The way things are turning out, it seems the big issue for Philippine politics is change. We seem to be reflecting our former colonizer, America, if the surveys are to be believed.
Since we do not have strong party lines, the issue revolves around not principles that the administration holds, but personality based politics. People just want someone different to take the lead , hence, someone must replace Gloria.
But who will it be? According to recent surveys we have Manny Villar, and, if we believe the hype, Noy Noy Aquino.
Will they be the change we need or want?
Between Villar and Aquino, Villar would be the more different one, in the sense that his family has never had a President. Aquino has already had his mom in office. Villar, although a real politician, with all the wheeling and dealing, is not related to the Cojuangcos who own Hacienda Luisita which, if allowed to continue, would be the antithesis to change most of the farmers there are demanding. Noynoy on the other hand brings with him the air of a newcomer in politics. Despite being a 3 term congressman and a incumbent senator, Noynoy has not been associated with the wheeling and dealings politicians are normally despised for.
What about Noli de Castro? I've got nothing against him as a Vice-President. He did his job well clearing all the squatters along the north rail project, but he's just too associated with the current admin so he's out of the picture.
In my opinion, to keep things spicy, the admin must find a way to get Villar on their side and get another breath of fresh air (either Gordon or Teodoro) to run as his vice. The opposition must unite behind Aquino and Roxas to make a dent against the massive machinery the admin may have if it joins with Villar.
Villar's image has little to lose by joining the admin. He's the new Erap. Villar para sa mahirap. His squatter commercials have established him as the person the masses can relate to.
Next year is going to be a turning point for Philippine politics. Time to see if we've grown up.
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