“…Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows…” –Galatians 6:7

I felt a bit queasy after the House of Representatives decided to slash nearly P95.4 million from the 2019 annual budget for the Office of the Vice President. Whatever their motivation will surely generate criticism and be branded as a “political vendetta” by the President Rodrigo Duterte administration.

It is unclear if the members of congress who supported the measure were merely siding with Duterte or were upset with Vice President Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo. However, what the public (beyond Robredo and her Liberal Party allies) will conclude is the budget reduction was a form of political persecution

Fast forward to the end of Duterte’s term and Robredo as the assumed successor, can the former president, his family, and political allies expect a bit of understanding after the actions taken during his term? Surely, Duterte and company will undergo the same political vindictiveness.

Politicians always sidle up to the next president

Legislators, of course, would not be afraid of a Robredo presidency. Those slimy creatures of politics know if Robredo is installed as president (or any member of her political party), they will not face persecution because they will need them to accomplish their legislative agenda.

This is the political reality that has gripped the Philippines for the longest time; the sycophants for President Corazon Aquino took on the same role for every one of her successors and many of these lawmakers lack any principled loyalty as they are solely fixated on their personal and political well-being.

The ones to bear the brunt of what happened between 2016 and 2022 will be Duterte himself and his closest relatives. Cases will be filed against the future-former president and the subsequent administration will likely ensure he is in jail, including those who wielded power during his administration.

What else is new in politics? Nothing changes except for the names and faces – yet, somehow, they are all the same.

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I wish the different branches of government would learn to accept visitors. According to the Constitution, Filipinos or foreigners should be welcome into their respective office in order to explain their duties and responsibilities. This is what the more important government agencies in the United States so, from the White House to the US Capitol to the Supreme Court; which I personally witnessed when I and my family visited Washington, DC last week (pictures posted at facebook.com/attybatas).

I was impressed by the visits, which allows people to appreciate what the various offices do for them and understand the processes implemented in order to serve the public.

Why is this not done in the Philippines?

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FOR QUESTIONS, REACTIONS: If anyone would like to ask me any question about what the burning issues of the day mean, what we have discussed here, or to consult any problem, whatever it maybe, please call 0917-984-2468, email me at batasmauricio@yahoo.com, or post your concerns at facebook.com/attybatas. Promise, I will answer right away. Thank God in the Name of Jesus, Amen!/WDJ