In the Philippines, the word “palakas” pops up a lot. It generally refers to someone who uses their influence or connections to get ahead, often unfairly. Think of it as leveraging who you know to get special treatment.
This “palakasan system,” as it’s often called, is deeply embedded in Filipino culture and touches many aspects of life, from getting a job to navigating government bureaucracy. It’s a system where who you know can matter more than what you know.
This article dives into the concept of “palakas,” exploring its implications on Filipino society and considering potential ways to address this culture of influence.