Manila Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula has issued a strong appeal for national vigilance, sobriety and discernment as political tension rises and religious groups prepare for a three-day mass rally at a time the government is facing serious allegations of large-scale corruption.

In a pastoral statement titled A Call for Vigilance, Sobriety and Discernment, the Cardinal directed that his message be read in all Masses on Sunday evening and throughout 16 November.

Copies of both the English and Tagalog versions were distributed to parishes across the Archdiocese of Manila.

The Cardinal noted that the country is confronted with a volatile environment marked by political bickering, heated public discourse and what he described as “shadows of deceit and corruption” that continue to cloud national life.

“In moments of mass gatherings and public discourse, we do not let emotion prevail over reason,” Advincula said in the statement.

“We must always adhere to the rule of law and resist any calls for extra-constitutional means to solve our problems,” he added. “Our loyalty must be to our country and its democratic principles, not to persons, and certainly not to ambition.”

The prelate urged Catholics to ground themselves in prayer while also engaging in “concrete action for the common good.” He said the Church joins the entire nation in seeking mercy, renewal and clarity during a time of uncertainty.

Quoting from the Oratio Imperata, he added: “In this time when shadows of deceit and corruption cloud our land, we ask the good Lord: shine upon us Your light that scatters all darkness.”

As this developed, the Manila Police District (MPD) said it is is deploying personnel and control measures in anticipation of a large Iglesia ni Cristo rally scheduled from 16 to 18 November, a demonstration expected to draw significant crowds and strain major roads in the capital.

Police units will be stationed at key choke points, including Quirino Grandstand, Mendiola and adjacent streets.

MPD officials have prepared drums, barriers and lengths of barbed wire to guide foot traffic, secure protest areas and prevent disorder.

A stage has already been installed at Quirino Grandstand for the religious group’s program and assemblies.

Authorities expect heavy traffic throughout the rally period due to scheduled road closures and diversions.

Motorists traveling to and from Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, España and the University Belt have been advised to plan alternate routes.

The planned rally comes as the government grapples with accusations that billions of pesos in taxpayer funds were lost to substandard or non-existent flood-control projects, triggering widespread public outrage.

The allegations have intensified criticism of government agencies handling infrastructure projects, further contributing to the volatile political climate that prompted Advincula’s pastoral call.

The Cardinal did not address specific controversies but emphasized the need for citizens to remain guided by truth, justice and the democratic process.

He ended his message by urging the faithful to remain calm and steadfast: “Let us not allow darkness to overwhelm us. Let us instead seek the light, act justly and work together for the good of our nation.”