Purge all crooks

Public outrage must not waver, for sustained pressure is the worst enemy of crooks in government — those now being exposed by investigations revealing how corruption has become entrenched in what they call public service.

The danger of normalization was reflected in a Pulse Asia survey, which showed that 97 percent of respondents believe corruption is widespread in government, but 59 percent now consider it a regular part of politics in the country.

For a poor nation, many politicians and public officials live the lives of kings.

A former Bureau of Internal Revenue agent familiar with the lavish lifestyle of those in government said political dynasties are tolerated, an obvious sign of enrichment from public funds.

“Whole families are in office, all rich, no real businesses. Where did their wealth come from?” he asked.

A genuine cleansing of government will permanently disqualify dynasts if people unite to remove them one by one.

Revolts, twice in the country’s history, have failed to end the cycle of abuse. The challenge now is to oust the thieves methodically — one by one — like soldiers clearing houses of enemies. It may be tedious, but it is effective.

The task of purging villains who use government positions as safe havens falls on Ombudsman Boying Remulla, who, a political analyst said, must have the courage to pursue officials regardless of rank.

The measure should be simple: “If you misuse public funds, you’re a thief.” The Ombudsman must ensure accountability.

The BIR should also stop chasing small business owners and go after corrupt politicians and contractors, where the real money is. It must also scrutinize campaign donors who spend millions, and the politicians who benefit from them.

The public continues to ask: Why do candidates spend billions for jobs with small salaries? What’s in it for them? Do they want to be saints? Idolizing politicians is where corruption starts — when voters treat them like heroes whose faults are easily forgiven.

According to the former BIR official, detecting corruption is not difficult: Just examine whether an individual’s net worth exceeds their legal income. “It’s simple. Where did the money come from? How did you buy that car or mansion? If you can explain it, fine,” he said.

Politicians’ net worths skyrocketing by 1,000 percent in three years is impossible, given the modest salaries of members of Congress.

The paradox in government is that the budget is tightly guarded for ordinary public servants, with the Commission on Audit being strict even on small expenses. Yet flood control funds are abused by the billions — proof that leniency follows power.

Corruption thrives because many simply look the other way, including agencies tasked with investigating abuse but doing nothing.

The former revenue agent added that most officials cheat in their Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth by hiding assets under the names of their children, spouses, or cousins.

Rage must come from the truth that thieves in government do not steal from the rich — they are the rich stealing from the poor. Be part of the force that drives them out. Integrity in government is not a privilege, it is a right.