We usually welcome the New Year with hope — hope for peace, prosperity and a brighter tomorrow. Sadly, this year our country enters burdened by the biggest corruption scandal in recent memory, with no clarity on how or when it will be resolved.
We missed our GDP growth target for 2025, and the political situation is certain to worsen before it improves. Globally, the picture is no less troubling. On the third day of the year, the world woke up to the US action in Venezuela and the capture of Nicolas Maduro. In Ukraine, peace remains elusive, and in Gaza, the suffering continues.
We start the New Year with uncertainty in the Philippines and in several parts of the world.
If there is something a good number of Filipinos wish for our country this year, it is most probably reform, change in what sadly seems to be the new norm as far as “public service” is concerned.
We wish for the eradication of corruption and inefficiency in government. We call for the jailing of the corrupt public officials and their accomplices in the private sector who recite the Panatang Makabayan (Patriotic Oath) during flag ceremonies, go to church and receive Holy Communion, while stealing the people’s money. We demand the return of stolen public funds.
However, I believe that as a general rule, wishes do not come true by desire alone. They require both prayer and action. As the Benedictine motto reminds us: Ora et Labora--Pray and Work. Reform can only be achieved if we commit ourselves to both.
Years ago, at the height of corruption and electoral fraud allegations in a previous administration, I came across a Lasallian prayer that feels especially fitting today — the One La Salle Prayer for change:
Let me be the change I want to see
To do with strength and wisdom
All that needs to be done
And become the hope that I can be.
Set me free from my fears and hesitations
Grant me courage and humility
Fill me with spirit to face the challenge
And start the change I long to see.
Today I start the change I want to see
Even if I’m not the light
I can be the spark
In faith, service and communion.
Let us start the change we want to see
The change that begins in me.
Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever!
This prayer transcends schools and religions for it implores the Lord to strengthen one to work for change, to act with courage and humility, and to start change with oneself.
Beyond prayer, we must act. Let us be role models by doing what is right and openly opposing what is wrong. Let us spread God’s Word to the people about the evils of corruption and inefficiency in government and how these harm our country, our families, and individual Filipinos.
Let our New Year’s resolution be to work for reform and change in our country in accordance with the laws of God and man. Let us be the change we seek, and let the change begin with us.