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Predatory Governance: A System That Preys on Its People
Have you ever wondered why poverty in the Philippines seems endless despite abundant natural resources and human potential? Why does the government struggle to provide quality education, healthcare, and livelihood programs? The answer may lie in a concept called predatory governance.
What Is Predatory Governance?
Predatory governance refers to a governing system where leaders prioritize their political survival and personal gain over the welfare of their constituents. It is a cycle of exploitation where decisions are intentionally made to maintain control and power at the expense of the population.
In simpler terms, it’s a system designed to keep people poor, uneducated, and dependent on government handouts. Why? Because desperate and uneducated citizens are easier to manipulate during elections.
The Anatomy of Predatory Governance
Intentional Poverty
Poverty in the Philippines isn’t just a consequence of poor leadership—it’s part of the plan.
The 2024 Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed that 17.4 million Filipino families considered themselves poor, marking the highest rate in two decades. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s a calculated strategy to keep citizens reliant on “ayudas” (cash aid) and other short-term relief measures, ensuring loyalty to politicians who provide them.
Poor Education
A well-educated populace is harder to deceive. By depriving citizens of quality education, the government ensures fewer people question policies or demand accountability.
As the Richest Man in Babylon states, "The glory and prosperity of the city depend on the wisdom and knowledge of the people." In contrast, the Philippines’ lack of investment in education perpetuates ignorance, creating a populace more susceptible to manipulation.
Dependence on Handouts
The reliance on cash aid programs and subsidies creates a culture of dependency. Instead of empowering citizens through sustainable livelihood programs and job creation, the government focuses on dole-outs to buy loyalty and votes.
This cycle ensures that the poorest remain under the control of politicians, reinforcing their grip on power.
Neglect of Agriculture
Local farmers suffer due to inadequate support. Instead of addressing issues like middlemen exploitation or high transportation costs, the government opts to import agricultural products—a decision often linked to politicians benefiting from import contracts.
This neglect leaves farmers impoverished, discouraging agricultural growth and food security.
Corruption and Cronyism
Trillions of pesos are misallocated to non-essential projects or pocketed by officials. Beneficial programs like affordable healthcare, job creation, and AFP modernization are neglected in favor of lavish events and activities that boost political visibility but offer no long-term benefits to citizens.
The Reality: A System Designed to Exploit
The intentional deprivation of resources and opportunities creates a vicious cycle. Poor Filipinos, hoping for a better life, vote for candidates who offer temporary solutions like food packs or small cash amounts. This allows corrupt politicians to secure reelection, perpetuating the system.
The government also controls critical sectors like water, electricity, and transportation through privatization deals often awarded to political allies. This ensures that even basic services remain costly and inefficient, further burdening the public.
The Consequences of Predatory Governance
Economic Stagnation
The focus on short-term relief measures stifles long-term economic development. Industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology remain underdeveloped.
Social Unrest
The growing gap between the wealthy elite and the impoverished majority fuels dissatisfaction, protests, and, in some cases, rebellion.
Humanitarian Crises
Lack of proper healthcare, education, and housing leads to widespread suffering, especially during natural disasters or pandemics.
Loss of Hope
Many Filipinos opt to leave the country, leading to a brain drain that further hampers national development.
Breaking the Cycle
Predatory governance thrives because of complacency. Here’s how Filipinos can fight back:
Advocate for Education
Invest in public education to empower future generations. An informed population can demand better governance and reject manipulative leaders.
Support Sustainable Programs
Push for programs that create jobs, improve healthcare, and modernize infrastructure. Long-term solutions will break the cycle of dependency.
Reject Political Dynasties
Avoid voting for candidates from entrenched political families who often prioritize personal interests over public service.
Promote Transparency
Demand accountability from government officials and support initiatives that expose corruption.
Raise Awareness
Educate others about predatory governance. Knowledge is power, and collective awareness can lead to meaningful change.
Final Thoughts
The Philippines remains trapped in a cycle of poverty, dependency, and corruption because of a predatory governance system that prioritizes power over progress. The government’s neglect of essential sectors, reliance on temporary solutions, and suppression of education are deliberate strategies to maintain control.
As elections draw near in May 2025, Filipinos must choose leaders who prioritize the nation’s welfare over political survival. By rejecting manipulative practices and demanding transparency, we can break free from the shackles of predatory governance and pave the way for a brighter future.
It’s time to end the cycle. Will you be part of the change?
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
