If Only the Philippine Senate Still Had Statesmen, Not Entertainers

If the Philippine Senate were still composed of men and women like Hilario Davide Jr., Rene Saguisag, Raul Roco, Raul Manglapus, Eva Estrada-Kalaw, Jovito Salonga, Wigberto Tañada, Heherson Alvarez, Edgardo Angara, Alberto Romulo, Blas Ople, Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Franklin Drilon, Ernesto Maceda, and Neptali Gonzales — to name just a few of the principled leaders we once had — the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio would have begun months ago, or perhaps would even be concluding by now.

But times have changed. And sadly, most of today’s senators lack the moral backbone and competence expected of public servants. What the Filipino people have witnessed so far is not a solemn, dignified trial, but cheap political theatrics and moldy exhibitionism.

Decency and delicadeza are dead in today’s Philippine Senate. Where we once had statesmen engaging in intellectual, substantive debate, we now have mediocrity, opportunism, and outright hooliganism on full display.

Filipinos who once took pride in electing principled leaders now watch with frustration and shame as these so-called representatives reduce our national legislature to a circus. It’s a painful reflection of how low we have allowed our politics to sink — and a reminder that the ultimate responsibility lies with the voters who keep putting these unworthy politicians in power.