Chief Justice Reynato Puno Friday said that after 111 years since the country first declared independence, the people still suffer from poverty, exploitation, and injustice while power remains in the hands of a few in a regime rife with corruption.

Speaking at the Bonifacio Monument in Caloocan City during Friday’s celebration of Independence Day, Puno likened the country to a “volcano ready to erupt” if the problems facing the people are not addressed.

“Let us stop this journey to tragedy . . . Let us not wait for leaders, for all of us can lead,” Puno said.

In his speech, Puno said the country's history is full of "exploitation"of the masses by foreign powers and the so-called ruling class, especially in the economic aspect of the country's development.

He said that after 111 years what we have is a country beset by enormous problems, where poverty grips most of the people due to monopoly, a country where foreigners continue to exploit natural resources, a country pretending to be democratic while only few hold political power and wherein corruption is prevalent.”

Puno called on all sectors to heal the wounds that divide the country and called on all leaders to stop bickering and work for the country's good.

During the celebration, scores of his supporters displayed placards proclaiming support for his moral crusade.

For his part, Caloocan City Mayor Enrico “Recom” Echiverri used the occasion to call for a stop to political bickering.

Citing the current political framework of the city where incumbent officials work hand in hand under one able leadership, Echiverri called on the national leaders to put aside their differences and dedicate themselves to national unity and reconciliation.

The mayor also declared Puno as the city's honorary adopted son for his numerous accomplishments and impeccable track record in government service.

The ceremony in front of the Andres Bonifacio Monument also marked the beginning of the countdown
for Caloocan's Golden Cityhood Anniversary in 2012.

Echiverri and Chief Justice Puno took part in raising the Philippine flag, wreath laying, releasing of balloons and doves and offering a 21-gun salute to the heroes of the past.

Other guests included Caloocan Bishop Deogracias Yniguez, Northern Police District Director Supt. Samuel Pagdilao Jr., Department of Education officials and officers of the 501st Army Reserve Command.