Screening the "Applicants"

Just what should be the qualities of the next president of this Republic?

                     

If we're to go by the views expressed by human resource management professionals, the next president of the Philippines must be able to steer the ship of state to a just and humane society.

      

The Chief Executive should possess analytical skills, acute judgment, decisiveness, and visionary leadership.

      

The next president must be a mobilizer, good at selecting talent, and results-oriented.

      

The next president must be a servant leader ready and willing to genuinely serve the people, and work hard to achieve the goals set by the government. Such a servant leader must have integrity, be humble, doesn't stop learning, and can cope with high levels of stress.

      

The next president must also be an inspiring leader, eliciting unity, trust and optimism among the people.

      

The next leader must move people away from cynicism, and be capable of building trust and confidence in the presidency and the government.

      

The next leader must ensure that the national wealth and resources are used properly, demonstrate strong political will, champion the fight against graft and corruption, ensure a level playing field, promote competence and professionalism and uphold the rule of law.

      

These qualities are all desirable, to be sure. After all, we have seen leaders lacking these qualities come and go, leaving the nation frustrated and forlorn. But can we really find someone who personifies all these desirable qualities? Or is it mission impossible? -end-