“There can be no peace and harmony without accountability.”
Thus said Rene G. Romero, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The ROMAC Group.
Romero said that accountability plays a key role in achieving peace and harmony in the country.
He made the statement in reaction to the National Peace Rally organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) on Monday, January 13 at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.
Romero said corruption, misuse of public funds, and unresolved social injustices have weakened public trust and caused division among Filipinos.
“These circumstances create a climate of distrust, division, and unrest among the Filipino people. The absence of accountability in governance, from local to national levels, disrupts peace and harmony as it erodes public trust and intensifies social inequalities,” he said.
Romero said that corruption diverts resources from essential services such as education and healthcare.
He added that unresolved cases of extrajudicial killings and attacks on freedom of speech are examples of weak accountability mechanisms.
“Inefficiency and negligence in addressing issues like poverty, inflation, and disaster response are clear signs of poor governance,” Romero said.
He added that accountability restores public trust, reduces inequality, and promotes justice, all of which are essential for social cohesion and stability.
Romero, a business leader and advocate for good governance, is known for his efforts to promote transparency and enhance government services.
He is the chairman-elect of the Board of Directors of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PAMCHAM).