Irony of ironies

By Dr. Herman M. Lagon

THE RECENT appointment of disbarred lawyer Larry Gadon as a presidential adviser for poverty alleviation has caused widespread shock and outrage among netizens. This decision defies logic and deeply insults our common sense and sensibilities. This unfortunate irony of ironies will undoubtedly be remembered as a glaring example of dissonance in public governance.

One cannot help but question the reasoning behind assigning Larry Gadon to a position that demands expertise in economics, social work, and community engagement. His track record glaringly reveals a need for more qualifications in these areas. Furthermore, his failure to fulfill his Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) requirements raises concerns about his dedication to ongoing learning and professional growth.

Gadon’s behavior, marked by public tantrums and offensive remarks, has been extensively documented. His antics make him known to be disrespectful and abusive towards others, including marginalized communities. How can someone who insults and belittles people experiencing poverty be expected to contribute meaningfully to poverty alleviation? It is truly baffling that such an individual is given a platform instead of being rendered irrelevant.

The recent unanimous 15-0 decision by the Supreme Court to disbar Gadon speaks volumes about his character and ethical standards. The court cited his “misogynistic, sexist, abusive, and repeatedly intemperate language” as grounds for his disbarment. This ruling unequivocally discredits him and raises serious doubts about his suitability for any public office, let alone one focused on poverty alleviation.

Appointing Gadon to a position that addresses poverty is not just absurd; it is an affront to the core values cherished by the Filipino people. Respect, compassion, and integrity are highly esteemed qualities expected of our public officials. Gadon’s history of offensive behavior and his disbarment reveal a striking misalignment with these values. This appointment sends a distressing message that such behavior is acceptable and undermines public trust in the government’s commitment to addressing poverty.

The appointment of disbarred lawyer Larry Gadon as an adviser for poverty alleviation is a decision that defies reason and insults Filipino values. It also reflects the kind of leadership the Filipino people are subjected to today. Many agree that his lack of qualifications, controversial behavior, and disbarment render him unfit for any position involving public service, particularly one aimed at addressing poverty. It is crucial that we hold our government accountable for their choices—the individuals in whom they place their trust and confidence—and demand leaders who prioritize competence, empathy, and integrity. We deserve far better than appointing questionable individuals to crucial roles in governance.

***

Dr. Herman Lagon fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice. He is a professor of ISUFST, a student of USLS, a retiree of Ateneo, and an alumnus of UP, UI, and WVSU.