Bishop calls political dynasties, patronage politics root of country's state of crisis

A Catholic bishop on Wednesday called out political dynasties and patronage politics as the root of the country's continuing crisis, urging young Filipinos to demand accountability from their leaders as the nation marked the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.

- MASCARINAS ERWIN

Bishop Cosme Damian R. Almedilla of the Diocese of Butuan made the remarks before residents from Butuan City and neighboring towns who gathered at Guingona Park for the commemoration of the EDSA People Power Revolution.

The event was part of the diocese’s second assembly of its Transparency, Accountability, and Good Governance (i-TAG) White Movement.

He described the Philippines as trapped in a political, economic, and moral crisis driven by what he called “widespread and systemic corruption.”

“Enough of political dynasties. Enough of patronage and personality-driven politics that have now spread throughout our country,” Almedilla said, adding that those who speak out against these abuses are often accused of “engaging in politics” by the very people exploiting ordinary Filipinos.