CEBU CITY – The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) joined hands with fellow Filipinos across the nation in standing firmly against CORRUPTION, a deep-seated barrier to good governance, fair competition, and inclusive economic growth, Cebu’s business community issued this Solidarity Statement, Sunday, September 21 amid rallies and protests against corruption across the nation.
“We recognize that corruption has become systemic, and this calls not just for individual accountability, but for systemic reform. It is not enough to punish the corrupt; we must transform the systems that allow corruption to persist. We commend and support all efforts that promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in public and private institutions,” the statement reads.
CCCI said that as business leaders, they must lead by example--upholding strong ethical standards, refusing to engage in corrupt practices, and actively promoting a culture of fairness and integrity. CCCI called on the government to ensure that systems of accountability are not only enforced but strengthened with transparent processes that protect ethical businesses and level the playing field.
“Corruption is not just a moral issue; it is a practical one that directly affects our daily lives. It erodes trust, distorts fair competition, and adds significantly to the cost of doing business, especially for those striving to follow the rules. It discourages investment, limits opportunities, and unfairly burdens honest entrepreneurs and communities,” CCCI stated.
The Cebu business community is ready to be a partner in this journey by advocating for anti-corruption measures, supporting good governance initiatives, and working collaboratively with civil society to build a better, more honest future, the statement read.
Meanwhile, thousands of Cebuanos from various groups and sectors marched the streets of Cebu from the Fuente Osmena Circle to the Plaza Independencia, near the Malacanang sa Sugbo to join the national “Trillion Peso March” against corruption on September 21 flashing placards calling for transparency and accountability in government.
Lay faithful priests, seminarians from the Archdiocese of Cebu joined a peaceful prayer march for the nation, praying the rosary and offering intentions for truth, justice and accountability. Other groups of protesters from various labor groups, religious sectors, students, professionals, creatives, and several national organizations also marched at Fuente Osmeña Circle and along N. Bacalso Avenue, Cebu City.
Another group of Musicians and artists performed to encourage passersby
to join the demonstration. Overall, the rally
situations in Cebu City were loud and clear protest against corruption and the
day ended with peaceful pleas and prayers for good governance. (Photos FB-grab from MyTV Cebu)
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