The coming Barangay/SK elections have once again opened the pandora’s box containing the evil(s) described by many as “political dynasty”.
Ordinary people in the barangay who are afraid to voice out their dissent are silently frowning upon those who are running with no concrete program and definite platform that will benefit their would-be constituents. What they see are the same faces who are hungry for fame and recognition, power and perks associated with the position. The people are not blind, nor are they insensitive to the needs of the poor. There are matters repulsive to their senses but they choose to keep silent for fear of being ostracized by those in power or in extreme cases, for being killed like what happened to some outspoken broadcasters and media practitioners in many parts of the country.
It’s a fact that for the longest time, politics in the Philippines has become a very profitable ‘family corporation’ – so profitable that each member can afford to pay a battalion of reporters, vloggers and ghost writers to enhance their image and convince the voting public how good and generous they are. In making the image of politicians palatable to the taste of the voting public, there is no gratis et amore. Every spoken praise and written accolades have a price. The shameless and enterprising ones even engaged in AC/DC (Attack and Collect, Defend and Collect) to earn more which, sad to say, invites trouble.
In an ideal society, leaders are chosen based on good virtues and strength of character and nobody would dare to run if he/she is not equipped with knowledge and know-how on how to run the government. Today is different. If one can sing and dance on stage with empty promises, he/she can be assured of winning with the help of the media, many of whom believe in the saying, “if you can’t lick ‘em, join ‘em.”
According to Jim Morrison, “whoever controls the media controls the mind” because he can control what news information reaches the people and what information does not reach the people. It is in the light of this that journalists must follow the Journalist Code of Professional Ethics and refrain from accepting bribes while compromising the truth. Be a true voice of the people!
Melinda Bagsic Evangelista
I was born to write and I believe that’s my calling. I love writing because it brings me to the realm exclusively of mine. It is also my opinion that “immortality” can be achieved not by searching for the Holy Grail and drinking from it but by living your life worth-writing or writing something worth-reading. Since I cannot promise you a life worth-writing, I keep myself busy writing something worth-reading. I am thankful to God for giving me the talent and skill to see life in different perspectives not seen by many and the courage to share it to my readers. This first ever Tutubi Digital News Magazine is a perfect avenue to bring you the many facets of life that you can ponder upon in this time of the pandemic. Enjoy reading all the articles.
