s he begins his term as president, Bongbong Marcos has the opportunity to move many of the anti-Marcos doubters over to his side. He can do this by showing the nation that he is his own man with no intentions of following in his father's footsteps.

For example, given the egregious lack of transparency of the Duterte administration, being transparent would immediately be noticed. It would show the country that Marcos is different –not just from the previous president, but also from his father who likewise appeared less than forthcoming during his years in Malacañang.

Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio can make a powerful team. They both belong to the same political party, and both exhibit a youthful vigor that the previous president lacked. The country needs a fresh new approach, new ways of thinking, and a full-throttled commitment to give the Filipino people the freedom and prosperity they deserve.

The Philippines has fallen behind most of its Asian neighbors—even those who lagged far behind it in the 1950s and '60s. Incompetency at all levels of government shares much of the blame. Sadly, over the decades, many Filipinos have learned to accept that mediocrity and incompetence play a large part in their daily lives.

However, it should not be a gargantuan effort to turn the country around. What it will take is a concerted effort by the new administration to bring about needed change. Once people become aware of their government's sincere efforts to improve their lives, they will support it wholeheartedly. Then the Philippines might once again regain its spot as one of Southeast Asia's more progressive and advanced countries. Should this come to pass, Bongbong and Sara would have created a true "Bagong Lipunan."

Published 7/28/2022