The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) slammed the widespread corruption in flood control projects committed by private contractors and politicians, and called for the return of stolen wealth to the public coffers.
In a pastoral statement, CBCP President Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David emphasized that true justice demands more than just punishment for those involved, but also restitution of the stolen funds.
The CBCP statement comes amid allegations of corruption in government flood control projects, with billions of pesos potentially diverted through kickbacks and embezzlement.
David demanded that stolen wealth be returned to the public coffers. He also said that accountability must apply to both public officials and private contractors involved in corruption.
The prelate emphasized that shame should be inclusive, covering not just contractors but also legislators, district engineers, government auditors, and political patrons involved in the plunder.
The strongly worded statement of the influential religious organization also urges the creation of an independent committee to investigate corruption in flood-control projects and other budget insertions.
David called for visible accountability, including quick audits, real penalties, and transparency that people can see.
He also encouraged the public, especially the youth, to demand accountability and use their platforms to expose injustice and share facts.
