Challenges of Changes

Change, the most politically-abused and promising word traditionally claimed by legions of government leaders. It has been shouted during crusades in the last May elections and now it is being reiterated on their deliveries as they take an oath of allegiance on their respective offices. But still we precisely need it and we hope for it—for a better Philippines ahead.

Yesterday, the Filipino people witnessed the inauguration of our new and 15th President of the Republic of the Philippines, Benigno C. Aquino III. On his 21-minute inaugural address, he blatantly spoke out the reforms he desires to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance, quality education for our students, lessen the lack of infrastructures, increase employment rate, elevate the lives of many Filipino farmers, improve public health services, cut the massive exodus of our countrymen and justice for all.

It’s also good that the President mentioned about leadership by example. A head of the state must first and foremost set as a good example to his subordinates and to the Filipino People. His actions must inspire others to change as well. With this intact, it will strengthen the people’s trust and lighten the new administration’s aim to change the nation. And it was however, a failure of the Ex-Prexy, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo due to the massive controversies involving her administration.

“Kayo ang boss ko. Kaya’t hindi maaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos niyo”. His acknowledgement as a public servant emphasizes a government that will not play deaf and numb to the problems of the country and will not exhibit his position and power above all others. But we hope, he will not heed to the starving self-interest tactics for the benefits of the few.

The pressure is on... Will the Aquino administration be able to fulfill its promises? Elevate the aching economy? Is 6 years enough to change the Philippine government system—either to completely eliminate or at least diminish corruption? Will the Truth Commission be able to shed light on many unanswered issues involving GMA? Well, these are only few of the many challenges of changes the new government is facing.