February 01, 2007

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Why Richard Gomez Should Run for Senator

There's a reason why Richard Gomez, the pretty, athletic, granola James Bond that he is, should run for senator. Of course, he's exercising his right to do so, being that, despite the awful shame in his bid, this is still a democracy. And, if everyone around him is talking him up to do it, then by all means, let the man run.

But let him lose, too. Because that would make his run worth it. Running, and losing, would validate not only the audacity and absurdity of his enterprise (to some, maybe not, seeing that FPJ, of similar ilk, also ran for office) but of the administration's -- and the entire political circus' -- downright silliness. Gomez losing could mark a turning point in our electorate's consciousness: that, quite possibly, the elections are not just about popularity. I may be too idealistic here, but if you're reading this blog, chances are, you're smart enough not to vote for him.

For one, I'm willing, with all due respect, to wager that Gomez isn't too bright. He may be charismatic -- sometimes that's all you need -- but I think Gomez will get hosed in a debate with Edu Manzano any day. And that's saying a lot about Edu Manzano.

I digress. With the exception of very few, such as Herbert Bautista and Vilma Santos, actors-turned-politicians hardly accomplish anything -- scandalous, or otherwise. For one, they tend not to be opinionated, which requires, at the bare minimum, a desire to read. They tend to indulge in legislating sports, or the entertainment industry (none of them I wish to diminish here), and seem to never have the noggin for things like tax reform and the current account balance. (On the other hand, Gomez would probably do a good job playing a senator.)

On the campaign trail, I would think it's just as easy to belittle Gomez as it is for Gomez to shine in the spotlight. And he will, and everyone will be watching. I can see it now: Lucy Torres, in her Sunsilkiness, will take the stage, gush about her TVidol-turned-husband, and watch him melt the crowd. Just don't make him sing. Please lang.

So, when he loses, it might just be the resounding death knell for all those actors thinking about running. Gomez meets the first cut in becoming a viable candidate. When the voters go out there, and punish him for his ambition, they send a message that even lawyers, crooked until proven otherwise, can make better lawmakers. My hope is that the Filipino will. And even make Willie Revillame think twice.

Now, about those news anchors...

Comments

"when he loses" can be a very iffy proposition. he may get demolished in a debate by edu manzano, and edu by someone else, but we've all seen that winning an election does not hinge on intellectual prowess. sometimes, it's enough for these people to even just be a candidate, and win. hence my horror at the prospect of them running.

Jorge,

Of course, I'd rather Gomez not run. But that won't accomplish as much as Gomez running and Gomez losing.

If he runs and wins, then we certainly don't deserve our democracy--not yet. If he loses, then we've turned a page.

H

Richard Gomez certainly has name recognition on his side but this actor doesn't have the charisma of a Robin Padilla or Aga Muhlach. Antipatiko pa nga ang dating niya eh. I don't remember him carrying a movie to blockbuster heaven on just the strength of his name. But then anything is possible especially in R.P.

Actors seldom win. Basketball players and journalists (anchormen and women) do, however.

I think he's genuine in his desire to serve the country, but becoming a senator is not his best option (nor is it his second or third best).

One idea: With his connections, he can start a small NGO that lobbies strong anti-drug measures and helps rehabilitate drug users by providing better facilities and a physician volunteer network.

Madami syang pwedeng gawin maliban sa tumakbo sa senado.

H

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