Philippines: Parish to Return Donated Vehicle Amid Corruption Allegations Against Donor

The Parish of San Pascual Baylon and the National Shrine of Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepcion de Salambao in Bulacan, Philippines, has announced that it will return a Nissan Navara pick-up truck donated by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 1st District Engineer Henry Alcantara, following reports linking him to alleged corruption in government flood control projects.

In a social media post on Monday, September 22, the parish said the vehicle was turned over on June 1, 2024, and was accepted “in good faith” to help facilitate the pilgrimage of the image of the Virgin of Salambao to different parishes.

“It was given wholeheartedly, and we accepted it without judgment on the intention of the giver,” the Parish Pastoral Council said in its statement written in Filipino.

However, in light of reports and accusations of corruption against Alcantara, including being cited in contempt by the Senate for allegedly lying about “ghost” flood control projects and admitting to receiving luxury cars and gifts from subordinates, the council convened and decided to return the donation.

“We are now taking the necessary steps to return it properly, either to the rightful person or institution, through the appropriate legal process. This decision follows the guidance of the Diocese of Malolos and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP),” the parish said.

The statement also came after Church leaders called for accountability among those involved in the alleged large-scale flood control project corruption.

The pastoral council likewise expressed gratitude to parishioners and members of the community who raised concerns and reminded the Church of what should be done.

“If this caused concern to the Church and the faithful, we sincerely apologize,” the council added, affirming its commitment to uphold justice and what is right.

The statement closed with a passage from the Book of Amos: “Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream” (Amos 5:24).