‘Padrino’ system
FILIPINOS, particularly the poor and lowly, expect the incoming administration to at least minimize, if not totally stop, the so-called “patronage” system in the government.
Otherwise known as the “padrino” or “palakasan” system, it is acknowledged as one of the sources of controversies and corruption in this nation of more than 110 million people.
Under the “patronage” system, which is an open secret in impoverished Philippines, people get hired in the government although they don’t have what it takes for said positions.
It is certainly saddening and revolting to the senses that one gains favor, promotion or political appointment in the government through family affiliation or friendship.
“Kaya nga hindi tayo nagtataka kung bakit hanggang sa ngayon ay hindi pa nakukumpleto ni Pangulong Marcos ang mga miyembro ng kanyang Gabinete,” said a supporter of the new government.
“Isa lang ang ibig sabihin nito. Ang gusto ni BBM (Bongbong Marcos) ay piling-pili ang mga kukunin niyang mga opisyal. Walang palakasan,” according to a newly-retired government employee.
Everybody agrees that there’s really that urgent need to do away with the “padrino” system.
“Ito ay kung gusto nating mapabilis ang socio-economic development ng bansa na bagsak na bagsak ang kanyang ekonomiya dahil sa COVID-19 pandemic,” said another former government worker.
And we are made to believe that Mr. Marcos’ brand of leadership excites the Filipino people, including local government officials and ordinary citizens, into working in unison with the authorities.
But it’s time to eradicate the “padrino” or “palakasan” system for the sake of the country and the people.
