“Scholar ng bayan.”
This sarcastic phrase is what many Filipinos now use online to describe the children of politicians, contractors, and government officials linked to corruption probes—calling out their lavish lifestyles amid ongoing investigations into billion-peso flood control projects.
The Online Backlash
On social media, these so-called “nepo kids” flaunt private jet trips to Siargao, luxury cars, designer shopping abroad, and even mansions with helipads. For frustrated citizens, it’s a painful contrast to the struggles of ordinary Filipinos.
“Children and relatives basking in stolen gold, flashing it on screens like they actually work for it,” one X (Twitter) user wrote.
Screenshots of their old posts are now resurfacing, fueling a wave of what netizens call “kurakot shaming.”
The Call for Simplicity
Many Filipinos are reminding officials and their families about Republic Act 6713, the Code of Conduct for Public Officials, which requires leaders and their households to live modestly and appropriately to their income—not indulge in extravagant displays of wealth.
“These nepo kids flaunt their excesses like there’s no tomorrow,” creative director Gerry Cacanindin said, adding that their posts have become symbols of entitlement and privilege.
Is It Bullying or Accountability?
Former senatorial bet Carl Balita recently asked if targeting the children of corrupt officials could be considered bullying. But many Filipinos disagreed, arguing that the criticism is a wake-up call.
“Comfort built on corruption should never be worn with pride,” one Facebook user wrote. Another added, “You can’t choose your parents, but you can choose your values. If you flaunt ill-gotten wealth, expect scrutiny.”
Former lawmaker Raoul Manuel echoed the same, saying young relatives of corrupt officials may not be guilty as children—but once they grow up and knowingly enjoy dirty money, “hindi na yan inosente.”
Voices From Media and Celebrities
Prominent personalities have joined the chorus.
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Karen Davila: “KURAKOT SHAMING. It’s high time. Sa ibang bansa, nakukulong ang magnanakaw. Sa Pilipinas, kinaiinggitan. Tama na.”
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Bianca Gonzalez-Intal: “Here we are, kumakayod araw-araw, minsan nahihiya pa mag-post ng travel… sila, walang kahihiyan.”
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Vice Ganda: “Naalala ko yung milyon-milyon kong tax na pinaghahati-hatian ng magnanakaw.”
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Anne Curtis: “Hindi na baha ang magpapalubog sa bayan, kungdi kasakiman.”
The Fallout
Several individuals labeled as “nepo kids”—including relatives of DPWH officials and contractors tied to flood control projects—have since limited their online activity or deactivated accounts amid the backlash.
Marcos Orders Lifestyle Checks
In response to the scandal, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a lifestyle check on government officials and agencies implicated in the flood control controversy.
For many Filipinos, the growing trend of exposing luxury lifestyles online isn’t just gossip. It’s a cry for accountability, fairness, and justice—and a reminder that while millions work hard just to get by, the privileged few flaunt wealth that may have come at the people’s expense.
