DUMAGUETE City— A Catholic bishop warned Sunday that conflicting claims about alleged government corruption are sowing confusion and deepening national divisions.
Preaching on Christ the King Sunday at Dumaguete Cathedral, Bishop Julito Cortes said the flood of misinformation has made it harder for the public to separate verified facts from falsehoods.
“This confusion could weaken our moral sense and stir up division among us,” Cortes said. “We must guard our hearts and minds so that we may not be misled or manipulated by half-truths that erode the common good.”
He urged Catholics to be discerning amid what he called a “culture of lies,” saying Filipinos have a responsibility to verify information and rely on credible sources.
“Let truth, rooted in the Gospel, be our unshakable measure,” he said.
He cautioned against heated rhetoric and appeals that undermine institutions, rejecting calls to abandon constitutional processes or turn to extra-legal measures.
“Emotion must never eclipse reason,” Cortes said, stressing that loyalty must lie with the country and its democratic ideals, not with competing factions or personalities.
The bishop urged public officials to honor their oath of office and called for impartial investigations into corruption allegations, regardless of political ties.
“Fidelity to the Constitution—not to any personality or political agenda—is essential to preserving peace, order, and unity grounded in justice,” he said.
He also asked the faithful to pray for healing and national renewal amid what bishops have described as a “profound moral and spiritual crisis.”
“When our country is darkened by deceit and corruption, we implore God to shine His light that scatters all shadows,” Cortes said.
