​On May 12,2025, the Philippines held its election, allowing citizens to choose their preferred leaders. It is a significant event for the country because leadership in itself is crucial. Without people willing to take on leadership roles, a community or nation can be in chaos and confusion.
 
Leadership, as a value, goes beyond mere principles or positions of authority. While it may seem inviting because of the apparent benefits that accompany it, such as fame, popularity, and promising incentives, it is more of a challenge rather than a source of prestige. The risks, responsibilities, and accountability that accompany leadership far outweigh any fleeting enjoyment, for at the core of leadership is service. It is fundamentally about serving others rather than being served. Our ultimate example of leadership, Jesus Christ, demonstrated this for us. He came in the likeness of a human being, and He took the form of a servant.
 
The importance of leadership cannot be overstated. While leadership is necessary, righteous leadership is a must; otherwise, it becomes unnecessary or ineffective when exercised in wickedness. As the Scriptures remind us, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked person rules, the people groan.” Thus, the true measure of righteous leadership is reflected in the condition or state of the people we serve, especially the marginalized and vulnerable, rather than just the privileged few.
 
Considering our current challenges with poverty, unemployment, literacy, and other pressing issues, one can say that our nation is in dire need of righteous leadership. We have brilliant leaders, and we need more of them with a character that ushers in our country’s glorious destiny. Given that righteous leadership is becoming rare, let us challenge ourselves to meet the demand. We must dare to make a difference and enable ourselves to be counted among those who can lead with righteousness – a new breed of leaders without greed, a model of integrity and honesty, one who cannot be bribed nor give in to temporary gratification, and one who remains on the side of honor, justice, and truth. Governed by reverence for the Almighty God and deep love for the nation, this is the kind of leadership that can truly free our country from all forms of corruption and arrest every decay and decline in our society.
 
Let us genuinely value leadership as an opportunity to impact the lives of others. As leaders in our respective areas of influence, let us wield the authority and power given to us to create significant and meaningful change. Use this opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for the succeeding generations. 

In a country like the Philippines, which is working toward better governance and positive change, purity might seem unrealistic. But for Filipino government workers, purity—which means honesty, strong morals, and full commitment to serving the people—is not just important; it's urgently needed.
In government service, purity means three key things: First, integrity of motive serves not for personal benefit but for the good of all. Second, clarity of purpose: faithfully upholding the Constitution, promoting justice, and serving everyone fairly. Third, moral uprightness: living and working with honesty, avoiding corruption, bribery, and lies. Simply put, a public servant who is pure has a clear conscience and serves with honesty and transparency.
Why does purity matter in public office and service? Filipinos trust their government workers—from barangay staff to national leaders. When that trust is broken by dishonesty, carelessness, or misuse of power, it harms more than just the government—it affects the whole nation. That’s why purity isn’t just a personal value; it’s a responsibility to the public.
Purity in public service is a noble but difficult calling. Every day, government workers face temptations like bribes, political pressure, or fear of backlash. These challenges only show how important it is to stay true to what is right. As President Ramon Magsaysay, the seventh president of the Philippines and known as "Man of the Masses," once said, "I believe that he who has less in life should have more in law." His words remind us that purity in public service ensures the protection of the weak, not their exploitation.
Here are practical ways to uphold purity in public service: One, personal reflection: Regularly check your motives. Ask yourself, “Am I truly serving others, or just myself?” Two, transparency in work: Keep honest records and clear processes. Be ready to explain your actions truthfully. Three, courage to say no: Stand firm against bribes, favors, or actions that go against your conscience or the law. Four, choose the right company—surround yourself with mentors and colleagues who share your values. Five, stay rooted in faith and principles. Let your belief in God and love for the Philippines guide your actions.
Today, the Philippines needs more than just efficient governance—it needs leaders and workers with pure hearts. Not perfect people, but sincere ones. Not without flaws, but courageous enough to do what is right. Purity may not always make headlines, but it quietly transforms lives and builds nations. For every Filipino public servant, purity is not merely a personal choice—it is a sacred duty. Let us serve with both competence and conscience, for the future of our nation depends on it.

​The latest campaigns and election period for us Filipinos are like taking a board examination where we choose the best. Many candidates compete for votes, aspiring to be in the seat of the nation’s leaders. We have been hoping for a better Philippines through the candidates we hope will win. We sometimes faced failures as a nation, and we sometimes blamed it on those on the rank. We are hoping for better leaders to lead us, but are we also hoping to be better Filipinos to work with them? The realization that the status of our nation reflects our status as Filipinos. Building a nation is not a one-man team; we need each other. Our nation does not rely on specific individuals only; it relies on us.

