Philippines is not an Image of its Laws. In the Philippines, there is no honor system, it is very common that government offices are not implementing the law. Government adjudicate upon issues contrary to law just to accommodate a convenience requested by a friend, a relative, or a violator who is willing to pay off-books.
It's frustrating to deal with government. A lot of its officers and employees does not know their mandate, limitations, and ethics. It is very easy to find, in every government offices, someone who will help you find ways to circumvent the correct process and requirements, in exchange of cash.
Is this grand anomaly what we inherited from the generation ahead of us?