Months before the 2022 elections, names for the Presidential and Vice-Presidential bids have started surfacing around the country. Politicians announcing their candidacy for the two highest positions have emerged one after another. The citizens are even hoping for certain individuals to run in the upcoming elections, and one of them is Isko Moreno for a possible Vice-Presidential bid. However, upon Isko Moreno’s unforeseen candidacy for the Presidency, people have different feedback about his decision. Taking into consideration the good things he did in the City of Manila for two years now, can he do the same for the whole country? 

Isko Moreno’s leadership was greatly praised by many during his first term as the Mayor in the City of Manila. Even today, changes upon changes are happening. Far from the old state of the city, slowly progressing under his leadership. His name was making a noise in the ears of many people, and his good deeds traveled even in the provinces across the country. He has done things that have shown great changes not just in the city but also in the lives of the people living there. Branded as a child scavenger becoming an actor then entering the world of politics. As a first-term Mayor, he launched a cleanup campaign in the capital, clearing the congested and besmirched streets of Manila. He administered infrastructure projects and redevelopments, public housing for the homeless and a lot more. His transparency in updating his constituents with their activities, as shown through his social media accounts, and regular press conferences, has affected the way people perceive him – different from the previous Mayors of the city. All of which deserves applause from the people. But it goes now to the question: Given the years of his leadership and credentials, is he indeed ready to be the next President of the Philippines? 

The incumbent Manila City Mayor’s decision to run for a post is not an issue considering that we are in a democratic country. However, his pronouncement to run from Mayor to becoming the President of our country can be seen as just too early and can affect his candidacy. The sudden decision to immediately want to lead a whole country only after leading a city for two years is indeed shocking in a way. Given the good governance delivered by Isko Moreno in the City of Manila, it can be a macro perspective for the people, not taking into account the credentials suited to be a leader of a country. He should have run for other positions rather than immediately running for the highest one. 

With all the publicity that he has made from his social media accounts, it is not surprising that Isko is actually aiming for a position in the incoming 2022 elections. It has become a matter of time after officially announcing his unanticipated Presidential candidacy. And with the way he portrays himself in his platforms, there’s a high possibility of him getting the vote of the youth. However, we can’t ignore the fact that in the case of Isko Moreno, it can actually be seen as a rush for the highest position. His efforts in the City of Manila is appreciated and it is not about disregarding all the things that he did. But also taking into consideration the important credentials that a President must possess other than being good in one area or city. 

We have the capacity as citizens of the Philippines, to vote for leaders who are not just good in words, but even in actions. The power lies in our hands, and entrusting our vote to someone good, is not enough. He should be the best among everyone, befitting to lead a country, with the assurance that he can. If becoming a leader of a country will be based on what you can do within the city, then you should think again. Is he ready to be the next President of our country? Or the decision to run for Presidency is made too early? 

In the essence of democracy, we are not closing doors to leaders vying for their desired position. However, as the citizens of the country who are after real change, it is our right to demand for a progressive and transparent leadership. 

After all, our thumb will tint the next history of our country. 

Photo Credit: Facebook/iskomorenodomagoso

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Vea Marie Ferlen G. De Villa is an intern at PageOne under Politico.ph and a student Journalist from the University of the East Manila. She once led its Journalism Society and has continuously become a representative of the organization during her senior year. She has been part of various Editorial boards and written articles on different school papers. She loves to drink coffee while writing news and stories. She is trying to live a purpose-driven life for God, the People, and the Truth.

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