The Need for Righteous Leadership

by: Ame-Phil O. Saquiban

​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.