New normal, or just normal

Former Senator and current rehabilitation czar Panfilo Lacson said that the country does not need arrogant solons. This statement was made in light of the recommendation filed by The Ombudsman that plunder cases be filed against the three Senators initially charged, namely, Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, Jinggoy Estrada, and Bong Revilla. He goes on to say that we now live in a "new normal in public service," and that it should serve as a reminder to all in public service. I would rather saw it as a warning. It is a good point, considering what this administration has accomplished in the first half of its term. But I have to say, since when did this country need arrogance from anybody? Is this really a new normal, or just what normal should be? 

It is true that past administrations, more specifically the Marcos, Estrada, and Arroyo administrations have their examples of extremely arrogant lawmakers, members of their respective cabinets, police and military men, even relatives. They are exactly what infuriate many of us who try to live normal lives without being subjected to their arrogance. Those who believe they are privileged enough to practically push everyone off the road as they go by, those who believe in the power of sirens, lights, and bodyguards to bully others, those who believe they are above everyone else and untouchable, committing every possible scam to defraud the people, in the interest of enriching themselves, so they can even become more arrogant!

But honestly, is this "new normal" going to last? Already I see some who do bully their way on the road albeit silently so as not to attract too much attention. Some even members of this administration. There are those who are already showing just how arrogant they can be when given a chance. A preview of what is in store for the country, believing they are already safely shielded by immense power. The scary truth is, there are those who just do not care, as long as they perceive these people to represent them.

While some joy can be extracted from the news concerning the three lawmakers, I still have to wait for that day when they will be properly arrested, arraigned, and given their day in court. It is no secret that the three senators in question have had their moments of arrogance, considering the political power and capital that they wield. Lacson mentions that the Filipino people "deserve a break from all the hubris and arrogance." What I need to know is if this is true for all Filipinos. Face it, there are those who actually glorify this kind of attitude. Who lift up this kind of behavior. Who vote for this very arrogance.

We can only hope that something comes out of this case. Legal experts are already saying that it may take more than a decade to hear the plunder cases against the three. When that happens, advantage shifts to the accused. Witnesses lose interest or start fearing for their safety. Evidence gets lost or become watered down. If a new normal is truly needed by the people, it is the speed by which cases like this should proceed and be decided upon.

Otherwise, the arrogance continues, doesn't it?