EXPRESSING deep anguish over the plight of ordinary Filipinos amid persistent government dishonesty, former National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) executive director Ernesto “Jun” Torres Jr. has broken his silence, launching a sharp critique against corruption, greed, and the abuse of power.
In a personal statement reflecting on his upbringing, Torres shared how his parents instilled the values of simple, honest living and public service.
His father served as a Philippine Marine soldier in Vietnam and Mindanao, while his mother set aside her career as a nutritionist to raise five boys.
“Service, for our family, was never a source of pride but a duty,” Torres said, noting his own years of service in the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside his brother Edgar’s service in the Philippine Air Force. “We were taught that serving the country is a sacred trust, not a means to enrich ourselves.”
Torres lamented that today, those core teachings clash sharply with the reality faced by millions of citizens.
“Today, I am deeply troubled. I see many Filipinos struggling while corruption and dishonesty continue in government. It is painful to hear those in power lie while ordinary people bear the burden. I was not raised to accept that,” he expressed.
While admitting he is “not a perfect man” nor someone speaking from a position of moral superiority, Torres emphasized that he can no longer remain quiet in the face of widespread institutional rot.
Urging citizens to break their own silence, Torres issued a direct call to action: “Let us speak out, demand accountability, and stand for the Philippines we were taught to love.”
