Solving the problem of corruption

Jose Rizal called corruption a “social cancer.” As both doctor and reformer, he knew what he was talking about. Cancer spreads quietly through the body, weakening it until its defenses collapse. Corruption behaves the same way: it seeps through society’s bloodstream — its institutions, culture, and collective mindset — until the whole system can no longer care for itself.

- BENITO L. TEEHANKEE

To cure a chronic illness, a doctor must diagnose its causes and treat them systematically and continuously. The same is true for corruption. Despite countless anti-corruption drives, we Filipinos still ask: Why does corruption persist?

The answer lies in one word: institutionalization. Corruption in the Philippines has become embedded in our structures and routines. It has become normal.

Let us imagine corruption as a three-legged stool. A person thinking of engaging in corruption — whether a public official, contractor, or businessperson — will subconsciously ask: Is this stool strong enough to sit on? If all three legs seem sturdy, that person will feel safe to proceed.

The three legs of this stool are:

1. Weak enforcement of laws and rules against corruption;

2. Weak moral commitment of professionals and officials to uphold the public interest; and,

3. Public acceptance and normalization of corruption in everyday life.

All three must be addressed if we hope to make corruption too risky and too shameful to sit on.

1. Weak Enforcement: When Crime Pays

People respond to consequences — especially rewards and punishments. A businessperson who considers bribing a regulator to secure a contract makes a simple calculation: Is the gain worth the risk?

In the Philippines, that risk is minimal. The likelihood of detection is low, the penalties are light, and high-profile offenders often escape punishment or receive pardons. Impunity emboldens wrongdoers.

Contrast this with countries where corruption is deterred by credible and swift punishment. There, the fear of certain retribution outweighs any temptation to cheat.