What’s in my vote? This question is often asked by inquisitive voters who recently have shown great interest by way of active youth participation in the coming May 2010 Philippine elections. With the youth sector now comprising about 60% of the eligible voting population, their unified effort is an influential force that can strongly determine the outcome of such electoral exercise.
Another way to rephrase this question is “Why should I vote?” There are many valid reasons why we as responsible citizens should exercise our right to vote.
Electing the right people to government is a serious duty of every citizen. We take extra care in choosing our spouse and carefully assess the credentials of those we employ within our businesses, so why shouldn’t we exercise the same diligence when it comes to electing our national leaders?
The right to vote or right to suffrage is a constitutional right to freely choose from among us responsible leaders who will steer the course of our nation’s destiny. History has shown how our heroes gallantly fought for Philippine independence. The fruit of this sacrifice is our freedom and the right of suffrage. Voting judiciously is an act of gratitude to our forefathers who sacrificed so much for us to be able to exercise this basic right.
The right to vote is a sacred right. It is a sacred privilege granted by God unto His people; consequently a responsible exercise is expected from us. This is in effect an extension of the free will given by God to man, his right to choose freely those who will lead our nation to prosperity and salvation.
The much quoted electoral phrase by William of Malmesbury in the 12th century “Vox populi, vox Dei.” translating to “the voice of the people is the voice of God.” can only be acceptable to God if the true sentiments and choice of the people is accurately reflected in the transparent exercise.
The conduct of an honest peaceful and orderly election to accurately reflect the true sentiments of the voters is the sacred responsibility of every voter since a manipulation of results can have dire consequences not only to the electorate but a mockery of the sacred privilege granted to us.
The right to vote is our right to expect good, efficient and accountable governance. It is our duty to install God-fearing, honest, responsible and compassionate leaders. The proper and transparent fiscal management of the citizenry’s moneys so as to ensure the delivery of basic services such as food, shelter, infrastructure and medical benefits to the electorate is a basic commitment expected from the national leadership.
The right to vote is our right to be provided with affordable and quality education. This is the most important privilege that we must obtain from the government for the benefit of our children. As time passes, every generation’s quality of life after us must improve and only good education is the key that will guarantee a better and secured future for them.
The right to vote is our right to obtain sustainable employment. Much is expected from whom much is given. If worthy candidates are elected, they are then expected to provide the electorate with stable jobs. While current emphasis is given towards preference for outbound jobs, the leadership should develop strategies to shift from migration to skill retention.
With our country’s vast natural resources and our people’s world-class technical skills, the emphasis should be on the provision of better economic conditions to stimulate the creation of sustainable enterprises that provide local quality employment.
It is unacceptable for the leadership to solely depend on foreign employment to sustain the livelihood of our people. As between the choice of local and foreign jobs, it is more practical and vital to the survival of the Filipino family as a basic social institution, for the breadwinner to work within areas nearest to his community or place of residence.
Have you ever wondered why there is so much vote-buying during elections? That’s because your vote carries with it so many privileges that benefit not only the voter but extends way beyond future generations. Thus, your vote is priceless! There is no monetary amount that can ever match the true value of your precious vote.
When one sells out, it’s like selling out their dignity and respect. The short-term benefits of a vote sell-out are no match for the long-term benefits that an intelligent and wise vote can bring to the people and the country in general. If you truly love yourself, your family, and your country, you will never in your right conscience sell or exchange your vote.
We reap what we sow. We deserve the kind of government we elect. We, eventually, pay and suffer for our own mistakes. For the next six years, we will have no one else to blame but us for our dismal state. If we allow the political installation of undeserving and unworthy candidates in national government, we the electorate are bound to suffer the consequences of such irresponsible choices.
It is appropriate to say therefore, that every Filipino should fulfill his patriotic duty to country and to God by voting wisely. With proper discernment and fervent prayer to be guided in making the right decision, God will surely look with favor upon us and enlighten us on the leaders He intended for us to make the Philippines a better nation for our children and our children's children.
VOTE WISELY AND CONSCIENTIOUSLY!
EDWIN L. YAP
Makati City, Philippines
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