One columnist may say more than what it is- ordeur maneure. Given the complexities of politics in this part of the world, I find myself a little sadden at what should have been a new era in Philippine society. Young idealists both in Congress and in the Senate stood up. Their almost unrelenting quest for truth and justice reverberated everywhere. In my thoughts, the old guards must be grinding their teeth at these wannabes. With contemptuous looks at some their own peers in the legislature, the more experienced ones would lash out, all unequaled in fury and yet well calculated in manner, to disprove or berate their opponents. It would sometimes dwell on a more personal level that made the unlucky recipient look like an imbecile. In other countries, this would have resulted in a free-for-all. Chairs would be seen flying, thick bundles of documents scattered all over, kicks and punches thrown, suits disheveled and collars pulled, people yanked out of their seats... A total bedlam.
There was a couple of scenes caught live on local television a few years back. One which I hardly can remember now or how it exactly went about. One was when a veteran lawmaker, heavily built and almost towering, threw a punch at one colleague after a heated argument. Another incident happened during a general assembly, a matinee idol-turned-congressman gave the Sargeant-at-Arms, a retired army general at that, a whopping slap on the face. It hit him so hard that one could see him stagger, his feet wobble and appear to be momentarily disoriented. Poor general, he actually did not see it coming. He must have thought the other guy was approaching just to give him a pat on the back. Instead he was given a "citation", a once-in-a-lifetime five-finger open palmed mark on the cheek. Things like these can make one of little resolve fight back and get even.
At this point I recalled quite clearly seeing, again on television, something a bit more drastic. A ranking government U.S. official held a press conference. And while he was going through his impromptu speech, he slowly brought out a small paper bag containing a revolver. As swiftly, he held its barrel in his mouth and pulled the trigger. All in full view of horrified reporters and guests. Not to mention the millions of people watching it on television. May God forgive him and his soul find peace. He might have gotten into such a mess in government service as to take his own life. Anyhow that would not happen here. Instead scenarios and schemes are planned out and the concerned official getting the upper hand in revenge. All with the aid of professional spinners or what have you.
Back to the Philippine scene. I thought all will result in a brighter future for politics here. Young hopefuls who ran eventually gaining their seats in government. Idealists who are leaders in their own fields of interests were appointed to some cabinet posts. Come the moment however for changing of the guards so to speak. Election. What were impressed upon many was that there would be a change in the way campaigns are to be done. No more bickering, mudslinging, demolition jobs, etc. The new generation of politicians stressed that they will bring this election into a level that is more deserving and meritorious. Issues will be intelligently debated upon. Speculations shunned. Coercion a thing of the past. But then, there are too many stakeholders this time. A very welcome sight for those watching this not so unexpected event. They who prefer chaos and turmoil over that of stability and progress.
In the end, still all may find themselves in political (en)trails. And that is putting it lightly.
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