Do we really believe that corruption is borne of the modern-day attitude of our leaders, whether appointed, designated or elected? Is corruption limited to those in position or acquired/emulated down the ranks?
I cannot forget the sweeping statement of a friend who, by the way, was a government employee and has migrated to Spain right after the 2022 presidential elections: "It is not encompassing to say that corruption in the Philippine government is rampant."
"I just can't stand it that even clerks freely do it," she continued but her elaboration need not be mentioned here. "Disgusting! Where went accountability and transparency?" These perorations were uttered in a recent video conversation that shifted to a travel invite to recent happenings at the QuadCom.
Come to think of it, if we were to discuss the root of corruption among some of our government and elected officials, it's a very complex issue that is not an accepted convention. But then, it happens right down our very noses.
This has evolved and even if we, the constituents, are aware of it, keep on putting in office this breed of leaders.
Money Politics
Go into the laylayan. All they know is that these people continually run for office are "popular". Who cares about those with the purest of intentions. The latter are the type, according to my friend. "na binabaril sa Luneta." Who care to vote for them?
If we were to rely on the Philippine Statistics Authority studies, 78 percent of Filipino voters belong to the impoverished social class D.
Comelec said there are some 69 million registered voters for the May 2025 midterm elections. Does majority of this number go out to vote? Do the so-called "intelligent voters" even bother to cast at the polls?
A cursory look at the numbers will tell us that the vulnerable D and E sectors, who dominate the long queues on election day and who arrive in droves in hired vehicles, will make us think: "were they influenced by money politics?"
It's Too Late
If we were to do a sweeping voters' info drive today to "educate" them in choosing the right people to elect, it is too late.
Cunning and moneyed politicians and their trolls have dominated social media equipped with "storytelling-a-lie" campaign since Day 1 or right after last election day. For politicians who have long-term agenda, they will not wait for the next campaign period.
Let's face it. Information deluge influences the attitude and mindset of these social classes and others through social media and word of mouth.
Historically Rooted
Believe me, corruption and patronage are habits deeply rooted in cultural, historical, structural, and systemic aspects.
While we cannot truly eliminate or eradicate corruption, to "minimize the greed" requires a sustained effort from government and the public.
In our history books, patronage politics — that persists till today — is a custom since the Spanish colonial rule. Long after the colonizers left, this has been imparted to us. A stark example is the hacienda system where the cruel and mighty caciques are looked up to. Landowners and the elite are the "gods." Money rules.
Patronage and Dynasties
Political families flourish starting in the barangays where power is kept within the brood to protect own interest, as if they have the monopoly of leadership. Thus, corruption is perpetuated.
"E, kasi ibinoto naman kami!" This is an unconscionable rationale. The barangay, town, city, or the country is not a family corporation! Where went conscience and discretion?
A network political patronage secures votes. In the course of the campaign, loyalty check is made under the guise of the much-abused "utang-na-loob."
It's Not Hopeless
It's never too late to address the problem of corruption. We must start somewhere to strengthen the institution called government and made the people aware of the impact of corruption now and in the long run.
Each of us can advocate to promote awareness on the root of corruption that starts right in our immediate community, the barangay.
Let each of us support electoral reforms — not necessarily from the Comelec — to reduce, if not eliminate, dynastic politics and ensure unbiased selection of future leaders. The bill on political dynasty is not just mothballed but rotting under the legislators' desk!
All communities are chockfull of spearheads, believe me. The choice should not be limited to families who impress constituents that only they can lead effectively.
There is great hope and future in the hands of new leaders. In this way, corruption will be curtailed, if not totally obliterated.
(email opinyon.luchie@gmail.com, luchiearguelles@yahoo.com)
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