In a powerful homily that addressed the state of local governance, Cebu Archbishop Alberto "Abet" Uy issued a stark warning against the corrosive effects of excessive and divisive politics. Speaking during the iconic Fiesta Señor celebration, the prelate argued that such behavior severely hampers social progress and community unity.
A Call for Unity Grounded in Faith, Not Party Lines
Archbishop Uy delivered his message during the Pontifical Mass at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu on Sunday, January 18, 2026. This marked his first time presiding over the major event as the head of the archdiocese, following his installation in September of the previous year. Drawing from the festival's theme, "In Santo Niño, we are one," he emphasized that true unity must be anchored in shared values and faith, not in partisan loyalty.
He explained that when unity is shaped solely by political affiliation, it becomes destructive. "In government, when leaders are not united, society suffers," Uy stated in his homily. He identified too much politicking as a primary reason for stalled development, a sentiment he expressed in both English and Cebuano to resonate deeply with the congregation.
The Dangers of Blind Partisanship
The Archbishop painted a clear picture of the problematic political culture. He noted that people often reject good initiatives from opposing party leaders simply because they are rivals. Conversely, they tend to defend the mistakes of their allies. This tribalism, he argued, distracts leaders from genuine service and problem-solving.
"If the leader does not belong to our party, we see nothing good in them. Everything they do, we criticize," Uy lamented. "But if they belong to our own party, we also see nothing wrong. Even if what they did is incorrect or bad, we still defend it because they are on our side." He described this mindset as "very bad," warning that unity formed for the sake of distraction is ultimately dangerous.
Shared Burdens, Shared Joys: The Path Forward
Contrasting this with the ideal, Archbishop Uy highlighted how faith-based unity strengthens a community. "When joy is shared, it becomes doubled. When grief is shared, it is cut into half," he said. He warned that without this cohesion, simple tasks become difficult, and difficult challenges become overwhelming.
In his concluding remarks, the Archbishop made a direct appeal to those in power. He urged political and government leaders in Cebu to set aside partisan interests and collaborate for the common good. His call to action was clear: "Let us encourage our political and government leaders to unite and work together for the good of Cebu," guided by the enduring principles embodied by the Santo Niño.
The message, delivered on one of Cebu's most significant religious and cultural stages, serves as a timely reflection on the intersection of faith, leadership, and civic responsibility as the community moves forward.
