Illusions of patriotism (2)

Ironic as it may seem, we witness the flagrant pretense of patriotism by some government employees who, in the first place, are entrusted with the responsibility of serving the nation and its citizens.

Aptly, the national government is observing the 123rd Philippine Civil Service Anniversary in line with Presidential Proclamation 1050, issued in 1997, which designated September as Civil Service Month.

It also commemorates the establishment of the Philippine Civil Service through Public Law No. 5, also known as An Act for the Establishment and Maintenance of an Efficient and Honest Civil Service in the Philippine Islands, on 19 September 1900.

Its 10-year theme, "Transforming Public Service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future-Ready Servant-Heroes," highlights the adaptability of the government workforce to the new normal and the significance of digital transformation, innovation and maintaining excellence and continuity in the public service.

As the celebration focuses on dynamism and emphasizes the civil servants' role in enhancing organizational resilience and sustainable management while aligning with Filipinos' collective aspirations of AmBisyon Natin 2040, we cannot help but ponder on expectations that public servants should embody true dedication to the country's welfare.

More often than not, we cross paths with civil servants throughout our everyday lives. They provide essential services and carry out various functions within the government at different levels in the barangays, transportation offices, hospitals, social service agencies, health facilities, public schools, law enforcement and fire departments, among others.

It is disheartening to hear accounts of civil servants displaying arrogance instead of offering friendly service to the public they serve. Some government employees finish their workday as early as 4 p.m., cutting short the standard 8-hour shift. Instead of utilizing the lost time on productive tasks, they engage in activities like retouching their makeup. Some take extended lunch breaks, loaf around, and habitually procrastinate, showing a lack of commitment to their responsibilities.

Another significant manifestation of fake love of the country is corruption driven by self-interest. Rather than working for the betterment of the nation, corrupt workers exploit their positions for personal gain. They engage in bribe-taking, embezzlement, and nepotism, diverting public funds and resources meant for the welfare of the people.

There are government employees who evade accountability for their actions, e.g., instances where officials engage in unethical practices, misuse their authority, or engage in misconduct without facing the appropriate consequences.

When those responsible for upholding the rule of law and ensuring the country's progress evade accountability, it undermines the foundation of a just and equitable society.

How about officials who align themselves with political parties rather than working impartially for the betterment of the nation? It becomes a vicious cycle of biased decision-making, favoritism, and the misuse of public resources to serve personal, disguised as political agendas.

For the ordinary Juan, may the 123rd Philippine Civil Service Anniversary instill in public servants their vital role of maintaining the functioning of society and serving the needs of the public — striving to do their best for the country we all love.