Wazzup Pilipinas!?
A single photograph was all it took to dismantle the credibility of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s senatorial slate during their presentation at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). In that moment, the Filipino people were reminded of the infamous “Budots” dance of action star-turned-politician Bong Revilla—a symbol, for many, of political gimmickry at its worst.
The Budots Dance and Political Spectacle
Bong Revilla’s use of the “Budots” dance as a campaign strategy in 2019 was widely criticized as a distraction from his involvement in the pork barrel scam. While he was acquitted of plunder in 2018 during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s term, many believe that his political survival was less about innocence and more about influence. His ability to navigate political alliances—shifting from Duterte’s camp to Marcos Jr.’s administration—underscores the transactional nature of Philippine politics, where allegiances shift based on power and survival rather than principles and service.
The Revilla Dynasty and the Impeachment Controversy
One of the most telling signs of Bong Revilla’s political maneuvering is how the three congressmen from the Revilla clan abstained from signing the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte. This decision raised suspicions about their political loyalties, given that Revilla was once closely allied with the Duterte administration but has now aligned himself with Marcos Jr.’s camp—just like many other political dynasties and traditional politicians who have switched sides to stay in power.
Senators Are Lawmakers, Not Performers
The role of a senator is not to distribute aid, much less to dance for votes. The coming Senate sessions will be crucial, tackling issues that will define the country’s future:
The Impeachment of Sara Duterte – As the Senate prepares to try the Vice President on corruption charges, threats against the President, and alleged involvement in extrajudicial killings, it must ensure a fair and independent process. The trial is expected to begin in July 2025, coinciding with the opening of the 20th Congress.
Foreign Policy and Regional Tensions – With the escalating tensions between the United States and China over the South China Sea, the Senate must carefully review international treaties and foreign agreements to safeguard the country’s sovereignty.
Economic Reforms and Social Justice – The worsening crisis of high prices, low wages, job insecurity, and privatization of basic services demands urgent legislative action. Senators must prioritize policies that protect workers’ rights, increase the minimum wage, and ensure fair labor practices.
Political Reforms – One of the most critical tasks is passing enabling laws to enforce constitutional provisions on a living wage, full employment, job security, and—most importantly—the prohibition of political dynasties. Without these reforms, the cycle of power-hungry families dominating the government will continue.
Rejecting Budots and Budol Politics
The 2025 elections present a chance to break free from a political system that thrives on deception and entertainment rather than genuine public service. The Filipino people deserve senators who will legislate for the common good, not performers who rely on gimmicks to win votes.
The call is clear: fight for an independent Senate, free from the budol of the Marcoses and the budots of the Dutertes.
Ka Leody De GuzmanPresident, Partido Lakas ng MasaFebruary 12, 2025
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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