The head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has encouraged Catholics to join the June 28 White Ribbon March, describing it as “a faith-based and non-partisan call for truth, accountability, justice, and righteousness in public life”.
In a pastoral message issued June 22, Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa pointed to the country’s continuing struggles with corruption, injustice, and declining public trust.
“As our nation continues to confront the challenges of corruption, injustice, and the erosion of public trust, let us not lose hope,” he said.
The march, scheduled at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City, is being organized by the Inter-Religious Leaders Council for National Transformation and allied civil society groups.
Organizers said it will call for accountability in government, electoral reforms, and the passage of a genuine anti-political dynasty law.
“Those who, guided by their conscience and local circumstances, wish to participate in this peaceful gathering may do so prayerfully and respectfully,” said Garcera.
Organizers described the march as a continuation of previous anti-corruption mobilizations that brought together religious leaders and civic groups.
“Over the past months, our dioceses, parishes, religious communities, and families have faithfully responded to our call to offer A Nation’s Prayer for Enlightenment, Conversion, and Renewal,” said Garcera.
The prelate expressed gratitude to the clergy, religious men and women, and the laity, who have persevered in this prayer. Your perseverance in prayer is a powerful witness of our trust in God and our love for our country.”
The archbishop reminded Catholics that participation in public life should remain rooted in faith and worship. “Above all, let us remember that the true source of our strength is the Lord present in the Eucharist,” he said.
“The power of the Eucharist renews hearts and transforms lives, enabling us to become instruments of justice, reconciliation, and hope,” he added.
He also invited the faithful to pray through the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose pilgrim image is currently visiting dioceses around the country.
