Game start

If you're familiar with the popular culture reference from the hit song "APT" by Bruno Mars and Rose, the title above might sound familiar. Before the song properly begins, it starts with a Korean chant followed by the words "Game start" to signal its beginning. The start of the local campaign period feels just like that --we are starting the game. But this is no ordinary game; it is a rigorous competition. The grand prize is a seat in local governance.

Let's be honest --everybody wants it so badly. Yesterday, we saw different approaches to woo the hearts of voters. Many candidates started with a Mass, seeking divine intervention for the weeks ahead and blessings for what is yet to come. The campaign commenced with rallies of supporters, caravans, handshakes, waves, and for some, even a big concert. This game we are in will take us on a long journey until May, and it will ultimately dictate our future.

Just like in any game, we need to choose the best players to run the course. I remember that in every fighting game I used to play, I would pick the character with the best armor and weapon. It was crucial to choose one equipped with the best gear to ensure victory. Similarly, in this election, we must make every effort to truly know our candidates. A smart voter looks beyond a candidate’s name and campaign jingle --what matters is their capability and heart for public service.

A game also requires a good strategy and a solid plan to win. If a candidate does not have that as early as now and only presents the public with vague motherhood statements, then we are bound to have an administration that will stumble its way through governance instead of making our community better than it was before. It is difficult for some to understand that the power we entrust to these individuals is immense. We cannot simply elect an actor or dancer with little to no experience to run an entire city or municipality.

What we also want is a peaceful campaign period. In the past, supporters had to be extra cautious in the days leading up to the election. Some would get wounded or even gunned down simply for showing loyalty to their chosen candidate. This completely defeats the purpose of democracy. While some games involve life-or-death situations, this should never be the case here. We must be good sports and respect the choice of the majority. Governing is not threatening others with force.

With everything happening on the national level --especially with the arrest of the former president-- many situations could unfold. Local leaders will likely find themselves divided, and their commitment will be tested. Voters must be wise now more than ever. The key is to look beyond political alliances and grand campaign rallies. If only we invested as much effort in scrutinizing credentials and backgrounds as we do in campaign spectacles, politics would undoubtedly look brighter and better. Well, let the games begin!