HOWIE SEE IT: A Ghost Republic

By Atty. Howie Calleja

Filipinos are familiar with stories of haunted places, from ancestral mansions to even the presidential palace, Malacañang. Yet, as the saying goes, why fear ghosts? They are deceased, incapable of physical harm. However, a more insidious haunting plagues our nation—the “ghosts” within our government.

These are not the spirits of the departed, but rather manifestations of corruption and deceit that erode the very foundations of our society. The specter of ghost voters during elections undermines the democratic process, while ghost employees padding payrolls drain public funds. The existence of ghost scholars or students in the Department of Education deprives deserving individuals of opportunities and compromises the quality of our educational system.

Now, we face the mother of all ghosts: ghost projects, particularly in flood control. A stark example is the reinforced concrete riverwall project in Barangay Piel, Baliuag, Bulacan. President Marcos himself inspected the site and discovered that the P55.73 million project, which was reported as 100% complete and fully paid for as of June, was never constructed at all. Not a single hollow block or equipment was found on site, leading the President to lament that the community’s flooding problems worsened due to the project’s non-existence.

The implications of these ghost projects extend far beyond mere financial loss. They erode public trust, creating a climate of disillusionment and apathy. When citizens see their taxes squandered on nonexistent infrastructure, they lose faith in the government’s ability to deliver essential services. This cynicism can lead to disengagement from civic duties, further weakening the foundations of our democracy. Moreover, the lack of proper flood control measures puts communities at risk, exacerbating the impact of natural disasters and perpetuating a cycle of poverty and vulnerability.

But perhaps the most tragic consequence of these “ghosts” is the erosion of hope. When we see corruption thrive with impunity, it becomes harder to believe in the possibility of a better future. It chips away at our collective spirit, making us question whether genuine progress is even attainable. We owe it to ourselves, and to future generations, to reclaim that hope. We must remember the resilience and determination that have always defined the Filipino people, and use that strength to demand a government worthy of our trust.

Ultimately, the fight against these “ghosts” is a battle for the soul of our nation. It requires a collective commitment to integrity, transparency, and good governance. We must demand that our leaders prioritize the welfare of the people over personal gain, and that they are held accountable for their actions. By shining a light on these shadowy practices and demanding accountability, we can exorcise the ghosts that haunt our republic, paving the way for a future where public service is synonymous with honesty, efficiency, and genuine dedication to the Filipino people.