23/06/2026
Pastoral Appeal from the Archbishop of Cebu
June 23, 2026
In support of the White Ribbon Movement March, organized by various religious groups and endorsed by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), I invite all the faithful of the Archdiocese of Cebu to participate in this faith-based and non-partisan expression of our commitment to truth, accountability, justice, and righteousness in public life.
On Sunday, June 28, 2026, I encourage everyone to wear white clothing when attending Mass. If this is not possible, you may wear or pin a white ribbon. I likewise invite families, schools, offices, businesses, and institutions to display white ribbons in their homes, cars, workplaces, buildings, churches, and parish offices, as a visible sign of our shared desire for integrity, transparency, and good governance.
The white ribbon symbolizes our hope for a nation free from corruption and dishonesty. It expresses our call for accountability from those entrusted with public office, the responsible stewardship of public resources, and the pursuit of truth and justice for the common good. At the same time, it reminds us that genuine reform begins not only in our institutions but also in our own hearts.
The Word of God reminds us: “Learn to do good; seek justice” (Isaiah 1:17). The Psalmist likewise prays: “Create in me a clean heart, O God” (Psalm 51:10).
Therefore, on June 28, let us not only wear white and display white ribbons. Let us also pray fervently that God may purify our hearts and renew our nation in truth, justice, and love.
Our commitment, however, must not end on that day. Beyond June 28, let us continue to exercise critical discernment, seek the truth, reject misinformation, resist every form of corruption, and hold ourselves and our leaders accountable. As faithful Christians and responsible citizens, we are called to be witnesses to honesty, justice, and integrity in our daily lives.
May the Lord bless our nation with leaders of wisdom and conscience, and may He grant us the courage to work together for a more just and righteous society.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied” (Matthew 5:6).
✠ Most Rev. Alberto S. Uy
Archbishop of Cebu
