The People Have Spoken

Automated Polls

The people have spoken. Regardless of whether they cast their votes for the sake of common good or for their own self-interest or even just to alleviate the lightness of their pockets, the people have made their choice.

Although I wish to congratulate those who won the elections just as I did last time, the burden that accompanies the elected office has never been so light; much to say, that it is something that one should seek for the sake of achieving or attaining.

The first automated polls has ushered in a new era of Philippine politics, one which is fast and whose results/content is harder to tamper. And yet, far be it from me to say that it has no deficiencies.

For as long as individuals cheat and allow themselves to be cheated, no voting machine, however advanced, can produce results beneficial to all concerned.

Angono Elections

As for Angono, congratulations on those whom the people of Angono have elected.

Let it be known that the past administration has taken great strides in promoting the welfare of the community with due and proper regard to the laws that applies and must be adhered to by all, citizens and officials alike.

I expect the new administration to do the same or if not, my tongue will get inspired to be cheeky.

I wish newly elected officials good health and pray that wisdom be given from above to guide them in their decisions.

Issues

Let's get to business then.

* The past administration closed the dumpsite near the Laguna watershed area for the purpose of dumping and has relocated. The "transfer station" must be closed and the area completely rehabilitated. No further activity must be allowed in that area as per R.A 9003. If funding is available, build a park in it. Such an eye sore must not exist in the "Artist's Paradise."

* Public servants are not personal servants. Goverment employees work for the people and not for elected officials. The work/services they provide are not for elected official's personal use. Hence, it is unethical to order a government employee or anyone on government payroll to be told by an elected official to do something for his personal benefit. Exemptions are those who are designated as "personal assistants" and allowed by law and ordinance. Such personal assistants much not be in numbers to the point of competing with the Ampatuans.

* When outside the municipality, do not put relatives in charge. It is a violation of Sec 46 of R.A. 7160 (Philippine Local Government Code). If it is within 3 days, only elected or appointed officials of the municipality are allowed under the law to become OIC. After 3 days, the law demands that the vice-mayor takes over.

* It is unethical and possibly illegal for contracts that involve personal businesses of any government officials to bid in any government announcements/transactions. Biddings must take place on all public contracts unless permitted by law.

* Funeral flowers paid for by the municipality of Angono are to be addressed "on behalf of the Municipality of Angono" not "on behalf of Mayor... and family."

* Make sure none of an elected official's relatives benefit from being your relative when it involves government business.

* Abide by the Philippine Civil Service Laws when hiring government employees.

I am watching.