What do New Year’s Day fireworks in the Philippines and corruption in government have in common? Both are loud, flashy, and impossible to stop, despite all the laws saying, “Huwag!” 

Every December, the government parades their annual “fireworks ban,” and every January 1, the sky lights up in rebellion. It’s as if Pinoys see “bawal” as a suggestion, not a rule. Likewise, anti-corruption drives come with fanfare and bold promises, but like the “last” whistle bomb of the night, there’s always one more lurking.

The parallels are uncanny: both involve impressive displays, whether it’s a fireworks finale or an official cutting a ribbon for a dubious project. And just like how barangay tanods bravely seize the plapla while ignoring the boga, watchdogs catch small-time crooks but let the big fish sashay away.

In the end, both are resilient traditions: noisy, enduring, and, let’s face it, uniquely Pinoy.