When I was in second grade, our school held an election for student body officers. In the days leading up to it, the two competing parties visited each classroom to introduce themselves and present their platforms. Two sixth-grade boys were running for president.

The first boy was someone I knew from church—an altar boy. He was kind, intelligent, and consistently one of the top students in his class. I had already made up my mind to vote for him.

The second boy came from a wealthy family. I didn’t know much about him, but he quickly gained popularity among students because he handed out fancy, expensive-looking pencils during his campaign visits.

On election day, I was ready to cast my vote. As I wrote the first boy’s name on my ballot, our homeroom teacher walked around the room, glancing at our choices. When she saw my vote, she looked disappointed and reminded me that the second boy had given us nice pencils. Still, I didn’t change my decision.

I don’t remember who won that election, but I will never forget what my teacher said. Now, as an adult, I realize how important it is to teach children that elections should never be about money or material gifts.

Responsible voters are shaped at home and in schools. What was once a highly respected profession—public service—now often feels like a joke. Many politicians, who are supposed to serve the people, act as if the people exist to serve them.

As we look at the current candidates running for public office, I can only pray that we choose wisely.

God bless the Philippines.