The foul mouth with base tendencies is a troubled child who never grew up. (Some child molestation victims are like that.) The more you show disapproval, the more he displays rebellious behavior.
So, how do you solve a problem like an overage emotional “complexity”? Treat him as the child he is. Remember the time he went crying to his mama. Remember the time after the election when he received a congratulatory phone call from an election rival. “He greeted me,” he said, sounding emotionally touched. In response, he told the rival who was facing strong allegations of pillaging, that “wala kang problema sa akin” (you have no problem with me).
Acts of graciousness and kindness probably have come few and far between in his life. Give him some. Show him love and understanding, the way a wise adult would to a child. It just might do wonders.
Remember, West Philippine Sea might be at stake.
—ATIS ALTAMIRANO, atisaltamirano@gmail.com