We have our own “Yes, we can” change leaders too

I am happy about the publication last January 29, 2008 in the Philippine Daily Inquirer of the letter by Christer James Ray entitled “US Presidential hopeful is a candidate who inspires hope.” Indeed, he is right that Barack Obama is a candidate that inspires hope among his people. He is both charismatic and competent to lead the only superpower in the world and lead it very well.

But I also want to point out that there are still individuals left in the country who possess the charisma and moral leadership we look for in presidential candidates. They work behind the scenes and sometimes even at their own expense to bring about the change our country needs.

There is Tony Meloto of Gawad Kalinga who has helped build more homes for Filipinos than many of our country’s real estate businessmen. There is Among Ed who won in the last elections as governor of Pampanga and has quickly moved to reform the provincial government. There is Alexander Lacson who wrote a little book, 12 Little Things Every Filipino Can Do To Help Our Country, which has catapulted “Good Citizenship” campaigns and projects into our national consciousness.

All of them and a host of other leaders offer great messages of hope for our country’s future. In fact, they are already starting to unite and inspire us as a nation and make us believe that “Yes, we can” change our country and turn things around.

I pray they will take up the challenge for change and say “Yes, we can.” I also pray that every Filipino in his own little way contribute to the development of our country by supporting these “little heroes” in our midst bring about the change we need. Your little effort can go a long way in ensuring a brighter future for our children.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!