Riding on other people's positive images

From Randy David:

There is, of course, nothing wrong with the head of state personally congratulating citizens who bring honor to the nation. It is to be expected even more in a society that has gone through relentless demoralization. Ms Arroyo did what was right by phoning Pacquiao and Quigaman minutes after they were declared winners. On their return, she welcomed them into Malacañang and personally feted them. These are appropriate official celebrations of individual prowess.

Only a thin line, however, separates celebration from exploitation. Ms Arroyo, the political entrepreneur, has made it a habit to wrap herself in the medals and crowns of the individuals she applauds. What she lacks she seeks to acquire by association. She basks in the brilliance of Manny Pacquiao’s decisive victory, as if that would dispel the darkness that surrounds her presidency. She draws from the clarity of young Cristina Bugayong’s basic honesty as if, by some magic of association, that would erase all doubts about her own integrity.

The more her legitimacy is challenged, the more she resorts to riding on other people’s positive images. No other president of this country, in my recollection, has, for example, been more publicly “prayed over” by all kinds of religious leaders than Ms Arroyo. I am told that most of these are solicited benedictions, received fulsomely by her for the benefit of the cameras. It is disgusting. In this manner are many innocent events used as messages in political communication.

I think matatalo pa ni Arroyo si Erap pagdating sa paggamit ng "positive images" and scripted events sa presidency nila.