“You have oppressed the poor and robbed them of their grain… I know how terrible your sins are and how many crimes you have committed. You persecute good people, take bribes, and prevent the poor from getting justice in the courts.” – Amos 5:11-12 GNT
The National Council of Churches in the Philippines expresses profound disappointment over Sandiganbayan’s decisions to dismiss high-profile corruption cases involving prominent government officials. In particular, the cases of former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, now a chief Presidential Legal Counsel of President Marcos, Jr., accused of misusing P172-million pesos worth of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), and the P276-million pesos ill-gotten wealth case against the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos, Sr.
These dismissals of cases serve as a sobering reminder of how challenging it is to pursue justice and hold those in power accountable for their actions. There is a clear disparity in the treatment of those with connections and influence, compared to the average citizen.
While it is true that long trials can strain those accused, it is also worth noting that time can have a positive impact on the defense of the accused. Some witnesses have grown older and passed away during the duration of the trial, which has potentially weakened the prosecution’s case.
A swift and efficient trial process in the courts is ideal, but it must be conducted with due caution to ensure that the weight of the facts, evidence, and the broader impact on the Filipino people are given appropriate consideration. This is particularly crucial when the interests of Filipinos are at stake.
Corrupt politicians can use their wealth and connections to rehabilitate their public image and even run for office once again, or pass their positions down to their relatives. Meanwhile, the people who have suffered from their corruption will continue to bear the consequences for generations to come, as impunity persists in the political system.
Thus, the National Council of Churches in the Philippines calls on all of its member churches and the Filipino people to come together in prayer and active campaigning against corruption. Let us work together to denounce and combat this issue and strive for a society built on integrity and transparency.
We must remain vigilant against public officials who abuse their positions for personal gain, plundering the public coffers instead of serving the well-being and interests of the common people.
Finally, as politicians and political parties are gearing up for upcoming elections to grab key government roles, we must carefully evaluate potential candidates, prioritizing those who have clean records, are free from corruption, and demonstrate a consistent dedication to serving the marginalized and disadvantaged members of society.
Signed:
11 October 2024
Ms. Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses
Vice-Chairperson
Pastor Jon Dave A. Angeles
Vice Chairperson
Rev. Leonardo R. Morada
Treasurer
Ms. Minnie Anne M. Calub
General Secretary
