By CESAR JOLITO III
The Council of Concerned Citizens (C3) vowed to continue investigating alleged irregularities in flood control projects in Bacolod City despite the resignation of several Catholic priests who were among the watchdog’s original conveners.
“The investigation will proceed as planned. Our mission for truth and accountability does not depend on personalities,” Cesar Beloria, one of C3’s conveners, said, adding that the group’s pursuit of transparency continues “for the sake of the public good.”
Beloria said C3 remains committed to examining 138 flood control projects implemented from 2017 to 2025, with a total value estimated at P4.2 billion.
Among those who stepped down were Fr. Anecito “Mao” Buenafe, Fr. Arman Onion, Fr. Julius Espinosa, and Fr. Chris Gonzales, who cited Church policy limiting clergy participation in corporate entities after C3 decided to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Buenafe earlier clarified that their withdrawal was procedural, not ideological.
“As members of the clergy, our involvement with corporations — unless sanctioned by the Roman Catholic Church — is limited,” Buenafe said.
He added that they will continue their advocacy through the Clergy for Good Governance, a separate group promoting transparency in public works.
The priests’ departure came amid growing controversy surrounding a proposed spiritual retreat between local officials and members of the clergy under the Diocese of Bacolod, reportedly scheduled for November 13.
The retreat, announced by the office of Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, drew criticism after it was revealed that it would discuss corruption and moral recovery — issues tied to the same projects C3 is scrutinizing.
Beloria said C3 opposed the retreat, stressing that the timing and intent “raise questions of delicadeza.”
He added that officials under scrutiny, including those from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), should refrain from initiatives that may be perceived as efforts to influence the ongoing probe.
At the height of the controversy surrounding Bacolod’s flood control projects, C3 extended invitations to various government offices — including the Office of the President, the Ombudsman, the DPWH, and local government officials — to join their site visits and investigations.
Buenafe, for his part, acknowledged public skepticism toward collaborations between clergy and politicians.
“We understand that the public is cautious about such engagements because of perceptions of manipulation and hidden motives,” he said, noting that the retreat has been deferred “until further notice.”
Despite the recent resignations, Beloria said C3’s commitment remains steadfast.
“Justice must come first before forgiveness,” he said.
“The people of Bacolod deserve to know where their money went,” he added./CJ, WDJ