Black became the color of courage and conviction today at Saint Louis College, as the Fr. Burgos Gymnasium filled with a sea of Louisians wearing black. Students, employees, and stakeholders united in their cry for truth, integrity, and just governance. More than attire, it was a powerful sign of solidarity, a thunderous Timek ti Luwisyano that echoed within and beyond the walls of the campus.
The observance of the Day of Integrity and Accountability began with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Roderick G. Villamar, CICM, PhD, College President, with Rev. Fr. Ivan Panistante, CICM, as concelebrant.
The Gospel reading for today struck deeply: “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money.” (Luke 16:13). It became the spark that urges us to stand against the vicious cycle of corruption and the silence that enables it.
In his homily, Fr. Villamar reminded everyone of the essence of the day’s gathering: We stand at the crossroads of history—whether to remain silent and indifferent or to raise our voices against the sin of corruption. At Saint Louis College, we choose to speak, to denounce, and to act.
The celebration culminated with a stirring rendition of Upuan led by the SLC Chorale – a song written and popularized by Gloc-9 that speaks of greed for power, corruption, and poverty. The gym erupted with Louisian voices united in the refrain: “Kayo po na nakaupo, subukan niyo namang tumayo, at baka matanaw ninyo ang tunay na kalagayan ko.”
Along with our voices – our timek – rises a fervent prayer: that those who hold the power to shape the destiny of our nation may truly listen, and in listening, choose the path of justice, integrity, and hope for all.
