Amid growing political uncertainty following the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has called on the faithful to remain prayerful and discerning while allowing the constitutional process to proceed fairly, peacefully, and without delay.
In a statement, the bishops emphasized the importance of truth, justice, and fidelity to the Constitution throughout the proceedings. They urged senators to immediately convene as an impeachment court, summon witnesses, and resolve the case based on evidence and due process.
“We make this urgent appeal not to delay the trial and to convene the Senate as an impeachment court at the soonest possible time. To delay the trial is to delay justice for both the Filipino people and the Vice President,” the CBCP said in a statement signed by its president, Archbishop Gilbert Garcera.
Archbishop Garcera also reminded senators to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities, noting that the proceedings offer an opportunity to strengthen public trust in democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law in service of the common good.
The bishops further encouraged the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and to continue praying for the country and its leaders during this politically sensitive period.
“Our deep desire and fervent prayer is that we arrive at the truth through this constitutional process, with the hope that this will strengthen our respect for and adherence to the rule of law, a key pillar of a genuine and stable democracy,” the statement added.
The CBCP also called for nationwide prayers for the Philippines, especially during the feast of Our Lady of Fatima on May 13.
Meanwhile, Pablo Virgilio David of the Diocese of Kalookan in northern Metro Manila urged citizens and public officials to uphold truth, accountability, and respect for democratic institutions amid the country’s intensifying political climate.
In a message titled “Truth, Institutions, and the Common Good,” Cardinal David said democratic institutions are tested during politically charged moments such as the present situation in the Philippines.
He noted that many Filipinos are weary of political noise, propaganda, and partisan conflict, and are seeking clarity, facts, and sober public discussion of national issues.
“The events of the past days remind us that democratic institutions are tested precisely in difficult and politically charged moments such as this,” Cardinal David said. “What people long for is clarity—facts discussed soberly, evidence weighed carefully, and public officials acting with integrity and maturity.”
He stressed the importance of allowing constitutional processes to take their course without obstruction, saying institutions exist to ensure accountability, fairness, and truth through lawful means rather than political confrontation.
David also cautioned the public against misinformation and partisan reductionism.
“This is also a time for citizens to be discerning. We should resist manipulation from every side, avoid amplifying unverified claims, and refuse to reduce complex issues into partisan slogans or personalities,” he said.
He concluded that democracy is strengthened when truth is pursued patiently, institutions function properly, and citizens remain engaged, vigilant, and morally grounded in the pursuit of the common good.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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