Wishing for Spitzers in Manila

It came as a shock to me when I read about Gov. Spitzer's involvement, more so his VIP membership, in the Emperors Club. This is not the first time a US public official has been indicted of such moral charges – Pres. Bill Clinton for one was involved in one. The list would go on, but that's another story.

With the wire-tapped evidences coupled with bank transfer trails, the governor is likely to plead guilty in court. Two days after such allegations came out, Gov. Spitzer resigns from office and told reporters, and I quote, "I cannot allow my private failings to disrupt the people's work."

And in a People Magazine interview he said, "I am deeply sorry I did not live up to what was expected of me."

Gov. Spitzer may have done wrong, but he has earned a little respect from me – not for his short-comings but for what he did in response to it. Admitting one's mistake is humbling, but voluntarily vacating an office that dictates and requires transparency, morality, integrity and honesty from its occupants is far humbling enough to earn respect.

Sana minsan, may mga pulitikong maruning ding umamin ng pagkakamali dito sa Pilipinas. Minsan lang naman, is that too much to ask??


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** Photo courtesy of NY Daily News