Promotion of the Common Good

​by: Mr. Nathaniel A. Saquiban

Last Monday, October 30, 2023, we held a national activity or event which is the national election for Barangay officials. It is expected that all Barangay officials vying for leadership function has the heart or intention to promote the common good of all their constituents. It is so because public office especially elective office or position is not for personal aggrandizement or fame but for service to the public with the end in view of upholding the welfare of the populace.

It is just sad to hear that in some parts of the Philippines, there are alleged shooting and other crimes being committed during the recent campaign period. It is surprising to note considering that the election is just in the Barangay level. How much more would these offenders do if they are running for a higher office? Such detestable acts reveal their wicked motives and negative reasons for running to an elective office. It is only for selfish gain and personal satisfaction, and not for the promotion of the general welfare.

How many are there in the leadership today who had pure and noble design in aiming for leadership function? Are there still remnants today who envision a better future and desire the public good rather than amassing wealth during their stint in office just to perpetrate their ever, ambitious egocentric career?

The above realities made James Freeman Clarke, an American minister, commented in this wise, “A politician thinks of the next election; a statesman thinks of the next generation”. In line with this, Georges Pompidou, the former President of France, also stated, “A statesman is a politician who places himself at the service of the nation. A politician is a statesman who places the nation at his service”. It is quite offensive to hear such quotes but there are levels of truth to what they said. It does not mean though that being a politician is wrong because politics is not wrong as politician is a person who engages in politics. On the other hand, being a statesman or stateswoman refers more of a quality, character, or attitude of a leader. Thus, we can conclude that a politician can also be a statesman or stateswoman if that person possesses the character of being noble and reputable leader.
​
Contemplating on the above discussions, the Philippines is really in need of leaders who are not just politicians but also statesmen and stateswomen. It is looking for people who shall rekindle hope of a bright future upon its citizens. Together with our present leaders, we must be of this kind.