Based on the latest Pulse Asia survey, at least three “fresh” faces surfaced among the frontrunners in the senatorial race in the upcoming May midterm elections, providing the electorate with a few new choices.
Former Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos and Former PNP Chief, retired P/Dir. Gen. Ronaldo “Bato” dela Rosa, placed 8th, leading Mar Roxas, JV Ejercito, and Bam Aquino.
Within striking distance is former Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go at 14th place.
An objective view of the poll’s top 15 Senate aspirants shows eight incumbents and five former senators who have the advantage of “name recognition” as senators.
Except for Marcos, Dela Rosa and Go are non-traditional politicians or what we call “trapos.”
The eight returning incumbent and former senators are “trapos” who are either heirs of political families or popular movie actors.
To set the record straight, I have nothing per se against being a “trapo,” be it heirs of political clans or actors and entertainment celebrities for that matter, so long as they did or will perform their tasks while being members of the lawmaking body.
Without exactly endorsing anyone’s candidacy, I would enjoin everyone to seriously consider choosing new aspiring legislators in the coming elections.
Apart from Dela Rosa and Go, who both have proven themselves in the field of public service, there are a number of new possible picks for senators who can press the needed reforms in the country.
These non-“trapo” choices for senators, including those beyond the list of poll leaders offer a wide range of expertise and advocacies that can uplift the quality of life in our nation.
The same is true for the congressional and local elections which are dominated by “trapos,” fixtures including scions of powerful clans and warlords.
Beyond name-recognition, we must take cognizance of the opportunity to bring about genuine reforms by electing new leaders.
If we want real change, then we should consider going with the new ones.