PGMA's Farewell Legacy: A Peaceful, Free and Fair Presidential Elections 2010

Late last year, the Asia Pacific Centre for Research (Acre) released a statement on the survey they conducted; showing that out of 1,500 voters-households, 60% believed that the past elections had not been orderly and clean as it should be. Although, it's all in the system already and have been rusting there for ages; I hope President Arroyo would take it as a challenge, just as she was able to bend the other crooked streams in our political system.

In her speech marking the launch of government projects aimed at modernizing agriculture in Region I at the Mariano Marcos State University last January 28, the President said she is determined to pass to the new government "a new Philippines, one that is ready to bring our nation to first world status in the 20 years."

She encouraged the youth to get involved more in the "civic life of the nation," and to work together to ensure a free and fair elections in May 2010.

PGMA called on the youth "to encourage a no guns no violence campaign" to curb the culture of violence existing in society.

"I think it is the young people who can do this campaign so we can try to change the culture of violence," PGMA said.

But, the participation of the youth, or the public in general, in reality; can't be as attainable (and sustainable) as the President's conviction to ensure transparent and orderly elections simply because, only her has full the authority and the means to make sure all concerned agencies of the government would be working accordingly and make it happen.

All stakeholders, which includes the law enforcement, the Commission on Election, the candidates themselves and the general public must still unite and consolidate efforts as Philippines ushers in a new era of an automated elections.

The Maguindanao massacre probably the worst election related crime recorded, but, there were alot more. And, it happens all the time, in every election, even on Barangay level, there are people out there, who seem so starved, or desperate to grab political power; and/or keep the political dynasty going. Those people, obsessed politicians can do whatever it takes to get the "seat" they have dreamed of, they can take lives and sacrifice lives.

Aside from crimes, there are tons of issues of cheats like the "dagdag-bawas," vote buying and many more. The President part on this is not as critical as what the voters, or the Filipino people as a whole should have. In order to achieve this, everyone should assert our rights to vote and pick for the best! And, to make it a point that our vote would be protected and that it will go to the right candidate(s) that we will list on the ballots. But, the government has to ensure the full sanctity of the ballots too.

Let us keep in mind that every election is the moment that we can make the changes for our country; every election is an opportunity for us to move our country forward. So, let us own that moment; let us not waste it, let us vote wisely!

PGMA have proven her detractors wrong; by making 2010 Presidential Election possible. And, may she leaves us a legacy of an orderly, transparent and cheat free election, and smooth transitioning of government. More power to you Mrs. President and God bless your family!