It is ironic how the Philippines, being basically an agricultural country, is one of the top importers of rice in the world. This country is so blessed with natural resources, particularly bodies of water, yet, clean drinking water and sanitation facilities are still lacking in many cities and provinces. Furthermore, the funds for addressing some of these issues may not be totally wanting. These monies are supposed to be used for priority projects such as education, health, livelihood projects, and infrastructure, among others. But somewhere along the line, the funds often somehow get either sidetracked or diminished or completely depleted without accomplishing what their original intentions were meant for. Sadly, corruption in the use of such monies creeps in. How bad is corruption in the Philippines?
The answer, as featured in this DRN issue, seems to be glaringly disenchanting though. Corruption has actually worsened. In fact, it has thrived, and become more institutionalized, and ingrained within the government. Strong political will, support from the private sector, nongovernment organizations, and from the Filipinos in general are thus so badly needed in order to command transparency and accountability from those in the seat of power. Because if not, gauging from the past up to the current picture of poverty that Filipinos are experiencing, heaven forbid what the future may hold.
