Image source: ABS-CBN News, used under fair use for news commentary.
❝ 19 said Yes. 4 said No. 1 Abstained. ❞
You’ve probably seen the image already.
Senators lined up—faces shown, votes labeled.
But this blog isn’t about who voted what.
It’s about what we do after we see something like this.
Because let’s be honest:
Filipinos are tired. Tired of scandals. Tired of recycled names. Tired of hoping for real change only to see it buried under bureaucracy.
So, we scroll. We sigh.
Then we move on.
But we shouldn’t.
Because while this vote may be history, the lesson it teaches us should never be archived.
🇵🇭 It’s time to choose: Personalities or Principles?
In the Philippines, political loyalty often looks like defending a person—no matter what.
But real patriotism means asking hard questions—even when it’s uncomfortable.
We need to break the cycle of:
- Voting based on popularity, not policy
- Defending “our side,” even when they’re wrong
- Believing accountability is an attack, instead of a necessity
When we defend personalities blindly, we weaken the very systems that are supposed to protect us.
⚖️ Democracy is not a teleserye
This isn’t about drama.
It’s about our taxes. Our services. Our future.
The image above? It’s not a scorecard of loyalty.
It’s a reflection of how each senator responded to an important national issue. We can agree or disagree. But we must stay engaged.
🛒 Stay informed with resources like Why Nations Fail to understand how power shapes prosperity.
🙋🏽♀️ What Can a Regular Filipino Do?
You might think, “Wala naman akong magagawa.”
But you’d be surprised. Here’s how ordinary actions become extraordinary change:
1. Pay attention, not just react
Know what your leaders are doing. Don’t just focus on headlines—read the fine print.
🛒 Try using a news and reflection journal to track civic events and your responses.
2. Talk about issues, not people
Shift your social media from “si ganito kasi…” to “Bakit ganito ang sistema?”
Post critical, thoughtful questions. Spark discussion—not division.
3. Support candidates with a track record—not a surname
The next election isn’t that far off. Start doing your research now.
Check bills filed, votes made, and public behavior, not just posters or jingles.
4. Let your loyalty be to country, not to cults of personality
It’s okay to admire a leader—but never at the expense of your values.
Challenge them when necessary. That’s what real love for country looks like.
5. Model citizenship in your own life
If you want honest leaders, practice honesty in your work.
If you want accountability, be accountable in your relationships.
Nation-building isn’t just for politicians—it’s a lifestyle.
🛒 Build better habits of responsibility with Atomic Habits.
💬 Final Thought
This image is more than a vote—it’s a mirror.
It reflects what kind of democracy we’re becoming.
But also, what kind of citizens we choose to be.
Are we passive spectators? Or are we brave patriots?
Because at the end of the day, loyalty to politicians fades—
but loyalty to the Philippines? That’s forever.