AMID CALLS FOR JUSTICE AND REFORM

ARCHBISHOP Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan called on Filipinos to remain faithful, discerning, and peace-driven amid what he described as a time of growing frustration over slow justice and persistent corruption in public life.

Acknowledging the nation’s disillusionment with “interminable investigations” and “the painful reality of corruption cover-ups,” Villegas admitted that the people’s patience has been stretched thin. “Hanggang kailan? Lupaypay na kami noon. Galit na galit na kami ngayon,” he wrote in a pastoral message titled “Wisdom, Vigilance and Virtue,” capturing the collective fatigue felt by many citizens.

Despite these frustrations, Villegas urged restraint and adherence to moral and legal principles, warning against the lure of rash or violent solutions. “In our human impatience for swifter justice, we might be tempted to seek shortcuts or embrace extreme measures. Yet, our faith calls us to a higher standard,” he said.

He cautioned against false messiahs and opportunists who exploit public anger for personal or political gain, reminding the faithful of Christ’s warning: “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name… Do not follow them!” (Luke 21:8).

Rejecting any form of military intervention or violence, Villegas reiterated that “peace is the fruit of justice and dialogue, not the result of unchecked ambition or force.” He called instead for perseverance in doing good, both in advocating accountability and in daily acts of kindness.

“Huwag magsawa sa kabutihan! Kung may tiyaga, may nilaga!” the archbishop urged, reminding believers that true discipleship means enduring trials with steadfast faith.

The pastoral message ended with a prayerful appeal for national discernment and steadfastness: “Let us, with the guidance of our dear Lady of Manaoag, be discerning, wise, and steadfast… May we receive from her Son the blessings of greater wisdom, relentless vigilance, and passionate virtue.” (Eva Visperas)