Political Differentiation

Political differentiation is a term which means being different. That's the secret of Trillianes' victory at the Senate race. And that's what's lacking in our list of presidentiables now.

What would constitute political differentiation?

In branding speak, this is what we call brand equity or positioning. Nowadays, the people lump all politicians together in one category: trapo. Surveys upon surveys reveal the people's desire to see a non-traditional politician ascend the rungs of power. What would define such a politician? What would be a non-traditional politician be like?

A Non-traditional politician espouses the people's cause. And what's the people's cause? The people's cause is a better life. And what would define a better life? Improved economic conditions for every Filipino family, peaceful co-existence, better opportunities, etc. For a Filipino, a roof over their heads, three square meals a day and a secure job constitutes a better life. This is the end-all and be-all of Filipino existence. For Filipinos, whatever it takes to get these things is irrelevant. If it means struggle, then, so be it. If it means going to the streets or voting for a politician, then, let it be so.

A non-traditional politician should have this cause in mind when he or she crafts his/her platform of governance. That platform should have an ideological construct, the kind that inspires and yet, delivers the goods eventually. To be different, a politician must be able to prove that his platform works based on his years' of experience in public service.

Judging from the list of political parties constituting the political spectrum, the Liberal Party holds the most promise. It has a fresh image. However, its posturing is not enough to qualify it as a non-traditional political party. Until now, Mar Roxas has not communicated the reasons why people should vote for Liberal Party or for him come 2010. Yes, he has his palengke tours. Yes, he has remonstrated his opposition in some of the palace moves. Yet, Mar Roxas still lacks political differentiation because he has not been as maverick as Trillianes is in the minds of the public.

Likewise, Mar Roxas shows no "halos" so to speak, that the public saw with Erap and Ramos. Roxas should command a stable following and the public should see it. Roxas should be seen as a rebel with a cause, the kind that inspires and not just for publicity sake. He should do it by 2008. Otherwise, he'll lose momentum and probably could suffer the fate of one of LP's stalwart, former Senator Salonga.