05/07/2026
EDITORIAL | Lead Beyond Applause
The upcoming Student Coordinating Body elections at Holy Child Catholic School once again highlight a concerning trend that extends beyond school walls, but also statewide: many people vote based on popularity, not informed choice. This approach diminishes the value of genuine leadership and compromises the future of our student body. If we fail to take these elections seriously, we risk choosing leaders who lack the integrity and competence necessary to serve effectively.
No student should cast a vote without first verifying a candidateโs credentials, scrutinizing their platform, and hearing them answer hard questions in person. Voting based on charisma is not democratic participation, itโs dismissing the importance of voting for leaders we need. We do not owe any candidate our vote simply because they are well-liked; we owe our school an informed and deliberate choice.
The framework for this careful evaluation already exists in policy, DepEd Order No. 47, s. 2014 establishes student government on the principles of participatory democracy, accountable servant-leadership, and efficiency in serving the student body, not on popularity or charisma. Just as mandated in this policy, HCCS requires every candidate to submit their most recent report card and a Certificate of Good Moral Character before they can even run, so students have a documented basis for trust. These are not optional formalities, but essential proof of competence and integrity that the Department of Education itself demands.
Furthermore, evaluating a candidateโs platform for realism and sustainability is crucial. Campaign promises often sound appealing but may lack the feasibility to be implemented within school resources and policies. Research shows that effective student leaders develop practical plans, which leads to genuine progress (Smith & Lee, 2021). By voting based on substance rather than style ensures that our representatives can deliver on their commitments.
Listening carefully to candidatesโ opinions and stands on critical issues must be a priority. Do they truly understand the needs of the student body and this country as a whole? When candidates articulate clear, informed positions, it indicates readiness to serve with moral courage and authenticity. Otherwise, their campaign is just empty rhetoric that weakens the purpose of leadership.
A recurring concern is whether candidates truly grasp the meaning of โNo one is above the law.โ A quote that was mentioned multiple times during the SCBโs miting de avance. When elected, do they uphold this principle, or does the saying get disregarded once theyโre in power? If not valued properly, it risks corruption and abuse of power. True leadership demands unwavering adherence to integrity, regardless of position.
Students must vote responsibly by fact-checking candidates, going over their platforms, and listening to their stand on key issues. We must reject popularity and demand transparency and accountability. Our votes have powerโuse them to elect leaders who will serve with excellence, integrity, and self-discipline.
Responsible voting is our moral duty as students. It shapes the leadership that will influence our school community and beyond. As election day tomorrow approaches, letโs prioritize character, competence, and commitment over empty promises. Your vote is your loudest and most definitive voice hereโdo not give it away carelessly to someone who is unwilling or unable to Lead Beyond.
CARTOON | Snarf Neel Angco
