Allen Wu March 4, 2016

BM1-F Sociology

Having lived for some time in the Philippines, I admittedly know a little about the
Philippine elections and its history. However it did not prevent me from asking some of my
close friends. And from their shares of experiences I have noted some realizations:

First, I observed that most Filipinos were misled in voting for the right officials in the
past. I say this because of a flawed election system created the seemingly self-proclaimed
honest yet inefficient and incompetent administrations in the past; I say this as a result of the
false promises that turned into stones by the previously elected officials and their cronies who
turned out to be more concerned of their self interests than their selfless duty to the country;
and I say this because as a result of the high degree of corruption to the people by the greedy
officials.

Second, in relation to the above, with the existing flawed system of government, I also
observed the tolerating attitude- the sige na lang, ok na yan or ok lang mentality. What
made it worst is that Filipinos selfishly demand a lot from the government even at the expense
of others. There seems to be no unified collective move in changing the flawed system while
efficiently and strictly implementing what is effective. Doing less but demanding more.

Lastly but interestingly, in the coming elections, and perhaps because of worsening
scenario, it is good to note that most Filipinos are already taking their vote seriously-
becoming more aware, more aggressive and even more politically, religiously, socially and
economically engaged in determining the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates brought
about by new age era like the internet, religious and educational institutions that has given
them more inputs in voting for that honest, effective and competent officials. Abandoning the
usual recall and catching type of advertisements, they now actively participate in social
media in voicing out their stand. They now are more attentive as to what news are misleading
and not. They now exert more effort in getting to know the candidates they wish to vote in
order to achieve the right society they wish to live.

Up to now, the Philippine election system has a lot to change. And hopefully in the
coming elections, the voters will mindfully and wisely choose one who may not be the most
perfect president, but is perfectly fit enough for the worsening Philippine situation. One who
efficiently, competently, punctually and honestly implements his promised programs to the
society without violating the law. And one who may not promise the Filipinos, heaven, but
will definitely not put them in hell.