For non-trapos only: Kagawad campaign tips

How can newbies win as Kagawad in the May 14 barangay election? A reform group teaches how. The campaign tips are intended for millennials, aged 18-35, numbering about 25 million voters.

The group’s name is its very aim: “One Millennial Candidate for Kagawad in Each of the 42,000 Barangays.” It is betting that, if non-“trapo” youths are able to sit in the barangays, they can steer their community’s direction. They can also train to be the country’s future leaders.

Social media are spreading the group’s materials. A grandpa adviser is former Cabinet member, congressman, and vice governor Willie Villarama. From him comes “How to Organize at the Grassroots”:

• Watch this video on starting a movement: https://www.ted.com/talks/derek_sivers_how_to_start_a_movement

• Watch this video on grassroots movements: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBvb1n1gt-4

• 8 Steps to Successful Grassroots Advocacy http://www.votility.com/blog/bid/321743/8-Steps-to-Successful-Grassroots-Advocacy-Campaigns

(1) Set SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely.

(2) Create the strategy. Form a team to assist.

(3) Clearly communicate. Your message must be simple and clear to the right audience.

(4) Use new media. New media isn’t new anymore. No matter how someone hears about your message, if they have access to the Internet they will go online to learn more. If you are not using new media, you are losing both credibility and the ability to expand your audience.

(5) Raise funds. No matter how big a volunteer force, or how much passion and energy you have, grassroots advocacy still requires cash.

(6) Build coalitions. Grassroots advocacy is all about banding together like-minded people for a single purpose or cause.

(7) Organize communities. This is where you start to execute on your strategy. Whether it is through formal events or on social media, focus on how to motivate them individually and as a group.

(8) Engage policy-makers. Elected officials rely on information. The views of policy-makers on voters and issues are useful. 

• Starting a political organization www.ted.com/talks/derek_sid.edu/bitsthttps://w_a_movementream/ha258

(1) Gather 12 men and women who are interested in politics. Like forming a basketball team participating in the barangay tournament.

(2) Analyze barangay problems and the harm of “trapos” on residents.

(3) Some topics for discussion:

- “Dito sa ating bayan, kung nais mo ng magandang buhay kinakailangan mong mangibang bayan at magpa-alipin sa dayuhan.” – former Chief Justice Reynato Puno;

- 26 million Filipinos live below the poverty line;

- Hunger and joblessness are widespread;

- 10 million Filipinos must work overseas;

- The rich are getting richer; the poor, poorer;

- “Ang hustisya ay kalimitang naaantala o ipinagkakait, ang krimen ay hindi napaparusahan … bumibilang ng taon ang paglilitis … dahil ang ebidensiya ay nawawala at mga testigo ay inaabutan na ng kamatayan kung hindi man tinatakot o sinusuhulan.” - Senator Claro M. Recto, 28 Dec. 1953;

– Government in the Philippines is not a public service but a family business;

– In the Philippines money wins elections;

– Hindi pa nakakaupo naisangla na ang kaluluwa ng bayan;

– “Election expenses must be recouped”;

– “Protect the interests of (undisclosed) campaign contributors”;

– “Magkano-Korean; Boss, meron Canadian”;

– Political dynasties reign, although constitutionally banned. Of the 80 gubernatorial elections in 2013, dynasts fought over 40 (or 50 percent); dynasts ran unopposed in nine (11 percent). Dynasts won against dynasts in 43 congressional races; 71 dynasts won against non-dynasts.

 (4) Prepare a list of qualities that you as a candidate should have.

– Qualities of a good political leader: Honesty, Compassion, Integrity, Confidence, Flexibility.

– Characteristics of trustworthy political leaders: fair and objective; moving above himself and serving society; not seeking fame or attention; truthful; focused on specific, achievable, and measurable goals, and demands outcomes; encourages people to be accountable for their actions; ignores political correctness, but not ethics; makes realistic promises; thinks global but acts local; takes personal responsibility; remains level-headed and keeps sense of humor; has a curious mind; does not make himself look good by assaulting others.

After studying the issues, the Team can now:

(5) Look for 12 elderly role models in your barangay to invite them to a chat regarding your group’s desire for a non-“trapo” candidate for Kagawad.

(6) Review your platform with the elders and finalize your campaign plan.

(7) Start going around with your supporters explaining your platform.

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Catch Sapol radio show, Saturdays, 8-10 a.m., DWIZ (882-AM).

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