Uy calls for calm

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Archbishop Alberto S. Uy yesterday issued a pastoral appeal to the faithful after many allegations and accusations had surfaced, while investigations into alleged corruption in flood-control projects continued.

“As investigations into alleged corruption in flood-control projects continue, many claims and accusations have surfaced. This has created confusion and opened the door to misinformation. I appeal to everyone to remain calm, peaceful, and focused on the truth,” Uy said.

Uy also asked for a thorough, democratic, and impartial investigation—free from political pressure.

“No whitewashing. No cover-ups. No protection for anyone involved. Those found guilty must face the law, and stolen funds must be returned to the people,” said the archbishop.

Uy said the government must not only punish the corrupt but also build strong systems and policies that make corruption difficult to continue or thrive.

“I also encourage all citizens to be critical and discerning in reading and listening to news. Do not spread unverified information. Let us reject misleading narratives that cause anger, division, and fear,” Uy added.

Uy said that the Church rejects all violent or unlawful means of addressing these issues. “Violence will only bring more suffering,” he added.

“Finally, I ask everyone to pray earnestly—for truth to be revealed, for courage to guide our leaders, and for justice and peace to heal our nation. May God guide us with wisdom and strengthen us with hope,” he said.

CBCP statement

In response to the serious allegations recently made public by former congressman Zaldy Co, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) issued a statement on November 15, 2025, calling for truth, justice, and due process.

“The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines calls for truth, justice, and due process to prevail. If his accusations are indeed credible and substantial, we urge him to return to the country and file his charges before the proper authorities—under oath and supported by verifiable evidence,” the statement read.

The CBCP emphasized that while public declarations on social media may be alarming, they cannot substitute for formal testimony in appropriate legal venues.

“For the good of the nation, such claims must be examined transparently, impartially, and in accordance with the rule of law. We likewise caution against the political exploitation of these allegations, especially when released at sensitive moments that may inflame public sentiment or be used to influence political outcomes,” it added.

The bishops underscored the need for discernment and accountability.

“The Filipino people deserve clarity, not conjecture; truth, not rumor; accountability, not manipulation. We appeal to all parties involved to act with honesty, courage, and responsibility. May every step taken in this matter serve the cause of justice and strengthen—rather than erode—our people's trust in the institutions tasked with safeguarding our democracy,” said CBCP President Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David.

Monterazzas responds

Monterazzas de Cebu issued a statement welcoming impartial investigations by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), affirming its commitment to environmental integrity and community safety across Cebu’s hillside developments.

“We are committed to work with the agency to ensure the highest standards of environmental integrity and community safety,” the statement read.

However, the developer strongly refuted DENR’s preliminary claims regarding alleged tree-cutting activities.

“The assertion that Monterazzas de Cebu cut down more than 700 trees is grievously false. We are confident that any evidence presented to support this narrative can be easily disproven,” it said.

According to the company, only shrubs and secondary undergrowth were cleared in accordance with its approved Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and Development Permit. The submitted Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of DENR Region VII indicated that the site was primarily covered by grass, shrubs, and small plants—with minimal topsoil and no capacity for agricultural use.

Monterazzas also addressed online misinformation linking its development to widespread flooding across Cebu.

“We acknowledge the localized flooding observed in our vicinity and continue to coordinate with the proper authorities. However, it is important to clarify a geographic reality: Monterazzas de Cebu is located in Barangay Guadalupe, several kilometers away from the heavily flood-stricken areas of Liloan, Mandaue, and Talisay. These areas fall under entirely different drainage basins and natural waterways,” the statement explained.

To illustrate the disconnect, the company likened the claim to suggesting that a development in Tagaytay City caused flooding in Makati, two locations with no intersecting watersheds.

On regulatory compliance, Monterazzas highlighted its proactive flood mitigation efforts. While DENR mandated a detention pond capacity of 26,701 cubic meters, the company installed a system with a capacity of 40,413 cubic meters, exceeding the requirement by 51%.

“Monterazzas de Cebu stands by the integrity of its work, its processes, and its long-term partnership with both the government and the communities we serve. We remain deeply mindful of the hardships caused by Typhoon Tino and extend our sincere concern to the families working to recover from its impacts,” it said.

The company added that reaffirming its commitment to community partnership and its readiness to collaborate with local authorities and residents to further strengthen safety and resilience in surrounding areas. — (FREEMAN)