by Seneca Moraleda-Puguan
Corruption in the Philippines is at its peak.
Though many of our politicians and government officials have faced trials for mismanaging public funds in the past decades, we have never witnessed this degree of blatant and shameless theft of hard-earned taxes that should have been used to uplift the lives of ordinary Filipinos.
These are funds meant to build schools, improve healthcare, create jobs and construct reliable infrastructure. Instead, they have become personal treasure chests for a few.
We have long known that corruption exists. But its depth, scale, and brazenness have only been fully exposed these days. Thanks to the power of media and social media.
Had some corrupt Department of Public Works and Highways contractors not flaunted their extravagant lifestyles online, and had vigilant public officials like Mayor Vico Sotto not called out media personalities who glorify such behavior, the public might never have been stirred to demand accountability.
It began with media and social media, and it is through these channels that the clamor for truth and accountability continues.
Exposés and documentaries on ghost projects and substandard infrastructure are now being featured prominently on major television programs such as Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho on GMA 7.
Platforms like Bilyonaryo Channel and Rappler consistently reveal the lavish lifestyles of lawmakers and local officials, along with their links to anomalous public works.
Social media, for all its flaws, has also become an equalizer. It has given ordinary citizens a voice.
It keeps the stories alive, reminding the public to stay vigilant and continue demanding justice from leaders who should be solving our nation’s problems, not creating them.
What a tragedy it is for a country so rich in natural and human resources to remain so impoverished in good governance.
Of course, as we navigate the flood of information online, we must remain discerning. Not everything we see or read is true. We must guard against fake news and seek truth above sensationalism.
Yet, amid the chaos and darkness, I find hope. What was once done in secrecy is now being brought into the light.
This awakening, the Filipino people’s collective cry of “Enough is enough!” and “We deserve better!”, marks the beginning of change.
As a people, we must keep fighting. By God’s grace and mercy, justice will be served, integrity will rise again, and healing will come to our nation.
And this is why being part of an institution that values truth and empowers voices is such a privilege.
For 33 years, the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle has been a steadfast platform for truth, awareness, and community engagement.
To contribute to a publication that enlightens minds, opens hearts, and inspires action is both an honor and a responsibility I cherish deeply.
As we celebrate the Chronicle’s anniversary, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my thoughts, to speak for those who cannot, and to take part in the ongoing mission to expose truth and uphold integrity.
Happy 33rd Anniversary, Hawaii Filipino Chronicle! May you continue to inform, inspire, and ignite change for many years to come, not just in Hawaii, but wherever truth and justice need a voice.
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