The Conflict

The Philippines first made international headlines for government corruption in the 1970s during the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos. While no president since has equaled his flagrant disregard for the nation's laws, cronyism, nepotism, and financial misdoings are problems that continue to plague the Philippines. Rampant corruption culminated in the impeachment of President Joseph Estrada in 2001.

Political

• Since gaining independence the Philippines has often been beset with corruption by its leadership. In October 2000 accusations arose against President Joseph Estrada, alleging bribery, graft, and plunder. Impeachment proceedings began against him, the first democratic measures taken in the Philippines to remove a leader from office.
• Despite the charges against Estrada, he maintained a wide base of popular support among the poor. Demonstrations both in support of and against him took...