YIFI National

19TH NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION
Statement on the Corruption Issues in the Philippines

The Youth of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente gathered in the 19th National Youth Convention strongly condemn the systemic and concerningly growing corruption in the Philippines. The nation is facing a crisis not only because of the visible effects of corruption – poverty, inequality and injustice – but also because of the deep divisions it creates among Filipinos, wounding our relationships, and weakening our shared sense of identity, solidarity and nationhood.

As people of faith, and as members of a nationalist and revolutionary Church, we affirm our calling to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who stood firmly with the oppressed, spoke truth to power, and challenged unjust systems. Our faith cannot remain passive in the face of corruption. It must be lived out through concrete action. Because faith without actions is dead.

At a time when many Filipinos struggle daily to secure even their most basic needs, it is unacceptable that public resources meant for the common good are misused for personal gain. Corruption is not merely a political issue; it is also a moral crisis that robs people of dignity, opportunity and hope.

We strongly call on young people of faith to be vigilant and informed citizens – seeking truth and resisting disinformation that enables corruption to thrive. We should actively participate in political and social discourse, both offline and online, using our voices to demand transparency and accountability from those in power. We should stand in solidarity with the marginalized sectors, the poor, the workers, the farmers and the youth, whose lives are most affected by corrupt practices and unjust governance.

We cannot let bureaucratic corruption fester. We must seek accountability from people who earn hefty sums from taxpayer money meant for the Filipino people. We should resist systems that allow individuals with questionable track records to hold power.

With our collective voice, we call on public officials to remember that their leadership is a service, not privilege. The authority they hold comes from the people, and must always be exercised for the common good. And when the public demands accountability and transparency, they must answer.

In the end, accountability must prevail. As the Youth of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, we declare our commitment to stand firm in truth, to resist corruption in all its forms, and to work tirelessly for a just, humane and dignified society for all.

May 04, 2026
Culasi, Antique

19TH NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION
Statement on Toboso 19

We, the Youth of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (YIFI), raise deep concern over the attacks against the people of Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental and their visitors, who were wholeheartedly welcomed. The attack killed 19 people and displaced 653 residents.

We mourn the lives who were taken in cold blood through indiscriminate shootings and bombings conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), among them academics, researchers, journalists and minors.

In particular, we mourn the loss of RJ Nichole Ledesma, a journalist and a friend of the ecumenical movement on the island of Negros. He was deeply involved in the founding of the One Negros Ecumenical Council (ONEC). The three Negros-based dioceses – Negros Oriental and Siquijor, Bago and La Castellana – are members of ONEC who have witnessed the life-giving work of RJ in communities.

As members of a Christian, nationalist and progressive movement, we mourn the blatant violation of international humanitarian law.

We also denounce the role played by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). This is the same NTF-ELCAC that red-tagged and baselessly accused our Diocesan Youth Camps in 2023 as platforms for terrorist violence.

This further proves that the NTF-ELCAC is no instrument of peace, but an institution that perpetuates the condemnation of those who serve the people and stand up for their struggles.

As YIFI rooted in Aglipayan Spirituality, we seek to understand the root causes of the suffering of God’s children.

It is in that same vein that brave youth, from near and far, went to Toboso, seeking to understand the condition of peasant farmers that live with the reality of oppressive landlords, who have stolen their land and exploited their labor.

We are angered by the AFP, who have vowed to defend and protect the people but failed to protect civilians. We raise alarm over a pattern wherein state forces are quickly deployed against peasant farmers who struggle for better conditions.

Unfortunately, this is not a new phenomenon for Negrosanons, who have faced violence when speaking for their rights — the same violence that their visitors were met with.

As members of YIFI, we hearken to the call of the Beatitudes, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9).” Notice the term used: “peacemakers”, not merely “peacekeepers.” This means that peace is MADE & BUILT, not WAITED UPON.

Hence, we call upon the entire membership of YIFI to mourn and pray with the families of the Toboso 19.

Additionally, we call on the youth to take the first steps in peacemaking by channeling our anger and grief into collective action, and reiterating the importance of our call for peace talks to continue between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), in order to reinforce previous agreements and build upon them — until we reach a just and lasting peace.

We cannot remain idle in the face of blatant injustice, especially amid continuous violations of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), an 1998 agreement that was signed by both parties of the peace talks promoting adherence to international law and defending human rights in the midst of ongoing conflict.

The people of Negros simply cannot wait for more blood to be shed. As members of the IFI, we must call on our leaders to honor the dignity of their fellow people and to resume peace talks now!

