The proposal of snap elections is not the answer to corruption in government, according to some lawmakers. For them, it is just a distraction that will not provide true accountability to those involved.
Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano proposed that all high-ranking officials resign so that the people can elect new leadership. However, according to the Makabayan bloc, this proposal is just an “illusion” because the elections remain controlled by political dynasties and businessmen with vested interests.
Rep. Perci Cendaña called it “tone-deaf”, because what the people are demanding is accountability, not elections. Rep. Leila de Lima also said that many are engaging in fake news and defamation to divert the conversation and prevent the whole truth from being revealed.
According to Rep. Terry Ridon, the 1987 Constitution does not allow for snap elections. What is more important, he said, is to ensure that all those involved in the misuse of funds, such as in flood control projects, are held accountable immediately.
Rep. Chel Diokno added that speedy charges and trials against corrupt officials are more important. For her, this is the only way to restore the people's trust in the government.
