Leni Robredo's guide for voting wisely

BREAKTHROUGH

- By IVAN NECHEPURENKO

The result of tomorrow's elections will dictate the future of our country, at the very least for the next three years. This is also a chance for those who truly love the country to set the example on how responsible citizens should choose the right candidates in this election.

A couple of months ago, I was able to obtain a copy of former vice president Leni Robredo's selection process for her Team Naga in her mayoralty run in Naga City. She called it Team Naga Selection Process-Good Governance Form. The purpose of the form was to help screen candidates for local positions according to the essential criteria for good governance. However, it is clear that it could also be used as the basis for choosing the best candidates for local positions.

She had three major categories. The first was ethical basis, transparency and accountability. Under this first category were four qualities: accountable for their decisions and actions; proven track record of honesty and accountability; demonstrate the courage to speak out/stand against corruption, even if it involves a colleague's wrong doing and maintain his or her own stand and is not swayed by others.

The second category was leadership quality, skills and experiences. There are six qualities here: has a clear and achievable plan for community development; demonstrate the capacity to anticipate and then respond to or resolve upcoming challenges or difficulties; understand local governance processes; lead in development and implementation of policies and programs for community development growth; lead and manage and head the council and show great skills in creating laws.