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Saturday, August 13, 2005
Libre: In the service of the people
By Mel Libre
Seriously Now
It is not surprising that people change as their status change.
There is something in power that alters the attitude of some people. There is something in wealth that makes strangers out of friends. There is something in fame that goes into the head of some successful individuals.
One field I know that creates monsters out of people is government. When they are still out of power, they show deep concern for those around them, especially the poor and the needy. They speak with much authority and commitment to change the way things are in government, if given the chance.
There were those who fought against an evil regime, dedicating their lives to regain freedom and democracy for our country. Others swore by Mao's little red book with intent to overthrow a corrupt capitalistic system and put in its stead one where the proletariat would equally share the produce.
But what happened to some of these idealists once in power? They were eaten up by the system and became the very monsters they abhorred.
There are many who now hold important positions in government who have become intoxicated with power that staying in power has become their mantra. They swear that whatever decisions they make is for their constituents. But that is all for show. The party, if not the money, dictates.
Others so thrive in a culture of corruption that dishonest deeds to them have become second nature and they believe that everyone else are corruptible. The valiant ones do try to introduce honest reforms and when their superior becomes the stumbling block, resign and pursue other endeavors where they do not have to compromise their principles.
You will know the power-hungry kind for they are like leeches clinging to their unwilling hosts until their stomachs bloat. But unlike leeches, the corrupt public servants feed not only themselves but also their families, relatives, friends and illicit relations with people's money.
You will know these shenanigans by their split-persona of being adorable before the press and public, and immoral in their private moments. The worst type does not wear masks but displays arrogance, excesses and abuses without care for public opinion.
If our government has become inutile, it is because majority of those so-called civil servants may have forged a deal with the Devil. For didn’t former president Manuel L. Quezon prophesy that this country would be run like hell? But long dead, Quezon cannot take back his words. It is us, who are living, who can get this nation out of the rot we are all in.
As for our revered heroes, from Gomburza to Rizal, from Abad Santos to Ninoy Aquino, they ought to turn in their graves to remind those who work in government that heroism needs less of martyrdom and more of dedicated and honest work in the service of the people.
(August 13, 2005 issue)
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