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The Ayuda Republic: Legal plunder and false philanthropy

The article "The Ayuda Republic: Legal Plunder and False Philanthropy" by Rigoberto Tiglao, published in The Manila Times on November 28, 2024, critiques the widespread practice of government aid or "ayuda" in the Philippines. Tiglao argues that this system has evolved into a form of legal plunder where politicians and government officials use public funds to distribute aid, not out of genuine philanthropy, but to secure votes and maintain political power. He highlights how this culture of aid dependency has led to a cycle of corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of sustainable development. Tiglao points out that instead of fostering self-reliance and economic growth, the government's focus on aid distribution has created a false sense of philanthropy, undermining true progress and perpetuating poverty. He calls for a shift towards policies that promote economic independence and criticizes the current system for its role in the degradation of governance and public trust.

Read the Full manilatimes Article at [ https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/11/28/opinion/columns/the-ayuda-republic-legal-plunder-and-false-philanthropy/2012246 ]