The leadership of a political movement in a democracy hews along the dictates of hierarchy. The structure defines the leadership, even the leadership of the political opposition (such as the opposition we have now) that is at best marginal and overwhelmed by the forces of government in power. According to the natural order of things, the leadership of the current opposition to Mr. Duterte belongs to Vice President Leni Robredo, Mr. Aquino and Mr. Roxas, the triumvirate that are on top of the opposition’s hierarchy.

VP Robredo is the official with the highest political post among them – the Number 2 post in the country. Mr. Aquino is a former president. Mr. Roxas was the presidential candidate in the 2016 elections and Mr. Aquino’s co-president from 2010 to April 2016. But they are not leading.

Ms. Robredo appears timid and oftentimes clueless on how to react to the events of the hour. She is more worried about her low trust and appreciation ratings than being able to stand for what she believes is right and just. Somebody should tell her that nobody has adopted meandering as the surest route to the presidency. Filipinos, and this is true, abhor politicians who always talk as if the country would crack up the next day. But they have less respect for timidity, which is Ms. Robredo’s stock in trade.

Read more: manilatimes.net