Interdependence works with the word together. It is being, building, learning, and growing together.  As the Almighty Creator saw and said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” We should realize that we are bound to help each other. If we want to build something, we need to recognize our and other’s strengths and weaknesses. We must seek to improve what we have, not to compete with each other but to complement each other as part of the family, an organization, a working force, and a nation. Being independent has the pitfall of self-reliance and pride where there is no room for asking for help from others. Each one of us needs a helper to build something great.

One blessing of interdependence is protection and strength; King Solomon said, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” A nation with people who are intertwined with each other will always be secure and strong. Interdependence teaches us to protect each other and not to destroy each other. It brings us to a realization that our nation needs interdependent citizens with one collective goal of building her up.

Independent ones are strong but become stronger when they humbly recognize their and other’s strengths and weaknesses and pursue interdependence. Hellen Keller once said, “Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” Re-elected Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto once said we cannot change the system alone. We need to realize, as Filipinos, that we should not look for a savior. Change does not rely on only one person. We differ in many things, but we can build a better Philippines together. Together, start where we are now!

​In the recent election, candidates reacted differently upon learning the results, even before all the votes were counted. We hear stories of electoral protest, suspension of the proclamation of the winning candidate, expression of intent to seek a recount, and much more. However, the most admirable response came from those who quickly conceded and congratulated the winners.

Conceding to the result of the election reveals one’s strength of character. It demonstrates humility, stripping away pride and embodying professionalism. Those who concede genuinely grasp the political feat they have embarked on. They understand that it is about public service and not for personal aggrandizement; not for fame or personal glory but for the service of all. They embrace the wisdom in the saying, “whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant”. This is congruent to what Louise Penny, an author, said: “Sometimes the only way up is down”. Indeed, this truth remains – “those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted”. 

Humility is easier said than done. It is a testament to inner strength that requires ‘death to self,’ or a battle of the self. It takes courage to be like the prodigal son in the Scripture, who said, “I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.’” No wonder few are restored to their original state like the prodigal son and refreshed thereafter. However, those who embrace humility will experience refreshing, transformation, and reconciliation.

Humility is a powerful tool for reconciliation. It fosters harmony not only with God but also with others. It paves the way for constructive and wholesome communication. Compassion and mercy flow when humility is present. This is why formal court complaints are sometimes withdrawn following an admission of liability by an alleged erring party and with expressed willingness to restitute a loss or recompense an injury. Also, alternative modes of dispute resolution are increasingly encouraged in the judicial system, as they are less confrontational and promote peace.

Besides being a tool for reconciliation, humility also plays a crucial role in preventing administrative offenses that a public servant may commit, such as insubordination, discourtesy, abuse of authority, and oppression. Humility, thus, becomes a pathway to embody the qualities of an honorable public servant. 

Understanding the positive effects of humility, let us respond with unwavering commitment. We should put in our utmost effort to practice humility in all aspects of our lives, whether personally or in the discharge of our public functions. 

by: Jesus V. Sison, PTRP
​Deputy National Director, CRFV

​Reliability was defined as the ability to be relied on for accuracy, honesty, or achievement. Thus, it can be applied in these three descriptive words: accuracy, honesty, and achievement.

First, a person is reliable if they do their work accurately, such as in the entry of amounts and particulars in accounting records. It can also be reflected in the implementation of projects and the discharge of duties. An officer-in-charge is deemed reliable if they build an infrastructure project based on engineering standards or work per existing standard operating procedures or office policies and rules and regulations.

Second, a person is reliable if they do their work honestly. It is likened to trustworthiness, where a supply officer or cash custodian keeps the properties and items under their care, always intact or in place, whether an audit is conducted or not.

Finally, reliability is shown in the area of achievement. We put our confidence in a person who finishes what they have started and fulfills to deliver what they have promised to produce or attain.
The above applications are representations of integrity; thus, the value of reliability is under the core value of integrity.

In this campaign period, the ability of those who vie for elective posts to realize their political platform is a test of reliability. How many of our electoral candidates, national or local, will be able to carry out their promises? It is just a meager percentage based on our past experiences. However, we, too, have a role to play as citizens of the Republic, especially if we hold an appointive office in the public sector or a position of authority in the private sector. We should diligently discharge our respective functions, whether big or small. It is part of reliability.

