CEBU CITY – The Archdiocese of Cebu has issued a pastoral appeal amid growing allegations of massive corruption in the government.
Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy urged authorities to investigate allegations of corruption “free from political pressure.”
“We call for a thorough, democratic, and impartial investigation – free from political pressure. No whitewashing. No cover-ups. No protection for anyone involved. Those found guilty must face the law, and stolen funds must be returned to the people,” Uy said in a statement on Saturday, Nov. 15.
Uy said the “government must not only punish the corrupt but also build strong systems and policies that make corruption difficult to continue or thrive.”
“I also encourage all citizens to be critical and discerning in reading and listening to news. Do not spread unverified information. Let us reject misleading narratives that cause anger, division, and fear,” Uy said.
Uy said allegations that several government officials were involved in corruption created confusion and opened the door to misinformation.
With this, the prelate urged the public “to remain calm, peaceful, and focused on the truth.”
As public outrage grew, Uy also encouraged the faithful to shun violence.
“We reject all violent or unlawful means of addressing these issues. Violence will only bring more suffering.
Finally, I ask everyone to pray earnestly – for truth to be revealed, for courage to guide our leaders, and for justice and peace to heal our nation,” Uy said.
The pastoral appeal came a day after former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co surfaced and implicated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez in a large-scale corruption scandal.