Namfrel wants candidates’ resumé

The National Citizens Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) has recommended to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to require candidates to submit their one-page resumé highlighting their suitability for the position they are aspiring for.

At present, the submission of resume by political aspirants is not required. Candidates must only accomplish the Certificate of Candidacy (COC).

Still, an aspirant can attach a resume and a copy of his or her platform of government along with the COC.

Provincial Election Supervisor Lionel Marco Castillano said that there were only few aspirants who have attached their resume and/or platform in the previous polls.

He added that if the en banc will make a move to require resumes, he does not see yet its effect on the preparations for the local polls.

He continued that the resume would not have any use for them but it is better to give it to the voters.

Governor Hilario Davide III and Vice Governor Agnes Magpale have expressed that they favor NAMFREL's initiative.

Davide said that by presenting a resume, the voters have more knowledge on the background of their next possible leaders.

Magpale, for her part, believes that requiring a resume is better suited for the Sangguniang Kabataan, since most candidates are students and will have to enter into legal contracts.

She explained that requiring a resume for candidates in the barangay level may eliminate prospects who were "born natural leaders" but has less educational background.

Davide agrees with the vice governor.

He emphasized that a person's educational background does not guarantee that he or she is a better leader.

However, Davide said that having a better understanding on the system of governance will be an edge.

The Department of Interior and Local Government has expressed its support, too, but is yet to release an update on the status of NAMFREL's request.