You are on page 1of 20

•A3 Reading Bible well •B1 ‘The Foundation of

Everything,
•C1 The CROSS
Knights of Columbus
requires ability to listen,
Philippine bishop says It Is the True Reality’ Supplement

PGMA appoints Quevedo www.cbcpnews.com cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net JPEPA ratification upsets


to head task force for bishop
Minda river rehab A CATHOLIC bishop said he is disappointed to
know that the Senate ratified a free trade deal
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has re- with Japan that will allow, among others, Fili-
cently appointed a Catholic archbishop as head pino nurses and caregivers to work in Japan.
of the Presidential Task Force for Mindanao River Kalookan Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez said he is
Basin Rehabilitation and Development. surprised by the move because many groups are
Mrs. Arroyo already signed the appointment against the Japan-Philippines Economic Partner-
papers of Quevedo and his appointment will take ship Agreement (JPEPA).
effect upon the archbishop’s receipt of his special “Of course it’s very disappointing because the
assignment. Protagonist of Truth, Promoter of Peace Senate decided to pass the JPEPA even if there
The prelate is presently attending the World were several provisions that would be detrimen-
Synod of Bishops in Rome until about the end of October 13 - 26, 2008 Vol. 12 No. 21 Php 20.00 tal to the Filipino people,” Iñiguez said.
Quevedo / A6 JPEPA / A6

BLCP exec warns of a


‘Catholic backlash’ for
pro-RH bill lawmakers
By Roy Lagarde
THERE may not be a Catholic vote but
a pro-family advocate has warned of
a ‘Catholic backlash’ for pro-Repro-
ductive Health bill lawmakers.
Bishops-Legislators Caucus of the Philippines
(BLCP) executive director Fenny Tatad said it’s a
formidable fate politicians may have to face espe-
cially those running again in the 2010 elections.
“A lot of people are saying that there’s no Catho-
lic vote, but there’s a big Catholic backlash,” she
said.
While the Catholic Church does not dictate to
their members who to vote for, she said, it’s clear
to the faithful who are those people pushing “for
things that are not good.”
Tatad said she is not only referring for Catholics
but even for non-Catholic voters as well.
“I think it has been clearly said that the Church
organizations or the laity will campaign in the next
elections for those who will go against this bill. So
they have to think in terms of their political fu-
ture,” she added.
The BLCP official said the growing number of
people attending the anti-RH prayer rallies in dif-
ferent dioceses should already serve as a warning
to pro-RH lawmakers what their constituents re-
ally want.
“I think the number of people who have been
participating in the rallies being held in different
dioceses is only one of the reasons why some con-
gressmen changed their position,” Tatad said.
'No to mining.' CBCP Episcopal Commission on Indigenous Peoples chairman and Laoag Bishop Sergio Utleg (second from left) joined representatives of indigenous peoples (IPs)
Catholic backlash / A6 in their protest action in Makati City on Oct. 9 against the opening of ancestral lands to mining companies.

Bishops want P50-B a year for CARP St. Paul nuns help
fishermen become farmers
as House tackles national budget
ROMAN Catholic bishops urged Congress House of Representatives.
THE Sisters of Saint Paul in General Natividad town in Nueva Ecija
are helping the victims of the flashfloods that ravaged the town of
Dingalan, in Aurora Province four years ago.
It can be recalled that hundreds of people were killed in 2004
to prioritize the extension of the Compre- In his speech, Villena stressed the continu- when typhoons Winnie and Violeta devastated Dingalan town
hensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) ing plight of the farmers through 20 years of and its barangays.
and allocate “sufficient budget” for its imple- CARP’s “poor implementation”. After four years, the congregation of the Sisters of Saint Paul
mentation. He described the said sector as the one of has built a relocation village complemented with duplex houses,
Bayombong Bishop Ramon Villena said the most marginalized and forgotten in terms this time in a safer location in the town of General Natividad,
requisite appropriations of at least P50 bil- of services coming from the government. province of Nueva Ecija.
lion a year would be needed to institute re- “There’s something wrong” with the CARP In an interview with CBCP News, Sister Marietta Gutierrez,
forms that would truly benefit poor farmers implementation, he said, that needs to be “as- superior of the Sisters of St. Paul in General Natividad said that
who remain landless. sessed.” the biggest challenge for them in caring for the relocated survi-
The bishop made the appeal during a gath- He called on the people to pray and con- vors of the calamity is how to teach them to adopt to a new
ering of various local public officials and tinue hoping that the remaining time left to- environment in which the means of livelihood is entirely differ-
farmers’ groups held last October 3 at the wards CARP’s completion would be for the ent from what they used to have.
Hotel Supreme, this City. good of the rural folks. Most of the families were former fishermen as Dingalan is near
The activity, organized by Northern Luzon Bayombong Bishop Ramon Villena appeals to law- “Hope it will really benefit all the poor the sea. But today, they live in the mountain and the only means
bishops, also coincided with the ongoing de- makers to support the immediate legislation of the
farmers and community, not benefit those of livelihood they have is by farming.
extension of CARP at a forum held in Baguio City last
liberations on the national budget at the The Sisters of Saint Paul were invited by a private group to
October 3. CARP / A6
attend the Luzon-wide gathering of farmers and small agri-en-
trepreneurs in Cabanatuan City on October 3.
Prison ministry Bishop wants action, not This group is led by Atty. Edward Joson, an agri-entrepreneur
himself from Cabanatuan. The occasion was attended by repre-

