We define barangay as the smallest local government unit and social organization with broader political, economic and religious features than family. It is headed by the barangay captain as chief executive and its legislative body, the seven barangay kagawad and SK chairperson as ex-oficio member, heads it. They are put into position through election. Strictly speaking, election is the means by which people choose their officials for a definite and fixed periods and for whom they entrust for the time being their representative, the exercise of powers of government.
Basically, if we are going to talk about the credibility and integrity of a public official, we are referring to his/her skills, capacity and other personal attributes that make him best suited for public office. That is why this should be our basis for selecting a public servant. We should always opt for the best, competent, those with good and clean track of records and those who are educated and professional enough to perform good governance. We should also be matured and independent to judge and reflect on the issues presented and the qualifications and fitness of aspirants. But every election, people would go for someone who is related to them by blood or for someone who is a friend to them and those who have helped them in some way or debt of gratitude, and of course those with money or wealth. These things really matter every election.
As a result, we end up choosing the least competitive ones. This is often times the case in the barangay level. Those who are in the position are usually those who have the highest number of relatives in the particular barangay or those who always give and those who are the so called rich. Integrity and credibility are set aside and not given importance. This stagnant system is the product of luck of education, lack of discipline and lack of concern of the people or the citizens. The barangay now becomes an entity where all the bad political habits are put into practice— vote-buying, political patronage, corruption and nepotism.
Ethics take a greater part here. It is very important for the barangay governmental system to become efficient and productive. We have to understand that it is our social responsibility as citizens to contribute to the development and welfare of our community. Therefore, the effectiveness of barangay governmental system as well as its progress lies not only on the hands of public officials but also on the hands of its people. How? We should educate ourselves on matters concerning us and our community. Be vigilant and socially aware of what is happening around us. Obey the laws and ordinances of our barangay and see that they are observed by all. Its is just a matter of self-discipline and applying what is just and righteous. Choose the right leaders according to their skills, qualifications and personal attributes. Give importance on the credibility and integrity before casting our votes on them to ensure the quality of barangay services ahead. Also see to it that they comply with their duties. The people are the arbiters of their destiny. We have the absolute control of our future. Hence, we always get what we deserve depending on the efforts and decisions we make.