Justice for the Toboso 19! Defend Negros. For the glory and praise of God, the freedom and justice in God’s nation, and peace on this earth.

May 4, 2026
Culasi, Antique

19TH NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION
Statement on Ecological Justice

We, the Youth of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (YIFI), raise our collective voice in response to the ecological crisis that has heavily affected our beloved country. This crisis does not only harm our environment. It also threatens the safety of our communities, the stability of our livelihoods, and the future we hope to build as a nation.

Across our islands, we see forests disappearing, rivers and seas becoming polluted, and communities being forced to leave their homes because of irresponsible mining, deforestation, and uncontrolled development. These situations are not isolated events. They reflect deeper problems where profit is often placed above people and above the care for God’s Creation. In many cases, it is the most vulnerable communities who suffer the most.

As young people of faith, we believe that this crisis is not only environmental but also moral and spiritual. Our Christian calling reminds us that we are stewards of God’s Creation, entrusted with the responsibility to protect and care for the earth. At the same time, our love for our nation calls us to defend our natural resources, recognizing that they are part of our identity, dignity, and shared future.

We cannot remain silent while our land suffers. We strongly oppose the continued exploitation of our natural resources and the neglect of environmental responsibility. We call on leaders to create and enforce policies that promote sustainability and justice. We call on corporations to be accountable for the damage they cause, and to cease from seeking profit from industries that damage Creation. And we call on our fellow Filipinos, especially the youth, to take part in protecting the environment through responsible action and collective effort.

In the face of destruction, silence only allows injustice to grow. Doing nothing dims the future we hope to leave behind. That is why we commit ourselves to promoting ecojustice through education, advocacy, and united action. We stand in solidarity with communities who continue to fight for the protection of their land and livelihood, and we dedicate our voices and efforts to restoring and caring for our common home.

With faith, courage and love for our nation and all Creation, we will continue to serve, speak and act until justice is fully realized for our environment and for our people.

May 4, 2026
Culasi, Antique

STATEMENT OF THE 19TH NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION on Labor Day

On this Labor Day, the Youth of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (YIFI), the youth organization of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, stands in firm solidarity with Filipino workers who continue to struggle for just wages, humane working conditions, and dignified lives. As a Christian movement, we are guided by the Gospel’s call to uphold the dignity of every human person. Work is not merely a means of survival but a sacred participation in God’s ongoing creation. Yet, we witness how many workers are denied this dignity through exploitation, unjust compensation,
and insecure employment. We affirm that faith demands action—standing with the oppressed, amplifying their voices, and challenging systems that perpetuate inequality.

As a Nationalist movement, we assert that the Filipino worker deserves a living wage that reflects the true cost of living across the nation. We strongly call for the establishment of a national minimum wage that ensures equitable and sufficient income for all workers, regardless of region. The current system of fragmented wage-setting through regional wage boards has institutionalized inequality and division among workers. Thus, we call for the abolition of regional wage boards, replacing them with a unified national wage policy that upholds fairness, justice, and national development. A nation cannot progress if its workers remain impoverished.

As a Progressive movement, we challenge exploitative labor practices that undermine workers’ rights and security. We strongly condemn anddemand the end of ENDO (End of Contractualization), a system that deprives workers of stability, benefits, and the right to organize. Contractualization perpetuates a cycle of insecurity and vulnerability, especially among the youth who are entering the workforce. We advocate for regularization, just benefits, and the protection of workers’ rights to unionize and collectively bargain. True progress is measured not by economic growth alone, but by how it uplifts the most marginalized sectors of society.

In unity with workers, labor groups, and advocates, YIFI calls on the government, private sector, and all institutions to enact policies that uphold labor rights and promote social justice. We urge the youth to become active participants in this struggle—organizing, educating, and mobilizing for change. Our faith calls us not to passive observance but to active transformation. On this Labor Day, we recommit ourselves to building a society where every worker is valued, every family lives with dignity, and justice reigns for all.

Mabuhay ang manggagawang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang makatarungang pakikibaka!

May 4, 2026
Culasi, Antique

STATEMENT OF THE 19TH NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION
on the Impact of the Iran–Israel Conflict on Filipino and IFI Youth

We, the 132 delegates of the 19th National Youth Convention of the Youth of Iglesia Filipina Independiente, express deep concern over the ongoing international conflict between Iran and Israel and its growing impact on the lives of Filipino youth and families.