words on IP rights protection


sentatives from Naga City and Camarines Sur in Bicol, Lucena
demands equal and Quezon province, Laguna, Central and Northern Luzon prov-
inces, with some representatives coming from as far as Isabela

treatment of prisoners IT is a usual situation of “to see is


to believe” for a Catholic bishop
who was assured by President
ment is pro-mining but they
should also mind other people
who are against it especially the
and Mountain Province.
“I’m attending this forum in Cabanatuan City so I can bring
back to the village whatever knowledge I can share to the people
THE Roman Catholic Church’s prison ministry is demanding an
equal treatment for all prisoners throughout the country. Gloria Arroyo that rights of In- IP communities that are mostly which can help them in their newfound livelihood activity,”
The Episcopal Commission on Prison Pastoral Care (ECPPC) of digenous Peoples (IPs) will be affected,” he said. Gutierrez said.
the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines disclosed that it well protected. He said there has been no sub- Meanwhile, she confirmed that NASSA and a German funding
has access to detainees being held at various government facilities. A dialogue between Mrs. Ar- stantial progress in the situation agency have provided financial assistance in building 100 new
ECPPC executive secretary Rodolfo Diamante said there is a royo and at least 20 tribesmen and of the indigenous peoples ever duplex housing units which now accommodate 200 families from
established order of treatment depending on the inmate’s social Catholic priests and religious in- since the past administrations. among those who survived the killer flash floods in the of town
status—with prominent detainees on top. volved in the IP apostolate was In the dialogue, Mrs. Arroyo of Dingalan, Aurora in 2004. (Elmer Abad)
He said “high-profile” prisoners receive a special treatment held October 8 in Malacañang. assured them that her adminis-
compared to most of the others living behind bars. The move was initiated by the tration is concerned and serious
Diamante was reacting to reports that freed convicted killer Episcopal Commission on Indig- in protecting the rights of IPs and
Claudio Teehankee Jr. and other high-status inmates are receiv- enous Peoples (ECIP) of the their communities.
ing special treatment during their stay at the National Bilibid Catholic Bishops’ Conference of But Utleg said they would
Prison in Muntinlupa City. the Philippines (CBCP), headed much appreciate a visible action
What makes them “special,” he said, is because their cells have by Bishop Sergio Utleg. from the government than just
television sets, well-foamed beds and refrigerators. The bishop said the discussion verbal guarantees.
“That’s why their cells are called special because it’s being com- was centered much on mining “We are hoping of her promise
pared to other normal cells that are congested,” he said. and ancestral domain—issues to settle the issues on ancestral
The CBCP official said one ‘normal’ prison cell in the country that has long been afflicting the domain and what she was saying
would consist of about 20 prisoners, where they would have to IP communities. that she doesn’t want anyone to
fight over their spot. “Most of them (IPs) are really suffer from mining,” he said.
Diamante appealed to the authorities to act into the actual con- against mining and they ap- The President, he said, never
dition of most prisoners across the country and provide them the pealed to President Arroyo to made a reaction to the call for the
“proper rehabilitation environment”. repeal the Mining Act (of repeal of the Mining Act of 1995
“The current situation inside prison cells just shows how pathetic 1995),”said Utleg who is also the “but she vowed that whatever
bishop of Laoag. problems will be attended to by
Equal treatment / A6
“We know that the govern- Action / A7
CBCP Monitor
A2 World News Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

