OBLIQUE OBSERVATIONS
By Atty. Gilberto Lauengco, J.D.
There was a time when one would be hard pressed to name an incident that would involve both the noontime show Showtime and the Commission on Election (Comelec). A few days ago, one of the contestants in a beauty pageant segment of the noontime show was asked if she had anything to say to Comelec during this election period. The contestant answered by saying that she was not knowledgeable about Comelec. Her answer stunned the show’s hosts who scrambled to explain to her what Comelec was all about. One host even said that the response was “bothersome”. The video clip of the said segment went viral and sparked numerous online discussions.
Several people bashed the contestant with some ridiculing her online. On the other hand, there were those who criticized the Showtime host for allegedly showing open disdain after the aforesaid response.
It is sad that several people jumped on the issue to tap out their poison online and release their unending supply of vitriol and hate on the hapless contestant. As explained by the contestant, she just did not think she knew enough about the agency to give any comment. In addition, she admitted that her personal circumstances prevented her from being up to date about current events in general. Like some Filipinos, gut issues like food and livelihood are often the primary concern for many. It is therefore understandable that there would be gaps in knowledge outside of these issues. It is incumbent upon the rest of society both public and private to fill in that gap. Rather than ridicule the said contestant, people should look at it as a challenge or call to pitch in and help solve the problem and causes.
Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia, in response to the issue, said it is the poll body’s duty to educate the public about its functions. He then invited the said contestant to tour the Comelec office so that she could be enlightened. When the said contestant visited Comelec she was toured around the office and given a special orientation. There were several netizens who questioned Comelec’s VIP treatment of the said contestant. Chairman Garcia responded by saying that the office used the attention and publicity to enlighten the youth and the populace in general on the functions and purpose of the Comelec. In the end, the Comelec got a new promoter and ambassador for the office who could better explain to her peers the importance of Comelec.
Everybody loves a good redemption story.
