Random Thoughts on the Maguindanao Massacre

As of writing, the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre total 52 civilians. Some of those who died are part of the Mangudadatu entourage to Shariff Aguak for the filing of Toto Mangudadatu’s Certificate of Candidacy. Some, however, were merely at the wrong place and time. The latest carnage is described as the worst election-related killings in Philippine history. Indeed, words are insufficient in construing the horrors and barbarity the victims faced in their last minutes. Perhaps, death is their final comfort.

The incident was an eye opener for most of us. A tragedy of this magnitude surely deserves the temporary cessation of our daily routines and a reflection of how this came to be. Several ideas come to my mind:

1) “My vote is precious. I am glad I registered.” – The long lines and unbearable heat. The ineffectiveness of COMELEC policies. The lack of competent and fit candidates. These may dissuade anyone from registering themselves as voters. It seems that some of us disregard the concept of suffrage as the fundamental right of every citizen. As our freedom is limited by the government, it is but proper for us to choose how we are governed by choosing our public officials. Not all, however, are as free and safe in exercising this right. The Maguindanao Massacre shows how the people may be shackled by fear and hence prevented from asserting their right to vote and be voted upon. Thus, in consideration of their plight, it is inexcusable for us not to be registered as voters.

2) “I may not understand the culture, but I understand violence.” – A debate has erupted in internet forums between those from Mindanao and Manila. The former contends that labeling the cause of incident as “Warlordism” is an over-simplification of the issues. They also added that people from Manila will never understand the situation in Mindanao. Thus, the placing of Maguindanao under “Manila command” will not change anything. In my opinion, “violence” is an international language that transcends any culture notwithstanding its diversity. The labeling of the situation as a consequence of “Warlordism” may be an over-simplification of the issue but it is by no means a reason for the non-interference of the national government to stop violence. After all, the existence of local governments relied on the official acts of the national government. Supervision of these provinces is mandated by law.

3) “Automation brings forth desperation.” – It can be surmised that the automation of the 2010 elections shall bring forth more election killings – more than the numbers we have encountered in the past. The curbing of electoral fraud through computerized registration and the uncertainty in manipulating the new voting system have pushed candidates to the depths of desperation. Since the option to rig the election through written ballots is no longer available, a more drastic move, such as the killing of another candidate’s supporters, may be employed to ensure election victory by unscrupulous and power-hungry politicians.