By RAMPADOR ALINDOG
Awarded TV host-actor Vice Ganda took a serious tone on a recent episode of “It’s Showtime” as he called out the worsening corruption in the Philippine government, saying it robs not just public funds but the dreams and hopes of the Filipino people.
While chatting with contestants in the show’s “Laro Laro Pick” segment, Vice praised a participant named Ronron, a cargo porter working hard to support his family. He used the moment to shine a light on the struggles of honest Filipinos who continue to fight fairly despite poverty.
“Ito ang mga ninanakawan. Diba? Ang korapsyon ay hindi lamang pagnanakaw ng salapi ng bayan. Ito ang pagnanakaw ng pag-asa, ito ay pagnanakaw ng pangarap, at ito ang pagnanakaw ng magandang posibilidad,” Vice said passionately.
He didn’t stop there.
Vice continued by listing how corruption affects ordinary lives, especially in health, safety, and relationships.
“Maraming tao na ang namatay dahil sa pagnanakaw niyo ng pondo ng bayan,” he said.
“Maraming mga magulang ang hindi nakapagdala sa ospital ng kanilang may mga sakit na anak dahil sa korapsyon… Maraming bahay ang nasira at nabagsakan dahil sa korapsyon… kaya hindi lang pera ang ninanakaw niyo, kundi buhay.”
Vice then urged the public not to forget those responsible, emphasizing the power of collective action: “Mababalikan natin sila sa anong pamamaraan: sa pagsasalita, sa pagboto nang tama, at sa huwag pagpayag na patuloy nilang gawin sa atin.”
Acknowledging that many are afraid to speak out, he offered himself as a voice:
“Kami ang makikipaglaban para sa inyo… Balang araw, may awa ang Diyos, bubukas ang pinto at may oportunidad na nag-aantay sa ’yo.”
