THE unthinkable has happened. Fernando Poe, Jr, also known as Da King or FPJ in Philippine show business, has declared his candidacy for the 2004 Philippine presidential elections. He announced it so simply: “I am Fernando Poe, Jr. and I am running for president of our country.” Simple words from a simple man?

Perhaps.

But what if they came from someone who has never had any experience with politics, the government or public administration? Are these still simple words? Do they become complicated because it involves politics and the apparent lack of experience?

Admittedly, I am not a fan of FPJ, even of his past movies. But I do admire his effort to keep his movies as excellent as can be and that he has kept his businesses and companies still flourishing all these years. If he will use these same “work ethics”, in case he wins, in politics, then maybe we, the Philippines, will have a chance for a better life and future.

But how do we know he really will?

We don’t. Not really.

FPJ has no political experience. That is a fact, a big fact. It may be one point against him but it is a big point, especially since he intends to join the crazy world of politics. There are a lot of problems in the Philippines right now and he can’t just wing it and make it all go away.

During his press conference at the Manila Hotel last Wednesday, he said he was sincere man who sincerely wanted to help the country. Will this be enough? Is sincerity really enough to hold the highest position in the country? In this case, leadership abilities and/or political experience is necessary, don’t you think so?

But he does have some leadership and managerial abilities. After all, his real estate and production company wouldn’t be reeking in millions of pesos in assets if it was being poorly managed.

And we never know. FPJ might really be a simple man, a sincere man who just wants the best for his country.

What do you think?

At this point in time, it’s hard to tell if FPJ, if Da King really is the man, the person for the job. He has just filed his candidacy and he hasn’t even presented his campaign yet. Although, in his press conference, he said he would like to focus on education. That’s interesting since he, like Former President Joseph Estrada, is also a high school drop-out so he can earn a living for his family ever since his father died. Maybe his preference to focus on education is directly related to the fact that he missed out in finishing his.

Let’s wait and see when he formally starts his campaign.

So far there are five people who have announced their decision to run for president of our country in next year’s elections: President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Former Department of Education Secretary Raul Roco, Senator Panfilo Lacson, Senator Robert Barbers and Da King Fernando Poe, Jr. Who is the right person for the job?

We don’t know yet. But one thing is important. Vote for the person who is fit for the job and not someone who is just popular. Get to know the candidates and their campaigns. Never settle for anything less.

Jax :: 4:54 PM ::

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