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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Expose injustice, share facts, demand reforms': CBCP urges youth to lead fight against corruption

'Expose injustice, share facts, demand reforms': CBCP urges youth to lead fight against corruption

Published Sep 7, 2025 10:15 am
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) urged Filipinos, particularly the youth, to lead the fight against corruption by promoting integrity and using their online influence to demand public accountability.
In a pastoral letter dated Sept. 8 and focused on alleged corruption in flood-control projects, CBCP highlighted the critical role young people play in shaping a more honest society.
“To our young people: you hold the keys to a new culture. You live in the digital space where truth and lies battle daily. Use your platforms not only for outrage, but for vigilance,” the bishops said.
“Expose injustice, share facts, demand reforms. Make corruption shameful again,” they added.
Call for accountability
Signed by CBCP president Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, the statement drew a direct link between corruption in public infrastructure and the persistent poverty experienced by many Filipinos.
It warned that widespread misuse of public funds denies communities access to essential services.
The letter pointed to the prevalence of kickbacks and padded commissions as reasons why public projects often result in weak or substandard outcomes.
CBCP said responsibility lies not only with contractors but also with lawmakers, engineers, auditors, and financiers involved in the process.
The bishops urged that stolen public funds be returned and pushed for an impartial investigation into questionable budget insertions and infrastructure deals.
“We must demand visible accountability: quick audits, real penalties, and transparency that people can see,” they said.
The CBCP also turned the spotlight inward, acknowledging past failures of the Church to speak and act consistently against corruption.
“This call begins with us,” the letter stated.
Call for ethical reform
The message proposed nine specific actions for renewal, beginning with greater vigilance and the rejection of patronage politics.
It encouraged Filipinos to practice honesty in their daily lives and foster communities committed to truth and justice.
The bishops also called for increased civic and parish involvement in promoting good governance and environmental responsibility.
They also repeated their call for a full investigation into flood-control project anomalies and pressed for legal action against those found guilty of corruption.
Lastly, CBCP called on Church institutions and government leaders alike to model modesty, transparency, and ethical leadership in both personal and institutional life.

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CBCP CARDINAL PABLO VIRGILIO DAVID FLOOD-CONTROL PROJECTS CORRUPTION PASTORAL LETTER
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