Reclaiming the Moral Voice of Religious Leaders in the Public Sphere

We concur with Inquirer columnist Joel Butuyan’s call for religious figures to voice their opinions during times of political chaos, rising social inequality, and moral ambiguity (see “Religious leaders need to speak up,” 2/12/2026). In this challenging environment, bishops, pastors, and faith communities are increasingly called to “speak up”—to provide ethical guidance amid widespread corruption, misinformation, and social division. This need is evident: when political, legal, and governmental systems falter, religion offers individuals a sense of purpose, identity, and spiritual-ethical sustenance in a fragmented, diverse society.

Nowadays, a common issue is the “out of touch” syndrome, where church statements, though theologically correct, often seem disconnected from people’s real-life experiences. Church leaders tend to speak in abstract moral terms, while their audiences face rising costs, flooding, unemployment, hunger, and malnutrition, making messages seem out of touch. Filipino theologian Jose de Mesa stresses that theology must be grounded in culture and social realities.

Daniel F. Pilario adds that theology develops from the “rough ground of praxis” rather than abstract moralizing. Karl M. Gaspar also emphasizes the need for theology to address specific sociocultural struggles in the Filipino context. This requires more than just issuing magisterial or pastoral letters from offices; it demands humble, ongoing listening to communities, especially marginalized groups. Genuine action comes from direct engagement, making moral guidance more relatable. Being prophetic starts with a tangible, proactive, and transformative presence.

The second challenge is the “out of line” syndrome—the idea that church statements cross into partisan politics. In a diverse society, religious institutions must balance their roles. Many admire liberationist models addressing social injustice, but prophetic engagement risks losing authority if seen as politicized rather than morally guided. This doesn’t mean religious leaders should stay silent; silence on injustice can privatize religion as an opiate for the people. Bishop Teodoro Bacani Jr. outlined a balanced yet active role, noting nothing in Philippine law prevents clergy from engaging in politics, including campaigning or running for office. Yet he warns that the church typically does not endorse candidates, emphasizing the distinction between being political citizens and partisan church leaders. Clergy can promote conscience and morality but should avoid partisan bias, as overt support for politicians may alienate members and weaken their moral influence.

The research highlights the “out of the depths’ syndrome, where institutions feel pressured to react instantly due to today’s fast-paced, technology-driven environment. However, moral authority depends on depth, not speed. Reactive, repetitive statements can damage credibility. Messages rooted in history, theology, and sincerity resonate more profoundly, reflecting Pope Francis’ synodal approach to being and doing church—praying, studying, listening, and discerning—among local leaders, such as Cardinal Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” David, Cardinal Luis Antonio “Chito” Tagle, Bishop Broderick Pabillo, and Archbishop Antonio Ledesma. Their respect is earned through consistent examples of compassion, humility, and integrity, which foster trust and moral influence.

Studies show that effectiveness in public discourse depends not on volume but on resonance, alignment, and authenticity. To truly influence public conscience, religious voices must resonate with people’s real experiences, be aligned with the common good rather than partisan interests, and be rooted in moral and spiritual depth. When these factors align, prophetic speech can regain its transformative power. If they speak with wisdom—demonstrating empathy, integrity, and depth—their voices can continue guiding society through uncertainty and toward renewal and hope.

Orlando B. Cantillon and Noel Asiones,
ngasiones@gmail.com