, students, and alumni. Something a lot more was required. True enough, they have challenged Concepcion to join them in the next big protest scheduled this September 21, the anniversary of the declaration of martial law.

As reported in the press, the multi-sectoral group accepted no justification for the Marcosian event, calling it an insult to UP. Ex-Social Welfare secretary Judy Taguiwalo reminded us of the men and women who were tortured and disappeared during Marcos' dictatorship, and of families that still have not received closure.

So it will be interesting to see what President Concepcion will do in response. Will he rise up to the challenge of his constituents and indeed, rally and rail during the September 21 protest? Will he publicly attack Imee Marcos, his classmate during Law school, for her role in continuing to deny the Marcos legacy? Will he voice out the sentiments of the community that he is supposed to lead?

I ask, because I suppose that is what I expect a president to do. I don't expect this from a mere human, or an ordinary citizen. I don't have expectations from a faceless member of the masses. But I must admit I have higher expectations from the post of the president. More noble, loftier, and more well-considered positions. To represent the community that chose him, to give voice to their dreams and hopes.

Will we see that on September 21?