PLUNDER

Destructive political power and economic power in the hands of plunderers can turn any society into ruin.

The recent massive corruption scandal in the Philippines regarding the ghost infrastructure projects is a case in point. Many executive and legislative actors were evidently part of the kick-back system, and by this, no one knows who can be trusted and who's really unblemished. 

It has become normalized in Philippine culture that when you work in government, you will become personally rich, massively rich compared to the average citizen who ekes out a decent living under $5 a day, sometimes under unsafe, uninsured, unprotected labor conditions. The stark contrast is stomach-churning and immoral and no wonder, the people have gone to the streets to protest: professionals, celebrities, students, the clergy sector, and the rest who care about how this country is going to the dogs and want to avert more suffering for Filipinos.

I can't help but wonder if this country can improve on its own and become like Singapore. We don't have great leaders, the culture of corruption is rampant and systemic, and the judicial system is weak and unable to withstand patronage politics and become truly independent of the other branches of government. In short, where do we even start? I say, start by getting justice and accountability delivered, higher penalties for those found guilty, and implementing the policies already in place which are countless. Second, the need to overhaul the political system where patronage still rules and families capture state power undeterred, and the culture of stealing is accepted. Social media has become effective in shedding light on the scope of this problem. And third, the need to start electing leaders who are not going to harm the people but serve with honesty and ethical integrity. These actions are easier said than done, I know but what happens to the political will? 

I'm unapologetically upset about this as with the millions who live under abject poverty and floods, and more floods. As a diaspora living thousands of miles away, I'm caring, watching closely, not letting up on this. Enough of these hearings, it's time to take action. Now.