A Catholic bishop called corruption a grave sin and urged equal accountability for all offenders on Sunday, saying the theft of public funds betrays the nation and robs the poor of essential services.
Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo of Kidapawan, chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Commission on Interreligious Dialogue, delivered the message at the White Ribbon March at the People Power Monument after celebrating Mass at the EDSA Shrine.
“We cannot remain silent while funds meant for the poor are being stolen. We cannot remain silent while the people’s treasury is being turned into the personal wealth of a few. We cannot remain silent while corruption continues to destroy the future of our children,” Bagaforo said.
The prelate described corruption as “a grave sin of theft and betrayal of the people.”
“When you steal the people’s money, you steal medicine from the sick. You steal food from the hungry. You steal education from the young. You steal the hope of the nation,” he said.
Bagaforo called for the equal application of the law, saying everyone found guilty of corruption should be held accountable regardless of wealth, social status, or political affiliation.
He said there should be no exemptions or special treatment and stressed that true justice must be applied impartially.
The bishop also urged Christians to match prayer with action. “It is not enough to pray for change. We must also stand up for change. It is not enough to ask for good governance. We must also demand accountability,” he said.
Bagaforo said the White Ribbon March sought to awaken public conscience rather than stir anger.
The Quezon City Police District estimated the crowd at about 3,600 by midafternoon, while organizers said more participants continued to arrive at the People Power Monument.
The march drew Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, and Born Again Christians alongside civil society groups in a joint call for truth, accountability, justice, and good governance.
