Philippines: Major Superiors Call for United Voice for Truth, Justice, and Care for Creation

Amid corruption scandals, political division, and growing ecological concerns, the Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines (CMSP) has called for unity, justice, and care for creation during its 45th Biennial Joint Convention held on September 6.

In their statement, the CMSP said they could not ignore “scandalous corruption, ecological destruction, human trafficking, and widespread poverty,” noting that “weak and heartless governance continues to fail the most vulnerable, and it is the poor who suffer most.”

Despite these harsh realities, the religious leaders pointed to “signs of hope” found in prophetic voices urging consecrated life to remain rooted in the Gospel, in mission partners working daily for justice and peace, and in the enduring service of ministries and apostolates.

“Faith compels us to take a stand, to expose corruption and injustice, to uphold the dignity of every person, and to witness humbly yet firmly as builders of communion, justice, and peace,” the statement declared.

The conference pledged concrete actions flowing from prayer and discernment. These include:

• Raising a united prophetic voice against corruption, human trafficking, and ecological destruction.
   

• Promoting integrity in personal lives and the pursuit of climate justice for future generations.
   

• Forming consciences and strengthening Gospel and civic values through education, advocacy, and social media.
   

• Building wider partnerships with the Church, civil society, and interfaith groups.
   

• Strengthening the CMSP Development Office to sustain mission priorities.
   

“We go forth not as spectators, but as consecrated persons, pilgrims of hope, walking together in synodality,” the statement said. “We pledge to be the voice of the silenced, the strength of the weary, and companions of our people as they long for dignity and peace.”

Drawing inspiration from Pope Francis’ words that “hope is bold,” the conference concluded with an appeal to embrace their mission with “joy and urgency,” invoking Mary, Star of Hope, to accompany their journey.