Back to the Voters

Elections have always been a hot topic in our country may it be in schools, organizations, companies especially government. It has been around for so many years now, but a lot of people still fail to see the importance of it. Many citizens feels indifferent whenever elections come and do not maximize their right to suffrage. They won’t even bother to register because it is too hassle for them or even scrutinize the various candidates in their district. I believe than one of the main reasons for this is because these people treat elections a business for the greedy candidates we have. The voters are merely pawns for the selfish desires of senators, congressman and mayors and they will never truly benefit from it. They don’t get their vote’s worth and can’t see the changes in their place.

A better performance assessment process should be in place in our country. Citizens have the right to know all the actions of the leaders to see if they are doing well. Visibility should not stop before and during the elections and campaigns. The more important stage is when the time of incumbency. The projects and platforms they promised to the citizens must be accomplished well. Transparency especially in terms of finance must be given to the citizens.

IT can definitely play a big role in this kind of scenario. Information systems that aims to monitor and distribute vital information (e.g. budget, people involved, rationale, total expenses incurred) about a specific government project can be established, for the citizens to efficiently assess their leaders. With this, future citizens can have a basis for the next elections on who to vote.

All in all, the most important thing that I have learned in this forum is that the citizens should never be afraid to the government leaders. This is a democratic country and we have power over our leaders. We have the right to know all the little things our leaders do and make sure that they do their responsibilities well. The abuse, under the table, bribery and corruption should stop now!  This time, the power must be brought back to where it came from; to the voters. 

Ms. Niña Corpuz as the Forum's Host

Lasallians in the BMPM Election Forum