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MANILA: Rampant corruption is a major problem in the Philippines. So one group has come up with a unique dictionary called ‘Corruptionary’ to help people make sense of the language of corruption in the country.
Volunteer students and researchers from the Center for People Empowerment in Governance, interviewed various government agencies, businessmen, media personalities, as well as victims of corruption.
And after two years of conducting these interviews, they were able to put together about 400 corruption-related terms and jargons.
Bobby Tuazon, Director, Center for People Empowerment in Governance, said: "It is sad that we are coming out with this book but we realise how deep really corruption is. There's a glaring subculture of corruption hidden by people who cover it. If we want to solve the problem, we need to realise the depth and magnitude of how serious it is."
In a recent regional poll conducted by the Political and Economic Risk Consultancy, the Philippines was perceived by foreign businessmen to be Asia's most corrupt.
The people behind ‘Corruptionary’ hope that by exposing the terminologies used by corruptors, it would be easier to expose corruption in the country. They believe that corruption robs not only public money but also whatever hopes Filipinos may have for a better future.
More than a just a specialised dictionary, ‘Corruptionary’ serves as an academic textbook for young Filipinos.
Mr Tuazon continued: "It is an educational tool for them to become more aware of how corruption has become systemic in the Philippines. (It’s) not just a glossary. In educating the children on the prevalence of corruption, the youth can play their part in combating this menace of corruption."
'Corruptionary' is being sold for US$6. An English version of the book is also in the works. - CNA/vm
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