Competence over popularity: It’s time to grow as a mature electorate

As we look toward the future of our nation, we must engage in a sober reflection on the state of our political landscape. For far too long, the trajectory of our country has been hampered by a recurring cycle of poor governance, traceable to a single source: our choices at the ballot box.

Too often, our criteria for leadership are superficial at best and detrimental at worst. We are swayed by popularity contests rather than platforms of substance. We prioritize well-known candidates, neglecting the reality that fame is not synonymous with the capacity to lead or the integrity to serve.

We frequently fall into the trap of tribalism, voting for candidates simply because they belong to our local community or share our surname. While community representation is important, it should never supersede objective competence. When blood ties outweigh the public good, the nation inevitably suffers.

Furthermore, we are easily distracted by the theatrical nature of modern campaigning. We are drawn to candidates who provide entertainment—those who dance on stages, sing popular songs, and turn political rallies into variety shows. We must realize that a candidate’s ability to perform is not a substitute for their ability to govern.

We also find ourselves mesmerized by those who are “moneyed.” There is a dangerous misconception that wealth is a proxy for effective management or that a self-funded politician is untouchable. In reality, deep pockets often serve as a shield against accountability, allowing candidates to buy influence rather than earn it through legitimate merit.

These displays are designed to manipulate our emotions and create a false sense of intimacy and care. However, we must ask ourselves: does a photo op demonstrate an understanding of economic policy? Does posing for a camera translate into the ability to draft rigorous, life-changing legislation? The truth is that these optical maneuvers often mask a vacuum of technical knowledge. Legislation is a complex, intellectual task that requires a deep understanding of law, sociology, and economics. It is not a task for the entertainer; it is a task for the statesman.

We are now approaching the 2028 election cycle, and it is time for a paradigm shift. We can no longer afford the luxury of ignorance or the comfort of traditional voting habits. The stakes are simply too high to continue down this path of performative politics. In 2028, our litmus test must be clear and uncompromising. We must seek candidates who possess genuine honesty, profound humility, and an extensive, working knowledge of the issues that keep our citizens awake at night. A candidate must know the challenges we face, but more importantly, they must be able to articulate how to solve them.

Ultimately, we must elect statesmen—those who prioritize the longevity of our institutions over the immediacy of their own popularity. We need leaders who understand that their role is not to be a celebrity, but to be an architect of progress capable of drafting and passing meaningful laws.

It is time to grow as a mature electorate. Let us stop choosing the entertainer and start choosing the leader. Let us look past the camera lens and see the character beneath, for the sake of our country and our future.

REGINALD B. TAMAYO, Marikina City

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