Some lawmakers are crying foul over the request of the Department of Justice for the cancellation of their passports along with those of other individuals implicated in the pork barrel scam. The lawmakers complain that they have not been convicted of any offense or ordered arrested. Another senator, on the other hand, has pointed out that the cancellation is allowed under the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, which went into force in December 2005, and to which the Philippines is a signatory.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is still evaluating the request. Regardless of the decision of the DFA, authorities should keep an eye on all the individuals identified in the alleged scam. Whistle-blowers and documents prepared by the Commission on Audit have clearly identified those who might soon face trial before the Sandiganbayan for plunder, a serious offense that normally does not allow bail.
The possibility of detention without bail plus the enormous amounts involved raise the risk of flight. Prominent – or notorious – individuals facing serious charges have disappeared in recent years, and several of them remain at large. The senators implicated in the pork barrel scandal appear ready to face the accusations against them squarely. The less prominent individuals named in the scam, however, may think their low profile can allow them to evade justice. The state must use all legal means to prevent this from happening.
Authorities should take a closer look at the UN convention and use it as a tool in the campaign against corruption. The international community now recognizes corruption as one of the biggest hindrances to development, poverty alleviation and equitable growth. In recent years, the UN, the World Bank and other institutions have given high priority to the anti-corruption campaign particularly in developing countries. These global bodies are sure to cooperate in efforts to bring to justice individuals wanted for corruption. Their message to the corrupt should ring loud and clear: you can run but you can’t hide.