Ever since we have had elections, it is only this time that the expression “palabra de honor” has been excessively used and blatantly abused.
It used to be that “palabra de honor” defined the character of a person.
It is in keeping ones word that in the eyes of many one is respected and appreciated.
It is in committing to action the significance of the word that one is bestowing honor to it, thus, the expression, word of honor.
Even among thieves this expression was enshrined in their hearts for it shielded them from the arms of the law – until someone invented the word whistleblower.
Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia has made “palabra de honor” expression popular in her campaign sorties.
Perhaps because of the emergence of new breed of abominable political butterflies brought about by multi-party presidential race, she wanted people to notice that she was of a different class.
It is her way of showing that she and her allies in One Cebu movement has said it before and is saying it again that they are throwing their support behind Gibo Teodoro’s presidential bid despite all odds and this commitment is her “palabra de honor.”
The message she wants to bring across to friends and political foes alike is simply this: Be like me and keep your word of honor.
But in this day and circumstance, this is better said than done. Look how divided the Garcia clan is in their present political affiliations.
The way politics is shaping up in this country today, “palabra de honor” has lost its meaning and intention. It has lost its charm and magnetism.
“Palabra de honor” has now metamorphosed into “palabra de horror!”
It no longer carries the high sense of moral value that used to reach the very core of ones existence. It is now as shallow as the promises uttered by politicians. It has now been corrupted.
Isn’t it horrific how one politician now-a-days, without qualms, can easily change political colors and campaign baller IDs and pledge loyalty and allegiance to a potential winning presidential candidate who happens to have oodles of money?
Isn’t it disgusting to hear or see a politician turn his or her political coat without compunction just because political accommodation and political expediency can easily be had aligning oneself with a probable presidential contest winner wallowing in wealth?
But what is horrifying the most is to see your own party in disarray with defections over petty disagreements enough to make it an excuse for abandoning political principle and cause for a far more personal and selfish interest as assuring their own political survival and making mammon their God.
Try asking Lakas-Kampi CMD presidential candidate Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro if this isn’t so.