We consider ourselves responsible for others, and we are conscious that we do not live alone but for other people. For the succeeding generation, we are regarded as reliable people. If we are in public service, we should not intentionally allow ourselves to be sidetracked from our focus and intended function by minor issues at the expense of our clientele and transacting public. We should not allow ourselves to be persuaded wrongly or unduly influenced by injustice and wicked systems. We should always safeguard the reputation and respect of our offices or agencies, bearing in mind that public office is a public trust.
​
Understanding the above concept of reliability, reliability should be a common trait of every Filipino if we are to work for development. Since childhood, we have had our “Panatang Makabayan,” or Patriotic Oath. We could have gone far in progress if we were faithful to our pledges. Note that there are unspoken expectations from the younger generation. It is anticipated that we will not let the cycle of poverty become pervasive but instead work for sustainable growth. As stakeholders of a better Philippines, reliability is the name of the game.

If exposed to a dangerous place or situation, it is our automatic response to exert every effort to escape it. No matter what the cost, we need to move out! But what if we are unaware that we are indeed walking on a path that will bring us to our destruction? Wickedness is like a trap that brings deception and later destruction to anyone who pursues it. A proverb says, "There is a way that appears right, but in the end, it leads to death." 

As Jesus warned His hearers, "There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs." The perception of "as long as don’t get caught, it won't destroy us," will bring us to our grave. Prophet Isaiah once lamented for the wicked, "Woe to the wicked! Disaster is upon them! They will be paid back for what their hands have done."  Additionally, Prophet Micah shared the same sentiment, "Woe to those who devise wickedness and work evil on their beds! When the morning dawns, they perform it because it is in the power of their hand." Which is further affirmed by Apostle Paul when he said, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." Unless we realize the danger and severity of our path, we change our ways and pursue righteousness.

Being trapped in wickedness is like being locked in a dark room with the door key in our hands. Our consciousness of our dangerous situation, freedom, and safety are in our hands. The key to breaking out of wickedness lies in our choice of genuine repentance. Repentance is like realizing we're moving toward the wrong destination and willfully turning the steering wheel to change direction. Are we desperate to get out of wickedness? Are we suffering the consequences of our unguarded choices and actions? Are we desperate to move out of this trap? Respond to the call of repentance and enjoy its blessing. "If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve Me." Our genuine repentance will bring us into our restoration.
​
Genuine repentance brings us back to the author of righteousness. Through it, we find God's grace to admit our wickedness to Him and others. Zacchaeus, a tax collector called a sinner because of his wicked schemes, was willing to turn from his old ways and follow the path of righteousness. As we repent, we find the same grace to leave wickedness behind and pursue righteousness. Unrepentance brings us into the grave of destruction and lack of peace, but repentance brings us to grace, a life of unmerited favor! Paul admonishes us to "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."
​

Just like that, January has come and gone. Time passes by quickly. Isn’t this the perfect moment to pause and reflect on the contributions we hope to make in achieving our goals this year—whether in our personal lives, family, workplace or even for our nation? Benjamin Franklin once said, "We can never find lost time again." Before another month sneaks up on us, let's strive to make every day meaningful and purposeful, bringing positive changes to various aspects of our lives and advancing us toward our goals. However, success in accomplishing our aspirations is rarely done in isolation; it almost always requires significant support from others, which calls us to pursue unity for greater success.
 
While fostering unity has its advantages in achieving a more efficient and effective approach, we recognize that it is not an effortless task. It requires a genuine demonstration of respect, openness, empathy, selflessness, and humility. This reminds us of Saint Paul’s exhortation: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.”
 
Reflecting on the value of unity resonates deeply within our current socio-political landscape. There are significant gaps and strained relationships among our leaders. We see how former political allies from previous elections have shifted to opposing sides on many critical issues in governance. Addressing these divisions is crucial for moving forward together.
 
The negative effects of division and factionalism, whether on a national or local scale, are detrimental to economic growth. The sharing of resources and technology can be hindered, contributing to regional underdevelopment. Such divisions foster prejudice and discrimination, resulting in injustices that deny equal opportunities to all. It can create a vicious, vindictive culture, such as when a winning candidate in a past election gives less support to political units that rendered an unfavorable number of votes. It also delays the passing of relevant laws that are beneficial and crucial for development, whether in the local or national legislative branch of the government.
 
By nature, we are known for our good custom or practice of caring for one another. We take pride in our Filipino trait of camaraderie and the bayanihan system. This is our strength as one nation under God. Given the pressing issues in our country, it is imperative and crucial for us to reconnect with our identity. To save our nation from decline, it takes the collaboration and consolidation of our skills, talents, and expertise. As the saying goes, “In unity, we stand; divided, we fall.”
 
Gathering in one place alone cannot achieve unity. It requires fellowship—covenant toward a deeper relationship for noble and meaningful purposes. Let us strive for unity and fellowship for greater success in the things we hope to accomplish this year—in our personal lives, families, workplaces, and for our nation.