Strategies of corruption prevention in the Philippines

Abstract

This paper argues that one effective strategy for tackling corruption in the Philippines is to more actively involve civil society groups in the governance of the country. This papers examines how this approach is effective for two major areas of corruption, election irregularities and the misuse of public funds by elected officials. Civil society groups can galvanise community support for change and provide ongoing public pressure to ensure better practices are maintained. The paper begins with general background information on the Philippines before reviewing the overall situation of corruption. This review shows that appropriate anti-corruption laws are in place but have not been enforced due to a general public acceptance of corruption. The two areas of corruption under particular focus are the examined. A range of corruption prevention strategies are offered in each case.