We are ordinary citizens with no political affiliation. We do not support any particular candidate. Therefore, we have no other agenda except our deep and unfailing allegiance to our country and the Filipino people. It is from this loyalty that we draw our courage to write you this letter.
We have heard that you are running for president. If you love your country, we urge you, please reconsider this decision. We all know you will win because of your tremendous popularity as a movie hero. You have earned the esteem and admiration of the Filipino people and to many, you have come to represent a promise of hope.
The task of governing our country that is beset with problems is much more complex today than it was many years ago. At this moment in our history we need a leader who can gain the confidence, respect and trust of the international community. An increase in foreign investments is necessary. It is imperative that we stimulate our capital market with a platform of government that is specific and credible not only to our people but to the world. While we are certain that the masses are your primary concern, you cannot ignore the class of people whose abilities are critical in order to propel us forward. Our OFWs are true heroes but we also need their talents here at home to give us the competitive advantage we so badly need. Unfortunately, it is this highly marketable group that is taking their capabilities elsewhere to the benefit of other countries, not ours.
Expert leadership is the only way we can extricate our people from poverty. It is the very masses who worship you and will vote you into office who will suffer the most, if the ship of state is not maneuvered masterfully.
We can no longer afford to think in a parochial manner. We need a leader who will make the Philippines a competitive player in the global market. Our economy is at its breaking point. It can no longer bear any effort at destabilization.
You have secured an untarnished reputation as an artist and we acknowledge that your contribution to Philippine cinema has been significant. We believe, however, that the presidency of this country will best be served by one who has the proper background and experience to enable our beloved Philippines to be part of the global community — not as an aid recipient but as contributor to the enhancement of this world we all live in.
Winning will be effortless. Governing, on the other hand, will not be an easy task. We are, historically, a fractious nation. Consider the toll it will take on your family and the privacy you guard so tightly. We believe that you will be able to contribute much more towards uniting our nation and helping our economy as a private individual--one who wields enormous influence over our less fortunate brothers. We know of the praiseworthy projects you and your wife have undertaken so quietly; your humility is admirable.
It is not too late to reconsider. Please, look back and learn from the Erap episode of our history. Do not let individuals with personal agendas gain undue influence over you. Should your administration fail, it is you, not they, who will pay the price. Let the Filipino people remember you as the man who could have been president but chose not to...because he truly loved his country. We are certain history will judge you not only as a reel hero but as a real hero.
Mabuhay ka, Mr. Poe!