ONE GREAT irony is that Filipinos are so skeptical of politicians and government as a whole, yet nonetheless so devoted to their leading personalities. One might expect such skepticism to translate into a clear rejection of long-endured, shamelessly poor, and self-serving governance. Unfortunately, its potential remains wasted given that our individual leaders barely feel such disapproval bearing down on them.
Given everything, many Filipinos rightfully have the sentiment that our politicians are lousy, self-interested, and corrupt. However, a notable degree of dissonance arises when specific individuals, such as the sitting president or those of one’s local dynasty, are considered. Despite displeasure at the idea of the Filipino politician, whose archetype is either immoral or stupid, many are so quick to defend the names of those in office, opposing any criticism on their behalf.
Nowadays, almost any discussion that treads politics devolves into at least one party spouting an empty rationalization or out-of-place praise for an undeserving politician. Much effort is spent on absolving leaders of any fault even when they abandon the platforms they supposedly stood for, or have such little to show for their time in office. Twistedly, those who rebuke such leaders are often accused of malice.
In reality, the tendency to excuse, or outright defend politicians runs counterproductive to good governance. Due to this leniency, politicians face a lack of public pressure that disincentivizes them from properly exercising their duties, ultimately undermining their sense of responsibility to the people.
Once a politician realizes that they will be in the public’s graces regardless of their actual deeds, they will neither fear losing influence nor the next election. Supporters that quickly dismiss criticism only comfort leaders who sit idly while their constituents suffer, and embolden the many who enrich themselves with money or power.
To counter this, the public must only be its own advocate, even suspicious of the benefits individual leaders accrue through office. Our politicians do not deserve excuses made for them, much less any pity. They have not been burdened with public office, but entrusted with it. Since they are honored with the position alongside all its funds and powers, it is only right that we hold them to the highest possible standard.
On each campaign trail, these supposed public servants beg for our votes, spouting any form of promise and persuasion. To be satisfied with getting only weak policies and programs, or worse, “just a little bit” of corruption is absurd.
Instead of brazen abuse, our leaders should fear the public and be paranoid of losing favor. Unconditional support cannot be mistaken as a practice of good citizenship. Active, responsible citizens must be inclined to vocally withdraw their approval and future votes from leaders when they do anything but serve the public.
Unfortunately, these issues stem from a larger problematic culture that deifies authority and is hostile to opposing voices. As long as critics are deemed saboteurs, and so many only break their silence to defend the unworthy, political discourse in the Philippines remains impotent.
In the end, the seat of power should never be comfortable. Whoever sits on it should always feel the harsh, critical gaze of the public eye.
Silas is an Economics student expected to graduate from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2025. Passionate about people, he is devoted to empowering choice and participation, especially through fields of education and governance.
Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed by the opinion writer do not necessarily state or reflect those of the publication.
