MANILA — Days after the controversial involvement of a priest in the pork barrel scam, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is now urging politicians to come out and admit involvement in the pork barrel scam.
“We invite all those implicated in the pork barrel scam to allow impartial investigation to take place. If they are in public office, they must NOT use the power of their office to obstruct the pursuit of truth,” CBCP president Archbishop Socrates Villegas, said in a statement.
Villegas is also urging the Office of the Ombudsman to perform its task in investigating and prosecuting those liable saying that “the judiciary is the proper venue to bring out justice” and that “justice delayed is justice denied.”
He also added that “What is stolen must be returned” and that “the good name destroyed must be repaired.”
Along with the call on politicians to step out and admit their wrongdoings, CBCP also urges the catholic faithful to offer the prayer an extra rosary from May 31 Feast of the Visitation until August 15, Solemnity of the Assumption, requesting the conversion of the culprits in the pork barrel scam.
Villegas also added that the prayer of the rosary is also offered for the courage of the witnesses and the healing of the country.
“I encourage our youth and children to receive Holy Communion frequently during these days of prayer and offer prayers for the culprits, the witnesses and our government. Let us overcome evil by the power of good,” he added.
The media was also called to be fair in their reportage in other to protect the good name of the people.
“Let those who have been implicated be given proper forum and proper coverage to explain their actions,” he said.
With reports from Eva Visperas