Viewpoints

By August 1, 2011Archives, Opinion

Wang-wang

By +Oscar V. Cruz JCD

IT is not only according to the dictate of reason but also in due deference to the truth that what people say and do—especially so when it is no less than the highest public official in the land who speaks—should be well analyzed and duly understood. Otherwise, downright lies or deliberate duplicity could easily stand for reality.

This is about the then infamous and now famous “Wang-Wang” issue. Before, it had a rather shameful significance and shameful connotation. Now, all of a sudden, it was given a glorious meaning to the extent that it was made to stand for the supposed value-transformation of both public officials and private citizens. In other words, while “Wang-Wang” was then but a big excuse, now it is made a great symbol.

Before, the “No Wang-Wang!” order was simply intended as an excuse for late arrivals. Late arrivals to this and that event were alleged to be caused by the non-used of “Wang-Wang”. Traffic being big and long plus no “Wang-Wang” equals late arrival for this or that occasion. The reality however is such late—at times very late—arrivals were simply due to the usual late rising up from bed or simply on account a laid-down disposition. The truth is that even Palace appointments themselves were at times attended to rather late in the day—not really because the Chief-in-Command was very occupied doing this and that, but simply due to a take-it-easy attitude and pursuant unenviable habit.

Now, the “No Wang-Wang!” was all of a sudden recently proffered as a noble and ennobling transformative symbol. Thesis: Everybody is equal. Contra: Then why the use of big and formidable rushing convoy of big black blinking cars? Thesis: Nobody is given special treatment? Contra: They why the KKK? Thesis: No one is spared for the commission of corruption. Contra: Why the Jueteng Lords?

One thing is certain: The inventor is turning a reality of shame to a symbol of nobility should be duly recognized, given applause, even awarded a large and shining medal. It is ingenious and inventive. This creativity becomes even more precious because a good number of Filipinos seemed to have swallowed it hook, line and sinker.

But then, it takes very much more than subterfuge, gimmickry and/or duplicity to vanquish the truth which is objective reality. Such tricks might stand for a time. But it is time itself that eventually makes the truth appear. This is the standing lesson of history—both here and abroad.

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