Survivor

ENGLISH IV-A

#20 Name: Chan, Krystle Date: Feb. 27, 2010

Teacher: Mr. Richard M. Rillo

Formal Theme

Survivor

How does one judge a politician? There may be good ones and bad ones, but it seems like the people can’t differentiate them; seeing as our economy is sinking to the abyss. Apparently, they can all sweep the public off its feet, with their charisma and credibility, strengthened by a few good deeds; they hold the ability to influence all kinds of people. These people all have the same strictly clean profile, on the exterior. Now, a new hope arises for our country when the 2010 presidential elections start, therefore this time we have to look past the exterior: the well-rehearsed version of their platforms and beliefs, the number of charities they have done, and everything that may hinder us from seeing the presidential candidates for who they really are.

So I remembered the time when I was watching this T.V. show called “Survivor.” The contestants come to this uncivilized wild-forest type place with no amenities. They live there, of course, by building makeshift tents and other necessary things to live. They gain utensils or takeout food by winning games. I think that these presidential candidates should be placed I this kind of show. Here, their beautifully delivered speeches won’t have any value; neither will their contributions to the government. They will be stripped of all their trophies, and we will see them as ordinary individuals. Unclouded by such distractions, the mass will be able to see what kind of persons these candidates are, their behavior and attitude, the way they react to constant pressure, and if they can really relate to the low-class social circle.

I’m not saying that policies don’t matter, but they should come second to the candidate’s personality. No one wants a replay of Marcos’ dictatorship, or Estrada’s illegal activities. The future president of the RP should have a conscience, and answers to it before anything...