BY HONEY LYN Y. TAGOD
TV SHOW host Willie Revillame shared that his main motivation for running is his strong desire to help more people and tackle poverty. He believes that having compassion is more important than just having expertise. Willie Revillame has spent 27 years on TV, which has helped him connect with people and learn about their needs.
However, his lack of political experience and heavy focus on his celebrity image raise real questions about whether he can do the job of a senator effectively. His claim that he’s “ready to extend his help to everyone,” especially those in need and senior citizens, may sound appealing. Still, it’s unclear how he plans to translate his TV persona into effective governance.
Senators mainly focus on creating and passing laws. This job requires them to understand different policy issues, figure out where the laws might be lacking, and improve existing laws by making changes, when necessary, through amendments. The Philippine Constitution provides the basic requirements of age, citizenship, residency, and literacy for senators. But being a senator is a lot more than just that. It takes more than being able to read and write.
Everyone has the capacity to help, especially if they have the means and resources. However, having the means is not enough; it should be coupled with intelligence so that when expertise is needed, you can contribute your intellect. That is something many Filipinos don’t realize. Being a public official is not just about handing out canned goods and supplies. We need real reforms and competent leaders.
Willie Revillame launched his senatorial campaign with a series of events in Davao, accompanied by prominent political figures, including Senate President Chiz Escudero, GP party-list Rep. GP Padiernos, and luxury car dealer-turned-mayoral candidate RR Ronquillo.
Revillame’s campaign launch was very public and expensive, as shown by his use of a private jet, reportedly given to him by a supporter. Essentially, the campaign’s showy presentation overshadowed any discussion of Revillame’s political agenda. Without a clear outline of his policy intentions, voters might be reluctant to back him, as they lack insight into his desired direction for the nation.
The core function of a senator is to create and amend laws and participate in legislative debates, which lawyers and law students need to study and learn. If your primary goal is to help the less fortunate, I think the best way is to set up a foundation addressing its root causes rather than a senatorial role.
Is effective governance in the Senate a matter of heart or expertise?
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Honey Lyn Tagod is a third-year AB-Political Science student at the University of Cebu Main Campus. The piece is written as part of their Introduction to Journalism course.