Pope canonizes India’s


first woman saint, calls for
end to violence
VATICAN, October 13, 2008—Thousands of year-old Catholic boy whose cure through
Indian Catholics cheered waving their na- then-Blessed Alphonsa’s intercession was ac-
tional flag in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday as cepted by the Vatican as a miracle. His twisted
Pope Benedict XVI canonized Saint Alphonsa legs were healed in 1999 after his parents took
of the Immaculate Conception and called for him to her shrine.
an end to anti-Christian violence. As the canonization rite began, Archbishop
“As the Christian faithful of India give Angelo Amato, new prefect of the Congre-
thanks to God for their first native daughter gation for the Causes of the Saints, stepped
to be presented for public veneration, I wish forward and asked Pope Benedict to canon-
to assure them of my prayers during this dif- ize four new saints.
ficult time,” Pope Benedict said, referring ex- The other three were Italian Father Gaetano
plicitly to the violence against Christians in Errico (1791-1860); Maria Bernarda Butler (1848-
Orissa and other states. 1924), Swiss founder of a Religious order for
“I urge the perpetrators of violence to re- which she established missions in South
nounce these acts and join with their broth- America; and Narcisa De Jesus Martillo Moran
ers and sisters to work together in building a (1832-1869), a lay catechist from Ecuador.
civilization of love,” he continued, address- Archbishop Amato read a brief biography
ing 35,000 people at the October 12 ceremony. of each, describing Saint Alphonsa as the
Among them were thousands from the Syro- “great little daughter of India.”
Malabar Church, one of the three Catholic rites Saint Alphonsa is the first saint of full In-
in India, to which Saint Alphonsa belonged. dian descent. Saint Gonsalo Garcia (1556-1597),
About 300 nuns of her Franciscan Clarist con- the first and only other Indian saint, had a
gregation attended as did official delegations Portuguese father. She had a special affection
from the Indian Government and her home for children, and soon after her thinly attended
state, Kerala, along with more than 200 bish- funeral, schoolchildren received favors
ops, 20 cardinals and a choir of Indian nuns. through her intercession. Her tomb turned
Also present in the square was Jinil, the 11- into a center of pilgrimage. (UCAN)

Pontiff backs Muslim-Christian meeting Identical twins ordained


VATICAN, October 13, 2008—Benedict XVI says he is hoping that a
meeting between Christians and Muslims will give rise to a re-
newal in mutual commitments and dialogue.
The Pope said this in a telegram sent by his secretary of state, Cardi-
The cardinal explained that interreligious dialogue “does not at-
tempt to establish, with a reductive and syncretistic criteria, a
minimalist common base of religious truths.” Rather it “recognizes
that everyone in search of God or the Absolute has the same dignity.”
in Tenerife, Spain
nal Tarcisio Bertone, to a meeting sponsored by the Catholic lay Focolare Dialogue between religions, he said, should be considered “almost TENERIFE, October
movement. The conference is focused on “Love and Mercy in the Bible like a pilgrimage,” since “when one dialogues with a follower of 13, 2008—Cristobal
and in the Koran.” The meeting has gathered at Castel Gandolfo some another religion, it is necessary to take the attitude of one who em- Jose and his twin
200 Muslims and Christians since last Thursday. barks on a path with him, and takes into consideration convictions brother Diego Jesus
Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, president of the Pontifical Council about the great questions that confront every person, which are dis- Rodriguez were or-
for Interreligious Dialogue, addressed the conference participants tinct from one’s own.” dained to the priest-
on the first day, focusing on the potential for interreligious dia- “It is not,” the cardinal clarified, “one’s own faith that has to be hood by Tenerife
logue to bring people among peoples. questioned, but rather the way of living it in daily life.” (Zenit) Bishop Bernardo
Alvarez at the parish

Prelates protest another gay marriage state


of the Immaculate
Conception.
The ordination Bishop Bernardo Alvarez
was attended by
HARTFORD, Connecticut, October 12, ognition of same-sex marriage upon the that the decision “raises a very real concern Bishop Emeritus
2008—Prelates from Connecticut lamented people of Connecticut. This decision is in about the infringement on religious liberty Felipe Fernandez and Cardinal Oscar Andres Rodriguez Maradiaga
what they called a situation of just four direct conflict with the position of our state and freedom of speech with the judicial im- of Honduras.
people choosing to redefine the institution legislature and courts of other states and is position of same-sex marriage.” Cristobal and Diego are both 24 years old and hail from the island
of marriage for their whole state. a terribly regrettable exercise in judicial ac- “The real battle in this court case was not of Tenerife. Cristobal described his decision to consider the priest-
The bishops decried a 4-3 Connecticut Su- tivism.” about rights, since civil unions provide a hood, saying, “When you consider as a young person saying ‘Yes’ to
preme Court vote on Friday that opens the “Four people have not just extended a sup- vast number of legal rights to same-sex the Lord forever, you do it from knowing that you have discovered
state to becoming the third to allow same- posed civil right to a particular class of indi- couples, but about conferring and enforcing Christ who gives reason to your existence and gives hope to your
sex marriages. Massachusetts and Califor- viduals, but have chosen to redefine the in- social acceptance of a particular lifestyle; a life.”
nia already have redefined the legal under- stitution of marriage,” the statement said. lifestyle many people of faith and advocates “When I decided to embark upon this priestly journey, I began
standing of marriage. “The Connecticut Supreme Court has taken of the natural law refuse to accept,” the state- twelve years ago motivated perhaps by the attractive lives of a priest
A statement from the Connecticut Catho- upon itself to make a determination that other ment affirmed. and a nun. Their example, the way they carried out their ministries
lic Conference, offered “on behalf of the courts throughout our nation have felt should The Catholic Conference is now encour- etc., everything spoke to me of Christ. Thanks to these people, I fell
Catholic bishops, clergy, religious and laity be made through the political process. [...] aging citizens to vote for a Constitutional in love with the Gospel to the point of surrendering my life totally to
of the state of Connecticut—more than 1.3 “It appears our state Supreme Court has Convention on election day, which they Christ. When I think of my work as a priest, I am excited about the
million people,” expressed disappointment forgotten that courts should interpret laws hope could pave the way for a definition of day to day task of contributing to the work for fraternity, justice and
“in this close 4-3 decision by the Connecti- and legislatures should make laws.” marriage as exclusively between a man and love,” he said.
cut Supreme Court, which imposes the rec- The Catholic Conference further warned woman. (Zenit) For his part, Diego said that when he was little, he was always
asked what he wanted to be when he grew up. He always answered:

