1Sambayan Calls to Confront Corruption on National Heroes’ Day
On National Heroes’ Day, the opposition coalition 1Sambayan urged Filipinos to confront corruption and demand greater accountability from public officials. The group highlighted the sacrifices of national heroes and the late senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., using their legacy to inspire a renewed commitment to integrity in governance.
“As the nation commemorates both Ninoy Aquino Day and National Heroes Day, 1Sambayan unites in honoring the legacies of those who sacrificed for our freedom and democracy,” community members said. The coalition emphasized the importance of the four-word keyphrase early: Filipinos to confront corruption.
Remembering Heroes and Embracing Accountability
1Sambayan quoted Aquino’s powerful statement, “The Filipino is worth dying for,” to stress the need for a steadfast dedication to transparency and responsible leadership. Officials reported that systemic corruption continues to plague government institutions, threatening the very foundations of the nation.
The coalition cited alarming issues such as unaccounted confidential funds, ghost employees, phantom scholars, and ghost projects that betray public trust. These malpractices divert resources intended for the Filipino people, undermining progress and justice.
Political Dynasties and Misused Public Funds
Local leaders noted that political dynasties remain a significant barrier to fair representation and promote policies that serve narrow interests. 1Sambayan called for thorough investigations into reports of public fund misuse, urging that those responsible be held accountable under the law.
Quoting Aquino’s reminder that “freedom is not a right, it is earned and must be defended,” the coalition urged authorities to conduct impartial probes and take decisive action against corruption.
Advocating for Transparency and Institutional Reforms
The group also stressed the need for greater transparency in government spending and decision-making. They advocated reforms to limit the influence of political dynasties and strengthen checks and balances to foster a just society where opportunities are accessible to all Filipinos.
1Sambayan expressed support for Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III’s proposal to establish an independent body dedicated to investigating the misuse of public funds. Community members affirmed their commitment to work with all Filipinos, regardless of political affiliation, to build a nation where integrity, accountability, and the common good prevail.
Call to Action Inspired by Ninoy Aquino
“As Ninoy Aquino so eloquently stated, ‘We must believe in the power of prayer, but we must also believe in the power of action,’” the coalition concluded, urging Filipinos to actively confront corruption and uphold the legacy of the nation’s heroes.
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