Makati undoubtedly is a bastion of the opposition UNO led by ERAP and Mayor Binay, regardless of the many government officials who live in the upscale barangays that compose it. As the new year starts, more anti- government activities are to be held in the prime business district given the open policy of its Mayor.
But how did it become such a bastion? Even before GMA was President, Makati was already a bastion, not of the opposition, but of who ever was backed by Binay. It hosted several pro-Erap gatherings where the streets where inundated by the Urban Poor and the usual bused-in paid provincials. I only remember one (1) particular rally which Binay could not stop, and it was the indignation rally that was sparked by the Senate decision to throw out the impeachment proceedings against Erap. On that day, GMA, Tito Guingona, Dick Gordon and others took the stage calling for the resignation of the President. From that single rally, events would spiral to the large gathering of EDSA Dos at the Shrine in Robinsons. But that’s a different story altogether.
We go back to how Mayor Binay consolidated an empire and created a patriarchal family dominion that can only be compared to the political rule of family monopolies in the 60’s and 70’s.
First, Yabut the strong man of Makati was in decline. He was a Marcos disciple, and times were not kind for anybody who was associated with the dictator.
Second, the strong and wealthy families that built Makati were closely aligned with the government of then President Corazon Aquino. Hence, they poured their financial support for whoever Cory anointed.
Third, Binay was appointed as Mayor of Makati. At that point he consolidated his position. Already realizing that Makati in itself was a gold-mine of both votes and wealth. Initially, his rule was unchallenged as no one would really risk being branded a Marcos ally in the peak of democratic euphoria.
Fourth, Binay courted the poor and under-privileged of Makati. He poured the resources of the city into the areas that were considered marginalized and developed the infrastructure of the Barangays that supported him. At this point, Makati saw the largest upsurge in squatters or what would be called vote insurance. The PNR railways, Kalayaan Road, the Botanical Gardens became the bastions of Binay’s votes.
Fifth, Binay made sure that Barangay leaders would be loyal to him by pouring in funds for their projects and their re-election campaigns. It did not matter whether you were a former Marcos supporter, for as long as your allegiance was for Binay and stood beside him, your Barangay was assured of funds.
Sixth, the political flux at that time gave Binay more firepower as a Mayor. At this point of change, the Local Government Code was created and largely ensured and returned the vast powers of the Mayor. This was a complete opposite to the centralized system that Marcos had strongly imposed under strong-man rule to ensure loyalty. Vast powers were returned to the Governors and Mayors, mostly benefiting the old families who were politically disenfranchised under martial law. Binay the lawyer, saw the LGU code as his instrument of power and longevity.
Seventh, under the the LGU code, the Mayor would be able to create his own little empire depending on how large the revenue of the empire was. Binay used the large collections from the CBD to create the service agencies of the Makati city government. Not bad really, but these were manned now by his political cronies. Family members of loyal barangay officials were given lucrative posts and the most loyal barangay officials were made to run for City council. In this way, the process of personal power consolidation was secured.
Binay alone cannot be faulted for the political killings in Makati because he would, at this time, be shielded from it by the layers of loyal political supporters. People who may at their own behest undertake such deeds simply for the reason that a threat to the Mayor is a threat to their own power stability and status quo.
Makati officials like many other places in the Philippines, are only loyal to their Mayor or Governor. Loyalty is to the appointing power and to those who can make personal and family dreams come true. That is a political reality in the Philippines even manifested by the highest powers.
And that political reality is tried and tested in Makati. Jojo Binay manifested this political reality in many elections even when he was not personally running. He has entrenched his family as the political clan to beat in any elections.
Only one actor won a position for his good looks in Makati. Another action star tried to square it off but got beaten bad like what Pacquiao did to Marquez-And that guy even won a Senate seat.
So, what was Binay’s secret to creating an empire? It’s simple really: 1) Consolidate your power base starting with the Barangays; 2) Create loyal political followers and perpetuate their power; 3) Share the wealth (however it is gotten or how much) with those who have been placed in position. By doing so, he protects his flanks; 4) Make your relatives run for elective positions and prepare them to assume yours; 5) Control the rich by giving them tax breaks; and 6) Make examples of those who do not dance your tune!
Question is… will children be as successful as their father politically? Or will Mercado be the next Mayor of Makati. Another novela to watch!
San Lorenzo Village Monitor 