Yt Framework

The position of Vice Mayor has been most of the time occupied by men
Although once ably held by a brilliant lady named Susan
That was when this City of Flowers was in the hands of her legendary son
The greatest and most-loved Cesar C. Climaco unmatched up to this time

Others ascended to this position with varying leadership traits and qualifications
To preside over the function of local legislation co-equal and independent from the Mayor
Some stood firm and held their grounds in defense of legislative independence
Thus preserved and championed the “checks and balances” doctrine

Some to people’s dismay, disenchantment, dissatisfaction, and outrage
Played puppets and rubber stamps to the whims and caprices of the Chief Executive
They even surrendered entirely their legislative mandate over projects and programs
And granted “blanket authority” to the Mayor to implement them in a manner he wants

The legislative branch must at all times remained free from coercive influence  
And must never be used by the executive for whatever ulterior motives and interests
It must always adhere to the tenets and principles of equality and freedom
As stipulated in the Fundamental Law of our land

Now we have another Lady Vice- Mayoralty candidate
Popularly and fondly called “MERCY” by her colleagues, friends, and acquaintances
She pledges to bring fresh perspectives and reforms in the City Council
And never will succumb to any pressure or coercive influence from anywhere

The big question that has to be honesty answered
DOES MERCY HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A LADY CAPTAIN OF OUR CITY COUNCIL
AND RESTORE ITS INDEPENDENCE, PUBLIC TRUST, AND LEGISLATIVE INTEGRITY?

MERCY ARQUIZA FERNADEZ IS AS QUALIFIED AS ANYONE ELSE
Broad experience in public service, leadership skills, and executive competence
She too, possesses talents in many other domains
Could even excel in areas traditionally and commonly dominated by men
If she proved it in the broadcast industry, there’s no reason why she will not make it with flying colors
In the business of local legislation without undue interference of NONONG 
But always rationally cooperative with two branches of power for the welfare of the people    

By Clem M. Bascar