We see it clearly.
The Marcos administration, the Pinks, and the Makabayan bloc—different colors, different slogans, but united in one thing: destroy everything Duterte.
Flood control corruption? Contractor links? Every issue, every spin, circles back to one script: blame the Dutertes, weaken their allies, erase their influence. Why? Because for this coalition of convenience, that’s their only path to survival.
THE DANGER OF SILENCE
But here’s what many are starting to notice: the true opposition—the Duterte-aligned officials who should be leading the charge against corruption—now seem forced to play it safe… with only a few boldly standing their ground—like REP. ISIDRO UNGAB, VP SARA, and BASTE DUTERTE.
Perhaps they know too well the machinery of LBM:
- media capture to shape propaganda
- the Ombudsman to file cases on demand
- networks of influence ready to smear or silence anyone who dares to speak.
In short, they can be held hostage anytime—by narrative or by lawfare.
And so silence becomes the strategy. And that’s dangerous.
HISTORY’S WARNING
History is merciless to those who hesitate. From Latin America’s populist uprisings, to Eastern Europe’s anti-corruption crackdowns, even to our own EDSA—one truth stands out: when systemic capture collides with public outrage, only organized people can tip the balance.
Left unchecked, Makabayan’s disciplined street networks will seize the flood control scandal, spin it into their banner, and channel public anger toward 2028. If they succeed, the Duterte bloc won’t just be sidelined—they will risk being buried under relentless attacks.
THE FORESIGHT
So here’s the foresight: either the DDS + ProPH step up, organize, and advance with a principled CITIZEN-LED FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION—or it leaves the battlefield to those who thrive not by fixing the system, but by burning their rivals to the ground.
Will the people find leaders among themselves willing to fight for truth—modern-day heroes who rise to ensure this Republic is not left in the hands of elites obsessed only with power and wealth?
Yes, the call may be daunting. So just remember: propaganda may silence voices, but it cannot silence truth.
And if the people rise to support and protect the leaders who dare to resist, they become symbols.
Symbols are boundless.
And when symbols multiply…
they cannot be destroyed.
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OPINION | ROB RANCES
Disclaimer: This article is an opinion and analysis piece. It critiques political systems and narratives, not individuals, and does not call for rebellion, violence, or the unlawful overthrow of government. Any foresight or speculation presented is intended for public discussion and civic awareness only.
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