Philippine Political History: A Chronicle of Electoral Missteps and Constitutional Debates
Even a broken clock is correct twice a day, yet in the latter chapters of Philippine history, it seems the nation has rarely been accurate in selecting its leaders—senators, congressmen, and even presidents. This reflection delves into the persistent patterns of electoral missteps and governance challenges that have shaped the country's trajectory.
A Downward Spiral Since the 1960s
From its position as one of the most progressive nations in the 1960s, the Philippines began a gradual decline with the presidency of Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., culminating in the declaration of martial law in 1972 to extend his rule. The subsequent administration of Corazon Aquino did little to reverse this trend, with conditions deteriorating further until the recent election of Marcos Jr., marking a somber chapter in the nation's political narrative.
Constitutional Revisions and Stalled Reforms
The evolution of the Philippine constitution has been marked by significant shifts, from the replacement of the 1935 charter with the 1971 version to repeated attempts to amend the 1987 constitution. Proponents of charter change argue that the economic provisions are outdated and the party-list system should be abolished, but these efforts have consistently faced opposition from lawmakers and various sectors.
Objections have centered on fears of canceled elections and term extensions, highlighting a broader distrust in the majority of legislators, both past and present. This sentiment underscores a perception that many in the House of Representatives and Senate prioritize self-interest over public welfare, with few being labeled as true patriots.
Corruption Scandals and Justice Delays
The involvement of politicians in anomalous projects, such as flood control initiatives, has exposed deep-seated corruption, with former Senator Bong Revilla being one of the few incarcerated. Hopes remain that larger figures will face accountability, but the justice system appears to move slowly against influential individuals, contrasting sharply with swift actions against minor offenses. Today, an estimated ninety-nine percent of politicians are viewed as corrupt, reflecting a systemic crisis.
Proposals for Electoral and Constitutional Reform
If charter change proceeds, it is crucial to revisit historical practices. In the past, elections were held every four years in November, with presidents eligible for one reelection and no term limits for other officials, allowing continuous service based on electoral success. The shift to May elections has been criticized for disrupting the political landscape, as it coincides with fiestas and events like basketball tournaments and Holy Week celebrations, which often involve solicitation from candidates.
This timing creates a double-edged sword, encouraging overspending by candidates who may resort to corruption to recoup costs and fund future campaigns. Voters, in turn, may prioritize candidates based on donations rather than qualifications, eroding moral standards in the electoral process.
The Rise of Political Dynasties and Eroding Values
Term limits have inadvertently fostered political dynasties, where officials, after enriching themselves through corruption, pass positions to family members, perpetuating a cycle of self-interest. This cat-and-mouse game reflects a breakdown in moral values, as voters often seem amused rather than outraged by these practices.
Historically, politics attracted decent, educated individuals whose wealth came from hard work, and vote-buying was uncommon. Many of these figures left office poorer than they entered. In contrast, today's politicians often start with little and amass wealth beyond imagination through political office, highlighting a troubling shift in ethical standards.
This analysis calls for a reevaluation of electoral systems and governance to address these deep-rooted issues and restore integrity to Philippine politics.
