The morning after the May 13 elections was an exciting day for us Filipinos as we waited for the results. Here are the headlines in some newspapers:
Philippine election: Duterte’s magic routed opposition. Strong showing by the president’s allies in midterm elections paves the way for him to ‘transform political system.’ The vote has been cast as a referendum on Duterte’s leadership, three years since he took office, and a strong showing by his preferred candidates is likely to embolden the president and cement his influence on the senate which has traditionally kept executive power in check.” (Raissa Robles, South China Morning Post, May 14)
“Admin bets’ dominance shows ‘Duterte magic’. Administration allies appeared poised for victory in midterm elections, unofficial results showed on Tuesday, proof, Malacanang said, of President Duterte’s magic. Monday’s midterm vote is seen as a gauge of public support for Mr. Duterte, who is midway through his single six-year term. His deadly crackdown on illegal drugs, unorthodox leadership style, combative and sexist joke-laden outbursts and contentious embrace of China have been hallmarks of his presidency.” (Philippine Daily Inquirer, May 15)
“Admin bets victory, Otso Diretso loss traced to ‘Duterte magic:’ President Duterte’s ‘magic’ has apparently worked as majority of the administration-backed senatorial candidates are poised to win while all candidates of the opposition senatorial slate Otso Diretso did not make it to the top 12, as claimed by Malacanang on Tuesday May, 14. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, adds, “ Undoubtedly, the Duterte magic spelled the difference. The overwhelming majority of the electorate have responded to the call of the President to support those whom he said would help pass the laws supportive of his goal to uplift the masses of our people and give them comfortable lives they richly deserve.” (Ruth Abbey Gita, Sunstar, May 14).
The morning-after effects of the May 13 elections was varied. Majority rejoiced, others are still holding on and hoping they could get into the magic 12 of the senatorial lineup, while most have conceded.
Among the results of the May 13 elections was the downfall of political dynasties like the Estradas, with former President Erap Estrada losing in the mayoral race in Manila to Isko Moreno, his vice-mayor; as well as other members of the family who likewise were defeated.
Politics, they say, is fun but it can also play jokes on you and worst of all, play havoc on your plans.
Some even kill their rivals, which is an example of a worst -case scenario. Vote buying is also another reality. Many voters waited until the last hour to vote (actually, they were waiting for additional “gifts” from some candidates).
Some also say that after the election, we have to observe how those who ran for an office would conduct themselves. Would they travel abroad? Or is there a new car in their garage? How about their bank books? Although we cannot have access to the latter, we can speculate there was an increase in the deposits/assets.
Many try to hide these new-found wealth. But one thing is sure, there is a change in their lifestyle or status in society. Such is the truth and mystery of politics.
The Bible verse is deemed apt: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7
May God bless President Duterte and other government officials, as well as all of us.
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