By: Jubelle C. Cabatingan
As early as August of 2009, the LCC Administration conducted a film showing to the College students about the truth behind politics in the Philippines.
The students watched the documentary film, Eleksyong Pinoy which was provided by the Jesuit Communications. Some wondered why these religious people engaged themselves with political matters. Wasn’t it stated in our Philippine Constitution that the separation of the Church and the State shall be inviolable? The issue was explained and made clear in the film.
The Church did not interfere with the governance of the state especially in politics. The election was the prevailing symbol of democracy. It was where the future of the country would rely. Thus, exercising the right of suffrage required proper contemplation and examination of conscience. And as far as conscience is concerned, there’s morality of action. The Church then was involved. On the long run, the Church was after the better interest of the people.
The film was able to show the students the real end of unwise voting. They saw poverty, corruption and crime. They learned the different tricky strategies of the politicians in order to gain votes. We had seen through history that suffrage before was only limited to the aristocrats or the upper class. But now, we were lucky that we were enjoying this right regardless of our class in society.
The students also noted their reactions on post-it stickers and put them on the Freedom Wall. Some commented, “Election is really insane!” Others wrote “ I will never make a difference.” True enough, the future of our country lies on our wise voting of candidates.
The purpose of the school in filming Eleksyong Pinoy was to enlighten the students especially the voters to be wise in choosing the candidates. These upcoming 2010 National Election. Further, this activity aimed of enriching the students’ political and social awareness so that they may be aware of their moral obligation as youths who will make this country a better place to live.
