Like The Movies

 

                                                (image: youtube.com)

Magsalida na!

It appears that congressional hearings "in aid of legislation" have evolved into something resembling an entertainment streaming platform, akin to Netflix. People now tune in to these sessions, not necessarily for their legislative purpose, but for entertainment or other personal reasons. Some viewers believe these hearings offer a chance to affirm their support for the politicians they’ve chosen, gaining reassurance through the spectacle.

However, a pressing question remains: How much taxpayer money are these representatives expending to produce these increasingly theatrical encounters?

In year 2000, the House of Representatives also allocated a P5-million budget for the prosecution of then-impeached ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez, who just opted for resignation. That amount was based on a similar budget for the impeachment of then-president Joseph Estrada. With the present budget, of the house of representatives for their hearings, they refused to disclose (Horfilena, 2024).

There are also instances where the theatrics of certain politicians reveal their power tripping intentions.

As hearings are broadcasted to a wide audience, some politicians seem to prioritize personal or party gain over the responsible use of power, adopting combative or dramatic tones to captivate viewers and rally supporters. Critics argue that such performances undermine the legislative process, as they turn serious matters of governance into a spectacle aimed at garnering media attention and strengthening political influence (Greenberg, 2021; McCarty, 2020).

But there are also those who fail and become the objects of ridicule.

In their attempts to dominate the spotlight or score political points, these individuals often resort to sensationalism, making statements or engaging in behaviors that seem more suited for a reality show than serious governance.

Their actions not only undermine the credibility of the hearings but also diminish public trust in the legislative process, reducing it to a spectacle rather than a meaningful forum for debate and decision-making.

Since the proceedings are often shared on social media, politicians frequently find themselves lambasted and ridiculed by netizens. Their actions, whether driven by good or bad intentions, are subject to intense public scrutiny, and the digital age ensures that no moment goes unnoticed.

This heightened visibility exposes them to both praise and criticism, with the latter often amplified by viral posts and memes. Ultimately, this is the price they must pay for using the public platform of legislative hearings, where every gesture and remark can be dissected and shared with millions.

R. L. Baym and S. L. Jones (2011) conducted a study that underscores how moments from legislative hearings or other public political events are frequently subject to comedic reinterpretation, which can diminish the credibility of politicians. It explores the role of political satire in shaping public opinion, noting how humor and ridicule of politicians, often driven by viral social media content, can influence voter perceptions and trust.

Crocodiles have become a popular metaphor among the public to describe certain grandstanding politicians,

This imagery is so vivid that it could inspire a captivating movie concept, reminiscent of the iconic Planet of the Apes franchise. Here, a producer can film The Rise of the Planet of the Crocs.