Cardinal Virgilio Pablo David, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), called on young Filipinos to take a decisive role in building a just and peaceful society, as thousands gathered today for massive peace rallies marking the anniversary of the declaration of martial law.
In his homily at San Roque Cathedral in Caloocan on September 21, the day of the “Trillion-Peso March,” called for by Church leaders and various civic groups, Cardinal David reminded the youth that they bear a mission no generation before them has ever carried.
“Jesus said, be gentle as doves yet wise as serpents,” he said. “It is not enough to be gentle; you must also be intelligent, because the corrupt are also intelligent. In your hands lies the power to correct the mistakes of older generations.”
David pointed to the digital space as the new arena where truth must be defended. He urged the youth to use social media platforms with courage and conscience, “to expose lies, push back against disinformation, and form communities of truth.”
The prelate stressed that the true strength of the youth lies not in anger or violence, but in hope.
“Hope gives true courage and inspiration,” he said. “Your mission is not to spread hatred but to stand for truth and unity.”
David also condemned corruption, broadening its meaning beyond financial theft, warning that its effects are deeply felt in the daily struggles of ordinary Filipinos.
“Corruption is not only about stealing taxpayers’ money,” Cardinal David said. “It is also about stealing the future, when homes sink in floods, when nature is destroyed, and when opportunities for our children are wasted.”
He urged lawmakers, oversight bodies, and prosecutors to expedite investigations into corruption in large-scale flood control projects and to hold those involved accountable.
“Make sure government contracts are transparent and free from any stain of corruption,” he said. “Otherwise, the blood, sweat, and tears of taxpayers are wasted. The people are seeking concrete solutions, not empty rhetoric, not political dramas, nor endless grandstanding. Enough of the delaying tactics in the Senate and Congress.”
The Cardinal’s message came as students, activists, faith groups, and civic organizations converged at Luneta Park in Manila and the People Power Monument in Quezon City, calling for honesty in governance, respect for human rights, and an end to corruption.
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