By Herman M. Lagon
Choosing the right political candidate is more than shading a name on a ballot. For many of us, it carries hope, responsibility and moral duty. Every vote reflects the collective desire for leaders who can steer the nation toward fairness, progress and real service. But with all the campaign jingles, bold promises and charismatic speeches, how do we vote wisely — with clarity, courage and, perhaps, grace?
Start with the basics: Know your candidate. Not through flashy billboards or perfectly curated Facebook posts but by digging into their record. Have they served the public with sincerity, or is it all just a bid for power? Actions, especially small and quiet ones — like a councilor funding livelihood programs in underfunded barangays — speak louder than grand speeches ever will.
Look at their stance on real issues. Do they back better education, fair wages and environmental care? A 2023 Pulse Asia survey revealed that 60 percent of Filipinos prioritize education, but how many politicians go beyond lip service? A leader’s commitment to uplifting the marginalized should never be up for negotiation.
More than a platitude, “Actions speak louder than words,” reveals actual integrity. A candidate is red-flagged if they have ties to dishonesty or dubious deals. Real leaders practice transparency and stay accountable, both in public and private.
Good leaders also respect differing views. Democracy thrives on open dialogue, not control. A true candidate listens to criticism and defends the voices of journalists, activists and ordinary citizens — much like the late Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, who stood firm while honoring democratic values.
No leader rules alone. The best ones know how to collaborate and find common ground. Former President Benigno Aquino III’s partnerships with local and global allies showed how teamwork drives progress and fights corruption. Real leadership is about cooperation, not control.
Respect for human dignity should never be optional. Great leaders champion the rights of everyone — the poor, the marginalized, and even their fiercest critics. In Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis reminds us that true leadership puts the common good above personal gain. Inclusive policies, healthcare reforms and respect for indigenous rights should be part of every platform.
Reject transactional politics. Vote-buying remains a toxic practice in our electoral process. It might seem like easy money, but it only deepens corruption and weakens democracy. As former Comelec chair Andres Bautista said, “A vote sold is a future stolen.”
For those guided by faith, voting is a spiritual responsibility. It is not about miracles but aligning your choice with values like justice, compassion and integrity. Reflect deeply before deciding, and let moral clarity guide your vote.
Stay informed. Stay open to different views, verify information and avoid fake news. Social media can spread truth and lies, so thinking critically is not just smart — it is essential.
No candidate is perfect. Seek someone who upholds democracy and moral leadership and serves the common good. Voting is an act of hope, a reminder that wise decisions help us to remember that change is possible.
Your vote ultimately reflects your values and shapes the course of the country. With fairness, courage and a touch of grace, every one of us has the power to build a more compassionate and hopeful nation — one vote at a time.
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Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with./WDJ