A broad coalition of church leaders, religious groups, and faith-based organizations has called for independent investigations and the prosecution of those involved in alleged corruption in flood control projects, saying the Filipino people deserve accountability beyond government admissions and promises.

In a statement issued ahead of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 27, the “One Faith. One Nation. One Voice” coalition said corruption in government should be addressed as a systemic problem that thrives on political patronage, dynasties, impunity, and weak accountability mechanisms.

The statement, titled “Shine Light: Restore Public Trust,” cited the Marcos administration's acknowledgment during the 2025 SONA that some flood control projects had become “rackets.”

It also recalled Marcos’ 2024 SONA claim that the government had completed 5,500 flood control projects, raising questions about who enabled corruption in the implementation of such projects and who benefited from it.

“The question remains: who allowed corruption to happen, and who benefited?” the group said.

The coalition said corruption has a direct impact on communities, particularly those affected by flooding, while public funds intended for infrastructure and public services are allegedly lost to irregularities.

“We must continue to shine light on the heartbreaking truth: widespread and systemic corruption remains deeply rooted in government,” it said.

The group called for independent investigations into alleged irregularities in flood control projects and urged authorities to prosecute those found responsible.

It also called for accountability “at every level,” including among officials who had the authority and responsibility to prevent corruption.

“Public office is a public trust, and no one should be above the law,” the statement said.

“This SONA 2026, let us demand not just another speech, but the light of truth, justice, and accountability,” it added.

The statement was signed by Catholic and Protestant bishops, clergy, religious sisters, church officials, theologians, and representatives of faith-based and church-linked organizations.

Among those who signed were Taytay Apostolic Vicar Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo, Bayombong Bishop Elmer Mangalinao, United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) General Secretary Bishop Joseph Agpaoa, National Council of Churches in the Philippines General Secretary Minnie Anne Mata-Calub, Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) General Secretary Bishop Dindo Ranojo, and IFI Obispo Maximo XII Most Rev. Rhee Timbang.

Other signatories included United Methodist bishops, IFI diocesan bishops, UCCP jurisdictional bishops, Catholic priests and religious, theological educators, and representatives of church and civil society groups.

The statement also had the support of organizations including the Kalipunan ng Kristiyanong Kabataan sa Pilipinas, National Council of Churches in the Philippines, Promotion of Church People's Response, Church People-Workers Solidarity, KASIMBAYAN, and Rise Up for Life and for Rights.