This document discusses democracy in the Philippines. It reflects on the meaning of democracy and the current state of democracy in the country. It notes challenges like rampant crime, killings by extremist groups, and political dynasties. However, it expresses optimism that the youth can help strengthen democracy by upholding values of responsibility, respect, and dignity. It calls on young people to continue working to improve society and ensure justice, truth, and law prevail.

1. DEMOCRACY
Everyday, we the young leaders see the symbol of Filipino freedom
and liberty. This is it, our Filipino flag which was first waved and raised by
Emilio Aguinaldo in its glory, respect and dignity. Good morning
honorable judges, visitors and friends.
If we merely look at the flag, it is just a simple piece of cloth; but…
this flag brings back historical memories of our great leaders who fought
for our own democracy.
I stand in sincerity, raised beyond inspiration, deeply touched to
address to this gathering and share with you my thoughts on what the
status of democracy in our country today is facing, what antagonistic
forces yoke it, and how we, the youth can bravely speak for to save it
from its doom.
DEMOCRACY. I say it as a word that confuses me. Yes, we perceive
it. Yes, we hear people talk about it. We often say things about it. But, can
we feel it? Do we even really know what it means? Let us use these next
few minutes to reflect and ponder on this word “democracy”. Hear me
out.
In a democracy, citizens behave lawfully while doing what they like
without fear of prying eyes. A democracy is more than just a form of
government; it is primarily a mode of associated living, of conjoint
communicated experience.
Friends, democracy is a compelling force. It is a strong word that
when we hear people talk about it, it rings a hundred bells in our minds.
Martin Luther King, Jr. talked about it. Abraham Lincoln wrote about it. But
where? At the back of an envelope. Lapu-lapu can’t even say or spell it,
but he fought for it!!
It is true that the fight is going on. There are more struggles that
shaken our democratic society. The rampant killings, gruesome crimes
committed by extremist groups, as well as the incidences of violence in
our society. We are not free since we are afraid of what will happen to us
most especially if we are not within the confines of our homes. It is true
that the professional syndicates engaged in illegal drug trafficking,
smuggling, carnapping and economic fraud are still in their heights as
reported in any form of media. Yes, the government is taking aggressive
and concerted efforts toward the equilibrium of society, but they will never
succeed if we, the civilians, where the sovereignty of the government
resides, pose idle and indifferent. We must be vigilant and cooperative in
the pursuit of democratic stability.

2. Two years ago, the whole country was shaken and horrified by the
bloodbath in Maguindanao, which was treated the same way as Marcos
did 52 years ago. The vote buying scheme and political dynasties are
predominant in various provinces.
Think about it, in our country’s situation, we need a dedicated leader
to serve our country. Do you remember his words, “Kayo ang boss ko”. It
was the famous line our president Benigno Simeon Aquino said. And a line
which inculcates a servant leader’s dedication to give his best for the
development of our country.
For me, has done 65% of the crisis in our society. But he should add
to his agenda the turtles in Palawan, the kids in the public schools should
be provided with more books and chairs, as well as competent teachers.
Our president has to be vigilant in the RH Bill which is said to be
“preventive not abortive”. But that is not the only way to lessen the rapid
increase of population in the Philippines. There is another way, a more
effective way; education. As what Ma. Venus Raj said, “If we want five
years of prosperity, let us plant corn. If we want ten years of prosperity, let
us plant trees. But if we want one hundred years of prosperity, let us
educate men.” I firmly believe that education is the first step to achieving
success in our country and for democracy to prevail.
As a young leader of tomorrow, I challenge the youth to defy all
these tests! The last thing we can do is to think that restoring our ailing
democratic system is MISSION POSSIBLE. We must stand as a pillar where
everyone lays his foundation on. Let us bear in mind what Dr. Jose P. Rizal
said, “The youth is the hope of the nation.” We must be the strongest force
of our country because in us lies the hope for tomorrow.
Let us unite as one empowered force that will continue showing
concern for all the tragic events in our society- doing the best that we can
to save our younger brothers and sisters by modeling to them the true
meaning of responsibility, respect and dignity of the Filipino race. Let us
always remember to live by our strong faith in God, for he is the ultimate
source of our strength and meaningful life.
We are Filipinos. Therefore, you are listening to a Filipino voice
addressing to you with a heart of the Orient. This isn’t what our ancestors
and great heroes fought for a long time ago for us. We deserve more than
this to live in a democratic country wherein our mothers first heard our cry.
We weren’t born to be oppressed. Then, we must refuse to be oppressed.
Ladies and gentle men, what should the people in a democracy
experience? It is JUSTICE. And what is JUSTICE? It is to render to each man
what is his due. And what value should JUSTICE be coupled to attain

3. democracy? It is TRUTH. It is which you search, and keep on seeking until
you can give what is due to others. And what should prevail in a
democracy? It is LAW. It is the instrument by which you search and have
been longing so that you may give what is due to others.
Now, you have reflected that the symbol of our democracy is ----
that flag. Is it not also the symbol of our democracy?
I pause for a reply...
Crafted by:
JAYSON S. DIGAMON
JOSELITA M. CANIOS
Delivered by:
BEULAH ALANAH ESPIRITU