13/05/2026
LET JUSTICE FLOW
A Pastoral Statement Calling the Senate to Accountability
"But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream."
— Amos 5:24
Our nation is once again confronted with a crisis of accountability that strikes at the integrity of our democratic institutions and the fidelity of those entrusted with public office to their constitutional duty. The Senate now stands before the judgment of the Filipino people as the impeachment process involving Vice President Sara Duterte on allegations of betrayal of public trust unfolds, alongside continuing questions surrounding the anti-drug campaign of the previous administration involving then–PNP Chief, now Senator Ronald dela Rosa.
Recent developments and sudden changes in Senate leadership have unsettled many of our people, giving rise to a growing and understandable concern that these moves may be intended to weaken accountability processes or shield public officials from scrutiny. Many now sincerely ask why the Senate appears to be acting in ways that could derail the impeachment proceedings against the Vice President while at the same time offering shelter to a fellow Senator facing possible legal accountability.
These questions touch the deeper issue of whether government officials remain faithful to their constitutional mandate and their moral responsibility before the people.
As a Church, we hold that public office is a trust and not a shield from accountability. The Senate is not called to protect personalities or political alliances, but to uphold truth, justice, and the rule of law. When institutions entrusted with accountability begin to appear as barriers to it, the moral credibility of governance is eroded.
We therefore earnestly call upon the Senate to carry out its constitutional duties with integrity, transparency, and courage. The impeachment process must proceed according to law and due process, free from political maneuvering or deliberate obstruction. Likewise, all legal processes related to the anti-drug campaign must be allowed to move forward without undue interference or selective protection.
The Senate must decide whether it will serve as a pillar of democratic accountability or risk becoming an altar of impunity where power is protected and justice indefinitely deferred.
We call upon all government officials to remember that authority is exercised under the higher demands of justice, truth, and accountability — before both the people and God. Leadership requires moral courage, especially when it is difficult or politically costly.
We likewise call upon the faithful and fellow citizens to remain vigilant, discerning, and committed to truth. Let us resist disinformation, blind loyalty, and the quiet normalization of impunity. Let us instead uphold the values of justice, compassion, and responsible citizenship.
The Iglesia Filipina Independiente stands with all who seek truth, defend human dignity, and work for justice and peace. The words of the prophet Amos continue to challenge our nation: let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
May God guide our nation toward truth, accountability, and genuine justice and peace.
In Christ,
The Most Rev. Joel Porlares
Obispo Maximo
Iglesia Filipina Independiente
May 12, 2026
Manila, Philippines
