Among the people

I can say that I have become accustomed to viewing government and our public leaders through a critical lens, having been exposed to activism and critical thinking through my formal education.

- Atty, lan Vincent Manticajon

My political orientation and leanings have remained essentially the same over the years, but my perception of our political leaders has become more nuanced.It is easy to speak in the language of ideals, to lecture about justice, reform, and good governance from a distance. It is far more difficult to actually lead, to administer institutions, and to confront the often messy realities of dealing with the political body.

What I am wary of is shortsightedness, and I do not mean shortsightedness in the ordinary sense: not a lack of intellect or an inability to understand complex things. On the contrary, many of those in power are shrewd, calculating, and politically gifted.

The thing that bothers me is the shortsightedness of power without discipline, intelligence without a moral compass, and ambition without limits. It is when self-interest, corruption, ego, and the pull of parochial inner circles shape decisions that should instead be governed by the general welfare.

I find that foolish because decisions rooted in ego or self-interest usually bring everyone down, including the decision-maker. They weaken institutions, distort judgment, and sacrifice the common good. Their consequences are contagious, and even felt across generations.