Danay kinahanglan sunogon an tuna para may maupay nga mga tanom, maupay nga pag tubo ngan pag bag o!
Waray- waray folks know the sentence and it is NOT naïve, it is straight to the point!
The flames eradicate the weeds, pests, and remnants of unsuccessful harvests — preparing the soil for something new and improved. It is a painful yet purifying endeavor. Today, the Republic of the Philippines finds itself at a similar juncture.
Recent disclosures of corruption — ranging from the misuse of public funds to systemic power abuse — have once again revealed the decay that clings to the foundations of our institutions. These incidents are not isolated. They are indicative of a more profound issue: a culture of impunity, a tolerance for dishonesty, and a political framework that frequently prioritizes loyalty over integrity.
Just as a farmer must determine the right moment to ignite the field, the Filipino populace must now ponder: how long will we permit these undesirable crops to flourish? How many harvests must be tainted before we opt for renewal instead of decay?
Corruption transcends mere political concern. It is fundamentally a moral issue. It robs the impoverished, undermines trust in governance, and hinders national advancement. Every peso lost to graft represents a classroom that remains unbuilt, a hospital that is understaffed, and a road that stays impassable. Furthermore, every official who evades accountability conveys a message that justice is negotiable — that the law is pliable for those in power.
However, there is a glimmer of hope. The act of burning is also an act of bravery. It necessitates conviction, unity, and the readiness to endure discomfort for the sake of future growth. Citizens must insist on transparency, support whistleblowers, and cast their votes not for personalities, but for principles. Institutions must be strengthened, not politicized. Moreover, leaders — particularly those who profess to serve the populace — must be held to the highest standards, rather than the lowest common denominator.
The field will not purify itself. It is our responsibility to ignite the flame.
Let this be the season of reckoning. Let the flames of truth rise high enough to scorch the roots of corruption. And when the smoke dissipates, may we discover fertile ground — prepared for a new crop of leaders.
