The Philippines has been plagued by corruption, particularly in the implementation of flood control projects, which was recently exposed by the President himself during his State of the Nation Address. This revelation has sparked scathing criticism and demands for accountability from the opposition, with many calling for the President’s resignation and even a People Power mass action to force him out of office. Some have also suggested that the Armed Forces withdraw their support for the President and establish a revolutionary government. Senator Alan Peter Cayetano has proposed a snap election as a solution to end corruption in government. However, history has shown that such measures are not guarantees of ending corruption, as the country has undergone two People Power revolutions and a snap election in the past, only to see corruption continue to pervade the government. The Philippines’ experience with corruption has been deeply ingrained, and it is unlikely that any of the proposed solutions will be effective in stamping it out. In fact, some of those who are shouting the loudest about corruption may themselves be engaging in corrupt practices or may become corrupt when given the opportunity. As the saying goes, “History tends to repeat itself,” and it is likely that the same system of corruption will continue to devour those who try to fight it.
