How to fight corruption the ‘SSSS’ way

Here is an “SSSS way,” four simple, concrete steps, to fight corruption.

Show and shame: (1) identify persons, the offices they are with, and other persons involved; (2) describe their corrupt activities, gather documents and evidence; (3) gather data on their income, properties and other assets; (4) describe their lifestyles; (5) submit information to concerned government offices; (6) inform media and advocacy organizations about the corrupt activities.

Sack: (1) provide the investigators with pertinent information and evidence; (2) testify and assist the prosecution of the cases; (3) monitor the cases until conviction and forfeiture of unexplained wealth, or acquittal.

Snub (ostracize): (1) do not invite accused to social, civic, political or any meeting or gathering; (2) do not elect or appoint accused to any government or private position; (3) do not make accused the ninong, ninang, sponsor or patron of any event or activity.

The term “accused” refers to a person or persons: (1) suspended or dismissed for, or convicted of, corruption; (2)  facing administrative or criminal charges for corruption; (3) widely known to be corrupt as could be seen from assets/properties or lifestyles far beyond or highly disproportionate to their lawful income.

—JOE CRUSADA,

Bangkal, Makati City