The heat is on

Incumbents and aspiring politicians are a bit jittery during these times. The election heat is on, and the usual games played by power brokers, pollsters, media and powers-that-be are being readied to a fuller gear.

The name of the game is elimination of the enemy through carrot or stick, hook or crook. The ever-reliable guns, gold and goons find greater use these seasons. First, gold is offered, and if it fails, goons take care of the stubborn and the uncooperative. Guns will dispose of hopeless cases.

Candidates who have more money, guts, resources and empty (but believable) promises to offer a hungry electorate will most probably win this election. It is the same story over and over. Again and again. Election year after election year.

It is easy to be desperate in this situation. A complacent and acquiescent citizenry is a sure recipe for the corrupt and the vile to assume leadership positions in the government during the next three years. The only choice is to actively take part in assuring that the informed will of people prevails during this election.

To vote is our sacred duty. To vote apart from personal considerations, but in consideration of the common good is our moral duty this generation and our children's generation.

To enlighten and guide us, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued the following guidelines (“Ten Commandments for Voters”) in the exercise of our hallowed right to vote.

The parents of this hydrocephalous baby were known to be heavy users of LSD and marijuana. ( Picture courtesy of Philippine Publishing House)

Thou shalt vote according to the dictate of your conscience. Thou shalt respect the decision of others in choosing their candidates. Thou shalt seek to know the moral integrity, capabilities, and other personal qualities of the candidates you will vote for.

Thou shalt strive to understand the issues, platforms, and programs of candidates and parties seeking your vote. Thou shalt not sell your vote. Thou shalt not vote for candidates using guns, goons, and gold. Thou shalt not vote for candidates with records of graft and corruption.

Thou shalt not vote for candidates just because of “utang na loob (debt of gratitude), popularity, or “pakikisama” (camaraderie). Thou shalt not vote for candidates living an immoral life. Thou shalt put the welfare of the country above all else in choosing the candidates you will vote for.

Vote for the common good. Vote for our future. Vote for life.