In voting for party list: Intentions, not popularity

In the coming May elections, 173 party list groups are vying for seats in Congress. Which ones deserve our single vote? As stated in the 1987 Constitution, party list groups were allowed to participate in the legislative process to give a voice and represent marginalized and underrepresented sectors.

This is the essence of a representative government and the intent is clear.

However, it is so despicable that this life-changing purpose appears to have been used for self-interests and sinister intentions of political candidates or groups that have been involved in controversy and ambiguity.

One of the issues concerning these elected party lists is their alleged connection to the enemy of the state; worse, they even went the extra mile to block the enactment of bills that clearly support peace and development. Isn’t it like a slap in the face as voters that we have been so insensitive and elected a party list that we are uncertain of its purpose and that could threaten our national security and well-being?

This is why, as voters, we should not look at the party list representation lightly, because besides being the best hope to fulfill the needs and address the concerns of the neglected marginalized sectors of the country they can also play an important role in fostering peace and development.

Therefore, the challenge for us in the coming elections is to be critical and not to vote for a party list based on its popularity but on its background and clear intentions. Let us wisely vote for a worthy party list that will take care of our freedom and democracy.

Mariz Lagmay, [email protected]