Christmas season is just around the corner but this is not about the songs that we hear for this jolly time. The jingles that we are already hearing are of aspiring individuals who wish to be placed in specific positions in our barangay. Yes, it is election time once again. The polls that were postponed multiple times are finally happening in a week or so. Thus, everyone is scampering to put their best foot forward.
It's funny how the typical Filipino village uses the same methods to convince their fellowmen to vote for them. The kick-off starts with something loud, such as a band or motorcade with their jingle blasting from the speakers. Some jingles aren't really that special. They are ripped off from existing songs with lyrics changed to fit their description. I'd like to call it low-key stealing from producers that poured their effort into creating the song. The next few hours is an open campaigning, going door-to-door introducing themselves. The events at night are more fun. Candidates who want to exercise authority in the barangays either sing or dance so they will be remembered. I was not informed that this election is a talent show.
Well, it could be at some point. It is a showcase of talent on who has the best set of credentials and experience. The nightly campaigns show who could be wiser in winning their audience over. Of course, the most creative ones get a chance at winning. The actual governing is a talent show. We see how creative they can get in expanding meager budgets and orchestrating different programs for the community on top of making sure that the daily peace and order is in shape.
I have mixed emotions with the upcoming polls. While I understand that those in power are already overstaying, I have become accustomed to their ways. Their retention in position has defined their persona and their intentions for the barangay that they serve. That isn't really democracy at its finest, or maybe we should even reevaluate the way we are implementing democracy in the villages.
As we brace ourselves for another jingle-filled week, may we base our decisions on platforms. We need to hold on to issues and agenda that would advance our barangay. This is not the time to pick someone who is famous or has the most connections among others. The constituents need action, such as individuals who will be there to respond in any eventuality.
It will be a fun period as several concerned agencies prepare for the election. I hope their efforts will not go to waste. The best recourse is to read, research, and understand every bit of your candidates' platforms. Get to know them and use the campaign period to do that. We do not know when the next village polls will be again. In classic hunger games fashion, I would like to say "let the jingles begin." I hope you stop cringing every time you hear one.