A member of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) called on lawmakers to confront corruption, describing it as a form of “spiritual decay” that robs public funds meant for classrooms, hospitals and the poor.
Bishop Raul Dael of Tandag said corruption is not only a legal offense but a moral and spiritual failure that harms vulnerable citizens and weakens trust in government institutions.
“Corruption is not only illegal; it is a spiritual decay, a sin against God,” Dael said, warning that it hurts the poor first by diverting resources from education, health care, social services and communities awaiting assistance.
Dael made the call during a Mass at the House of Representatives on Ash Wednesday, where he addressed legislative staff and employees and emphasized that leadership depends on teamwork and shared responsibility in upholding transparency and accountability in public service.
The bishop urged legislators to treat public office as a vocation centered on service, sacrifice and accountability rather than personal gain or political advantage.
He added that ethical leadership requires integrity in both public decisions and private conduct, especially when away from public scrutiny.
Dael said the Lenten season is a time for self-examination, calling on officials to reflect not on their public image but on their conscience and moral responsibility in governance.
He said corruption erodes institutions, drains public resources and deepens inequality among ordinary Filipinos who rely on government services.
“How tragic it is when a vocation meant to serve the common good becomes entangled in massive corruption,” he said.
