It has been two weeks since mob justice manifested in the exposure of government employees and contractors, and the fervor of online activists shows no signs of waning. Communities on platforms like Reddit, particularly threads such as r/lifestylecheckPH and r/KabanniJuan, have been actively sharing alarming narratives that shed light on the pervasive and alarming nature of corruption in the country.
One particularly sensational post came from a former engineer at a construction company involved in multiple Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects. He recounted how every participant in the bidding process, from congressmen to procurement officers and bank managers, receives a share of the profits. He unveiled a troubling norm where contractors have predetermined “winners” even before the official bidding begins, revealing that the bidding documents are often recycled and minimally altered. More shockingly, he alleged that young women, including minors, were routinely given to DPWH engineers as gifts. Disillusioned by the rampant corruption, he resigned rather than risk his life by filing a complaint against powerful individuals.
This eruption of revelations has sparked public anger, leading to protests, including one at the residence of the Discaya family. In response, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto urged the public to refrain from violence. In a show of accountability, the Senate has summoned several DPWH officials and contractors for questioning, including one whose lavish collection of luxury vehicles and watches has raised eyebrows given his modest reported income.
While these explosive accounts provide a sense of justice for some, reliance on whistleblowers and anonymous online exposes is insufficient for long-term accountability. In this context, the recent proposal by Senator Bam Aquino for a National Budget Blockchain System merits serious consideration. Senate Bill No. 1330 aims to create a system that enhances the traceability, transparency, and audibility of the national budget, making it accessible to citizens in real-time.
Globally, some governments have successfully incorporated blockchain technology into their operations. For instance, Peru’s public procurement agency began using blockchain for recording purchases in 2018, leading to the logging of over 50,000 purchase orders through its electronic platform. Similarly, Brazil’s Online Bidding Solution allows public agencies to conduct bids for goods and services while enabling nationwide supplier participation and monitoring.
Implementing a blockchain system for the national budget could provide unprecedented accessibility for citizens, auditors, and oversight bodies. The capability to track every transaction could facilitate early identification of corrupt practices. While blockchain can’t completely eradicate corrupt activities—such as bribery and collusion—it can significantly enhance the detection of anomalies like overpricing and phantom projects that often go unnoticed until much later.
Despite its promise, transitioning to blockchain technology will not be without challenges. While the system is designed to be tamper-proof, its efficacy relies on the accuracy of the initial data entered. Technical concerns, such as transaction speeds, scalability, and potential security vulnerabilities, have been raised by experts. Nonetheless, Aquino’s initiative encourages a broader conversation among lawmakers and specialists to address these challenges through appropriate regulatory frameworks and oversight initiatives.
A national budget blockchain could empower citizens by allowing them to actively monitor government dealings. According to Aquino, one innovative suggestion involved placing QR codes on project signage for easier access to budget information. Media outlets, nonprofits, and academic institutions could play a critical role in interpreting this data, providing valuable insights, and mobilizing public engagement around any irregularities discovered.
The objective here is not merely to penalize a few individuals but to create a systemic approach that makes the misuse of public funds increasingly difficult to conceal. While the National Budget Blockchain System alone cannot purge corruption from government, embedding transparency into governance can potentially shift power dynamics away from entrenched political dynasties and back into the hands of the very citizens they purport to serve.
