Running for a political post is akin to going to war. That’s what they teach you in courses on how to win elections.
Small wonder that campaigners and their political masters treat their opponents like real enemies. Those who run out of legitimate issues against the opposing candidate resort to mudslinging, and throw even the proverbial kitchen sink at the opposing candidate.
Such has been the fare of our local radio stations, which are aired every day without fail for the last six years or so.
At times, the political commentators criticize the political commentators of the opponent.
Really, the situation is nothing less than absurd. What we need to hear from the campaigners is how their candidate will make the Philippines or our communities a better place.
Now, we have no less than the Bishop of the Dumaguete Diocese, Julito Cortes, appealing to campaigners and candidates to minimize mudslinging in this season of jeer.
Instead of mudslinging, the campaigners should instead focus on the “heart of the matter”, discussing issues, platforms, plans and other government agenda that would alleviate the current situation in the country.
It is a call to restore decency in the airwaves, for concern for the country, concern for the welfare of the people, and civic mindedness of the political candidates.
To this, we say a loud “Amen!”
