This refers to the letter of Antonio De Guzman, “Voting in elections not enough—citizen participation crucial in nation-building” (1/19/21). Indeed, nowadays, citizens’ responsibility should be displayed not only during elections, but should be a lifetime habit and attitude. More often than not, we choose the wrong leaders. It is only in choosing wise, conscientious leaders who have the country’s best interests in their hearts that we can claim to be responsible citizens.
We must think of democratic citizenship in fresh ways. We don’t live up to our responsibilities simply by paying taxes. We have to actively participate in governing this country, by choosing the right leaders during elections and demanding that they perform at their best in office. There should be a subject in school that gives special emphasis on good citizenship. It is high time we woke up from being largely unconcerned. We have to learn and recognize the value of being responsible citizens in a democracy.
Reginald Tamayo,reginaldtamayo@yahoo.com