Bishop to ‘corrupt’ execs: Shame on you

CEBU, Philippines — A Catholic bishop on Friday took a swipe at government officials who, he said, refuse to relinquish their posts despite being embroiled in controversies linked to the flood control corruption scandal.

During the Misa Mayor ahead of the Traslacion of Jesus Nazareno early Friday, Balanga Bishop Rufino G. Secson Jr. said some public officials cling to power even at the expense of the people’s welfare.

“In our country today, there are those who refuse to step down even when they are already wrong and have been exposed. They do not want to leave even though they cause suffering to the nation, even as the poor continue to suffer,” Secson said in his homily.

Several government officials, including senators, members of the House of Representatives, and appointed officials, have been linked to the alleged corruption involving flood control projects.

“They do not want to step down even if the country is being destroyed. They do not want to leave even though they are no longer worthy,” Secson added.

Secson also echoed the earlier remarks of Bishop Emeritus Antonio Tobias, who had sharply rebuked lawmakers and government officials over their alleged involvement in massive corruption in infrastructure projects, describing it as a betrayal of public trust.

“Bishop Tobias is here, and I will only echo what he said: Stop it. It’s over. Have mercy on the people. Shame on you. You should voluntarily step down,” Secson said.

Secson represented Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula, who was unable to attend the Feast of Jesus Nazareno as he is in Rome following Pope Leo XIV’s convening of an extraordinary consistory of cardinals on January 7 and 8, 2026. (CEBU NEWS)