Before anything else, allow us to stress that this piece is neither an endorsement of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. nor a condemnation of his critics and political bashers.
This is not written to defend any politician or attack any political camp.
Rather, it seeks to affirm a simple and universal principle: anyone who aspires to lead—whether a president, governor, mayor, or even the head of a small organization—must possess sound judgment, mental clarity, and the competence required by the position; qualities na wala o absent sa isang “lasing o bangag sa droga.”
Leadership should never be measured by political loyalty or opposition, but by one’s capacity to serve responsibly and effectively.
A ‘bangag’ leader cannot lead
Leadership is not about occupying the highest office or carrying the most impressive title.
It is about making sound decisions, inspiring confidence, and accepting responsibility for every action taken in the name of those being led.
That is why a “bangag” leader—whether the term refers to someone who is mentally impaired, perpetually confused, or incapable of clear judgment—can never effectively lead any organization, much less an entire nation.
This is not merely a political observation. It is common sense.
Imagine a school principal who cannot think clearly, a company president who is constantly disoriented, or the captain of a ship who cannot distinguish the right direction from the wrong one.
No reasonable person would entrust their future, livelihood, or safety to such a leader. If we demand competence from those managing a small business or a neighborhood association, shouldn’t we expect even more from those entrusted with governing a country?
Every decision made by a national leader carries enormous consequences. A single mistake can affect millions of lives, the economy, national security, education, public health, and the country’s standing in the international community. Leadership requires discipline, focus, and the ability to process information objectively—not confusion, recklessness, or impaired judgment.
History repeatedly demonstrates that nations flourish under leaders who are prepared, decisive, and accountable.
Conversely, countries suffer when leaders make impulsive decisions, ignore expert advice, or allow poor judgment to dictate public policy.
Citizens ultimately bear the cost through higher prices, unemployment, deteriorating public services, weakened institutions, and declining public trust.
This discussion is not about personalities or political affiliations. It is about the minimum standards of leadership. The office of a president, prime minister, governor, or mayor is too important to be entrusted to anyone who lacks the mental clarity and discipline the position demands.
The same principle applies to every level of leadership, from a homeowners’ association to the highest office in the land.
Democracy gives people the right to choose their leaders. That right also carries a responsibility: to choose wisely. Charisma, popularity, and political machinery may win elections, but they cannot substitute for competence.
A leader must possess sound judgment, emotional stability, integrity, and the willingness to listen to facts and expert advice. A “bangag” leader does not have those.
The stakes are simply too high. A nation cannot afford to be led by someone who is figuratively—or literally—”bangag.” Hindi rin magandang quality sa isang leader ang dinadaan ang lahat sa pagmumura at pagtatapangtapangan lalo na sa public speeches!
Countries are not experiments, and citizens are not test subjects. They deserve leaders who are alert, capable, and fully prepared to shoulder the immense responsibilities of public office.
Leadership is a public trust. And that trust begins with one fundamental expectation: that the person at the helm is fully capable of leading.