The present conflict has disrupted global oil supply chains, particularly with the instability in the Strait of Hormuz, a route that carries about 20% of the world’s oil. This has caused a sharp increase in global fuel prices and triggered inflation across many countries.

For the Philippines, the effects are severe. As a nation that imports around 98% of its oil, the country is highly vulnerable to external shocks. This has already resulted in fuel price surges, rising electricity costs, and a weakened peso. Diesel prices have increased significantly, and transportation and food costs continue to rise, placing additional burden on ordinary Filipinos.

We recognize that Filipino youth are among the most affected sectors. Many young people rely on daily transportation for education and work, and rising fares directly reduce access to opportunities. Increasing prices of basic goods strain family income, forcing difficult choices between food, education, and other necessities. In many households, youth are compelled to take on additional responsibilities or seek work earlier to cope with economic pressure.

We also acknowledge the indirect impact on Filipino families with members working abroad, particularly in the Middle East. The instability in the region threatens livelihoods and remittances that sustain millions of households in the Philippines.

As members of the Church, we affirm that peace is a moral imperative. War brings not only destruction to nations directly involved but also suffering to distant communities who bear its economic consequences. The youth of the Church are called to be advocates of peace, justice, and solidarity.

In light of these realities, we call for:
1. Immediate and sustained efforts for peaceful resolution of the conflict through international cooperation and diplomacy.
2. Government action to mitigate the impact of rising fuel and commodity prices, especially for vulnerable sectors such as students, workers, and low-income families.
3. Greater investment in sustainable and alternative energy sources to reduce dependence on imported oil.
4. Active participation of the youth in promoting awareness, solidarity, and concrete responses to global and local crises.

We stand in unity with all who suffer from the effects of war. We affirm our commitment to justice, compassion, and responsible stewardship as we respond to the challenges faced by our generation.

Adopted this day by the delegates of the 19th National Youth Convention.

May 4, 2026
Culasi, Antique

Congratulations, to our very own Kuya Koko! on your election as the new Chairperson of the National Lay Council!

Your dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment to service have inspired many within the Iglesia Filipina Independiente. As you begin this new chapter of leadership, may God continue to guide you with wisdom, strength, and compassion as you serve the lay people and the entire Church community.

Wishing you a meaningful and blessed journey in this important ministry. 🙏

STATEMENT OF THE 19TH NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION

The 132 delegates of the 19th National Youth Convention held at the Parish of St. Michael & All Angels, Culasi, Diocese of Antique, affirm the timely relevance of this year’s theme, “Nourished by the Holy Spirit, Bearing Fruits of Renewal,” as a call for the youth of today to rise in faith, service, and active participation in Church and society. This theme reminds us that when young people are guided and strengthened by the Holy Spirit, they become instruments of renewal who bring hope, compassion, justice, and transformation to God’s people and to our nation.

The youth of today are strong, capable, creative, and full of potential. They possess the energy and skills needed to lead, serve, and respond to the challenges of the present generation. Yet, despite these gifts, a troubling number of young people remain absent from civic involvement, church ministries, and cultural participation in the Church, schools, and communities. There is also a growing concern over the limited organizational knowledge among many members, as only a few fully know and understand the history, mission, principles, and programs of the Youth of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente. Without proper awareness and formation, the strength of the organization cannot be fully realized.

Moreover, while many young people are present within the Church, a significant number have not formally committed themselves through membership in YIFI. This weakens collective participation, representation, and unity among the youth sector. In a time when their strength, ideas, and leadership are urgently needed, too many talents remain undeveloped, too many voices unheard, and too many opportunities for meaningful change neglected. This growing disengagement must be addressed with urgency, for the future of both Church and nation depends on an active,
organized, and committed youth.

Therefore, we, the Youth of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, firmly call upon all young people to rise, participate, and take their rightful place in the life of the Church and the nation. Let this generation be renewed in spirit, strengthened in unity, and grounded in the mission of service. As youth nourished by the Holy Spirit, may we bear fruits of renewal through active membership, faithful leadership, and unwavering commitment to God, country, and the people.

May 4, 2026
Culasi, Antique

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐎𝐖: Our 16th General Assembly begins with the Primatial High Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, La Paz, Iloilo City.

The Most Revd. Joel O. Porlares, Obispo Maximo, is the presider and preacher while The Most Revd. Godofredo J. David, The Most Revd. Ephraim S. Fajutagana, The Most Revd. Rhee M. Timbang, and The Right Revd. Alger D. Loyao Sr. are the con-celebrants.

Bishops and delegates from the 53 dioceses of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente across and outside the country attend the Mass.