US envoy: Elections festival of democracy

As results of America's vote came in, US Ambassador Mary Kay Carlson called the elections on Tuesday a festival of American democratic process where voting is a privilege, but also comes with obligations.

- PIA LEE-BRAGO

"As friends, partners and allies, we hold each other accountable to live up to our highest democratic ideals, including maybe especially during elections," Carlson said yesterday.

"Our systems of government, though far from perfect, strive to enshrine the rule of law and protect the equality and dignity of all people - one person, one vote at a time. As Abraham Lincoln said, 'Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people,'" she said.

She noted that when political parties compete freely on a level playing field, when voters' rights are respected and when election outcomes are upheld with the peaceful transition of power, "societies are more prosperous and secure." "And if governments fall short, voters can vote the other way the next time. That's the power of democratic elections," she added.

With relations on very strong footing, the Philippines and the United States will remain "steadfast" friends and "ironclad" allies whoever wins the presidential elections, Carlson said.