Philippine Prelate Decries Corruption, Calls for Prayer in Pastoral Letter

Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan, northern Philippines, has issued a strongly worded pastoral letter condemning corruption, political maneuvering, and the decline of moral leadership in the country, while urging Filipinos to respond through prayer, protest, and responsible voting.

The letter, titled “Sad and Angry But Brave and Hopeful,” will be read as a homily in all Masses in the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan on Ascension Sunday, May 17.

“We are disappointed and downcast. We are confused and in disbelief,” Villegas wrote, saying the nation is mourning “the departure, not of the Lord, but of moral values and government decency.”

The archbishop lamented what he described as worsening corruption and abuse of power, saying the country continues to sink “deeper into the pit” of corruption.

“The level of plundered money just keeps breaking previous levels,” he said. “The height of Satanic lying and murder of truth and facts just keeps getting higher.”

Archbishop Villegas also criticized the recent leadership change in the Senate, which he said could delay an impeachment trial mandated by law.

“The sudden change in the leadership of the Senate… is like a graffiti on the wall showing another devious plan to delay the trial,” he wrote. “The Senate is now used as a shield for a suspect-at-large with a valid warrant of arrest from a lawful court.”

Without naming specific personalities, the prelate described the situation as “confusing,” “pathetic,” “disgusting,” and “shameless.”

Despite his criticism, Archbishop Villegas said Filipinos should remain hopeful and take responsibility for political choices.

“Our hands are bloodstained because our hands voted for such corrupt criminals into office,” he wrote. “What we sow is what we reap.”

The archbishop called on the faithful to “repent and then rise,” urging them to pray, protest peacefully, and pressure leaders through legal means.

“Silence in the face of lies is moral surrender,” he said. “Reject corruption and never regard it as a normal part of daily life.”

Archbishop Villegas also encouraged voters to reject corrupt candidates in future elections and to evaluate public officials based on their record of service.

“Your vote is your power. Use it to the maximum,” he said.

The pastoral letter ended with a call for unity and perseverance in pursuing truth and accountability.