I started to care about politics when I was in college. Taking up some minor and major political science courses, I learned some things I wish I knew earlier. It would've been nice if I understood the importance of all these things, which should have been basic knowledge for everyone but sadly no. Even college students, after taking these classes, some intentionally (and unintentionally) forget and brushed off its importance.
Politics sucks. Politicians are corrupt. The government is useless. Politics are becoming synonymous to showbiz, entertainment, scandals in our country. Everyone seemed fake and just up for a show. It is hopeless. The majority tend to be cynical about it already back home.
I remember when I was in grade six during the first impeachment trial of former President Estrada. We only have one T.V. and my dad, a lawyer, wanted to watch it (Of course!). It was boring for me as a child and I have a favorite show I rather watch. We bickered and fought for the remote control, he won of course which resulted of me giving him the 'cold treatment' for a few days until we 'make up'.
When I started talking to my husband, I knew he was 'political', even his profile in the dating site/app where I met him had 'political' as one of his traits. I have the potential to be political too but not as much as he is.
My husband asked me about my political view, he got curious and read also about our political system, its similarities and difference to theirs. Even though we modeled our constitution to theirs, our political system and parties have big differences. They only have two major parties here, whereas, I just read recently, we were also like that before but Marcos changed it to a multi party system for his advantage. Divided and with smaller political parties, it was harder to oppose him.
Coming here in the U.S., learning their history and observing their current events, I began to understand my husband's political view better and deeper. For instance, the Liberal Party in the Philippines is not really like their Liberal or Democratic Party here. The Democrats are more similar to the socialist/communist parties in our country. They are also exaggeratedly liberal in a lot of issues such as supporting abortion which interestingly they call pro choice here. What a nice word to hear, it can easily confused people.
My Filipino Catholic/Christian values are more in line with the values of the Republic Party here which are considered the conservative side.
Now, I may like the Republican Party but will I be a blind supporter? NO. Me liking them more than the Democratic Party doesn't mean that I will blindly support anything they propose. I asked my husband the same thing and he answered the same way.
A blind supporter forgets to weigh all the important factors in an issue that may benefit or destroy their country.
Though I am not yet a citizen of this country, thus I still cannot vote, but as a permanent resident, I pray and hope the best for this country.
My husband's home is my home too.
And just as I love my home country, I can honestly say that I love this country too that I also call my home now.
Suggested Reading:
Being a Filipino American in the Republican Party
Why I am Republican and why Filipinos should vote for Republicans
The Filipino Voice Rises In American Politics
Filipino-Americans finally 'making waves' in politics
