Since the country’s infant years, mudslinging has been a staple in Philippine politics. Propagating allegations of corruption seems to be the weapon of choice for any politician who wants to grab the spotlight before an election. The trick is perhaps as old as our republic. While there is absolutely no excuse for corruption, the advocacy against it is often co-opted to fuel the opportunism of some politicians.
Recently, Senator Manny Pacquiao, who is rumored to be eyeing the highest post in the land in next year’s election, accused several executive agencies of corruption.
The senator held a press conference on Saturday in which he claimed that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) failed to distribute P10.4 billion in cash aid under the Social Amelioration Program (SAP). At the same time, he said the Department of Health (DOH) had been purchasing medicines nearing their expiration dates. The senator also said the Department of Energy (DOE) granted a private company the power to operate as an independent electricity stock market operator.
While it would only be fair to assume that Pacquiao had good intentions in his recent revelations, it would be unfair to paint the current administration as a coddler of corrupt officials. No President has ever been as vocal against corruption as President Rodrigo Duterte. However, a President can only do so much within the span of six years. The case is the same for other countries, even the wealthiest ones.
Another troubling note about Pacquiao’s crusade is that he is coming to the table without presenting any hard evidence. It also lacks a clear plan to address corruption in the government. What he is doing right now is conjuring allegations for other people to verify. By the looks of it, he does not want to do the dirty work for his own cause. He’s nothing more than a loose cannon spewing air.
