Bishop Jose Colin bagaforo (Photo from Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo’s Facebook page)
CBCP Calls for Diocesan Action Against Goverment Corruption
MANILA – In a sweeping call too action following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent condemnation of corruption within infrastructure projects, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is urging all dioceses and archdioceses nationwide to establish dedicated centers for combating anomalous practices in government. The initiative, spearheaded by the CBCP – Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice, and Peace (ECSA-JP), aims to translate presidential rhetoric into grassroots movements demanding accountability.
Bishop Jose colin Bagaforo, chairman of ECSA-JP, issued a statement Tuesday outlining the urgent need for a coordinated response. “We urgently call on our social action network and partners in all our 87 archdioceses and dioceses across the country to commit to beginning a movement that supports the President’s call to put an end to corruption in government,” Bagaforo stated. The commission is offering to serve as an initial secretariat to facilitate the organization of these local movements.
The impetus for this widespread mobilization stems from concerns raised during the President’s last State of the Nation Address (SONA). Marcos Jr. specifically highlighted alleged corruption involving sub-standard, uncompleted, and entirely fictitious flood control projects, alongside other infrastructure developments. These accusations point to a pattern of collusion between public officials and private contractors, resulting in the misappropriation of public funds.
The CBCP’s plan extends beyond simply acknowledging the problem. The newly formed diocesan centers will focus on supporting a thorough and clear investigation into these alleged irregularities. A key objective is to ensure that those found responsible for corrupt practices are held fully accountable under the law.
Though,the commission recognizes that investigation alone is insufficient. Bagaforo emphasized the importance of disseminating accurate data to communities. “We aim to bring the truth and accurate information on the investigation and findings to communities by discussing the extent of the documented corrupt projects and practices, and explaining how these affect the basic services government,” he explained. This educational component is designed to empower citizens to demand better governance and participate actively in the fight against corruption.
The CBCP’s move represents a significant escalation in civil society’s response to the President’s anti-corruption agenda. By leveraging its extensive network of social action centers, the Church aims to create a powerful, decentralized force for transparency and accountability. The commission believes that a sustained, grassroots effort is crucial to dismantling systemic corruption and ensuring that public funds are used for the benefit of all Filipinos.
“Since his last State of the Nation Address (SONA), the President has been pointing out this corruption of uncontrolled greed and impunity exposed through the sub-standard, uncompleted, and ghost flood control projects and other infrastructure developments.” – Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, Chairman, CBCP – ECSA-JP
Disclaimer: This article provides information regarding current events and should not be considered legal, health, or financial advice.
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