Again, our country is being shaken by the concerted cries for truth and justice, while the Mindanao unstable situation and other government systematic corruption continue to threaten the fragile peace in the country plunging our national economy to its lowest depths. The epicenter of this tumultuous quake is none other than the highest office of the land - that of the President.
There have been already serious question raised about the property of the President's official behavior - all impeachable offenses. He has been accused with some basis of not fully declaring tot he Security and Exchange Commission assets and liabilities of himself and his family. He has been accused of using the influence of his Office to intervene in legal proceedings affecting people close to him. Now there is the latest scandal involving him accused of receiving directly or indirectly blood money - millions of pesos from jueteng and derailed taxes - from persons engaged in illegal activities.
In the spirit of the Pastoral Statement of the Presbyteral Council of the Archdiocese of Manila, October 11, 2000, we the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines (AMRSP) underscore the assessment that the Office of the President has lost his moral ascendancy to lead and govern the nation.
In the light of our Christian faith that seeks justice and truth, we strongly urge the highest officials in our country to step down to allow speedy and impartial investigation of the latest alleged crime directly or indirectly committed by them. Their moral authority to govern has become questionable in the light of the open accusations. Moreover, we strongly call on the Senate and Congress bodies to conduct a speedy and impartial investigation of the alleged crime. The truth will set them and our people free.
We call on all religious sisters, priests and brothers to spend more time in prayerful reflection and discernment and capture the stirrings of the Holy Spirit for our guidance and enlightenment. Let us continue to be with the people who are most affected by this crisis, to listen to their voice and to offer some moral and spiritual guidance in this time of crisis.
We are also appealing to all Filipinos to go beyond political affiliation and indifference to face together this crucial crisis threatening the stability and unity of our nation. We must all be united in defense of truth and justice and good government.
For the sake of our country, let us pray and join our forces to restore
the moral integrity of our society and to work for comprehensive program
for social change. Thus, we fulfill the ongoing task and challenge of the
Christian Jubilee: personal conversion and societal transformation towards
the building of a community of truth, justice peace, love and unity.
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Br. Oscar Ante, OFM Chairperson, Association of Major Religious Superiors of Men in the Philippines (AMRSMP) |
Mother Ma. Clarita Balleque, RVM Chairperson, Association of Major Religious Superiors of Women in the Philippines (AMRSWP) |
