Power of five

The political history of the Republic of the Philippines contains rivalry and spite within the past generations, even before colonization. It goes beyond interpersonal relationships when conflicts come along the way. It puts the country's life at stake. It is common knowledge that an administration would blame the previous administration for the problems left at its hands. We wouldn't be shocked that a former leader is behind bars, chained for a so-called mistake he or she may have made.

Recently, the Presidential Communications Assistant released a photo of all five presidents of the Philippines posing together for posterity as they were all present in a meeting called by the President. It was a beautiful sight to see our leaders who once steered the country's direction coming together to talk about our national security. Of course, they have their own insights and ideas. They were not just elected to position just so. They also have enough experience and credentials to back it up.

Just like everyone else, all I could think of were heart emotions upon seeing the photo. For the first time, there is unity despite political differences. It is like we are inches away from the peace we all longed for. In the President's SONA he called for a unilateral ceasefire between militant groups that are hounding our own security. Weeks before, he appointed peace negotiator to set the tone for those in Mindanao who have their own needs to be addressed.

Why now? If the problem of security has long been an issue, why did it take fifteen presidents before a concrete action plan can be made? Priorities, I should say. Like how the government, for the previous years, bent their own rules. Constitution says that the education sector should get the highest percentage of the budget, but reality tells us otherwise. What an irony!

Sometimes the wound needs to bleed before a person could actually notice. While there are other problems to be addressed, there are also ways to go about it despite the limit in manpower, resources, or for the lack of it, knowledge. Now we are blessed to be with a leader who calls for unity, knows his limits, and humbles himself before his predecessor. There are no buts and ifs, but a move to put an iron fist to stop this country from moving forward.

Things are just heating up as it gets better and better. We can judge from what we see from the sidelines or we can just let those in position decide for themselves. Once and for all, we can finally reach a point in our history where the conflicts cease, factions are demolished and a common cause is seen.

Finally, we can emulate a person who does not care of political affiliation but of strength and capability to do the job. It is like a dream coming true, what more can we ask for?

Those five presidents will continue to meet and discuss. Hopefully, they too, can start putting their differences aside not minding who placed who behind bars. All of them are free and are tasked to put their skills to good use. Just like that of a movie, it seems like we are just starting out. One month in and I couldn't wait for the more to come.