For there is nothing hidden that will not become evident, nor anything secret that will not be known and come out into the open.” – Luke 8:17, AMP
The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), strongly condemns the deeply entrenched evil that is corruption in government, now laid bare in the issue of flood control projects. What should have protected the lives of the Filipino people from torrential rains have instead exposed the bitter historical reality of corruption and the unholy collusion between politicians, contractors, and government agencies.
As Christians, we are filled with righteous indignation as several contractors, officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Senators, Congressmen, and even the President himself, are trying to wash their hands clean with the responsibility. However, corruption will not happen without the cooperation and consent of those in power. As stated in the latest report of the UN Committee on Social Economic and Cultural Rights, corruption in the Philippines is rampant, systemic and pervasive across all branches of government1.
In light of these circumstances, we echo the call for a truly independent body that will carry out decisive, fast, yet thorough investigations and to hold accountable those responsible for these corrupt practices, regardless of their political connection or party affiliation. Additionally, suspend and review all flood control projects until a credible audit and scientifically based flood control mitigation study has been made. Cases of corruption across all branches of government must also be investigated including the insertion of “pork” or questionable items in the national budget that are prone to abuse including the Confidential Intelligence Fund.
The NCCP recognizes the people’s rightful demand for transparency and good governance, as the wealth enjoyed by those people in power and often used to sustain luxurious lifestyles, is drawn from the hard work and sacrifices of the people. Thus, the NCCP calls for all government officials to undergo lifestyle checks and release their Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) for public scrutiny.
We also call on the Filipino people to remain vigilant and critical in all aspects of government decision-making. This includes monitoring the budget allocation process and the implementation of projects to see to it that every cent will truly benefit the people.
May our indignation against these latest scandals on corruption unite us in prayer and collective action, strengthening our resolve to pursue a better society, where the people can truly enjoy God’s promise of an abundant life for all.
Signed:
06 September 2025
(Sgd.) The Most. Rev. Brent Harry W. Alawas
Chairperson
(Sgd.) Bishop Joseph G. Agpaoa
Vice-Chairperson
(Sgd.) Ms. Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses
Vice-Chairperson
(Sgd.) Rev. Jon Dave Angeles
Vice-Chairperson
(Sgd.) Rev. Leonardo R. Morada
Corporate Treasurer
(Sgd.) Ms. Minnie Anne M. Calub
General Secretary
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[1] Concluding observations on the 7th periodic report of the Philippines : Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/4079315?ln=en&v=pdf)
