LET ME begin this piece with the word delicadeza — a Filipino value rooted in a sense of honor and propriety.
Even Artificial Intelligence (AI) defines delicadeza as the principle of avoiding actions that may appear improper, self-serving, or disrespectful, even if such actions are technically permissible. It’s about preserving one’s integrity and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety.
So, why bring this up?
Because it is quite intriguing that a group of barangay captains and kagawads was treated to a trip to Bangkok, Thailand from July 31 to August 3 courtesy of Bacolod City’s Lone District congressman, Albee Benitez.
‘COMMITMENT’
Enter Councilor Israel “Ising” Salanga, who proudly posted on Facebook on August 1 a series of photos capturing scenes and faces from the Bangkok trip. His caption read: “Commitment ini sa mga nag-16-0 nga barangay last May 2025 elections. All expenses paid personally by Congressman Albee Benitez.”
What does 16-0 mean?
It’s a political sweep — a straight win for Albee’s Team Asenso in Bacolod, from the congressman down to the mayor, vice mayor, councilors, and even the Abang Lingkod party-list.
Those barangays that delivered this clean slate victory were rewarded with a Thailand trip.
Then there’s another Facebook post, this time from Councilor Caesar Distrito, featuring some of the wives of barangay officials who also joined the Bangkok getaway.
EXCITEMENT VS ‘DELICADEZA’
It is technically correct to say that the trip didn’t violate any law, not even the Omnibus Election Code, especially after the issuance of COMELEC Minute Resolution No. 24-1001 allowing incumbent barangay officials to engage in political activities for the May 2025 elections.
But this isn’t just a question of legality — it’s about perception, principle, and delicadeza.
Because when you publicly frame a foreign trip as a “reward” for political loyalty, you risk crossing the line from celebration to impropriety.
It would do well for public officials to revisit Republic Act No. 6713, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
Did excitement over the trip get the better of discretion and propriety?
Publicly tying the trip to the election outcome not only cheapens the democratic process — it raises ethical red flags.
MEAT OF THE MATTER
Public officials must carry themselves with dignity befitting their office. They are expected to act like statesmen, not like giddy tourists on a sponsored vacation.
Flaunting the trip on social media also raises eyebrows. Now that the barangays know their village officials have already received their “reward,” what will they think?/PN
