Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan denounced corruption as inherently unsustainable, encouraging the Filipino youth to channel their optimism and vigor into efforts that will demand change and accountability amid growing pressure on the government to address corruption allegations.
As keynote speaker at the Manila Bulletin Sustainability Forum at the National University last Wednesday, Nov. 18, Pangilinan drew a strong connection between corruption and environmental deterioration. He explained that many shortcomings in government sustainability efforts stem from negligence and deeply rooted corrupt practices.
“Kayo ang henerasyon na sa wakas ay hindi lang gagawing trending hashtag ang sustainability. Gagawin ninyo rin itong isang pamumuhay, isang sistema, isang kultura.”
“Corruption is unsustainable. Isa sa pinakamalaking threat sa ating kinabukasan,” he added.
Branding corruption as “the ultimate budget vampire,” Pangilinan emphasized that public funds must be directed toward the daily needs of Filipinos rather than lost to greed. He referenced the United Nations’ warning that without progress on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 — which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions — the rest of the SDGs are bound to fall short.
“Walang clean energy. Walang regenerative agriculture. Walang climate change strategy. Walang kinabukasan. Kaya totoo, hindi lamang imoral ang katiwalaan: kontra-kinabukasan, kontra-kabataan.”
The senator urged the youth to leverage their strength in online platforms and use social media to amplify the everyday struggles of the Filipino people. He further encouraged them to carry their activism beyond social media, and bring them into classrooms, organizations, communities, and everyday choices.
“We are in crisis. So I ask you, what are you doing? Ano ang ginagawa niyo? Nawa’y maninindigan din kayo. Tataya din kayo. Kikilos din kayo. Makikibahagi din kayo.”
“Kapangyarihan ang inyong mga plataporma bilang mga kabataan. Gamitin sa tama,” he added.
Facing what he regards as the largest corruption scandal in the country’s history, Pangilinan urged young people to speak for those without a voice and stand for the nation’s future. He also called on them to carry on the legacy of young leaders from the EDSA Revolution and continue pushing for government accountability.