BUKELYA

Whether you agree or not, it’s a fact: We have unconsciously developed a culture of ignominy over standards, rules, and regulations. We tend to console ourselves by saying, “If you’re not caught, then there’s no problem.” Somehow, this notion is acceptable—especially if you’re going to view “decisions” and “choices” from an existentialist’s point of view. But what appalls me is the fact that when people get caught, they are not so talented as to make up stories and save their sorry asses.

The recent discovery of PNP’s P6.9M “contingency fund” is one hell of a catch; and I should say that these men in uniform didn’t undergo any drama classes as they are so poor in presenting themselves in the Senate inquiry.

Indeed, everyone suddenly shifted attention from the economic recession, Meralco bills, and transportation fare issues to the junket-looking trip that our noble cops—sworn “to serve” (probably their big bellies) and “to protect” (their personal assets, perhaps)—and their wives have gotten themselves into.

But “getting caught” isn’t new.

We caught Erap on tape, having fun while gambling people’s money.

We caught Gloria over the phone talking to Garci, and asking him to manipulate the election in Mindanao to her favor.

We caught Jocjoc hoarding the fertilizer funds in favor of his ingrate boss.

We caught Ben Abalos profiteering from the canceled NBN-ZTE deal—and witnessed how the issue “bukoled.”

Indeed, the current issue about the disputed Moscow trip isn’t really “new.” We have proven since time immemorial that this country is run by greedy and corrupt officials who never had the conscience to consider that the money that they are squandering came from the sweat and blood of common people like us.

But I think we should never be contented by exposing their crimes. The issue will never be closed unless someone gets penalized for his/her wrong acts.

I just hope and pray that the Senate inquiry will lead into something fruitful, because it has also been proven that we’re just good in catching, but these big fish criminals seldom get punished. Why not remove the blindfold of that Justice statue?