Advocacy: The need for professionalism in terms of official speeches,

announcements, and responses from public servants.

The pandemic that took over our country just a few months ago has swept
our nation. Though, we were not among the first to report the virus, we were
certainly not as prepared as our neighbors. In the midst of this crisis, I believe that
there is a need for professionalism among the leaders of our country, be it in the
national level, or in local government units.

Whether it be from cursing in social media posts, or to public flounders, I

have noticed that there is a lack in professionalism from public officials. While there
are leaders who could be commended, like Vice President Leni Robredo, as well as
mayors Vico Sotto, Marcy Teodoro, and Rex Gatchalian, there is still plenty of work
to be done when it comes to showing competency in this pandemic.

Merriam-Webster defines professionalism as “the conduct, aims, or qualities

that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person” or simply, a
behavior that shows that someone is competent and deserving of their position.

In a time where everyone is not only economically anxious, but also

emotionally vulnerable, it is vital that our public officials show that they are capable
and trustworthy. When we, the citizens, are able to see that our trust is not being
misplaced or abused, it helps us cooperate and comply faster with the government.
If we see that authorities employ unnecessary and harsh methods, it breeds
nothing but fear, that could lead to communities being in disorder and disarray.

Public officials are also supposed to be the representatives of communities

and provinces, and their behavior should be upright and proper. They are the
leading examples of the country, and their actions are impactful and influential,
especially to local government officials, as well as families themselves. The way
they will govern their community will reflect their personal understanding, and
sense of duty, towards the situation.

Professionalism is not something we should want from our government

officials. It should be something we demand from them. After all, they were elected
by the people, and their duty is to serve the people. Their positions grant them the
power to make decisions, and they should be able to show that they are deserving
of that power.

Their positions grant them an equal amount of power and responsibility. The
power being the fact that they are the nation’s decision-makers, and in a time
where emotional and financial security hovers on the brink, I believe it would be
better for every Filipino to see government officials being competent and becoming
of their station.