Philippine politics, a carnival filled with performers coming from different professional backgrounds, with the entire country as its stage, the Senate exhibits all types of people. From economists, doctors, journalists, lawyers, police officers, business tycoons to celebrities and athletes. All were elected and became in charge of one of the most crucial sections in the country, the legislative department. So how do you choose your leaders? Do you vote simply because you know them, or do you vote beyond their names and faces? 

It is no longer a surprise when you hear celebrities filing for candidacy in the news. Starting from their hometowns in lower positions and then venturing to higher positions in Malacañang. Using their fame and years of publicity as an advantage, they hold a chance to become an official. Whether their intentions lay on financial prospects or exemplary service to the people, one cannot deny the overlapping duties as a politician and member of the entertainment industry. Despite the lack of adequate knowledge in governance, some actors and actresses are willing to gamble their image for politics. Their previous projects for movies serve as a blueprint on how they want to be perceived. 

It is alarming that how an individual is portrayed in films could affect their identity in real life. For instance, action stars are praised for their bravery and strong characters that ensemble a respected and commanding leader. They act as protagonists. The saviors of ordinary citizens that would eventually capture the heart of any Filipino in dire need of help. Like FPJ for Presidency to Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Robin Padilla and Raffy Tulfo for the Senate. 

Moving to the opposite side of the gender spectrum, some Filipina actresses also run for public office. Often portrayed with a motherly figure, they are described as meticulous, caring, and soft-spoken people who are not hesitant in helping families and advocating for radical change. Studies on women in politics stated how shared experiences play a big role in persuasion. Female candidates with the same interests that separate them from men are what sells to the voters. Filipinos look for traits that would represent them and have the qualities of a compassionate person. It becomes a reflection of the kind of governance they apply to this country. Such instances can be observed through Vilma Santos-Recto, Angelou De Leon, Karla Estrada and others. 

There was a time when the government was built upon an empire of respected people coming from the fields of medicine, law, social studies, economics, and business. Former politicians are examined over their intellectual prowess and educational attainments. But through the years, Filipinos have lowered their standards, electing personalities due to their popularity and exposure. 

Shallowness in reasoning wastes one’s opportunity to vote for deserving people. Civil servants could hide behind a mask and play a different persona, concealing their initial agenda to gain respect, and spotlight. It’s time to filter which officials are capable of leading and managing this country. So as a voter, ask yourselves. Are you making the right decision or have you become a traitor of your nation? 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the view of POLITICO.PH

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kristine Mae D. Cruz is a senior student of Communication at Far Eastern University-Manila and is currently an intern at Brown Bag Communications Inc. under PageOne Media. As a student, she has developed skills in research and writing articles for websites and magazines. Writing has been a passion of hers as well as the occasional binge-watching of historical documentaries. With media as her line of industry, she intends to seek the truth and create unbiased content as a representative of the Fourth Estate.