DAVAO CITY – The Archdiocese of Davao reminded the faithful on the 40th anniversary of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution Wednesday to remain vigilant amid the alleged massive corruption issues hounding the current administration.

In a three-page pastoral letter written in the Visayan dialect, Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles urged the people to be watchful on the government spending of taxpayer’s money.

Valles added that people should join cause-oriented groups, local churches, and nationwide movements in reminding the government that their mandate comes from the people.

“It’s been 40 years since the Filipino people showed to the world the power of nation comes from the people. On that historic day of February 1986, we proved that there was no ruler or administration that had the moral right to trample the dignity, the rights, and sovereign will of the people,” the archbishop said.

However, after four decades, Valles asked: “Is the spirit of People Power still alive?”

Valles said just like in the years leading to the revolution, people are witnessing once again the disheartening situation of the country, the lack of respect for human rights, deception in public discourse, and misuse of public funds. Thus, a lot of people have wavered and lost hope in fighting against corruption, he added.

Valles said that there is also a risk if people will continue to remain silent as fear might reign over moral courage.

He reiterated his call for accountability on anomalous flood control projects, 2025 General Appropriations Act, and other systematic corruption scandals in the government.

“Beyond the economic and political issues, there’s a deeper and alarming crisis, which is a morality crisis. This would happen if the people will slowly lose their ability to identify which is good or bad,” Valles said.

People, he said, may suffer mental fatigue over the recurring and unresolved issues of corruption and injustice.

As the country commemorates this historic day, Valles said he remains hopeful that the people will be awakened by the real power of the people.

“Not because of anger or polarization but because of courage, integrity, and renewed efforts for genuine and responsible governance.”