By Sr Maureen Catabian, RGS, Philippines (Province of Philippines – Japan)

In the Philippines, since September, the streets have been flooded with angry protesters from all walks of life nationwide. Young people, especially students from Colleges and Universities, are walking out of their classes in protest over the wholesale corruption happening in the country, systematically perpetrated by the corrupt politicians in the Philippine government. Senators and Congressmen from the House of Representatives, and Executives and Government officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways, and other related agencies have been accused of pocketing billions of funds allocated for Flood Control Projects.

The National Budget approved in 2024 reeks of “unprogrammed funds,” which many believe are the new face of ‘Pork-barrel’ money being spent on ghost projects.

September 21, the Anniversary of the Proclamation of Martial Law in 1972 by then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., coincided with the “Bahain Ang Luneta Laban sa Korupsyon” (Flood Luneta against Corruption) and “Trillion Peso March Against Corruption” at the People Power Monument in EDSA where Good Shepherd sisters and partners-in-mission marched with thousands of other protesters to denounce the massive corruption in Government.

In response to the dire situation in the country, our sisters and partners-in-mission in the Philippines issued the statement “Not poor, just robbed. A Call for Justice and Integrity”, as follows:

“In the recent months, we have been troubled by a series of events that highlighted even more the system of corruption entrenched in government.

We are  inundated by the destructive floods that came with the monsoon rains of August. We are aware that these disasters are not merely natural calamities – these are human-induced disasters due to environmental abuse, negligence, and corruption.

The defective flood control projects endanger the lives, especially of the poor majority. Despite a huge allocation of yearly budgets in billions, it exposes a system of collusion that is benefiting and enriching contractors tied to political dynasties. As both Houses of Congress and Government officials are now seeking to investigate the masterminds of ‘ghost’ and failed projects which they have approved and blessed, “accountability without integrity” is a mere charade. A system that allows those with conflicted interests and compromised histories to lead investigations is a mockery of justice.

We cannot simply avoid the growing discrepancy between economic gains and human dignity.

The progress of our nation and the lives of future generations are at stake.  We cannot entrust the future of our country by relying on political dynasties, corrupt leaders, murderers, gamblers, profiteers, convicted plunderers, and traitors to the nation (those with dual citizenship and colluding with imperialist powers).”

Our flooded streets, crumbling infrastructure, and ostentatious living of the officials of the land are signs of a failing government system with no solid foundation. It symbolizes a recycling of corrupt leaders, entrenched political dynasties, and bankrupt leadership. We will not be silent bystanders in the midst of all these. We will show our indignation and outrage through our collective actions and solidarity protests.

We call for a profound spiritual and moral transformation of our society.   True ecological conversion, discipleship, and stewardship require passion for justice and peace, promoting sustainability, and honoring transparency and accountability in all aspects of our lives.”

In response to the call of the Church, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines encouraged the Christian faithful to wear white every Sunday until the Feast of Christ the King – a prayer and call for integrity and accountability in Government, as well as conversion for all involved and reparation from the evils of corruption.

Our sisters and partners-in-mission have been participating in a nationwide “noise barrage” every Friday through chanting, the tolling of bells, and praying the rosary for justice so that “those guilty must be held criminally liable and put behind bars” and the stolen funds be returned to the Filipino people.

Our collective statement declares: “As conscientized Filipinos and Christians belonging to a religious congregation with a long tradition and mission of working for Women, Social Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation, we will respond in solidarity with others based on our faith and moral convictions and passion for justice, especially for the poor and marginalized sectors of society.”

We will remain vigilant in prayer and resilient in action during these turbulent times ahead, as the country continues to suffer from a string of natural calamities, such as typhoons and earthquakes.