A Catholic bishop challenged elected officials Sunday to reject self-interest, saying corruption takes root when leaders place personal gain above the common good.
Speaking during a Mass at the EDSA Shrine before the White Ribbon March, Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said poverty, limited access to education and lack of opportunities contribute to social problems, but self-centeredness remains a deeper moral cause of corruption.
“Kapag ang isang tao puro sarili iniisip, interes, kapangyarihan, pakinabang, unti unti nawawala malasakit sa iba,” Bagaforo said in his homily. “Kapag ‘ako’ naging sentro ng lahat, nagsisimula ang problema.”
Bagaforo, convenor of the InterReligious Leaders’ Council for National Transformation, said elected officials are entrusted with public office to serve citizens, not to wield power for personal benefit.
He said corruption thrives when leaders focus on personal interests, influence and wealth instead of serving citizens and safeguarding public resources.
“Ang mga pinuno ay hinalal at pinagkatiwalaan para maglingkod sa mamamayan,” he said. “Itong ating mga elected officials ay hindi para maghari kung hindi para maglingkod.”
The White Ribbon March, an interfaith initiative, calls for stronger measures against corruption and political dynasties.
After the Mass, thousands of demonstrators marched along EDSA to the People Power Monument despite the intense heat. Similar rallies and solidarity marches were also held in several dioceses across the country.
Bagaforo said honesty alone is not enough to combat corruption, arguing that genuine love for others must guide public service and accountability.
“Ang kabaliktaran ng corruption ay hindi katapatan lamang. Ito ay pagmamahal,” he said. “Ang taong tunay na nagmamahal ay hindi magnanakaw sa kapwa.”
