Flaunting privilege

Flaunting privilege | Daily Tribune

The recent incidents involving staff of high-profile figures, such as former Senator Manny Pacquiao and members of the Philippine National Police, raised eyebrows over their unauthorized use of the EDSA Busway.

Let me get this straight. It was neither the former senator himself nor the chief of the Philippine National Police who committed the violation. Instead, it was their underlings who felt as entitled as their superiors.

As the Department of Transportation (DoTr) pointed out, many motorists, including those who should set an example, continue to flout the rules despite extensive public awareness campaigns about the specific regulations of the busway.

The situation reflects a larger societal issue: the persistent belief among some authorities that they are above the law. Regrettably, this mistaken notion also influences their subordinates.

The excuses often hinge on the VIPs’ status or connections, leading to a concerning normalization of privilege that undermines the rule of law and public trust.

It’s troubling to see entities like ordinary drivers of VIPs (Very Important Persons) and police officers responsible for enforcing traffic and public safety laws engaging in such behavior.

The fact that three members of the Highway Patrol Group were relieved of their duties following the incident indicates that there are consequences for these actions, which is a positive step. The senator’s staff has also issued an apology.

The DoTr’s commitment to enforcing the regulations promises a necessary check on these abuses. It brings to light the challenges they face in executing their mandate amid resistance and apparent entitlement exhibited by influential individuals.

Jonathan Gesmundo, spokesperson for the DoTr’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation, was right: some motorists are stubborn about complying, which serves as a reminder that the battle for compliance often must confront not just ignorance but also defiance rooted in social status.

Transportation infrastructure, especially in a bustling metropolis like Metro Manila, demands strict adherence to regulations. While the EDSA Busway is designed primarily for public utility vehicles and emergency services, according certain people privileges compromises its very purpose, which is to reduce congestion.

As the public grapples with the realities of everyday commuting amid the traffic woes, incidents like these further exacerbate frustrations towards those in power who seem insulated from the consequences of their actions.

There are several reasons why VIPs’ personnel abuse regulations. Working closely with high-profile individuals may create a sense of entitlement among staff. They might feel that the rules do not apply to them or believe that they can bend or break regulations without consequences due to their association with influential figures.

Personal staff often face intense pressure to meet their bosses’ demands. This pressure can lead some to overlook regulations to satisfy requests or expectations, only to regret it later when caught.

Personal staff often operate with limited oversight, especially in social settings. This lack of accountability can enable behavior that disregards regulations or ethical considerations.

When VIPs regularly bypass regulations or demonstrate a lax attitude towards rules, their staff adopt similar attitudes as they see this behavior as acceptable.

While not all personal staff engage in such behavior, these factors can contribute to a culture where regulations are overlooked or actively abused.

VIPs must take responsibility for disciplining their staff, particularly their drivers. Appropriate penalties should be enforced by the law when violations occur. Culpability should not distinguish between the wealthy and the less fortunate.

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