STATEMENT OF THE MARIST SCHOOLS IN THE PHILIPPINES ON INTEGRITY, JUSTICE, AND THE FUTURE OF OUR NATION

On the occasion of the 162nd birth anniversary of Gat Andres Bonifacio, the Father of the Philippine Revolution, we are reminded that the struggle for our nation’s freedom did not end with the fall of colonial rule. Today, the Philippines faces not a foreign oppressor, but structural and systemic injustices authored by our national leaders to our fellow Filipinos.

These allegations of corruption are of unimaginable magnitude that have reached the center of power including the Office of the President.

These grave allegations of corruption is symptomatic of a deeply profound moral crisis.

In response, various sectors now call for full transparency, accountability, and justice. We also hear proposals which include the resignation of the President and, more perilously, unconstitutional measures such as a coup d’etat, the formation of a military junta, or the installation of a revolutionary government. These calls, though born of frustration and disillusionment, risk further dividing an already fragile and fractious nation. A divided people will never see the light of progress and development.

As Marist educators, we cannot remain indifferent or silent. The young people entrusted to our care are being robbed of hope and of the future they so deserve. Corruption is not simply a political offense. It is a concrete manifestation of moral evil and a social cancer that afflict the Filipino people, especially the poor, while corroding the very soul of the nation. It must be confronted by demanding accountability and by practicing vigilance, discernment, and steadfast commitment to peaceful and non-violent mobilizations and actions.

We reaffirm that we are educators, not politicians. Our loyalty is grounded only on the gospel truth and the Catholic Social Teachings. Yet we remain political in the noblest sense of the word, for we work consistently for the common good, for what is just, and for the protection of human dignity. Yet, we refuse to be partisan in our ethos, because foremost in our educational mission is the formation of social conscience and not idolatry of any politician. We believe in the transformative power of education, within and beyond the classroom, to form young people who uphold integrity, think critically, and love their country enough to demand better of themselves and of their leaders.

In these times of uncertainty, confusion, and competing narratives, we are called to provide clarity of thought, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to the search for truth. We urge our mission partners, students, parents, alumni, and friends to participate actively in the work of national transformation. This means advocating for structural reforms in our political and socio-cultural systems while committing ourselves to personal conversion. True and lasting change begins within each of us.

Our Marist way is Mary’s way. Reform is never instantaneous. It is a long and demanding process that requires vigilance, determination, patience, and courage. Transformation is a lifelong struggle, a continuous battle between truth and falsehood, justice and injustice, hope and despair. Yet as people of faith, we hold fast to the promise that goodness, enlightened and strengthened by God’s wisdom, will always prevail. Let us place ourselves under God’s mercy through the maternal intercession of the Blessed Mother. In moments of fear, doubt, and turmoil, let us journey together with humility, compassion, courage, and obedience to God’s holy will. May the Immaculate Heart of Mary keep our nation under her loving protection. Amen.