The sociology of corruption

October 22, 2024

MANILA – In sociology, corruption has a straightforward definition. When it involves government officials and employees, corruption simply means the failure to distinguish between the interests of the government and those of other entities in society, such as family, private businesses, religious institutions, or political parties. In other words, it is the inability to separate one’s duties as a public official from personal obligations in various social relationships.

This sociological view aligns with prevailing legal definitions of corruption. A clear example can be seen in Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. Unfortunately, this law is more honored in the breach than the observance. Commonly known as the “SALN law” because of its requirement that all public officials annually submit a statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth, this 1989 legislation has a broader scope than just financial declarations. For instance, it mandates that every public servant declare under oath “all relatives in government service within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity.”

The law is also filled with admonitions and guidelines meant to steer ethical conduct in public office. Examples include:

• Section 4(a) Commitment to public interest: Public officials and employees shall always uphold the public interest over and above personal interest.

• (b) Professionalism: They shall endeavor to discourage wrong perceptions of their roles as dispensers or peddlers of undue patronage.

• (c) Justness and sincerity: They must avoid granting unfair advantages to their relatives except in positions considered strictly confidential or personal staff roles.

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