My perspective regarding the controversy in the Philippines.
Dr. J. Hernes M. Abante
Senior Pastor of IBBC San Leandro
The Philippines is presently engulfed in a series of controversies. Beginning with issues related to flood control corruption, the situation has become increasingly complex, involving cover-ups, the disappearance of 'sabungeros,' extrajudicial killings (EJK), and now allegations against President Marcos Jr. and his administration. Could this be an instance of “tail wagging the dog?”
It appears that divine intervention may have allowed floods to expose the gravity of illegal practices that have persisted across multiple administrations, with the current administration being the first to address them publicly. Consequently, ghost projects and substandard infrastructure are coming to light. Documented evidence indicates that billions and trillions of pesos are missing or diverted into private accounts, resulting in incomplete projects or those fabricated with inferior materials. Regrettably, past administrations failed to investigate these issues, likely due to fear or a desire to avoid self-incrimination.
It is profoundly disappointing to observe that the previous administration attempted to shift all responsibility onto the current government. All blame is being directed at President Marcos Jr., who, through his efforts, has initiated investigations into corruption that earlier administrations dared not pursue.
When President Marcos Jr. publicly declared the existence of corruption and expressed his outrage during the State of the Nation Address (SONA), he committed to pursuing those involved in illegal activities. This marked the beginning of intensified opposition efforts against him. Such actions appear to be diversionary tactics.
Many politicians who previously appeared supportive of anti-corruption initiatives are now implicated and have turned against these efforts. It is plausible that they hope this will mitigate their guilt and prevent prosecution. Now that they see the President’s determination to identify and incarcerate wrongdoers before Christmas, opposition against him has intensified.
The President’s resolute stance against criminals now poses a significant threat to his presidency. Instead of opposition groups expressing support for his decisive actions toward justice, they are attempting to oust him. It seems they aim to hinder his efforts to expose the masterminds of corruption.
How has our nation arrived at this condition? There appears to be a deeply rooted culture of corruption in the Philippines, originating from certain social and religious traditions. Some examples include:
- **"Utang na loob"** - this tradition has inflicted considerable damage to our heritage. It fosters a perpetual sense of indebtedness toward benefactors, often driving individuals to do anything, including theft, to repay favors.
1. - **The practice of indulgences** – originally a religious act of reducing or escaping penalties through penance, has been socialized into a norm of bribery.
2. - **Tribal loyalty** – a forced sense of allegiance to family or tribe persists. Unfortunately, this attitude promotes unwavering loyalty regardless of moral considerations, undermining ethical standards.
These forms of corruption have been ingrained over the years through tradition, making them seem acceptable and unchallengeable.
To eradicate these corrupt practices, there is a crucial need for education from an early age to foster awareness of their malign influence. Laws must be enacted and rigorously enforced. It is essential to identify and challenge inappropriate traditions, superstitions, and cultural practices, and hold accountable those in positions of authority.
What the Marcos administration must undertake is to end this culture of corruption, even if it jeopardizes influential individuals, family members, or friends. I commend the President for awakening to this truth and sincerely hope he persists in this pursuit for the betterment of our nation and in accordance with divine principles.