Amid nationwide rallies against corruption, a Catholic bishop warned that the flood control scandal is only “a symptom of a much deeper sickness.”
Bishop Julito Cortes of Dumaguete said corruption persists even in local infrastructure projects, from road construction to small-scale municipal works.
“This scandal [involving flood control projects] is only a symptom of a much deeper sickness,” Cortes said.
On Sunday, the bishop led a short prayer rally outside his residence following the 6 a.m. Mass. The event was held simultaneously in parishes across Negros Oriental and Siquijor, where the Oratio Imperata against corruption was recited.
In his message, Cortes described corruption as “a grave sin” that corrodes not only institutions but the nation’s very soul.
“Corruption betrays the poor, exploits the vulnerable, and undermines the common good,” Cortes said.
He cited the billions allocated for flood-mitigation projects while millions continue to suffer from deadly floods and typhoons.
Cortes called for a “moral awakening,” stressing that the fight against corruption is not solely the responsibility of government and law enforcement but a shared duty of all citizens.
“The burden—and the hope—lies with all of us, including the Church. This call, therefore, begins with us!” Cortes added.
Cortes urged Catholics to live out this commitment through the “synodal way,” which includes:
- Rejecting vote-buying and vote-selling, which he called an affront to democracy and a root cause of systemic corruption.
- Supporting political candidates who show competence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to public service.
- Advocating for good governance by refusing and reporting corruption-related transactions.
The bishop also emphasized that change must be achieved by nonviolent means, upholding both human dignity and care for creation.
“Let us rebuild our nation upon the foundations of truth, justice, love, and peace,” Cortes said.
