Modern-Day Pharaohs in Philippine politics

Amidst Vice President Sara Duterte’s looming impeachment trial and the legal challenges faced by some high-profile politicians and figures, it is but fitting for a democratic country to confront the truth that the rule of law is supreme over the rule of men. Article II, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution states that “sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them.” Yet this declaration of empowerment provides honor, even as the reality on the ground brings an atmosphere of despair.

For decades, real power has been confined to the hands of the few, and the system in which it thrives has even allowed it to be wielded malevolently and wrongfully at the cost of the people. Ironically, the democracy safeguarded from an erstwhile dictatorial regime is the same democracy that has since been weaponized to elect the corrupt, the incompetent, and the infamous.

Politicians have become like modern-day pharaohs with a supposed divine right to rule rather than a mandate to serve, basking in impunity and evading accountability. The looming impeachment trial of VP Sara is a rightful avenue to affirm that public office is a matter of public accountability, especially in an era where justice, for many, is reduced to imprisonment and conviction of those who commit heinous crimes or the killing of suspected armed communist rebels. Justice also means holding a public official accountable when public trust is betrayed, power is abused, and institutions are destroyed for selfish ends.

IAN CARLO L. ARAGON,

iancarloaragon@gmail.com