Election Campaign Eye-openers

I wrote this one day before the May 9, 2022 Election. I will post it after the Election.

I have learned a lot during the National Election 2022. Here are some of those lessons learned.

1. It is not vote-buying.

Yes, those who received money from candidates do not think that they are selling their votes.

I mentioned about the pros and cons of receiving money from candidates on various occasions during homilies and seminars.

I was surprised when someone told me "Father, wala ko ginabaligya ang akon vote kag siya naman gid na ya ang akon botohon." (Father, I am not selling my vote because after all he is my choice).

More so, the language used does not give any hint of business transactions. Those who received money are called "members" and what they received is called "funding."

You may detect some logical fallacies here but that is how they think.

However, even if we lament to the high heavens that vote-buying has become a culture among Filipinos, it will fall into deaf ears.

It will not have any effect because vote-selling or vote -buying is not part of their thinking framework. It is speaking a strange language to them.

2. Narratives are essential.

Stories can move mountains. Much ink has been spilled about historical revisionism.

Some considered the Marcos Martial Law years as the most wicked period of our country's history while others consider it as the "Golden Years."

Whose story will win? The one which is truthful? Maybe, if there are enough people who would fight against disinformation.

If people will be complacent, then the narrative that is often told becomes the "truth."

3. Endorsements of various church leaders, members of the academe, artists and universities does not appeal to the masses.

Leni was endorsed by numerous church leaders (including priests and nuns), members of the academe, some famous artists and many other "influencers."

The problem, however, with these endorsements is that it speak to those who are already convinced.

Will the people (ang masa) change their minds because of this endorsements?

I doubt it. The reason is that it does not speak to the masses.

I think when it comes to politics and political issues, majority of Filipinos form their own opinion without reference to whatever the churches or academies will say.

4. Volunteerism is truly alive.

I am very impressed with many of my friends who are really serious in campaigning for Leni-Kiko.

During the rally in Paglaum Sports Complex, I was watching it via FB.

I was impressed with what VP Leni said during that time. It goes something like this, "pwede naman pala ang ganitong klaseng kampanya!"

A political rally where people are not paid. Hindi kami bayad, abonado pa kami.

I think this is one of the most memorable lesson I learned during this election.

So, in conclusion, will Leni win this election?

I doubt it.

But, I will still vote for her.