Power should never be built on violence. As the country approaches a critical political juncture, Filipinos plead for leaders to uphold respect for human life over any ambition to secure or retain authority. Employ all political strategies, but never resort to bloodshed in pursuit of your goals.
History is a stern teacher. From the chaos of coup d’états to the unifying yet turbulent People Power movements, the Philippines has seen the disastrous consequences of leaders prioritizing personal ambition over national peace. These events leave deep scars on communities and erode trust in institutions meant to protect democracy. Leaders who resort to violence gamble not just with their legacy but with the nation’s fragile stability. Such actions do not secure loyalty; they ignite resentment.
The electorate deserves respect. If people place their trust in someone else, it is a decision that reflects their collective voice and vision for the future. Eliminating rivals to secure an uncontested path to power only highlights weakness and fear of fair competition. A leader who truly serves the public understands that governance is a privilege, not an entitlement, and accepts the outcome of free elections with dignity.
The Armed Forces, historically the guardians of state integrity, also watch with silent vigilance. Soldiers swear allegiance not to individuals but to the Republic. Any attempt to manipulate them for personal gain risks triggering unrest within their ranks, threatening the very fabric of national order. History reminds us that even those who wield temporary control over the military often lose when the institution aligns itself with justice and public sentiment.
To avert catastrophe, leaders must embrace principled politics and seek reconciliation, not domination. Elections should be a battlefield of ideas, not a theater of violence. Respect the will of the people; ensure peaceful transitions to preserve democracy, protect lives, and leave behind a legacy worth remembering.
