Ronie Orillosa, a whistleblower and columnist for the Bohol Tribune, says he’s willing to expose bribery at a moment’s notice if given the opportunity.
Orillosa made the statement during an appearance at DYTR’s Open Forum program hosted by Ardy Araneta-Batoy and Gloria Araneta, saying he would reveal wrongdoing “in a heartbeat.”
He claims bribery is a widespread problem in the Philippines and believes the public will be shocked once evidence is presented, particularly in government.
Orillosa, known for his fearless critiques, was the first to speak out against the administration of Gov. Aris Aumentado, alleging a “league of governors” at the Capitol.
According to Orillosa, bribery occurs when one person gives a favor in exchange for another, often in the form of cash.
He said bribery can go both ways: a government official giving a bribe to a private person or a private person giving a bribe to a government official.
Orillosa also criticized overpricing as another form of corruption, challenging people to prove it doesn’t exist.
He is certain that overpricing is prevalent that he’s willing to make a drastic gesture if proven wrong.
“I’ll have my finger severed if such form of corruption does not exist,” he said.
Orillosa believes the public is aware of various forms of corruption, including malversation of funds.
He defines overpricing as the artificial inflation of an item’s price to use the difference as a bribe to corrupt government officials.