Keep the transformational spirit of EDSA alive

Filipinos must keep the spirit of EDSA alive through action espousing transformational politics rather than the serving up of empty platitudes said Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon today.

Gordon issued the call as the nation observes the 23rd anniversary of the People Power 1 at the site of the first peaceful uprising to oust the dictatorial rule of the late president Ferdinand Marcos. At the same time, he lauded the role played by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile in ensuring the peaceful uprising.

"EDSA was our golden moment as a nation and as a people. Twenty three years ago, we showed that if we acted as one people pursuing a vision for the common good, we can overcome the corruption and oppression of tyrannical rule," he said.

"Today, however, it is so sad to note that we find ourselves still in the midst of corruption and oppression - sans the gaiety and jubilance of the triumphant crowd in the first EDSA," he added.

Gordon explained that the country's current circumstances reaffirm that "what we need is not just a change OF men, but a change IN men."

"We have changed our leaders, four times but the country has remained more or less the same. Why? It is because we forgot to seek change in ourselves as well. Our country will remain the way it is, until and unless each one of us becomes the change we want to be," said Gordon.

He added that transformational politics calls for an active commitment to a common good and a return to values. He said this is the opposite of the transactional politics that continues to reign till this day.

"Transactional politicians ask, 'what good will this do for me?' Transformational politicians, on the other hand, ask 'what good will this do for my countrymen?' That's the difference, that's what we are committed to pursuing," said Gordon.

He said that Filipinos should seek and support transformational leaders in the coming 2010 elections.

He described transformational leaders as being responsive to fundamental needs and hopes of the people. They likewise raise the ability of the people to help themselves as well as others and instill in people faith in themselves, he added.

"It takes the right kind of leadership to bring out the best in the Filipino. Kapag ang lider at ang tao ang nagsama, lalabas ang galing ng Pilipino. Individuals perform best when they are respected, valued, and trusted by someone who genuinely cares for their well being," he said.