Why and how we became incompetent and corrupt

VIRTUAL REALITY

- TONY LOPEZ

Two provisions in the 1987 Constitution explain why our government became very incompetent and very corrupt, resulting in the most breathtaking economic decline in Asia, from the region's second richest or even richest (after Japan was nuked by the US, twice) in the 1960s to the 21st century.

One, the removal of the two-party system, the Nacionalista Party and the Liberal Party, with the installation of the multi-party system under the 1987 Constitution.

Two, the facile ban on political dynasties.

The dynasty ban is in two forms - 1) term limits and 2) a direct ban, Article II Section 26: "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law." Congress has not passed the law defining a dynasty. A dynasty is a family - from grandparents to grandchildren.

The president is limited to a single six-year term. Senators are limited to two six-year terms. Then, they can take a break of three years, and run again, for a new two six-year terms; then take a break, of three years, and then run again for another two six-year terms, then take a break and run again, til they die.

Congressmen, provincial governors and city and town mayors are limited to three three-year terms or nine years. Each can all take a break, of three years, and run again for three three-year consecutive terms.

Instead of limiting the years in power of political families, the Constitution's term limit provisions exponentially increased the number of family members running for public office - especially for senators, congressmen, governors and mayors. The father would ask his wife, his children, his siblings, if any, to take his place, while taking the required break in compliance with term limits.