ALTERNATIVE THIRD FORCE TO THE DISUNITED UNI-TEAM, TRADITIONAL AND REHASHED SENATORIAL CANDIDATES

The publicly declared apologies of VP Sara Duterte to KOJC members for asking them to vote for PBBM in the 2022 elections is quite demeaning for the President-elect. The break up of the Uni-Team seems final with no prospect for reconciliation anytime soon, or in the near future. I shall speak no more in pushing for the two powerful political groups to reconcile for the sake of the nation. I have engaged the key players in both groups as I consider them as friends, but perhaps we're not influential enough for them to even try? Expectedly the 2025 mid-term elections will serve as barometer of public support for the two power blocks. The outcome will set the stage for their prospects in the 2028 national elections, or even sooner depending on the evolving circumstances and developments.

The new Marcos administration will certainly have no choice but to hammer down the Davao City-based opposition using the power of the state at its disposal. The on-going political realignments will make way for broad corrective policy measures against the Dutertes. Accordingly, the Duterte camp with its residual political power, influence and substantial logistics will not stand idle and surely go on a warpath it has actually started. We are hopeful the two power blocks will not leverage on their geopolitical alliances to avoid the prospect of turning the Philippines into the " Ukraine of Asia ". Whoever takes this course of action will imperil our national interest, people's safety and welfare just to advance their own self-interest. They will be marked in history as traitor/s by informed citizens and future generation of our sovereign republic. Please don't resort to this action plan for it will bring no good and cause unprecedented hazards to our country and people.

Embracing the concept of ASEAN centrality or balanced neutrality is key to our national survival and prosperity in an era of great power competition in our region and the world. The clamor for a Third Force composed of well qualified, competent and patriotic senatorial candidates with proven integrity and track record is growing. The traditional selection criteria of senatorial candidates based on popularity by both the administration and mainstream opposition is devoid of principles to effect change and reform. The argument to support alternative candidates who will support progressive, pro-people legislations is key in building a strong, just and progressive nation.

While the logistical challenges of launching an alternative slate of good, patriotic and viable senatorial slate are immense. Competing against malperforming dynasts, movie and media personalities, and rehashed candidates banking on the use of accumulated public funds to win in lopsided electoral contest is not insurmountable. Indeed this is the challenge posed to all concerned and empowered citizens, the responsible sectors and institutions on how far are we willing to pursue our collective effort to effect real change and reform for a better Philippines. Visit my website at www.mannysdlopez.com for private feedback and further discussions.

So help us God !

Manny SD Lopez

Advocacy for Real Change and Reform

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