By Marita Moaje
MANILA – As early as 5 a.m. on election day — May 12, senior citizens, expectant mothers and persons with disabilities flocked to schools in this capital city to cast their votes at polling places designated for them.
Fredo Nicolas, 78, said he arrived at Emilio Jacinto Elementary School in Tondo at around 5:20 a.m., but had to wait until after 7 a.m. to cast his vote as the line was long.
“This is for the nation. I chose those candidates who are good and know what they are doing. I hope they win. I want Manila to return to being peaceful,” he said in Tagalog.
Fredo is one of the many Filipinos who showed up on election day not out of obligation, but out of hope for a better future. He said he hopes for competent and honest leaders, for a “cleaner” government, and for the return of peace, order and dignity in public service.
Ofelia Mabanta, 98, said she has never missed an election. “I came here to vote, to help make government policies work. I chose my candidate by looking at their policies and platforms. I like those who help others,” she said. “No one is ever too old to believe and hope for a better future,” he added.
For Dionisio Palomeras, 63, each step toward the polling station was not easy as he has trouble walking. “That’s necessary, because if there is corruption and you don’t vote, like others who only want money, nothing will happen in our lives. I believe my ONE vote matters, he stressed.
“That is why, even though you are only one person, VOTE properly,” he added.
At the Dr. Juan G. Nolasco High School also in Tondo, work began for poll workers long before the first voter arrived at 5 a.m. School principal Lourdes Munda Florendo said her team of teachers and staff was already on-site as early as 3:30 a.m., with some bringing the heavy voting machines up to the second and third floors, others setting up and checking them, and preparing to receive the public.
A total of 72 teachers and non-teaching personnel worked for the smooth election process at the school, which served over 10,000 registered voters from six villages.
“My reminder to teachers, is just smile, just be happy, I have many gentle reminders especially when it comes to PWDs or senior citizens,” Florendo said. “My advice to them is, start the day with a prayer, when others are already irritable, at least they are not. Serve with a smile, it’s just public service for the people),” she added.
For all of them, voting is not just about making a choice, it’s about reclaiming one’s voice, believing that change is still possible and that every vote counts.(PNA)