Pink power  

What’s the lure of those political rallies held by presidential candidate Leni Robredo?

More than 100,000 people swarmed to Pasig City. As early as 1 p.m., four hours before the scheduled rally, hordes descended from the MRT station, traipsing their way over to Pasig.

Hand-made signs were held aloft, and the wittiest slogans competed with each other. A favorite was a dig at Pulse Asia that seems to have had nothing but overwhelming majorities for Bongbong Marcos ever since it began polling. That sign challenged Pulse Asia to show itself as he (the sloganeer) was there.

It was time to investigate. What drew people to devote their time and money in supporting her rallies? What accounted for people prepping chicken sandwiches to be distributed free to rallyists? (Of course, the free snacks were available only to those who weren’t chicken enough to attend presidential debates). Why were supporters making sure their presence was felt?

The most powerful moment for me was after the rally. The celebrities had shown themselves on stage. The candidates in her slate had given their speeches. Leni herself had beamed to the audience and scooped up a child from the crowd, giving the kid a lifetime of anecdotes. Then it was time to switch off the lights and head home.

What happened next? It was a dangerous situation --one that calls to mind various deadly stampedes that happened in religious festivals. There was a crush of people, yes. But these people were respectful of each other. There was discipline in moving, ordinary persons making allowances for the person in front of them. There was no pushing and shoving.

That was such a sight to behold and be proud of. Something strange, because we never see it. We don’t see consideration for strangers in large crowds. We normally see a rush for the exit, no respect for lines, and some uncouth jerks thumbing their noses at attempts to maintain order.

I’m sure by that time people were exhausted. After six or seven hours in the hot and crowded environment they would want to go home as fast as possible. But they didn’t shoulder their way past, or bump and force their will unto the patiently-moving mass of rallyists.

Instead, the mood was upbeat. At a certain point, the kids were singing various favorite pop songs. There was such energy in their attitude, even though they would walk a couple more kilometers in the hot evening. Yes, they managed to enjoy themselves.

But the miracle wasn’t over. Volunteers cleaned up after, picking up empty bottles and discarded wrappers. They came prepared, with trash bags, brooms, and enough energy left. No trace of resentment in their attitudes. They were happy to serve. No matter if they were unpaid or hungry. Shortly after, the streets were clean again.

Leni Robredo is a true leader as she has this ability to bring out the best in us citizens. Artists who want to donate their skills. Musicians who want to compose songs. Dancers who choreograph their way into uplifting videos, in an ode to her campaign.

And that’s why her victory is so crucial, because without specifically having to ask people to do certain tasks, people will perform these of their own initiative. Because she is able to make people want to be good. And that’s exactly what we need.

A country of do-gooders, you might say. Fueled only by the desire to serve, as exemplified by the woman who genuinely desires to serve. Certainly much better than a country dictated upon by a man backed up by guns, goons, and gold.

It is with bated breath and fervent hopes that we await election day. Will we Filipinos be swayed by gold, and threatened with guns and goons? Or will pink color our nation?