Archbishop of Melbourne calls abortion bill a “a priest.”


“It was precisely the priest in my town who invited me to see the
seminary and little by little my enthusiasm grew. I entered the dioc-
‘betrayal’ of shared humanity esan seminary at the age of 11 and I have spent twelve years in
formation, like my brother. During all this time I have experienced
it all: doubts, uncertainties, but also joy and conviction for living out
MELBOURNE, Australia, October guish” because the parliament
the vocation, Diego said. (CNA)
14, 2008—Archbishop of has legalized the destruction of
Melbourne Denis Hart on Satur- children “up to the moment of
day decried the passage of the
Abortion Law Reform Bill 2008
birth.”
Saying that our shared hu- Church urges values be included
in sexual education program
in the state of Victoria as “a be- manity “demands that we assist
trayal of our shared humanity, a mothers with an unwanted preg-
betrayal of women, a betrayal of nancy to enable them to carry
the innocent unborn child that we their child to term,” he said the SAN SALVADOR, October 9, Latin American level there be
would ease the way to the de- Church and “all people of good- 2008—Archbishop Fernando agreement about policy, about the
struction of 20,000 unborn chil- will” will redouble their efforts Saenz Lacalle of San Salvador has guidance being given to young
dren annually.” “to foster and promote a culture called on the presidents of Latin people, and therefore this Summit
The bill, which removes abor- that is pro-life; one that defends America to include the issue of is positive,” Archbishop Saenz
tion from the Crimes Act, was and supports women in their human values when they hold a Lacalle said. The leaders “should
Archbishop Denis Hart
passed on Friday in Victoria’s Up- inspiring role of motherhood.” discussion on a project about the include in their discussions the
per House 23 to 17, with all amend- Archbishop Hart criticized the He listed several other prob- hospitals will continue to pro- rights of young people in late Oc- defense of human values and con-
ments to the bill being rejected. bill for offering nothing to sup- lems with the bill: “The Bill over- vide services “in a way consis- tober. cretely there should be a special
“For the time being the battle port women with unwanted rides the conscientious objection tent with Catholic teaching and The 18th Latin American Sum- reference to the family.”
is lost in the legislature. But not pregnancies, but instead makes of medical professionals. It makes code of ethics.” mit of Heads of State will take In addressing plans for a
in the hearts and minds of good easier “the way to the legal de- a mockery of the Victorian Char- “Catholic hospitals will not place in San Salvador October “sexual and reproductive educa-
people,” the archbishop said in struction of their child,” a ter of Human Rights and Respon- perform abortions,” he stressed. 29—31 and will focus on the is- tion” program, he said, the lead-
reaction to the bill’s passage. He course of action the archbishop sibilities. It contravenes the UN “Catholic hospitals will not pro- sue of “Young People and Devel- ers “should opt for true educa-
described himself and others in described as universally recog- International Covenant on Civil vide referrals for the purpose of opment.” tion and not perversion, which
the community as people “filled nized as “regrettable and dis- and Political Rights.” abortion. This is irrevocable.” “It is very important that at the could occur.” (CNA)
with a profound sadness and an- tressing.” The archbishop said Catholic (CNA)
Kilalanin ang

