BACOLOD City is currently abuzz with a hyper-local controversy involving Catholic priests and local officials. The issue revolves around a supposed spiritual retreat for priests under the Diocese of Bacolod and local executives, led by Lone District congressman Albee Benitez.
But why has this retreat — scheduled for November 13 — instantly become controversial?
1. Because the priests involved are the same ones serving as convenors of the Council of Concerned Citizens (C3), a group pushing for a comprehensive investigation into alleged anomalous flood control projects in Bacolod.
2. And because the retreat’s main topics are corruption and moral recovery.
Hush-Hush Meeting
C3’s campaign to expose systemic and large-scale corruption tied to flood control projects is commendable. Thousands of Negrenses and Bacoleños rallied behind the group’s mission. Hundreds of professionals and anti-corruption advocates even sought membership.
For the record, C3 has already begun its investigation into several flood control projects in Bacolod and has red-flagged some due to questionable structural integrity. Citizens and netizens alike are eagerly awaiting updates, and the local media has shown strong support for the group.
But here comes the twist: two private meetings between the priests and Congressman Albee at a resort in Barangay Granada — owned by close relatives of the solon.
According to the priests, the first meeting took place quietly on October 4. The second, held on October 20, was publicized through press and photo releases distributed by Councilor Caesar Distrito, who acted as Benitez’s spokesperson. The press release bore the headline: “Benitez, priests to hold retreat; tackle moral recovery, corruption.”
Hold in Abeyance
The question arises: amid corruption and flood controversies, is it proper for priests — who are also anti-corruption crusaders — to meet with Congressman Albee, who could potentially be one of the subjects of their investigation?
During a press conference at the Negros Press Club on October 23, the priests admitted they had received negative feedback and criticisms questioning their credibility and neutrality. Consequently, they decided to hold in abeyance the planned retreat on corruption and moral recovery.
Given their sudden reversal after public backlash, one could only conclude: “Nakamaradmad ang mga pari.”
Justice or Forgiveness?
To simplify matters, the C3 priests are pursuing justice amid the corruption controversy.
To achieve that, they must deliver credible findings from their ongoing probe into Bacolod’s flood control projects — many of which have been reported on the Sumbong sa Pangulo web portal. Those results will eventually speak the truth.
However, in the middle of their mission, the priests met with Congressman Albee to discuss a moral recovery initiative centered on three heavy words: penance, repentance, and contrition.
Their explanation to the media was simple — they couldn’t refuse someone seeking spiritual guidance.
When asked if Benitez made a confession, they said no.
If the retreat had pushed through and forgiveness had been granted, what would have happened to their monumental pursuit of justice against corruption?
Cautious, Skeptical
Reverend Father Mao Buenafe was candid during the press conference: “We understand that the public is currently cautious and skeptical about collaborations with politicians.”
He added, “There is a prevailing perception of underlying motives, manipulation, and unstated objectives when engaging in dialogue with government officials.”
The priests admitted they still need time to fine-tune the moral recovery initiative — clarifying its objectives, solidifying its content, and defining its goals.
Reverend Father Michael Cuenca of Murcia also cautioned against using the term moral recovery loosely, noting that “the word moral encompasses even personal issues.”
What a revealing admission from the clergy, indeed.
‘Fine Line’
In the end, it’s good that Bacolod’s citizens and netizens were quick to become “judgmental for good.” Their vigilance served as an early warning to the clergy.
Their criticisms reminded everyone that there is a fine line separating political gimmickry from moral integrity. A single misstep could blur that line — to the detriment of priests whose “holiness” symbolizes moral purity and independence.
By deferring the proposed moral recovery retreat, many believe the clergy were, in fact, spared — perhaps even saved by divine intervention.
Hope so!/PN
