Intelligent, one of the mass, popular – these are some of the common characteristics that Filipinos find in their candidates. Just as
long as these are present, they will surely approve of them. Nowadays, television personalities turned politicians are most likely
to be seen in the Philippines. People tend to ignore the characteristics, experiences, and qualifications that a president should
possess. But what really makes a great president?
Indeed, it will greatly benefit the country if its president is an intelligent one. Making decisions for the country will be much easier if one is educated. A country will have a difficult time to progress if it is being led by a person who does not have the capabilities to lead a nation. Ferdinand Marcos, for instance, was undoubtedly one of the smartest presidents the country ever had.
Before the downfall of his rule, the country’s economy increased dramatically. In his State of the Nation Address on January 22,
1968, he
m e n tioned that
the infrastructure
program,
agriculture, forestry and
conservat i o n
greatly
by: Angelique Erispe
improved.
However,
it does not mean that if one is not clever enough, it will be impossible to be a president. People should always remember that
there are other factors to be considered in choosing a leader. Honesty and staying true to one’s word are the other characteristics that a president should have. In the past years, the government was bombarded by its citizens due to the issues regarding
corruption. During the inauguration of the presidents, they pledge in front of the Filipinos to abide by the law and serve for the
common good. However, after a period of time, some presidents tend to ignore and forget the pledge they have made. According to Del Pozo (2007), Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is yet the most corrupt president of the Philippines after being accused of
receiving kickbacks in a deal with China’s ZTE Corp. In addition, presidents should be courageous enough to resolve the problems of the country. They should be brave to correct and expose the wrong doings of the government, even if their position will
be at stake.
An Ideal President
The citizens of the Philippines should examine and choose their presidents carefully,