Photo credit: CBCP

A Catholic parish in the Philippines is taking a firm stand for integrity by returning a pickup truck donated by a government official recently dismissed from service over alleged corruption.

The San Pascual Baylon Parish in Obando, Bulacan, announced on Monday that it would give back the Nissan Navara pickup it received on June 1, 2024. The vehicle was a gift from former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) official Henry Alcantara, who was recently fired amid an investigation into irregularities in flood control projects.

The parish's pastoral council explained that the donation was initially accepted in good faith, with the vehicle intended to assist with pilgrimages of the revered image of the Virgin of Salambao. In a statement, the council said, "[It] was given wholeheartedly and we accepted it without judgment on the intent of the donor."

However, after news reports linked Alcantara to corruption allegations, church leaders deliberated and made the difficult decision to return the donation. The parish is now taking the necessary legal steps to properly return the vehicle to the appropriate person or institution.

The move, made with the guidance of the Diocese of Malolos and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, reflects the church's commitment to justice. The parish also apologized to its parishioners and the public for any concerns, stating the decision was made to uphold its values.