The cycle of promises made to the poor while systemic corruption prevents genuine progress. This pattern is not unique to the Philippines, but it is particularly pronounced due to the deep entrenchment of political dynasties, patronage politics, and institutionalized corruption.
The Illusion of Welfare Promises
Politicians often campaign on platforms centered on alleviating poverty, providing social services, and improving livelihoods. However, once elected, many fail to deliver on these promises because their true objective is not service but self-preservation. Welfare programs become mere tools for political gain—funds are misallocated, contracts are inflated, and resources are siphoned off. The poor, being the majority of voters, are kept in a cycle of dependency through short-term relief efforts like cash assistance programs, but structural reforms that could create real, lasting change are ignored.
Corruption as the Real Race
What appears to be a race for public service is, in reality, a competition for access to the vast resources of the government. The Philippine national budget, which runs in the trillions, is allocated across various agencies, but much of it is vulnerable to corruption through:
- Kickbacks from infrastructure projects – Public works and government contracts become avenues for bribery and overpricing.
- Ghost projects and padded expenses – Funds are allocated to non-existent programs or exaggerated expenses.
- Pork barrel politics – Despite supposed reforms, discretionary funds still exist in disguised forms, benefiting those in power.
- Control of business sectors – Politicians maintain monopolies or influence over key industries, from agriculture to utilities, ensuring that wealth remains in the hands of a few.
Power as a Self-Preserving Mechanism
Many politicians are not merely public servants; they are part of entrenched political families who treat positions as hereditary rights. Elections are about maintaining dynastic rule rather than governance. Political positions allow them to:
- Protect business interests – Many politicians have stakes in industries such as mining, construction, or energy. Government policies are shaped to favor their enterprises.
- Secure legal immunity – Political power shields them from corruption charges or criminal cases. Even those convicted often find ways to regain power.
- Control the electoral system – Through vote-buying, intimidation, and manipulation of government institutions, they ensure their continued dominance.
The Perpetuation of Poverty as a Political Strategy
The suffering of the masses is not just an unfortunate consequence; it is a necessary condition for those in power to maintain control. A poor and uneducated population remains dependent on handouts and is easier to manipulate through propaganda. Election season is the time when promises flow, but the system is designed to keep people in survival mode rather than empower them with long-term solutions.
In short, politics in the Philippines is not about serving the people—it is about securing wealth and influence. Until systemic reforms are made to dismantle patronage politics, strengthen institutions, and educate voters, the cycle of false promises and deepening poverty will continue.
