THAILAND HOLDS ITS PRIME MINISTER ACCOUNTABLE. KAILAN TAYO MAGING GANITO SA PILIPINAS?
In Thailand, a Prime Minister gets suspended not just for corruption or plunder—but for calling a foreign leader “uncle” and a general “opponent.”
In the Philippines, politicians steal billions, undermine sovereignty, and weaponize institutions, and still act like victims.
See the difference?
I. IN THAILAND: SYMBOLIC MISSTEPS = CONSTITUTIONAL CONSEQUENCES
Thailand’s Constitutional Court didn’t wait for plunder cases.
It moved swiftly when PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra made diplomatic remarks that “violated the nation’s dignity.”
No blood money. No pork scandal. Just ethics and national interest.
And still—she was suspended.
That’s how checks and balances are supposed to work.
II. IN THE PHILIPPINES: POWER = PROTECTION
Here? The system is allergic to accountability.
Big names get away with lying, spending public funds like personal wallets, and cozying up to foreign powers.
Instead of investigations, we get press conferences.
Instead of truth, we get telenovela-type of hearings.
Instead of constitutional scrutiny, we get cover-ups…unless the target is a Duterte.
III. ACCOUNTABILITY ISN’T REVENGE, IT’S RESPONSIBILITY
Thailand didn’t prosecute out of hate. They acted because even symbolic lapses can erode national integrity.
In the Philippines, how many times has national integrity been dragged through the mud, and no one pays the price?
IV. THE LESSON?
Democracy isn’t just about elections. It’s about what happens between them when institutions stand up to power.
So…
When was the last time someone in power faced real, timely consequences?
Why does the law feel sharp for enemies, but dull for allies?
Thailand showed us what constitutional spine looks like.
The question is—do we even remember what ours is for?
OPINION | BY ROB RANCES
Pinoy Edmonton News 