Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez recently met with four Bacolod priests for a dialogue on issues of corruption, moral renewal, and the city’s continuing flood control problems.
Joining the meeting with Rep. Benitez were Fr. Aniceto “Mao” Buenafe Jr., Fr. Armando “Arman” Onion, Fr. Filomeno “Menong” Duaban, and Fr. Hermes “Mench” Fabio, Vice Mayor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, and City Councilors Caesar Distrito, Thaddy Sayson, Celia Flor, and Al Espino, who shared insights and expressed support for collaborative measures between the Church and local government toward moral recovery and good governance.
The discussion followed Benitez’s earlier meeting with Cardinal Ambo David, where they talked about the moral and ethical challenges confronting public service, including corruption in infrastructure projects.
A statement issued by the congressional office of Benitez said that Cardinal David underscored that confession, contrition, restitution, and penance are essential to genuine moral renewal, stressing that “there can be no reconciliation without truth.” He further cautioned against allowing political expediency to prevail over the welfare of the people.
During the dialogue, Benitez explained the causes of Bacolod’s flood control problems and discussed reforms to ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of public works.
He informed the clergy that he supports a proposed ordinance requiring the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to conduct prior consultations and coordination with the city government before undertaking any national projects in Bacolod.
According to the press release, the priests, led by Fr. Buenafe, expressed their full support for the planned flood summit initiated by Benitez, commending his courage in condemning immoral actions within the very institution to which he belongs.
They also proposed several moral and social initiatives, including a Moral Recovery Program to start at the barangay level, with recollections for city and barangay officials, and potentially extending to purok chairpersons.
The program or proposal however will not deter the church from seeking the truth regarding the anomalous flood control projects and undermine concerned citizens’ efforts in investigating those projects.
The dialogue also discussed the revival of anti-mendicancy campaigns and proposed a voluntary recollection among city officials as a symbolic act of humility and accountability.
Benitez, Puentevella, and the attending councilors also welcomed the proposals and affirmed their commitment to partner with the Church in advancing truth, integrity, and moral leadership in Bacolod City.*
