CAPIZ — In a strong call for accountability and justice, around 5,000 Capisnons joined the Trillion Peso Prayer Rally organized by the Archdiocese of Capiz on November 30 at the Roxas City Public Bandstand.
Participants from various parishes, mission stations, religious communities, and civic groups gathered for the province-wide event. According to Father Emilio Arbatin, spokesperson of the Archdiocese, the name “Trillion Peso Rally” reflects the immense losses suffered due to graft and corruption in the Philippines.
“We demand accountability and justice for the trillions of pesos stolen because of graft and corruption,” he said, stressing that the rally was a moral and prayerful stand—not a political act.
He added that the activity sought to promote solidarity and collective action against the deeply rooted culture of corruption that harms the dignity of Filipinos, worsens poverty, and threatens the nation’s future. “This is not about attacking political figures, but a plea to end corruption and political dynasties,” he noted.
The Archdiocese’s initiative aligns with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who has acknowledged public outrage over alleged corrupt practices and urged peaceful protest while vowing to pursue justice and reforms.
Joining Father Arbatin during the media briefing were Father M. Lex Gevero, chair of the Commission on Social Communications and Mass Media, and Father Francisco Casalda, director of the Capiz Archdiocese Social Action Center. They expressed hope that the rally would inspire continuing efforts against corruption.
The program featured performances, a candle-lighting ceremony, and a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Capiz Archbishop Msgr. Victor Bendico.
Father Casalda said the rally marks the beginning of sustained actions. “This will not be the first and last. We hope to hold similar events as we continue to advocate for accountability and justice amid widespread corruption,” he said./PN
