‘Pacquiao’s Christian faith decrees that he must show the way, a real tough challenge, as a shining example of morality and integrity, no less.’
SEN. Manny Pacquiao is mixing politics with his faith in his presidential run and hopes it would power him to victory. His campaign contributors — many do not belong to his Church or to the Christian community — would naturally expect returns on their “investments.”
Tax evaders and cheats have practically become “untouchables” due to their strong connections, sealed by their financial support for presidents and legislators of our country.
President Duterte singled out Lucio Tan for his tax deficiencies reportedly because the banking and food magnate failed to contribute to his campaign.
Others in the business world seemed “white as snow,” a farcical image indeed — proficient accountants and lawyers are in the eternal employ of businessmen to ensure “magical” remedies to huge taxes from their businesses or professions.
Adhering to the Bible which he says he does constantly, Pacquiao should be open about accepting contributions but without any assurance of providing any “return on investment.”
He should point out during the campaign that true rewards can only come through good and effective governance, integrity and honesty in office. But no one can break the unholy and traditional alliance between politician and businessmen/donor nurtured by a half-century of patronage, corruption and the blatant violation of laws and ethical standards.
Pacquiao should avoid the pitfall of throwing money around recklessly that will likely be exploited by local political leaders to buy votes which, in various forms, remains a common covert election practice. Pacquiao’s Christian faith decrees that he must show the way, a real tough challenge, as a shining example of morality and integrity, no less.
From the Peter Wallace Business Forum: “The difference between poor and rich nations is not the age of the nation. India and Egypt which are more than 2,000 years old, are still poor countries. On the other hand, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand which were insignificant 150 years ago are today developed and rich countries. The difference between poor and rich nations does not depend on the available natural resources. Japan has limited territory, 80% mountainous, unsuitable for farming or agriculture, but is the world’s second economy. The country is like an immense floating factory, importing raw materials from the whole world and exporting manufactured products. Switzerland does not grow cocoa but produces the best chocolates in the world. In her small territory she rears animals and cultivates the land only for four months in a year, but nevertheless manufactures the best milk products.”
“Executives from rich countries show no significant intellectual differences from their counterparts in poor countries. The difference is the attitude of the people, molded for many years by education and culture. In rich and developed countries, a majority abide by the following principles in life: 1) Ethics, as basic principles, 2) Integrity, 3) Responsibility, 4) Respect for laws and regulations, 5) The respect from majority of citizens by right, 6) Love for work, 7) The effort to save and invest 8) The will to be productive. In poor countries, only a small minority follow these basic principles in their daily life.”
