MANILA, Philippines - Recently Chief Justice Reynato Puno stressed the need for a moral force movement in the country because the Philippines is being perceived as a “pariah” in the international community because of widespread corruption in its government. He reiterated that it happens in high places, in the corridors of public and private places. It is unfortunate that we are cast in the community of nations as moral pariahs, a tragic social landscape for the only Christian community in Southeast Asia.
Speaking on the launching of a moral force movement at the Manila Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church in the Philippines, he called for such a movement on a nationwide scale to arrest corruption in the country while maintaining an apolitical stance. He further said the corruption in the country had been deforming all institutions, undermining our stability and security, and preventing our socioeconomic development. We can arrest this social decadence through a moral force . . . a curative measure.
This movement also reminds me of the advocacy of Dr. Laceda, wherein he organized a movement aptly called “Crusade For A Better Youth Of Tomorrow” inviting concerned and civic-minded citizens to help raise a new breed of Filipinos for the next generations . . . a preventive measure. I believe that what he is trying to impart is not about him, it is about us.
As an eye-opener, it is worth mentioning a homily of Fr. Jerry Orbos who emphasized that once in a while; a person appears in the horizons and captivates the people with his/her words. Such person becomes a rallying point or an inspiration that triggers the imagination of people. Such persons are catalysts and agents of change. Such person point to something or someone greater than themselves. Such persons are driven by missions, not ambition and motivated by commitment, not greed. Where are such persons? We need such persons now. We don’t need more personalities. We just need selfless, dedicated persons.
Let us therefore join hands and together support both movements to bring joy, hope, and peace to our people in this beautiful country. — ALBERTO P. ZINGAPAN, Office of Congressman Jose De Venecia, Jr.