The Church must continue to use its prophetic voice in speaking out “against systems of corruption and injustice that keep people in poverty,” said Cebu Archbishop-designate Alberto S. Uy.

Uy will arrive in Cebu today, Sunday, for his formal installation on Tuesday, September 30. Organizers said there would be festive but simple ceremonies in line with Uy’s request for austerity.

Uy said that in reaching out to the poor and marginalized, “we must be close to them, listen to their struggles, and make them feel they are part of the Church family.” Uy issued the statement in response to questions sent by members of Ignite, the newsletter team of Sacred Heart Parish in Cebu City.The response was shared with this blogger for publication.

Uy said the church should sustain social programs on feeding, scholarship and livelihood and not just offer one-time help. He also said parish-based outreach should also be strengthened, with each parish adopting poor families and communities. The church should also build on partnerships by working with government and civic groups for “housing, health care, and rehabilitation programs..”

Uy said it is also important for the Church to empower the poor, “not only giving aid but helping them find dignity through skills training, jobs, and small businesses.”

In the nationwide protests last September 21 against corruption in flood control projects, Uy led the gathering in Plaza Rizal in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. In an earlier homily at a university in Tagbilaran City, Uy said that “to steal from the poor is to steal from Christ Himself.”

In the interview with the Ignite staff, Uy said that the Archdiocese of Cebu has a huge influence and “cannot stay on the sidelines when it comes to social challenges.”

“So, I see our role as being more active in important advocacies—like caring for the environment, promoting transparent and accountable management, standing for justice and peace, and also addressing very real concerns today such as mental health and addiction rehabilitation. If the Church takes the lead and walks with people in these areas, we can truly be a light and a guide for society,” he wrote in his email.

Uy also emphasized the importance of strengthening the faith of parishioners as one of his priorities when he takes possession of the archdiocese.

“My hope for our Archdiocese of Cebu is not just to grow bigger in numbers, but to grow deeper in faith. We Filipinos are known for our beautiful devotions, our fiestas, and our liturgical celebrations—and that is a great blessing. But faith should not stop at church doors. My prayer is that our people will also live their faith every day—at home, in school, at work, and even in government,” Uy wrote.

Uy identified five things as his priorities when asked what he would focus on when he takes over the diocese.

“Those are the five things I want to emphasize: evangelization, priestly renewal, pastoral life, care for creation, and integrity. If we walk together in these, I believe our Archdiocese will become a stronger witness of Christ’s love,” Uy said.

Uy was appointed in July by Pope Leo XIV to succeed retired Archbishop Jose S. Palma.