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                                                   (image: pna.gov.ph)

Sajon suoron… Mag uno man kaw?

While listening to various political jingles, a recurring theme emerges in the phrase “Sayon duolon”, which translates to “approachable.” This phrase underscores a personal connection between the voter and the politician, suggesting accessibility, familiarity, and a sense of shared experience.

On a broader level, it becomes clear that most candidates using this tagline are aspiring members of the legislative body. But what does “approachable” truly mean in this context? How does the average citizen engage with a legislator? Will ordinary individuals be expected to present data that could shape future laws? Will they initiate meaningful discussions on pressing societal issues, hoping these concerns will translate into policies for the greater good?

Legislators play a crucial role in the formulation, evaluation, and enactment of laws that govern society. They are responsible for representing the interests of their constituents, proposing bills, debating policy issues, and overseeing the implementation of public laws. In democratic systems, legislators also serve as a check on executive power, ensuring transparency and accountability within government institutions (National Conference of State Legislatures [NCSL], 2020).

There are persons whom we hear to approach a Sangguniang Bayan member who seek help by presenting medical prescriptions to the lawmaker seeking monetary support. There are also those who approach a politician for solicitations on projects and contests.

In a practical sense, an open-minded legislator would recognize pressing local issues - such as inadequate health services or the scarcity of free medicine in rural health units -as opportunities for deeper research and policy development. These insights could form the foundation for proposing new legislation aimed at supporting marginalized communities. Similarly, a legislator might identify gaps in infrastructure or the absence of adequately funded local programs by the LGU, prompting initiatives that address these developmental needs.

However, quick-fix or band-aid solutions are often employed to eliminate problems immediately. In such cases, both the legislator and the citizen may become entangled in the pursuit of personal interests, losing sight of the broader goal of serving the common good.

Over time, this practice risks becoming normalized. The average citizen may begin to believe that a legislator’s primary role is to solve individual, personal problems, rather than craft policies for collective benefit. Conversely, politicians may come to view the poor as easily swayed individuals—vulnerable to promises and portrayals of the legislator as a savior, rather than a public servant focused on systemic change.

This concept also marginalizes those who can see the bigger picture. Individuals who rely on data, engage in research-based analysis, and apply deep, critical thinking are often misunderstood—perceived as aloof or dismissive. These so-called "geeks," who explore complex, systemic issues, are frequently misinterpreted as unapproachable simply because their methods and language differ from the populist appeal many expect from public figures.

As a result, fewer individuals in the legislative body are grounded in addressing critical societal issues through thoughtful, reform-driven legislation. Instead, those perceived as more "approachable” often favoring quick-fix solutions - are elected to office. This shift leaves forward-thinking perspectives sidelined, reduced to overly simplistic views, as public demand leans more toward immediate, personal assistance than toward long-term policies that serve the greater good.

Just as someone frustrated with an AI platform may overlook the importance of providing clear, thoughtful input to receive meaningful results, citizens must also recognize their role in shaping a responsive and effective political system.

So, what would you say if you had the chance to approach a legislator?