In a speech delivered at the traditional Independence Day parade in Ciudad del Este, Bishop Pedro Collar of the Diocese of Ciudad del Este called on Paraguayans to prioritize the general interest over personal gain and to fight corruption, which he described as a practical denial of the common good. The event, reported by Ultima Hora, marked the 215th anniversary of Paraguay's independence and also honored Paraguayan mothers.
“This anniversary invites us not to wait for external magical solutions, but to share what we have and trust in community solidarity,” Collar said. “We are called to a deep conversion, a change of mentality that prioritizes the general interest over the particular and heals the roots of social ills, especially corruption.”
The bishop criticized selfish practices and lack of commitment to the collective good, warning that many current social problems stem from corruption and indifference. He emphasized that true sovereignty involves protecting the nation from foreign entanglements and global power games, but above all freeing itself from the chains of selfishness. “True independence is achieved when the state guarantees a dignified life for all, with health, education, and real justice,” he added.
Collar also invoked the moral legacy of Paraguay's founding heroes, urging current generations to recover values such as love for the people, wisdom, unity, and unwavering honesty. He directed a special message to young people, calling them “the potential Paraguay has for its transformation” and urging them to become new heroes by acting with honesty and constructive critical spirit.
The bishop stressed the need to strengthen democracy, promote dialogue, and build a more inclusive society. “Building the homeland is a collective task that requires walking together, oñondivepa, accepting diversity and seeking common ground. Walking together means leaving no one behind, especially indigenous people, peasants, and the most needy urban sectors,” he said.
The parade, held on Avenida Bernardino Caballero, involved more than 60 educational institutions, volunteer firefighters, military and security forces, and thousands of attendees. After the bishop's message, the student and civic parade began, marked by tricolor flags and patriotic fervor.