Texas cardinal suggests scripture compendium mga tunay na


lingkod
Bayan.
ng

VATICAN CITY, October 12, 2008—A cardi- tally ecclesial and Catholic” would also be
nal from the U.S. “Bible Belt” is suggesting a an aid for Catholics who participate in ecu- Alamin at
compendium on sacred Scripture that would menical Bible studies with members of other suriin ang
adhikain ng mga
highlight the methods of the Church for read- Christian congregations.
tunay na lider
ing and praying the word of God. “It would help retrieve a vivid and excel-
ng bansa.
Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, archbishop of lent sense of the Catholic understanding of
Galveston-Houston, made this suggestion the Holy Spirit’s inspiration in sacred Scrip- LIDER TOTOO, kasama si Harvey Keh ng Ateneo de
when he addressed the world Synod of Bish- tures,” he affirmed. “The eternal Word emp- Manila University School of Government.
ops on Saturday. The synod is underway in tied himself for our salvation. In an analo-
Rome through Oct. 26. gous way the Holy Spirit has also given and Mapapakinggan ang LIDER TOTOO tuwing Sabado,alas-
According to a summary of his address re- ‘humbled’ himself in the inspiration of the nuebe hanggang alas-diyes y medya ng umaga.
leased by the Vatican, the cardinal recom- holy Scriptures. With great courtesy he has
mended “a compendium, similar to other such adapted the divine ‘language’ with thought Kasama ang iba’t-ibang opisyal ng pamahalaan na
documents, that would be directed to the faith- toward our human nature.” tunay na naglilingkod sa bayan.
ful. It would be a clear and direct guide that “It is a genuine location, but it is also a frame
would highlight the rich and useful methods of mind, diffused through many places in the Layon ng programa na maipabatid sa sambayanan kung
of the Church for reading and sharing sacred world,” Cardinal DiNardo explained. “There are sino-sino ang mga tumataguyod sa kapakanan ng bawat
mamamayan.
Scriptures. Such a compendium would be an surely issues and problems with this mindset,
immeasurable help for personal Bible read- but it has kept alive a biblical imagination and
Makibahagi sa pagpapaunlad ng bayan katuwang ang
ing, for Bible study groups, etc.” vocabulary and a sense of divine agency in the LIDER TOTOO.
Cardinal Daniel DiNardo The prelate said that such a volume, “to- world that is important for us.” (Zenit)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008 News Features A3

Reading Bible well requires ability


to listen, Philippine bishop says
VATICAN CITY, October 8, 2008— Reading Scripture well requires Scripture. Australian Archbishop Mark Coleridge of Canberra-
the ability to listen, something that is increasingly difficult in today’s Goulburn suggested the preparation of a general homiletic direc-
self-absorbed world, a Philippine bishop told the Synod of Bishops tory to ensure a more solid and systematic preparation for preach-
on the Bible. ers in seminaries and formation houses.
The short speech by Bishop Luis Tagle of Imus Oct. 7 was one of He pointed out that the Second Vatican Council called for a re-
few synod interventions to draw applause, ending with a call for newal of preaching, with a shift from the sermon as an exposition
the church to “listen the way God listens” and become a voice for of Catholic doctrine and devotion to the homily as an explanation
the poor and suffering. and application of Scripture.
Bishop Tagle was one of 23 bishops who took the floor on the Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo of Manila, Philippines, sug-
first day of individual speeches limited to five minutes each. gested a number of guidelines to help Catholics read and interpret
He said the church can best help people learn to read Scripture by the Bible. Among other things, he suggested that there be more
teaching them how to listen in faith, opening their hearts to God’s interaction among biblical scholars and pastoral workers.
word and allowing it to transform them and their actions. The church “We need to approach the Bible with a spirit of humility; it en-
should offer “formation in holistic listening,” he said. ables us to value the interpretation of the Bible by the poor,” he
The bishop said the modern world offers ample evidence of the said.
tragic lack of listening, including family conflicts, generational gaps His words were echoed by Bishop Benjamin Ramaroson of
and violence. Farafangana, Madagascar, who said that although most of the faith-
“People are trapped in a milieu of monologues, inattentiveness, just, widows, orphans, persecuted and the poor who have no voice.” ful in his country cannot read or write they have a strong sense of
noise, intolerance and self-absorption. The church can provide a mi- “The church must learn to listen the way God listens and must the sacred and understand the Bible’s symbolic language. Biblical
lieu of dialogue, respect, mutuality and self-transcendence,” he said. lend its voice to the voiceless,” he said to a ripple of applause in the passages often deal with the poor and suffering, and Bishop
He told the synod that it was important to remember that God synod hall. Ramaroson said his people’s thoughtful comments on the readings
not only speaks in Scripture, but listens as well—”especially to the Several bishops spoke about the need for better preaching about might surprise many experts. (CNS)

