Only 3 in 10 Filipinos believe bribery is “never justifiable,” making the Philippines one of the most tolerant countries toward bribery in Asia, according to the latest World Values Survey.
This is much lower than neighboring countries like Indonesia and Thailand, and far below nations such as Japan and Singapore, where rejection of bribery is nearly universal.
About 8 percent of Filipinos said bribery is “always justifiable,” the highest rate in the region, while many see it as a practical necessity due to bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Experts say this tolerance stems from systemic issues like red tape and patronage politics, suggesting that stronger institutions are needed to reduce corruption.
The findings come amid ongoing corruption scandals involving lawmakers and law enforcement officials linked to bribery and misuse of power.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 25, 2025
