The Philippine longhouse recently erupted with nervous activity following the explosion of a flood-control bomb. Everyone scrambled for cover, not from the bomb itself, but from the anger of a people long suffering from greed and corruption. One official resigned, another fled the country, and others assumed lead roles in preliminary investigations to avoid implicating themselves and favored colleagues. Hypocritically protective of an integrity that never existed, they engaged in cover-up operations by muddling the issue. Since they were investigating themselves, the naked truth remains elusive.
Nine Months Later, Truth Still Elusive
As expected, truth is still nowhere to be found. Nine months after the explosion, we are no closer to the truth than when we started. After the initial shock, everything went quiet in the longhouse. All shades came down, obscuring internal activities. Promised convictions after Christmas have not materialized; it is now the end of April, and all suspects remain under preliminary investigation. Controlled mainstream media shifted attention to the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte and her father's imprisonment and trial at the International Criminal Court. The VP is being pursued for unexplained wealth and unliquidated intelligence funds, but many officials enjoy such funds and become wealthy in office. The inclusion of unprogrammed funds in the national budget also raises questions.
Zaldy Co's Whereabouts and Investigation Delays
The location of Zaldy Co seems like good news, but the longhouse is conditioning the public to expect a lengthy investigation. Initially, it was hoped Co would return in one to three weeks, but he may no longer be under Czech custody. The longhouse asks if Co is ready to tell the truth, as if to lower expectations. High prices of oil and other basic goods provide a welcome excuse to slow down investigations. Unprepared for the crisis, officials scramble for solutions to a problem that could render one million more people poor.
Early Election Campaigns and Public Concerns
Some officials have been seen campaigning early for the 2028 elections, focusing on defending rights to the West Philippine Sea. However, voters are more concerned about corruption and the high cost of living. Talk is rife about the top house resident being sick. Despite claiming transparency, the longhouse insists there is no need to show the public the results of his latest physical exam. Seeing those results would dispel doubt more effectively than lifting a 10-kilo bag of rice.
A disturbing quiet has settled on the longhouse. Hopefully, they are not cooking the public's goose any more than they already have.
