I'm all for Change

Got ink? The writer's index finger freshly marked with indelible ink.
(Photo by Roy Afable)

Today's perhaps a historic and most memorable experience in my life. For the first time, I let my voice be heard in the most important event in Philippine history. I waited years to take part in the elections and the opportunity came at a good time.

I woke up at 6 am to do some house chores before going out to vote here in my village. Had heavy breakfast while watching the TV coverage of the elections. I can see why the anticipation is high early in the day. Took a nice shower, wore comfy clothes, drank lots of water then left the house at 8 am. I decided to walk from my house to the public school where I'm registered. It was a 15-20 minutes walk going there and I made it at the venue somehow albeit the scorching heat.

The place was packed as soon as I got there. Got my precinct and cluster numbers at the help desk (there were a lot of them actually) near the school's entrance. Then I fell in line for 2-3 hours just to find out that my name isn't included in the voter's list at the room I was assigned to. I realized the person from the Barangay help desk inadvertently gave me the wrong precinct/cluster numbers. Worse, It didn't even match the precinct number that's written on my Comelec issued official registration slip. Glad the PPCRV volunteers did a great job to help me out and correct the mistake. After all that hassle, I was finally able to vote. Didn't start my day right I suppose -- now I know how it is to be part of something really big. Patience is indeed a virtue. Left the place as soon as I was done and had my right index finger inked.

Got home around 11:30 am and I still caught the delayed telecast of the Spurs-Suns series on TV. I only got to see the last 30 seconds of the game as the Suns swept the Spurs. I may have missed the both games on TV (Spurs-Suns, Celtics-Cavaliers) but taking part in the elections is more important than any NBA game. Alas, the sacrifice was well worth it and it was a great experience nonetheless.

I must say I'm glad I took part in the elections. I've made a big difference by simply casting my vote -- a giant step towards change and proud of it. The future is truly in our hands.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!