Will an artist fare better?

One of the best Filipino composers, Jose Mari Chan, whose contribution to the music industry spans 50 years of heartwarming songs, became the man of the hour when ABSCBN gave him a tribute. Inspired by his wife Mary Ann, half of his compositions were related to love. He wishes that one or two of his compositions will be remembered by generations to come.

Chan’s melodic voice leaves one feeling inspired and full of positive emotions. Married for 47 years to the same woman, the lyrics of his compositions speak to us and the melody serenades listeners who evidently relate to his story.

While watching him perform along with other artists, it dawned on me what kind of a leader would a singer/composer be? We have had lawyers, an economist, West Point graduate, an actor, and a son of a peacemaker. What this nation needs is not a strongman; rather, we need someone who will be sensitive to the needs and sentiment of the Filipinos.

Frederic Chopin was not only one of the greatest composers but was also mindful and sensitive to the historic events of his times. His concerts financed the militia in Poland against Hitler. Our country needs a man with the personality as wonderful as Chan. He is such a beautiful human being in and out, not a mean bone in his body.

Chan’s song “Constant Change” may be true, but I believe change comes in God’s time. President Rodrigo Duterte seems to be in a rush to change everything in Philippine society: our constitution, our form of government, how our laws should be interpreted, how suspects should be treated and criminals punished. How old traditional tactics like manipulation, coercion, concession and bribery could ruin a country’s value system?

It will take some time for Filipinos to change their attitude toward change itself especially if it will affect their means of livelihood, their sensitivities on matters pertaining to chosen belief and faith.

There are aspects of governance that need to change. While watching the news about the carnage resulting from the reported misencounter between the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police, I could not believe what a pathetic situation our Armed Forces of the Philippines is in despite its increased budget. The dead policemen were carried out from the scene of the operations as if they were butchered animals. Could our AFP not afford stretchers?