New Face of Corruption in Filipino Culture

What does the ordinary Juan dela Cruz feel each time his motherland is adjudged internationally as first ranking among contenders - not for excellence but for corruption? Perhaps, a more appropriate question to ask is “Should he care?” or “Does it matter?” What about, “Again?”

Tracking history, the lack of admission by the late dictator former President Ferdinand Marcos over, not only allegations but conviction for ill-gotten wealth from the republic’s used to be overflowing coffers, did not prevent him from placing the Philippines on the limelight of corruption. This pillage plus a long list of atrocities grabbed him out of power after over two decades of autocratic rule through the peaceful People Power Revolution I in favor of the late Corazon C. Aquino, plain housewife turned President, the widow of Filipino hero, Benigno S. Aquino Jr.

This opportune time paved the way for the restoration of the long-sought for democracy. Everybody seemed to have been mesmerized by the freedom they finally got hold of. A new set of cronies came into power, amassing whatever is left of the nation’s coffers.

Over the years this new face of corruption evolved into various forms - bureaucracy, otherwise known as red tape, under-the-table, bribery, kotong, illegal games, to name a few. Worse, perpetrators mostly from top positions in governance have managed to condition the mindset of their subordinates that gains by extra-ordinary means out of power or the so called “public service” is a returned favor – a blessing. The result: role models emulated down the line, not just by the rank and file in public office but even by ordinary citizens. Now, who would admit there is corruption in the Filipino culture when, sad to say, irregularities have become a way of life to many Filipinos? What a slap on the face of those who have kept a trod on a straight path, "daang matuwid" as the incumbent President PNoy puts it.

Hope Remains

Ironically, whether he cares or not, poor Juan dela Cruz has to face the consequences of his beloved Philippines being one of the most corrupt nations in the world. His sincere hope should be for this new government to finally address this culprit.

/mpleongson

Oct 19, 2010