BY ILLRY JOHN TRANGIA
DEMOCRACY in the Philippines has always been characterized by politics that evoke intense sentiments accompanied by all types of spectacle and drama. Unlike political leaders, political icons and messiahs are anxious to become, and many, in reality, become one where is someone’s devotion makes them overlook ever so glaring imperfections. This is, of course, not something exclusive to the Philippines, but for this nation, it has reached a level that is dangerously threatening to the democratic fabric of the country.
Broadly speaking, political fanaticism in the Philippines refers to the excessive devotion and loyalty given to a politician by his/her followers. Such over-devotion is beyond discourse, plunging the supporters into a realm beyond the reach of reason. In its worst form, fanaticism makes political rallies take on a quasi-religious character marked by slogans, chants, and another form of imagery that borders on mesmerism. These passions today are magnified with social media, which acts as blessing in information that would have otherwise been ignored, yet is a bane in forming ghettos populated with like-minded individuals.
The effects of such an approach to catastrophic. Loyalty to a leader without keen observance to everything that makes democracy work summons consequences that are inhuman to the oppositional structures that have been designed to protect our rights and freedoms begin to deteriorate when allegiances to a leader take precedence above respect for democratic values and accountability. Dissent is suppressed, critics turn become foes, and the political landscape grows more divided. In this environment, discussions of concerning governance and policy are subordinated to loyalty conflicts, and the intricacy of problems is substituted with crude “us versus them” dichotomies.
This fanatical culture has been fueled by the country’s rise in populist politicians’ appeal to the anxieties and hopes of their voters by promising to cure society’s problems and building a devoted following of followers who take what they say at its value. These leaders frequently promote polarizing language, splintering the public conversation and marginalizing those who dare to challenge their authority, rather than cultivating a culture of discussion and compromise.
This political fanaticism can be particularly dangerous in times of crisis. When the nation is grappling with pressing issues, be it poverty, corruption, or a pandemic, followers may overlook mismanagement and misconduct in favor of blind loyalty. This can lead to a cycle of mediocrity, where performance takes a backseat to political allegiance, and the very hopes of the people are left unfulfilled. Moreover, the obsession with celebrity politicians has shifted the focus from governance to spectacle. Policies become secondary, and platforms become performance art, designed to capture rather than to serve. Media attention, especially in a landscape dominated by sensationalism, often rewards style over substance, leaving citizens longing for authentic leadership amid a cacophony of populist theatrics.
It is crucial for citizens to regain their political agency in order to prevent this descent into fanaticism. Advocate for active citizenship that is both passionate and logical. Education is essential because it may produce knowledgeable voters who can tell the difference between competency and charisma by encouraging critical thinking in the next generation. To ensure that people can separate fact from fiction in a time when false information may spread like wildfire, media literacy is equally important. Additionally, fostering forums for discussion among people with different political views is crucial to mending divisions. In order to facilitate the sharing of people’s ideas that go beyond the dichotomous nature of modern political discourse, civil engagement programs can promote civil dialogue.
Political fervor is a normal and essential part of democracy, but it needs to be restrained by critical thinking and a dedication to the common good. The extremism that currently permeates Philippines politics must give way to a more knowledgeable and productive approach to a government. It is our duty as citizens to foster a political culture that prioritizes accountability above slavish loyalty and where leaders are evaluated on the basis of their deeds and outcomes rather than just their words. Only then will we have a chance to create a political environment that represents our values and goals, not only for the ruling class but also for all Filipinos.
Illry John V. Trangia is a student from the University of Cebu-Main Campus.
