Bishops, priests, and pastors from various denominations based in the National Capital Region gathered to launch the Church People Against Corruption (CPAC) in San Juan City on October 27. The alliance aims to demonstrate the unity and commitment of church people against corruption that continues to oppress the nation. The alliance is part of the United People Against Corruption (UPAC), a coalition of individuals and organizations calling for accountability and justice from state corruption.
Church leaders who joined the alliance include: Bishop Bellaser Herrera of the Independent Eastern Catholic Church; Fr. Dionito Cabillas of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente; Fr. Rico Ponce, OCarm of the Anawim Mission; Fr. Ben Ngayaan of the Episcopal Church in the Philippines; Pastor Gilbert Rojero of the Christ Centered Discipleship Transformation Church; Archbishop Emerson Beriones, D.D. of the Holy Orthodox Catholic Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ; Dr. Carmen Alviar of the Institute of Spirituality in Asia; Pastor Nestor M. Ravillas of the Penuel School of Theology; Fr. Joseph, OCarm, Prof. Aileen Alava-Orillaza of the Asian Theological Seminary; Pastor Rodolfo Rona of the Association of Pastors for Outreach and Intercession (APOI); and Pastor Bernard Osias Rector of St. Luke’s Cathedral, Episcopal Church of Central Philippines.
According to CPAC, corruption is not only against the law but also a sin against God and the people. Stealing from the national treasury means stealing food from the poor, education from children, and the future of the whole nation.
“In our parishes and communities, we witness how flood control projects and other infrastructure that were supposed to promote safety and development instead caused destruction, loss of homes, and extreme suffering among our fellow parishioners and citizens. Corruption in the use of public funds becomes the root of injustice and the continuing hardship of many,” CPAC explained.
Together with the United People Against Corruption (UPAC), the alliance expressed full support for the Million Signature Campaign to hold corrupt officials accountable, and for the People’s Tribunal that will expose the truth.
The alliance also called on the public to participate in the national mobilization on November 7 called the “People’s March Against Corruption” as a collective expression of faith and citizenship for truth, justice, and change.
UPAC took part in the massive protest at Luneta Park last September 21 known as the “Flood at Luneta.” From this movement emerged the People’s Movement Against Corruption (KBKK) to continue the campaign against corruption and for truth and accountability. KBKK is set to launch another major protest on November 30.
