19/05/2026
From the CFD Archbishop Protector, Most Rev. Abet Uy, DD. Thanks, Archbishop!
A Pastoral Appeal to the Filipino People in a Time of National Tension
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Grace and peace to you all.
We are now living in a time when many of our people are becoming divided, confused, and emotionally burdened because of political tensions, conflicting opinions, fake news, and disinformation. Many are asking: What is really true? Whom should we believe?
In moments like this, we must be careful not to allow anger, hatred, mockery, and political fanaticism to take over our hearts. If we lose our capacity to listen, reflect, and respect one another, our nation will suffer even more.
The Word of God reminds us: “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression” (Isaiah 1:17).
As Christians and as Filipinos, we are called not only to pray, but also to seek truth, justice, honesty, and the common good.
Despite our differences, there are important principles that should unite us as one people.
First, we all desire an end to corruption. We long for honesty, transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public funds. The resources of our nation must serve the people, especially the poor, and not selfish interests.
Second, we believe that anyone accused of corruption or misuse of public funds should be properly investigated and, if proven guilty, should face the proper consequences—regardless of power, wealth, or political and blood affiliation.
Third, we also believe in fairness and due process. Every accused person must be given the opportunity to defend himself or herself according to the law and within a just process.
The tension arises when people begin to feel that justice is not being applied equally. Some ask why certain personalities are pursued quickly while others, especially those allegedly involved in the flood-control anomalies, seem not to be investigated with the same urgency. Whether these perceptions are accurate or not, our people need reassurance that justice is fair, impartial, and not selective.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) itself has also received criticism. However, it is important to remember that, while the CBCP issued on May 12, 2026 an appeal for an impeachment court to be promptly convened by the Senate, the CBCP likewise issued a few months ago on September 8, 2025 a statement strongly condemning corruption related to the flood-control anomalies.
As Archbishop of Cebu and as a fellow Filipino, I humbly appeal to the President, to government leaders, and to all responsible agencies and authorities: please show our people that the investigation into the flood-control scandal is being pursued seriously, sincerely, and without favoritism. If wrongdoing is proven, those responsible must be held accountable and punished accordingly, regardless of political party or influence. Justice must never favor only the powerful or the politically convenient.
At the same time, as a member of the CBCP, I also humbly appeal to my brother bishops that we continue speaking clearly and courageously in defense of truth, justice, accountability, and the common good. We should be just as strong in urging a swift and credible investigation into the flood-control anomalies as we are in calling for the proper constitutional process regarding the impeachment case.
My dear brothers and sisters, this is not the time for hatred. This is not the time for blind loyalty to politicians. This is the time to love our country honestly, prayerfully, and responsibly.
May Our Lady of Guadalupe continue to protect the Philippines and lead us closer to her Son, Jesus Christ, who alone is our true hope and peace.
+ALBERTO S. UY
Archbishop of Cebu
