No Historic Landmark or Development

can stay for a Lifetime in the Philippines

by Apolinario Villalobos

The politics in the Philippines is one of a kind. It is destructive, as well as, breeds very hideous corruption, that devastates even the foundation of the people’s culture. Greed is the very core of political system in the Philippines. Worst, is that despite the glaring manifestations of committed corruption, those involved keep on denying it.

Every administration of all government units, from the top executive down to the lowest level is fanatically obsessed with political slogans and colors that serve as their stamp. Even long-standing structures which have been budgeted significantly for their construction are not spared. It is expected always, that every time an election for the sets of government officials has been concluded, practically everything is washed over with new colors that stand for the passion of the winners. Along with this, what have been put up by the past administration, are unsparingly destroyed to give way to new ones that shall stand for the “accomplishments” of the sitting set of officials. On the other hand, the sitting government officials may not be totally blamed because unless they broadcast their accomplishments, the people will not know.

As to the historic landmarks that for centuries gave a grandiose image to the country, these are pitifully neglected. Some are renovated to assume a modernistic façade to serve the purpose of the mindless government officials. A sister of the president was even quoted as having indiscreetly remarked that the centuries-old Post Office building at the Bonifacio Park (formerly, Lawton Plaza), can be converted into a hotel. And, just a stone’s throw away from the said landmark is the deteriorating Manila Metropolitan Theater with its peeling walls and crumbling statues.

My heart cringes every time I browse the cyberspace and view the posts of bloggers – photos of the historic landmarks of neighboring Asian countries, all well-maintained and not overshadowed by mushrooming and towering modern edifices. Even the triangular and minuscule “tourist spot”, Intramuros is in a sorry state with its stinking nooks. Perhaps, it will remain as such, a stinking “spot”. It is a shame that we Filipinos always say, that we are proud of our race and country, but these are just verbal declarations without substance.

Yes, we have world-class singers and we have Manny Pacquiao, but it seems that our pride stops there. Our president is even touted as a lame duck, one reason why corruption in the government has worsened. But, as the saying goes, while we live, there is always hope…and as hoping is free, it’s all that the Filipinos can do…hope and pray for the better!