Make your vote count!
DEMOCRACY.
Do you know what that means? From the point of view of a political studies major, and in the most simplistic terms, it means rule by the people. And most importantly, who are the people? You, me, and all of us. This means that every single Filipino is a stakeholder in our democracy. Going out to vote is not only a right, but a civic duty to one’s country. Therefore, we must make sure we exercise this right responsibly, and we must also remember to be accountable for our choices.
A responsible vote goes beyond basing our choices on a catchy jingle. Although helpful, “kasi pogi o maganda siya,” should not be a basis for choosing either. Take a moment on your spare time, or when stuck in traffic, between now and May 13 to read up on your choices. Take advantage of technology to learn about what the candidates stand for, what their causes are, and most importantly, what they have done and their track record. Although it is inevitable to be influenced, these factors should weigh heavier on your vote than the opinion of friends, family, colleagues, contemporaries and the media. Check your conscience, and make sure your choices align with your values. Your decisions should never perturb you, and you should leave your ballot with the peace of mind that if any (and preferably all) your choices win, you have contributed to the future of the country.
Your civic duties do not stop at being a responsible voter. You must also be accountable for the choices you make. This includes not complaining about unfulfilled promises and the adverse consequences of poorly authored and implemented laws. These are direct results of your votes that impact the course of the country, and the fate of its people.
Democracy is undoubtedly the most aspired and ideal governance system because of the freedom it grants its people. Its effectivity in developing nations however is questioned oftentimes because of short- comings in its realizations. Many factors are to blame, but most of the time, the burden falls on us, in the same way that the answers are with us. Being an accountable and responsible citizen is a start in proving that we are in fact deserving of democratic rule, and the bouts of freedom bestowed upon us. Elections are one of the most crucial and pivotal moments in any democratic system. And while people tend to pin their hopes and aspirations for a better tomorrow on these elections and the government leaders that they elect, the responsibility ultimately falls with us to hold them accountable, in the same way that change stems from within us.
This is an instance I cannot stress enough when we should not allow ourselves to settle for and with mediocrity. Essentially however, this is also a situation where we get what we deserve, and one of the rare occasions that fate is in our hands. At a time when we can influence destiny, let us make it worthwhile. Study your choices. Choose wisely and vote responsibly!