Pope explains history, Pope calls St. Paul a


importance of synod ‘migrant by vocation’
meetings VATICAN, October 9, 2008—The example of
St. Paul, a “migrant by vocation,” is one
Benedict XVI hopes the Church will follow
cultures and languages, making the most of
the Roman cultural context.
“After his encounter with Christ on the road
in the era of globalization; a mission that with
attentive pastoral solicitude is also directed
to the variegated universe of migrants “ stu-
VATICAN, October 6, 2008—At to build solidarity and promote peaceful co- to Damascus, although he did not deny his dents far from home, immigrants, refugees,
the beginning of the world existence among all races, cultures and creeds. own ‘traditions’ and felt both esteem and grati- displaced people, evacuees “ including for
Synod of Bishops on the Bible, The Pope said this in the message released tude to Judaism and the Law, he devoted him- example, the victims of modern forms of sla-
Pope Benedict XVI explained why for the 95th World Day of Migrants and Refu- self without hesitation or second thoughts to very, and of human trafficking,” the Pope
he thinks such meetings are im- gees, to be held Jan. 18. The message, titled his new mission, with courage and enthusi- said.
portant. “St. Paul Migrant, ‘Apostle of the Peoples,’” asm and docile to the Lord’s command: ‘I will The Pontiff affirmed that the “message of
He did it in typical Benedict was published Wednesday. send you far away to the Gentiles.’” salvation must be presented with the same
style—reviewing a bit of church The Holy Father said the theme coincides “His life changed radically,” said Benedict approach as that of the Apostle to the Gen-
history and explaining the roots with the Jubilee Year of St. Paul, which con- XVI. “Jesus became for him his ‘raison d’être’ tiles, taking into account the different social
of the Greek word “synodos” to cludes June 29. and the motive that inspired his apostolic and cultural situations and special difficul-
pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s He said the “preaching and mediation be- dedication to the service of the Gospel. He ties of each one as a consequence of his or her
Square. tween the different cultures and the Gospel changed from being a persecutor of Chris- condition as a migrant or itinerant person.”
The basic role of the Synod of which Paul, ‘a migrant by vocation,’ carried tians to being an Apostle of Christ. “May his example,” the Holy Father added,
Bishops, held every three years out, are also an important reference point for “Guided by the Holy Spirit, he spared no “also be an incentive for us to show solidar-
or so, is to advise the pope and those who find themselves involved in the effort to see that the Gospel [...] was pro- ity to these brothers and sisters of ours and
solidify church communion, the word “synod”—”syn” meaning migratory movement today.” claimed to all, making no distinction of na- to promote, in every part of the world and
pope said Oct. 5. “with” and “odos” meaning The Pontiff explained: “Born into a family tionality or culture.” by every means, peaceful coexistence among
He recalled that the synod was “road”—suggest the idea of trav- of Jewish immigrants in Tarsus, Cilicia, Saul “This is the mission of the Church and of different races, cultures and religions.”
established as a regular institu- eling together, which he said was was educated in the Hebrew and Hellenistic every baptized person in our time too, even (Zenit)
tion by Pope Paul VI in 1965, dur- the church’s experience through

Indigenous peoples to continue fighting


ing the final phase of the Second history.
Vatican Council. “The synodal dimension is an
Pope Benedict listed four main essential component of the
functions of the assemblies: church. It consists in the coming

for lands, rights, and identity


— To promote closer union and together of every population and
cooperation between the pope culture to become one in Christ
and the bishops of the world. and to walk together behind
— To furnish direct and accu- him,” he said.
rate information about the Pope Benedict, who presided MALABON CITY, October 13, continue to be militarized, and
church’s situation and problems. over a Synod of Bishops on the 2008—In line with the celebration our brave brothers and sisters,
— To encourage harmony be- Eucharist in 2005, has modified of the Indigenous People’s Sunday, harassed and summarily killed
tween doctrine and pastoral action. some of the synod’s rules. He has the Kalipunan ng Katutubong by State armed forces. Our sacred
— To deal with themes of great shortened the length of the as- Mamamayan ng Pilipinas culture is commercialized. We
importance and timeliness. semblies to three weeks and re- (KAMP) asked the Church to join fall prey to unwarranted dis-
Over the years, some bishops duced the maximum length of in- them in fighting for the restora- crimination. We are denied or
have called for decision-making dividual speeches from eight tion of their dignity as a people, neglected of the State’s basic ser-
powers for the synod. The pope minutes to five minutes. for their rights to self-determina- vices,” Himpad sadly told
made no reference to a possible At the same time, he has cre- tion, and the preservation and con- CBCPNews.
change in its strictly consultative ated more opportunity for open servation of their ancestral lands,
role. discussion at the end of the daily which are considered a part of Disappearances
He said the Greek roots of the sessions in the synod hall. (CNS) their wholeness as a people and One of the proofs the said State
as a community. harassments against the tribal

Peace groups shouldn’t be


© http://www.flickr.com/photos/oggie/

KAMP is one of the largest fed- peoples in the Philippines, was


erations of tribal organizations the case of the missing
and associations in the Philip- Kankanaey-Ibaloi tribe’s leader,
used as smokescreen of gov’t pines and serving as the militant
vanguard of advancing the rights
James Balao.
Last September 17, Balao was

in peace efforts and welfare of tribal Filipinos.


