In the month synonymous with love, it’s disheartening to observe a stark absence of it among the leaders steering our nation. As the tug of war for power ensues between the house and the Executive department, ordinary Filipinos bear the brunt of escalating prices, soaring oil costs, and basic commodities that remain financially elusive. The prospect of a better life within our borders dims, prompting thousands to contemplate seeking fortunes abroad as incomes stagnate and hopes dwindle.

The disconcerting reality is that, despite the promises inherent in our land, people are departing because our leaders are entangled in self-serving pursuits, sabotaging our collective aspirations for improvement.

Experts warn of a ticking clock globally, signaling the imminent emergence of a new economic system. While neighboring Asian countries brace themselves, we seem stuck in a monotonous routine that has defined our lives for half a century.

Are we prepared for the impending change? Absolutely not. The capitalist system’s very existence is under threat, and our leaders offer no tangible solutions, particularly for the working class. Millions face potential job loss due to the anticipated global economic restructuring in 2025. Instead of addressing these critical issues, our leaders are preoccupied with self-preservation.

Our president, rather than championing the greater good, fixates on maintaining power and protecting family wealth amassed over decades. A former president, facing the repercussions of rights violations, responds not with remorse but by sowing seeds of violence and promoting regional separation.

Leaders should inspire love for one’s country, transcending personal gain. However, political factions, like Duterte’s, seem determined to destabilize our nation, with the call for Mindanao’s separation not to be dismissed as mere jest.

President Duterte’s divisive call coincided with China’s increased naval presence in the West Philippine Sea, raising concerns about harassment in disputed territories. Disappointingly, Duterte’s stance contradicts years of advocating peace in the region, potentially jeopardizing hard-fought progress.

It’s disheartening to witness a former president exploiting Mindanao to project strength and evade accountability for alleged crimes against humanity. Duterte’s call for separation plays into the hands of China and Muslim fundamentalists, diverting attention from critical issues like the West Philippine Sea.

Mr. Duterte may be feeling paranoid, but his call for Mindanao’s independence is a dangerous gamble, risking the integrity of our nation. His sons’ bravado adds further complexity, with Baste Duterte’s bold statements challenging the very fabric of our democratic principles.

Duterte’s call for a separatist movement, unless retracted as a mere jest, effectively signals a potential war. Despite claims of non-violence, the reality is far from it. Panelo’s dismissal of government overreaction reveals a dangerous underestimation of the consequences of such provocations.

In this month of love, our leaders should reevaluate their priorities, fostering unity and collective progress instead of sowing seeds of division and discord. The challenges ahead demand leaders who inspire love for country, not ones who jeopardize our national unity for personal or political gain.