When in front of the camera as an actor, Senatorial aspirant Herbert Bautista is a comedian. But when he talks about politics and public service, he transforms into a different person who enunciates his words confidently and full of wisdom.
In a casual talk with Manila Standard, we asked the three-term former mayor of Quezon City about the kind of image that he really wanted people to know him for. He said, he’s a “happy man.”
“I’m just any other person who’s happy during casual conversations. I’m just an ordinary guy. So, when I decided to run for the Senate, I consulted Sen. Tito Sotto, and then had a talk with Boss Vic del Rosario who gave me encouraging words,” Bautista shared.
“Tito Sen told me I have more than 30 years of good track record – from youth sector to mayor – and that I’m very successful, so I don’t need to change and just continue what I do best, while Boss Vic advised me to keep my happy disposition. With their encouragement, I decided to reintroduce myself as a fun-loving person who is serious about his work,” he added.
Bautista recognizes the power of social media and wanted to strengthen his presence on digital platforms. Nonetheless, he still goes out and he still goes out and meets people physically to share with them his vision as a public servant.
“I had to go through all the protocols and understand how AITF works. It’s a humbling experience and everyone must go through it despite your status. Walang pinipili ang COVID so we move around the regions following necessary protocols,” he said.
As he guns for a national post, the 53-year-old Bautista wanted to offer a new face in the Senate.
“A new face who has three decades of experience in public service. My service to the QC people, from being a youth representative to being a mayor is a vast experience,” Bautista stated further sharing that the Senate needs someone who is ready to serve, can legislate, and do administrative work.
“Some of our laws are outdated, a lot of things have changed, and I think the national government needs to adjust,” he added.
Bautista wanted to focus on digital infrastructure which he underscores as the backbone of education and numerous industries. And he wanted to work on these things while being a happy man, of course.
