It does not shock me that some agencies here in the Philippines are just a bunch of clowns. It was truly a circus to begin with, with their questionable decisions and never-ending actions that do not align with the country's current needs. Just like the controversies in the Department of Tourism about the “Love the Philippines" campaign.
However, they have once again proven it, as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is embroiled in another controversy following the first issue about an unauthorized trip and excursion outside of the detainee Jose Adrian Dera. The agency's credibility has now been severely compromised by two recent scandals, which cast serious doubts about its professionalism, leadership, and integrity.
This time, CCTV footage showed NBI members and officials, who should have set an example of respecting women, being entertained by a sexy dancer during their command conference. The NBI appeared to be enjoying themselves at a party held at a 5-star hotel on June 29 to 30, despite the 14 trillion national debt, where a woman wearing a black shimmery top, bikini shorts, and high knee boots provocatively danced, thrusting her hips, and approaching male guests officials.
NBI Director Medardo de Lemos stated that the dance performance at the end of the command conference was intended as a "fellowship" activity to foster bonding among regional and national officers. However, he also issued an apology in response to lawmakers like Arlene Brosas and concerned citizens who rightfully raised concerns about the disgusting and unacceptable behavior displayed during the event.
The incident is now under investigation, as confirmed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla. Nevertheless, it is alarming that such boorish behavior could occur within an institution that is filled with officials who have the power to prevent it. This situation raises serious concerns about the ethics and standards within the agency. It begs the question: What would have happened if the conference had not been known and posted online? Would those responsible have faced any consequences?
The conference, primarily attended by higher officials of the agency and funded by the public, raises concerns regarding their alarming lack of shame and critical thinking. What could possibly explain their audacity to engage in such hypocrisy? This scandal cannot be dismissed as a mere result of misjudgment, lack of awareness, or insensitivity by the organizing team, as claimed by DOJ spokesman Mico Clavano. The officials themselves bear responsibility, as they are old enough to know better and should be well aware of the laws, yet they allowed the event to take place without intervening.
This serves as a symptom of broader systemic issues and highlights the urgent need for reflection and reform among higher officials in the Philippines. There is a pressing need to address the prevailing work culture, ethics, and values, as these officials appear to disregard and belittle them through their actions and judgments. This calls for a thorough examination and transformation to ensure that such behavior is not tolerated and that officials uphold the principles of integrity and respect that they should be embodying.
Civil Service Commissioner Aileen Lizada also drew attention to the violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act committed by NBI agents who solicited funds for the provocative dance show. This incident raises apprehension as the event was not only extravagant but also unnecessary. These happenings would create an environment for contributing and potentially illicit financial transactions, breeding corruption within the agency.
The fact that the agents and officials themselves willingly contributed money (still not clear if the higher-ups also paid) to support the scandal, as stated by NBI director De Lemos. This not only demonstrates their clear awareness of the misconduct but also reveals their unsettling willingness to let it happen without questioning. It is as if they believed that personally funding the inappropriate act could somehow justify it, considering that they are paid using public funds.
The agency, which should take the lead in enforcing practices and laws to uphold rights and protect individuals from all forms of sexual exploitation, is ironically engaging in behavior that contradicts this purpose. By treating women as mere objects of entertainment, they are disrespecting the very idea they should be upholding and insulting the integrity of the country.
Moreover, what is more ironic to consider is that NBI director De Lemos issued an apology to the offended public regarding the video while also attempting to distance himself from the pressing issue by stating that he would have stopped the sexy dance if he had been present. It is naive to believe that a mere apology can absolve the agency of its misconduct.
Although De Lemos promised to hold those responsible accountable, it also raises concerns about ensuring that all individuals involved will be properly punished, considering the possibility of bribery, as seen in the previous controversies about Dera.
As the investigation continues, this issue serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the ethical standards displayed by higher officials, which ultimately erode the integrity of our institutions. It is crucial to establish mechanisms that ensure accountability and prevent a lack of consequences for misconduct.
It is clear that mere probation or temporary measures are insufficient. These officials must face serious consequences, including removal from their positions, and be barred from holding any future government positions. Such actions are necessary to uphold accountability and ensure that those who disregard and disrespect the laws are not allowed to hold positions of power within our government.
Article: Kent Merrie Jade A. Mejares
Graphics: Hannah May Manalo
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