DESPITE controversies surrounding the Philippine government and its leaders, Pinoys have always remained auspicious.
With notable democratic icons as his parents (the late Former Sen. Ninoy Aquino and and Former Philippine President Cory Aquino) Pres. Benigno Aquino III had the “Yellow Magic.” It catapulted him from being Tarlac’s 2nd district representative, a senator and now an official resident of Malacañang—as the Philippines’ 15th president.
Aquino assumed the position with a ‘tuwid na daan (straight path)’ propaganda; a promise of a government that will always strive against graft and corruption. It is no wonder that he garnered 15 million votes from the people, when he ran for presidency.
On Aquino’s inauguration as President, Florencio ‘Butch’ Abad became an appointee for a crucial cabinet position: Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). A long-time government official, Abad has been the former secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
Just like Aquino, Abad are now in hot water, berated by the people who once adored their outstanding performance.
Last week, tables have turned when the Supreme Court (SC) declared the Disbursement Acceleration Fund (DAP) unconstitutional in some parts; including the withdrawal of unused funds from offices with only a small amount of projects or obligations to other implementing agencies, the transfer of savings from the executive to projects which are outside the executive department, and funding of projects which are not included in the General Appropriations Act.
Some people are now eyeing for the suspension of the long-time secretary and the impeachment of the once-celebrated president. Will it push through?
According to some lawmakers, while the Senate and the House of Representatives are headed and dominated by the Liberal Party, there will always be a low probability of getting votes for an impeachment. Even Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago agreed during a televised press briefing.
On the other hand, the Ombudsman has yet to investigate the offenses committed by the names dragged in DAP and allegations of misuse of government funds.
With the current development in the pork barrel controversy, government finance and how it is spent has become a hot topic these past months. Through social media, Pinoys are not only more aware, they’ve become more involved.
While Aquino and Abad’s track record as public officials have been commendable in the past, the recent ruling on DAP have some people question their dignity and honesty. They are challenged to prove that they are deserving of their current role in the country.
(AJPress)
