A Bug's Life: First rule of leadership, everything is your fault.

 

Good leadership is characterized by the fact that the leader is responsible for all that takes place under their leadership. This entails not only celebrating the successes but also noting and learning from the failures. Integrity, honesty and courage are some of the aspects a leader who is accountable for their actions and the actions of those they lead is expected to possess. It creates trust and respect among the followers, superiors and also peers.



The legacy of Marcos Sr. remains a hotly-debated subject in Philippine history. While some laud his accomplishments in nation-building, particularly in terms of infrastructure, economy, and security, many others condemn him for his flagrant disregard for human rights, rampant corruption, and tyrannical rule. Regardless of where one stands in the spectrum, it is undeniable that Marcos Sr. bears the ultimate responsibility for all the events that transpired during his regime. As a leader, he must be held accountable for his actions. 

Accountability is a key principle of good governance and democracy. It means that leaders are answerable to the people they serve and the laws they uphold. It also means that leaders are responsible for the consequences of their actions and decisions, whether positive or negative. Accountability ensures that leaders are transparent, honest and ethical in their conduct. It also enables the people to demand justice, redress and reform when their rights are violated or their interests are harmed.

Unfortunately, accountability was severely lacking during the Marcos regime. Marcos Sr. ruled the country with an iron fist, suppressing dissent, silencing critics and manipulating institutions. He amassed enormous wealth and power at the expense of the Filipino people, who suffered from poverty, oppression and violence. He violated the constitution, the rule of law and the human dignity of millions of Filipinos. He also distorted history, culture and identity to suit his own agenda.

These are not mere allegations or opinions. These are facts that have been established by various courts, commissions and historians. These are realities that have been experienced by countless victims and survivors. These are truths that have been acknowledged by the international community and the Filipino nation.

Therefore, as a leader, Marcos Sr. should be held accountable for everything that happened under his regime. He should not be glorified, whitewashed or forgiven without justice. He should not be allowed to escape scrutiny, criticism or condemnation. He should not be remembered as a hero, a visionary or a martyr. He should be remembered as a tyrant, a plunderer and a violator.

This is not about being biased, hateful or vindictive. This is about being fair, truthful and respectful. This is about honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom, democracy and human rights. This is about learning from the mistakes of the past and preventing them from happening again. This is about upholding the values and principles that define us as a nation and as a people.