Certainly uncertain fidel abalos

Two weeks ago, the nation was anxiously watching the development of the supposed three-day “anti-corruption rally” of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) faithful at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.  Short of a day, the INC said that it ended a day earlier as the message they intended to impart was already conveyed successfully.

Whether there was something intended beyond such messaging or not, that is not what we wish to drill down into.  Nor should we try to delve into the organizers’ reported refusal to let those advocating for PBBM’s resignation to join.  By the same token, we won’t yield this space to entertain such thought that the same group (refused entry into the INC’s rally) is espousing for a military coup.  More importantly, we don’t have to talk about that insinuation that such attempted overthrow is meant to stop the investigation so their patrons maybe saved.  The fact that it didn’t happen simply tells us that all these dark intentions won’t happen without the support of the vast majority of us.

Be that as it may, the aforementioned developments may be taken as an approval for the continuation of the flood control fiasco investigation and to produce results.  Since these malfeasances are akin to a blatant highway robbery, the general public, therefore, is expecting no less than the incarceration of the culprits, whoever they maybe.

Probably, we will see some culprits behind bar.  More likely, we might consider it a watershed moment in the country’s history.    However, if there is one thing we can mirror this ongoing development, it was a fact that in PNoy’s first six quarters in office, the economy slowed down significantly.  As recorded, from a 7.6% growth in 2010, it went down sharply to 3.7% in 2011.  This was largely attributed to the government’s underspending on infrastructure projects.  It was so as PNoy initiated a serious investigation on the corruption during GMA’s term.  Notably, several corrupt politicians were incarcerated.

After which, we witnessed a steady economic growth.  The Philippine economy experienced sustained and high growth during PNoy's tenure.  With an annual GDP growth of 6.2%, the country was dubbed as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies then.  To PNoy’s credit, some pundits and laymen alike call it a "golden age" for the economy.   He capped it with a booming stock market and the country’s first ever investment grade bond rating by London-based Fitch Ratings.

Remarkably, we rejoiced when he left a huge cash balance to his successor.  Yet, what he left were all gone.  Well, we may pin down COVID19 as the culprit for drying up the country’s treasury.  Yet, some politicians and their cohorts took advantage of it through rigged biddings (overpriced substandard medicines and medical supplies).  Worse, the incarcerated corrupt politicians were freed.

Now that PBBM is pursuing a similar investigation, can we expect the same results?  Just like PNoy’s first few quarters in his term where underspending on infrastructure obtained, can we expect the same trajectory momentarily.  But, just like during PNoy’s term, will the country’s economy grow after we see some politicians incarcerated?    That remains to be seen.  Remember, while PNoy’s name was unblemished, PBBM is implicated.

However, if indeed, PBBM can last his term and change the economy’s trajectory towards the end of his term, how can we be sure that his successor will propel us to prosperity?  Honestly, no one knows.  Absolutely though, those who will sound certain of their yes or no answers are downright fanatics.

Truthfully, except when a coup (which would be catastrophic) pushes through, that will largely depend on the choices we make in May, 2028.  We can only do that if, once and for all, we will, with all sincerity, abandon fanaticism.  Realizing that an election is a serious political exercise not just a piece of entertainment to kill one’s boredom.

One obvious proof of how deep fanaticism is branding Manny V. Pangilinan an oligarch just by calling for national unity and expressing the business sector’s preference for continuity. The same business sector whose contributions were siphoned by corrupt politicians they fanaticized for decades.  If this is how we behave, who knows what’s next.

Indeed, today, the only thing certain is uncertainty.