It is unfortunate that supporters of the past administration seem to be using underhanded tactics like text messages purportedly from the House majority alleging zero “pork” in exchange for an oust Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrrez vote. The House minority leadership has alleged that the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III is “more preoccupied with arrogating more power for itself, in undermining our democracy, than in addressing matters that really matter to the people.”
The Black and White Movement strongly disagrees. In our view, the present government, despite being hamstrung by landmines left in place by the former president, is dedicated to eradicating corruption; this is a paramount aim, meant to restore faith in institutions damaged by corruption and inaction such as the office of the Ombudsman. Addressing matters of dishonesty and nonfeasance in the last administration is a significant step forward. The Filipino people must get the justice it deserves just as much as the accused.
We support the Aquino government’s drive to achieve accountability from the former political leadership that blocked it at every turn for over nine years. We believe in the preponderance of evidence against the Ombudsman. We believe that the appointment of a new Ombudsman will clear the way to finally getting accountability from other corrupt individuals and groups.
We exhort our government to do all it can to eradicate corruption. We are all deserving of a government we can trust, of responsible and transparent leadership. It is time to give those that have been accused their right to just desserts. After all, the Filipino people are entitled to some good karma.
