Leni Robredo’s guide for voting wisely

The result of tomorrow’s elections will dictate the future of our country, at the very least for the next three years. This is also a chance for those who truly love the country to set the example on how responsible citizens should choose the right candidates in this election.

A couple of months ago, I was able to obtain a copy of former vice president Leni Robredo’s selection process for her Team Naga in her mayoralty run in Naga City. She called it Team Naga Selection Process-Good Governance Form. The purpose of the form was to help screen candidates for local positions according to the essential criteria for good governance.  However, it is clear that it could also be used as the basis for choosing the best candidates for local positions.

She had three major categories. The first was ethical basis, transparency and accountability. Under this first category were four qualities: accountable for their decisions and actions; proven track record of honesty and accountability; demonstrate the courage to speak out/stand against corruption, even if it involves a colleague’s wrong doing and maintain his or her own stand and is not swayed by others.

The second category was leadership quality, skills and experiences. There are six qualities here: has a clear and achievable plan for community development; demonstrate the capacity to anticipate and then respond to or resolve upcoming challenges or difficulties; understand local governance processes; lead in development and implementation of policies and programs for community development growth; lead and manage and head the council and show great skills in creating laws.

The third category is empowering citizens and governance through collaboration. The four qualities here are:  recognizes the value of different sectors or groups in the community; open to dialogue with citizens; open to criticism and suggestions from civil society and the private sector and able to work collaboratively with others.

It was fortunate that we got a copy of this, a selection instrument that VP Leni had said had been used by her husband, Jesse Robredo. In September last year, my wife Neni was in Naga for the Bikol Book Festival of Kristian Sendon Cordero of Savage Mind and Ateneo de Naga University Press. She dropped by to see VP Lenis in the Robredo Museum where VP Leni was working with community leaders towards the selection of her Team Naga. A copy of this form, originally in Bikol, was given to her and we had it translated to English.

I am also including here a brief Voter’s Guide for selecting candidates fit for the Philippine Senate. Choosing the right senators is crucial for our country’s progress and for each and every Filipino. There are eight suggestions:

1. Understand the role of a senator. Senators are expected to craft national laws, review and pass the national budget, conduct investigations in aid of legislation, ratify international treaties, confirm or reject presidential appointments through the Commission on Appointments and represent the nation as a whole.

2. Research the candidate thoroughly. Popularity or family name should not be the basis for your vote. Look into their educational background and public statements and platforms. Avoid relying solely on viral posts, memes or edited videos on social media.

3. Examine their key stand on key issues. Every voter has different priorities like poverty reduction, education, health care, agriculture, labor rights, climate change, human rights, national security. Don’t be swayed by vague promises like “I will help the poor” or “I will fight corruption.” Look for candidates with concrete plans and clear proposals, a track record of working on those issues and realistic and well-thought out solutions, not empty slogans.

4. Assess character and integrity. The Senate needs lawmakers with moral courage, integrity and independence. Ask if candidates have been involved in scandals or abuse of power. Do they take responsibility for their action or blame others? Do they stand for truth and justice even when it is unpopular? Are they transparent with their finances?

5. Watch for political dynasties and opportunism. While being part of a political family is not inherently wrong, voters should avoid candidates whose qualification rests solely on their surname or celebrity status. Candidates should have their own achievements. Are they running for public service merely to protect their family interests? Avoid balimbing politicians who frequently switch allegiances.

6. Observe their behavior during the campaign. Are they open to debates or do they avoid facing other candidates? Do they speak respectfully or do they insult, bully or spread disinformation? Are they spending excessively on campaigns and if so, where is the money coming from?

7. Check political affiliations and alliances. Who are their allies and from whom have they received endorsements? Evaluate each candidate on their own personal merits.

8. Match candidates with your hopes for the country. Think of the kind of Philippines you’d like to live in and choose candidates most likely to help build that future. Ask if they uplift the voices of the marginalized and do they protect the rights and dignity of all Filipinos.

In a society where disinformation, celebrity culture and political patronage often dominate, selecting senators based solely on principles and performance may be considered a revolutionary act. The Senate can be a stabilizing force for democracy or a breeding ground for corruption and even comedy. That choice lies in our hands.

Vote for your future and the future of your children.

*      *      *

Email: [email protected]