Pagbabago?

This Tagalog word, \’Pagbag-o\’ in Cebuano, is being relentlessly blared out in media by spokespersons, campaign managers and supporters of national, provincial and mayoral candidates. What do they mean by this word?

Most of them say Pagbabago is the reason their candidate is running for public office without explaining what the word means for the voters. Others, especially the presidential and vice presidential candidates, mention specific benefits for the country that would qualify as NEW (bago). Here the confusion begins.

There are two reasons for the confusion: someone or something new is not always good and beneficial; and the process of transition from the old is not always beneficial either. This is what we understand by political dynasty where a new family member succeeds another by manipulating the votes.

So Pagbabago is simply a transition from the old to the new, a mere external appearance of someone or something that was not there before. It is pure external and not internal change. And money is always the means for this change.

For people of religious faith, authentic Pagbabago means Transformation, a change of character, more related to the soul and spirit. It is an inner change or behavioral change. It presupposes moral integrity and uprightness. In one’s lifestyle. This is absolutely necessary for systemic change of society.

We hope and pray and help educate others on the real meaning of Pagbabago.

Basing on the personalities of the present crop of candidates for the 2016 elections their victory will not bring about the real and authentic Pagbabago.