Many government officials often forget the essence of public office. A seat in the government gives one a special privilege to serve the people and the nation. And this privilege is what public officials, the elected ones especially, owe to the people who have entrusted to them their welfare. This gift consists of an honorable title prefixed to their names, subordinates, monetary resources and, most of all, the power to use this gift in the service of the people. All of that in just one package. How can’t this be obvious?

Public service is simply sincerely fulfilling the responsibilities of a public servant, so why make a big deal out of it by displaying a public official’s name on every public facility public servants put up? To me, it’s like a slap in the face of constituents. An insult. It’s as if the names are meant to remind us that we, the people who have placed politicians in power, owe them these structures. Shouldn’t it be the other way around? They were elected to public office. Therefore, isn’t it already given that they must do public service? How can’t that be obvious?

No one in his right mind would ever want a politician’s name in ridiculously bold letters and not-so-appealing colors as decoration in his surroundings. Unless the politician’s name spells beauty and peace. (By the way, I’m pretty sure the inscription of the politician’s name also consumes a portion of the project’s budget.)

I would always find myself shaking my head in frustration whenever I see the so overused phrase “Through the efforts of (politician’s name)” on the roofs of waiting sheds. Well, politicians don’t need to make that announcement—if they’re true public servants and they do public service with genuinely sincere intention and dedication.

Instead of plastering their names on the roofs of covered courts, park benches, bridges and other public facilities, why don’t we hire our local talents in painting and other related craft to exhibit their artistic abilities on these structures? And have them sign their own masterpieces afterwards. That would be fantastic! It’s an opportunity for them to showcase their works of art. Who knows, they might even do the job for free.

And that’s just one of the many options as to how we can continuously make our communities a better place to live in. Let others contribute. Don’t take on the entire workload. Make room for others to contribute their own unique share.

So come on, “honorable gentlemen,” there’s no need for you to remind us (shamelessly) of your noble deeds. We, the people who voted for you, are not stupid to not know who made all these projects possible.

We don’t need big names. We need big dreams.

—JOANNE BACANI,
Del Carmen,
San Fernando, Pampanga