Guns, Goons, and Gold

*I wrote this immediately after the May 10 elections but have been unable to post it until now*


There is a saying here that is used to characterize elections in the Philippines - Guns, Goons and Gold. Having witnessed my first election here - I can see why - but I'd have to add a fourth G for Grit!

In Estancia, there is no mistaking the armed personnel presence. We did not enter a single polling location without passing by either members of the PNP, Barangay Police< Regional Mobile Group (RMG), or army, or some combination. All of whom were heavily armed, and whose loyalty was suspect.

And yet people showed up to vote.

Candidates reps. pressured voters with violence and intimidation to vote for THEIR candidate. They lined the streets outside the polling stations. Candidates went to vote with their private security forces (again armed) in tow.

And yet people showed up to vote.

Poor fisherfolk, often without enough to eat were provided with money to cast their vote in favor of specific candidates. 400 pesos (around $10) would mean feeding a family - in exchange for a vote.

And yet people showed up to vote.

Lines stretched out under the direct sun - some people having to wait for 12 hours in 40 degree heat in order to vote - and even then some were turned away, told they were not on any list and could NOT vote.

and yet people showed up to vote.

I don not have the words necessary to describe the determination I found in the Filipino voters today. And it makes me wonder...

What would you do to vote?