In a powerful call to action, Cebu Archbishop Alberto "Abet" Uy has urged the people of Cebu to demonstrate their love for the nation and their province by standing for justice and peacefully denouncing corruption.
A Call for Peaceful Civic Action
Archbishop Uy delivered his message on Thursday, November 20, 2025, through a post on his official Facebook page, "Maymay sa Magbalantay." He officially invited the public to participate in the "Walk for Integrity and Good Governance" scheduled for Sunday, November 30, 2025.
The event will begin with a Holy Mass at 2 p.m. at the Sto. Rosario Church in Cebu City. Following the religious service, participants will embark on a peaceful walk towards the Fuente Osmeña Circle, where a short program is planned.
A Stand for Justice and Accountability
In his appeal, the Archbishop emphasized the urgent need for civic engagement. He stated, "We need to take action. We must show concern... We should come out on that day... As people who believe in God, as peaceful citizens, we will come out and express ourselves for the reform of our nation."
His call is a direct appeal for justice, with the hope that individuals involved in corrupt activities within the government will be held accountable. "Our call is for justice — that those who deceived us be held accountable, identified, investigated, and arrested, and that the wealth they stole be recovered so it can benefit the people," Archbishop Uy declared.
He delivered a firm message that the current state of affairs is unacceptable. "We must not remain like this. It is time to call out what is wrong and sinful. It is time to make the evil acts of corruption shameful... Enough is enough. This time, each of us and our children must be taught and made to understand that corruption is truly disgraceful," he added.
Echoing a National Movement
The Archbishop's call resonates with a growing public outcry across the Philippines concerning alleged corruption in government projects. This movement has gained significant traction in recent months, particularly around controversial flood control initiatives that have captured national attention.
Thousands of Filipinos, including members of various religious and civic organizations, have already participated in rallies demanding accountability from officials accused of mishandling public funds. Notably, on November 16-17, the Iglesia ni Cristo held a "Rally for Transparency and a Better Democracy" at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, echoing similar demands for justice and transparency in the government's investigation into anomalous flood control projects.
Archbishop Uy's appeal on November 20 reinforces these nationwide calls, championing peaceful and lawful civic action as the means for citizens to defend justice and good governance. He concluded with a unifying message: "Let's go out and express ourselves, our love for our country, our love for our province of Cebu."
