Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle reminded public officials that they do not own the nation’s wealth and should refrain from behaving like thieves, but instead act with integrity and responsibility in managing public resources.
The former Manila archbishop made the statement in reaction to the multi-billion peso flood control controversy that has linked several public works officials, lawmakers, and politicians to corruption.
In a Sunday homily at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Manila’s Malate district, Tagle urged Filipinos to pray for leaders and for all citizens to live as trustworthy stewards of God’s blessings.
“To our leaders: You are not the owners of the nation’s wealth. You are stewards. And God, who is the true owner, will ask you one day: How did you use what was entrusted to you?” he said.
He also echoed the bishops’ call for an “examination of conscience” not only for those in authority but for all citizens, noting that the culture itself is in need of transformation.
“The invitation is for everyone to reflect — of course, especially our leaders, but not only them. All of us,” said Tagle, who is also the pro-prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization.
The cardinal underscored that prayers should inspire people to seek “treasures that will not be destroyed or lost,” urging both leaders and ordinary citizens to dedicate their talents and wisdom to the common good.
“We pray for our leaders, we pray for our people, so that our lives may be peaceful,” he added. “Let us turn to God, the true owner of our lives.”
