Many whys in the Philippines

Why are elected officials, especially in Quezon City, allowed to display signboards with their pictures and names on them, along with all sorts of messages to constituents, graduates, and even to themselves, in connection with just about any occasion—from birthdays to graduations to Christmas to fiestas? Are government funds used for these signs? Even if personal funds were used for these signboards, they are eyesores and mar the surroundings.

Why do names of elected officials appear on waiting sheds and island markers, in school buildings, overpasses, and just about any public structure? Government funds are used to put these up and not their personal funds.

Why are commemorative plates installed on vehicles where license plates should be? Also, why are license plates replaced with plates bearing words such as “POLICE,” “QCPD” and the like? Are these intended to intimidate other motorists?

Why do names (and even pictures) of elected officials appear on fire trucks, government utility vehicles, etc.? Aren’t these vehicles procured with government funds?

Why are roads in good condition torn up, only to be repaired under the same specifications?

Why are the picture and name of the congressman, mayor or councilor responsible for the project almost always seen along several sections of the “project”? This act is tantamount to destroying public property and is a waste of government funds. Shouldn’t the erring official be charged criminally and administratively for destruction of public property? This insidious act, motivated by personal or political gain, should be stopped. Puwede po ba?

Why are many fast-food  restaurants allowed to scrimp on construction costs by providing He/She shared toilets and washrooms? The limited facilities are not customer-friendly.

—LEONCIO DE MESA,

University of the Philippines,

Diliman, Quezon City