I FULLY support the proposal being pushed by former Supreme Court Justice Adolfo Azcuna regarding the possible adoption of a “writ of qui tam” or a mechanism that would empower private citizens to actively participate in the fight against corruption, ill-gotten wealth, abuse of authority, and incompetence in government service.
For far too long, many Filipinos have felt frustrated and helpless seeing allegations of corruption, unexplained wealth, abuse of power, and inefficiency in government remain unresolved for many years. In many cases, investigations move slowly, complaints are buried in bureaucracy, and accountability becomes selective depending on political influence and connections. Because of this, public trust in institutions continues to erode.
This proposal is a very powerful reminder that under our Constitution, public office is a public trust. Government officials and employees are not above the people. They are servants of the people. Therefore, citizens themselves should be empowered to help protect public funds and ensure accountability in government.
If properly structured with safeguards against harassment or politically motivated complaints, this proposal can become a strong deterrent against corruption and abuse in public office. It will send a clear message that every government official — regardless of rank, position, or political affiliation — can be held accountable not only by government institutions but also by vigilant citizens.
I also strongly hope that the Supreme Court of the Philippines will seriously study and listen to this proposal. The fight against corruption and abuse should not depend solely on the Ombudsman, Commission on Audit, Department of Justice, or other agencies. The Filipino people themselves must become active participants in protecting the nation’s resources and democratic institutions.
At the same time, I also believe that accountability should not only apply to corruption or ill-gotten wealth. It should likewise cover government officials and employees who continuously fail to perform their duties properly, neglect public service, abuse their authority, or display gross incompetence that adversely affects the Filipino people. Public service requires competence, integrity, efficiency, and responsibility. Those who continuously fail in these obligations despite holding important positions should also answer before the people.
This kind of citizen empowerment can help strengthen transparency, discipline, and professionalism in government. More importantly, it can help restore the people’s confidence that our democratic institutions are still capable of correcting themselves and protecting the interests of ordinary Filipinos.
In the end, true nation-building is not only the responsibility of government officials. It is also the responsibility of citizens who are willing to stand up, speak out, and participate in ensuring honesty, accountability, and good governance in our country.
