Rep. Leni Robredo has already declared her intention to seek the second highest position of the land. Her decision, as she mentioned in her speech, came after a critical discernment, probably one that hounded her with sleepless nights.
As for me, Leni is not only Bicol’s “best shot” at the vice presidency, she is also the country’s. Her work and dedication as public servant of the third district of Camarines Sur have been proven. Her weekly rounds to her constituents are enough for me to say that she is doing her job well, and this I would like to emphasize because I think this is Leni’s edge: going to those wearing the “tsinelas,” the people much in need of attention. This is Leni in her truest form, like Jesse, a servant going and always willing to go to the peripheries where they are sought for to serve.
To this end, this must be critical and foremost in our minds, that a public servant must live up to the very ideals of true and honest service. I believe Leni has proven this to her constituents. Surely, she’ll do even more if given the opportunity to serve our country in a higher office. I hope we give her the chance.
—MARK JEROME T. BONGALON,markjerome.bongalon@bicol-u.edu.ph