Manila Archbishop Advincula condemns corruption as a 'concrete form of evil'
MANILA, Philippines — Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula called corruption a “concrete form of evil,” warning that it erodes society and human dignity if left unchecked.
In a pastoral letter released Tuesday, September 16, Advincula said corruption is “more than a manifestation of greed” and has already caused “catastrophe” that is “shaking the soul of our country.”
If corruption is left unchecked, the bishop warned, “society will be ruined by it, including the core of our humanity, that is, our dignity.”
“The issue of corruption plaguing our nation cannot be ignored anymore,” he said. “It has awakened the seemingly lethargic resolve of many Filipinos to make a stand against corrupt practices and to demand accountability from the guilty.”
Advincula described recent anti-corruption rallies as expressions of moral conviction, not just political resistance. In a healthy democracy, he said, public participation continues beyond elections through "acts of vigilance, discernment, and, when necessary, protest."
Citing Pope Leo XIII, the cardinal said politics can still be the “highest form of charity” when faithful to its vocation.
“Public service can be ‘an act of Christian love… a concrete sign and witness of God’s constant concern for the good of our human family,’” he wrote.
He called on parishes, shrines, and religious communities to hold “prayerful reflections, circles of discernment, and concrete but peaceful and non-violent actions against corruption.”
“Let us put our country and the people's interest foremost in our mind. Let us hope and pray that justice and peace may reign in our hearts, that God will hear from heaven, forgive our sins and heal our broken land,” he said.
Broader church stance. On September 7, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, led by Kalookan Bishop Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, also warned of a “flood of corruption” that is “drowning the future of the nation.”
Both statements come amid revelations of alleged anomalies in flood-control projects linking Department of Public Works and Highways officials to favored contractors. The projects drew scrutiny after flooding in parts of the country last August.
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