Deciphering the ‘mystery’ that’s Mar

Ever since the 2010 elections, the “mystery” that is Mar Roxas continues to baffle me until now. Here is a man who has impeccable credentials, both as a private person and as a government official. In fact, Mar Roxas could easily be the person Jesus Christ was referring to as “a man in whom there is no guile” (John 1:47).

I’ve always put Mar Roxas on a higher pedestal for remaining untouched with any breath of corruption and moral turpitude through all his years in public service until now. But why does “Mr. Palengke” seem to be hounded by bad luck this 2015 presidential campaign as shown by surveys? My 95-year-old grandmother, who just passed away last year, would certainly answer in her own unique funny way: “Baka naman may nunal si Mar sa puet” (Mar might have a mole on his butt.)

In my search for an explanation, I went to Baseco compound in Tondo, Manila, to consult my longtime friend Aling Marsing (not her real name), a fish vendor in Divisoria market who is full of insights and local wisdom. I asked her, “Sa tingin po ninyo, ka Marsing, bakit hirap na hirap po na umangat si Mar sa mga surveys? She thought for a while and then replied: “Kasi po, Kuya Caloy, mahina po ang dating ni Mar sa tao. Sobra po siyang pormal at mahina ang “sense of humor at karisma.” (It’s because Mar Roxas does not grab people’s attention. He’s too formal and lacks a sense of humor and charisma. Google has defined charisma as “a compelling attractiveness or charm that can inspire devotion in others.”

Whether charisma comes from nature or nurture can always be debated. But the fact is charisma enhances a candidate’s chances to get more votes.

Here are my unsolicited two cents’ worth of advice to “Mr. Palengke”:

1. Learn to carry on with small talks with people. Ask about things closest to their hearts: their children, their financial situation, their everyday problems, etc. This will give you a human face and reduce the perception that you are suplado (a snob) and elitista (an elitist);
2. During public meetings, tell humorous but not dirty jokes that will tickle the funny bones of your listeners. Also, tell relevant stories about families, husband-and-wife situations, politicians, and your wife, Korina Sanchez;
3. Share commonsense wisdom and advice with jeepney drivers, farmers, palengke vendors, etc. Let them feel that in spite of your pedigree, you also know and feel their pains and their struggles for survival.
4. Involve people in your speeches by adopting the Q&A style. Sometimes, challenge the people to answer their own questions. This will keep them awake and engaged during your meetings.
5. Always speak in Filipino. Learn colloquial Filipino jargons by listening to AM radio stations and watching Filipino movies.
6. Do not forget God has gifted Filipinos with a tremendous sense of humor. Tap this unique quality of Filipino souls.
7. Keep the level of discourse on a higher plain by not attacking your opponents. Also, promise only what is doable.

—CARLOS D. ISLES, carlosisles@gmail.com