Himpad Mangumalas, a
Higaonon and the organization’s
abducted by the suspected mili-
tary forces and was still missing
as of this writing. Balao is the
DAVAO CITY, October 12, 2008—A peace advocate and founder spokesperson, said the indig- 199th victim of enforced disap-
of Kusog Mindanaw (Strong Mindanao) has reminded peace enous peoples in the Philippines pearances since the assumption
groups and coalitions in Mindanao not to be used as “smokescreen” are at war, and the echo of that of President Gloria Macapagal-
of the government’s real intention in peacemaking. war was heard in the entire ar- Arroyo in 2001. general of the Metro-Baguio failure of the Macapagal-Arroyo
Fr. Eliseo Mercado said Saturday that there are groups which chipelago: the fight and defense Balao was a founding member Tribal Elders and Leaders Assem- government in keeping its prom-
have been approached by the government and used in its “cam- for their lands and the recogni- of the Cordillera People’s Alli- bly and a former staff of the CPA ise of uplifting the lives and the
ouflaging tactics” in order to pursue peace and development in tion for their inalienable rights ance (CPA), an organization of Education Commission in 2007; promotion of well-being of the
Mindanao. to self-determination as a people. the tribal peoples in the North- the killing of Markus Bangit, tribal minorities.
He added that the present government is already unpopular Mangumalas disclosed to ern hinterlands, founded in 1984 The human rights group “Overall, the Arroyo govern-
and inept to fulfill its commitments in the controversial memo- CBCPNews the plight of the In- as an effort to unify the tribes in Karapatan and the Ecumenical ment has failed to respect, recog-
randum of agreement on ancestral domain. digenous Filipinos whose lands the North, then facing grave Movement for Justice and Peace nize, and promote the human
Mercado said that because of its “unpopularity”, the Arroyo gov- are being pillaged by mining and threat of losing their ancestral have recorded 85 cases of sum- rights of the country’s indig-
ernment is now seeking the help and assistance of highly regarded logging of multinational compa- lands due to the Chico Dam mary executions against tribal enous peoples,” said Himpad.
peace groups in Mindanao to mediate in its peace efforts. nies, by the aggressive conver- project by the Marcos regime. leaders allover the country and He said that more and more
“The integrity of Arroyo government in terms of peace efforts sion of their lands into big dams Aside from Balao’s case were seven (7) cases of enforced disap- certificate of ancestral domain
has already dropped. It has no social capital to pursue with peace and the commercialization of numerous cases of harassments pearances from 2001 to 2008. titles were revoked and dishon-
efforts,” Mercado told the group of consecrated women in the their native culture. and summary execution of tribal ored as the government itself has
Archdiocese of Davao in a gathering last October 11 at the MIC “We have become squatters in leaders such as arbitrary arrest Failed promises intensified the mining and log-
Cursillo House in Torres St., this city. our own lands. Our communities of Jose Cawiding, the secretary- Himpad was saddened by the Indigenous / A6
That is why, he continued, “Mrs. Arroyo turned 90-degrees in

Asian youth leaders urge MILF and gov’t to resume peace talks
saying that her government will no longer sign the peace accord
with MILF. Now, she loses her credibility.”
Mercado also explained that Arroyo’s use of disarmament, de-
mobilization and rehabilitation (DDR) framework for peace ne- DAVAO CITY, October 12, 2008—If one thinks the enduring conflict come peacemakers now,” the youth network said in a statement.
gotiations with the MILF is misplaced. in Mindanao is due to religious differences, some 90 multi-religious Meantime, the group has urged the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
“While DDR is part of the supposed entire comprehensive peace youth leaders gathered here today believe otherwise. and the Philippine government to “meet halfway” and promote peace
agreement of the government with the rebels, it should not be This is because for the members of the Religions for Peace Asia and talks capable of generating real and lasting solutions in the conflict-
used as front in negotiating,” said Mercado, also former member Pacific Youth Network, lasting peace and friendship is achievable laden region.
of the government’s peace panel. among the religiously-diversified Mindanaoans had they been peace- “The youth hopes the immediate returning to the negotiation table
According to DDR in Peace Agreements and UN Peacekeeping loving enough to respect everybody’s ideologies. by the Philippine government and the MILF. The international com-
Mandates, disarmament entails the actual collection of arms and To further prove their point, youth leaders of Buddhist, Christian, munity is paying close attention to the humanitarian crisis in
ammunition, while demobilization is a process that separates the Hindu, Jain, Muslim, Sikh, Zoroastrian and indigenous communities Mindanao of the almost half million internally displaced persons
combatants from military service or armed troops and may in- from sixteen Asian countries are convening October 12 to 14 in a pan- and others affected by the current conflict,” it added.
clude the establishments of camps and receiving areas where Asia summit to formulate multi-religious action plan to help de- According to organizers, the outcomes of the Summit will be high-
former combatants hand in their weapons and in return receive velop the Mindanao peace process. lighted in the senior religious leaders gathering in Manila from Oc-
counseling, vocational training or economic assistance. “(We believe that) the root cause of the conflict in Mindanao is not tober 17 to 21.
Reintegration (Rehabilitation as used by Arroyo) programs unique to the Philippines, and can be found in all parts of the world. The “(This will definitely) bring the voice of youth and the situation in
support the immediate and medium term social and economic process of marginalization of the political, economic, cultural and reli- Mindanao to the 300 participants of the general assembly of the Asian
inclusion of former combatants into their communities of origin gious identities needs to be exposed and over-turned. Religious youth Conference of Religions for Peace (ACRP) with the President of the
or new communities. (Mark S. Ventura) leaders are convinced that we need to confront this challenge and be- Philippines,” it said. (Kris Bayos)
CBCP Monitor
A4 Opinion Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

