Escudero on Lent: Set aside conflict, future not ‘black’

Metro Manila, Philippines - This Lenten season, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero called on Filipinos to rise above conflict, division, and political bickering, stressing that the future remains hopeful despite claims to the contrary.

In a Lenten message shared to reporters on the evening of Maundy Thursday, Escudero encouraged reflection on the meaning of Christ’s resurrection and called on Filipinos to commit themselves to prayer, reflection, and the pursuit of being both good Christians and responsible citizens.

“Ito ang panahon upang isantabi muna ang anumang hidwaan, panggagamit, panlalamang, pagkakaiba ng pananaw, at ang politika na madalas naghahati sa atin,” Escudero said .

[Translation: This is the time to set aside conflicts, exploitation, taking advantage of others, differences in opinions, and the politics that often divide us.]

He added that Lent is the time for forgiveness, reconciliation, and selflessness.

While stressing the need for unity and transformation amid challenges, Escudero also reminded the public not to be discouraged by negative rhetoric about the future.

“Huwag tayo magpadala sa mga propeta ng kadiliman na nagsasabing itim at hindi makulay at maliwanag ang bukas,” he said.

[Translation: Let us not be swayed by the prophets of darkness who say that the future is black, without color, and without light.]

On the campaign trail, the color black has recently become associated with presidential sister Senator Imee Marcos, following the release of an endorsement from Vice President Sara Duterte. In the advertisement, they asserted that black now symbolizes the nation, representing the struggles of hunger, crime, and injustice.

Escudero and Marcos have clashed over a hearing regarding the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are observed as regular holidays in the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country where millions of faithful commemorate the Holy Week.