As the official campaign period for the 2022 elections began last February 8, Teodoro “Teddy” Baguilat Jr., a senatorial aspirant and former Ifugao Representative drew public attention by proudly wearing the traditional “bahag” worn by the country’s indigenous groups.
Baguilat has recently received appreciation for boldly representing the Indigenous community in his electoral activities. He shared that he is proud to be part of the indigenous community, hence why he wore it during the Leni-Kiko tandem’s proclamation rally.
Baguilat is the leader of the Ifugao people of the Cordillera mountain range and a well-known advocate and activist for Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) rights. He served as the governor of Ifugao for six years and as a representative for another six years. He was also known as an activist and advocate for human rights and environmental rights, fighting against oppression and injustices in the marginalized sectors. His political background contributed to a total of 65 proposed bills and 13 filed resolutions.
Another interesting fact about Baguilat’s candidacy is that, if he successfully secures a win in the Senatorial seat, he will be making history as the first Indigenous person in the Senate. Supporters were already manifesting his win 3 months before the 2022 election, and were hoping that through Bagilat’s courage, more people would recognize candidates like him more often than the popularity cards of other political aspirants.
We can’t refute that the political climate in the country favors the popularity game, and whether a candidate is suitable or not, or whether they have the expertise and credibility to run, if they have the name, they are more likely to win a seat.
Moreover, as the election gets closer, voters should be more critical and vigilant in selecting candidates who deserve their vote. More than their popularity or political affiliation, voters should choose the right people to lead the country’s future in the next 6 years.
Photo Credit: https://lenirobredo.org/politician/teddy-baguilat/
