When I saw for the first time how retired Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon spoke her piece in a political rally, I cannot help but compare her to our very own Laguna Vice Governor Atty. Karen C. Agapay. Guanzon’s demeanor on the stage is something not worthy of emulation considering that she is a lawyer with further studies abroad and a former commissioner of a constitutional body. The words that came out of her mouth were totally unbecoming of an educated woman.
The sad part was, while Guanzon growled like wild animal on the loose and spewing wicked words, the crowd was cheering in hysterics comparable to the crowd inside the Roman Coliseum of the olden days while gladiators were killing each other. As a supposedly dignified lawyer, she could have delivered her speech in a more subtle and respectable manner that would convince the still undecided voters to vote for her candidate. What she did was totally opposed to the expectations of many, especially those who are merely relying on social media for information.
I understand that cheering, shouting and screaming are part of political rallies but it can be done with taste and without malicious innuendoes or baseless accusations purposely to destroy a person. You may argue that that is really how politics works – mudslinging, spreading lies, giving deceitful information, etc. but it should not be the case for the sake of the younger generation. Remember the saying, any wrongdoing becomes right in the eyes of a child if done by the elderly. Take note that all political aspirants, national and local, are replete with promises to work for the good of their constituents but at the end of the day, what do we find? What do we see?
Contrary to Guanzon’s demeanor, VG Atty. Karen C. Agapay is soft-spoken, tactful, prim and proper thus showing her authentic beauty inside and out. Knowing her since she was chairperson of Kabataang Barangay, I have never heard her utter scurrilous language, neither utter defamatory remarks against someone, nor insult a person on account of personal appearance or station in life. Unlike Guanzon, she never bragged about her educational attainment, academic achievements and material wealth. As a matter of fact, she remains simple, down-to-earth and courteous when talking to people.
Being a public servant half of her life, Atty. Karen maintains the propriety and decorum worthy of respect seldom seen on traditional politicians. She is not perfect but I can vouch that she is a morally upright politician and college professor who does her job well – no record of corruption, no scandal, no abuse of power and discretion. With her legal acumen and dedication to her works as public servant, she is no doubt a jewel in the crown of her birthplace San Pablo City and her province Laguna, a clear contrast with Guanzon.
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.
