DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 30 November) — Archbishop Romulo Valles outlined five critical issues and posed 11 questions in a pastoral letter addressing the nation’s crisis. The letter first scrutinized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s leadership amid allegations of illegal drug abuse and his refusal to undergo a hair follicle test, culminating with the 11th question: “Is there any valid basis for the fear of some regarding a possible succession by the Vice President should the President resign or vacate his office?” The bilingual letter, posted by the Davao Catholic Herald, serves as a “call for prayer and action” for the faithful in the Archdiocese of Davao and all who seek the common good during this national crisis. Valles emphasized that the country faces a profound political, moral, and spiritual crisis. He urged Catholics to confront these issues—ranging from allegations of drug use and corruption to flood control scandals and ghost projects—in the light of faith, warning that the nation’s future is at stake. He called for unity in prayer, moral discernment, and justice, stressing that the Church’s moral voice must not remain silent. Valles, who served as CBCP President during Rodrigo Duterte’s presidency, highlighted the need for honest investigations and constitutional solutions, questioning whether credible inquiries into corruption and leadership integrity are being conducted. He also addressed fears of constitutional succession, noting Vice President Sara Duterte’s readiness to assume the presidency if necessary. Valles urged the Catholic faithful to stand for truth, integrity, and accountability, as penitential walks against corruption were held across the Archdiocese, culminating in mass gatherings and protests condemning systemic corruption under the Marcos-Duterte administration. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)
