Miriam Defensor Santiago has announced that she's running for President. This is great news indeed. Although I carry the opinion that she can do more for the country if she stays in the Senate because she's one of the very few there who actually does her job and berates those who don't, I wouldn't mind seeing her try her hands in running the whole country.
If there's anyone who deserves a shot on that much-coveted throne, it's Santiago. She has the essential tools, the most important of which is a working brain that's propped up by a strong character and years of experience in public service. Yes, she can go overboard at times and conduct herself like a woman possessed. Most people see this as a negative attribute but I see it as a positive one. I see an official who is not afraid to lose her cool when she believes that something is amiss or someone is being stupid. Yes, I used that word.
I'm reminded of a quote by the late British journalist Christopher Hitchens. He once said "Never be a spectator of unfairness and stupidity. The grave will supply plenty of time for silence." I don't see Santiago as a spectator. If she thinks you are unfair, she will make sure that you pay for it. If she thinks you are stupid, she will say it in your face. She doesn't dance around like most politicians these days. That, ladies and gentlemen, is something I would like to see in a President.
And yes, of course, the woman's freaking funny. It's about time we get a President who has a sense of humor. Love her or hate her, she's a natural comedian.
So yeah, if it's meaningful change you want, you have it. Santiago is there ready to hand it to you.
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| Image credit: Far Eatern university |