EDITORIAL

The real agenda of the Repro


Health Bill
THERE is no mistaking that the real agenda of House Bill
5043 otherwise known as An Act Providing for a National
Policy on Reproductive Health, Responsible Parenthood
and Population Development, and for other purposes is
not what it insists to tell. The only thing that is closest to
the truth is that the bill is really “for other purposes ”,
which is where the problem lies.
It is not for “reproductive health” if by that we mean the
honest to goodness health of mothers and babies. But the
rub is, this bill liberally defines the term as the United
Nations does—which refers to what a mother wants to do
with her body and sexuality, including the “right” to
contraception and abortion. This verbal construct has
been formally incorporated into official U.N. lexicon at the
1994 International Conference on Population and
Development in Cairo.
It is neither for “responsible parenthood”, because if it
is really, why legislate provisions that take out the
responsibilities of parents? In the bill, some basic
responsibilities are removed from the parents and are
placed in the state like a diktat in totalitarian countries—
such as the one that mandates a two-children policy per
family and the mandatory reproductive health education
from Grade V to Fourth Year High School.
And, of course, even Juana at the corner store knows
that the bill is not really for “population development”. It
is rather for something that will decelerate the population.
And if it is really for the development of population,
legislators should work for real measures that will enhance
the quality of life of Filipinos. But as track record will bear,
politicians have been one of the primary causes of the
underdevelopment of the populace. Abp. Angel N. Lagdameo, DD
A book entitled “The Truth and Half-Truths About
Reproductive Health” released recently by The Bishops-
Peace, the fruit of order
Legislators Caucus of the Philippines, aptly describes,
“The proposed law is anchored on an ideological misreading
In and Out of Season and global ethics
of demographic data. It is absolutely superfluous and
deceptive. It is unconstitutional. It is destructive of public
morals and oppressive of religious values and beliefs. It (This piece was delivered at the Asian Conference of Religions for Peace on disturbed by continuing insurgency and faced, but survived, seven
October 17, 2008) military coup attempts.
has nothing to do with the common good, but is primarily
intended to serve the interests of those who see the For us Filipinos, peace seems to be an illusive dream. President
WELCOME to this Manila Assembly of the Asian Conference of Fidel Ramos may be the only president to seriously pursue the path
nation’s (and other countries’) population growth as an
economic and security threat to the developed countries, Religions for Peace on (ACRP). In its 32 years of existence this of peace, through peace negotiations with the National Democratic
Asian Conference of Religions for Peace has had assemblies in Front, the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s
now plagued by an aging and dying population, and a
Singapore, India, Korea, Nepal, Thailand, Indonesia and now in Army, the military rebels and Muslim armed groups. However, Presi-
systemic financial-monetary crisis.”
Manila and in the oldest university in the Philippines. This Royal dent Joseph Estrada’s populist approach harmed rather than helped
It looks like some people are not telling the truth. And and Pontifical University of Sto. Tomas will be celebrating its his predecessor’s peace process. The present government of Presi-
perhaps they are getting highly paid for it. 400th year in 2011. dent Gloria Arroyo is still being challenged today on how to resolve
The present assembly’s theme: “Peacemaking in Asia” would un- the causes of conflicts, the problems of moral and economic recov-
avoidably include discussion on conflicts and war in our respective ery, of graft and corruption as well as its credibility that glaringly
countries. We from the Philippines welcome the theme. As fellow persist in the country today.
Our responsibilities as Catholics Asians, we ourselves have been seeking it and pursuing it. Some The problem of peace in our country may have some echo in the 25
years ago the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines came country-members of ACRP. Confucius once said: “To have peace in
WHAT a grave moral burden rests on the consciences of out with a Pastoral Letter “Seek Peace, Pursue it.” the World, the world must be in order; to have order in the world,
our legislators! The Second Plenary Council of the Our Philippine History is filled with details of conflicts, such as the nations must be in order; to have order in the nations, families must
Philippines (PCP II) reminded us that “Catholics who are series of religious and social uprisings against Spanish, American, be in order, to have order in families, personal lives must be up-
given a charge of public life (must) faithfully abide by the and Japanese colonization. The rural development programs of Presi- right.” That was his approach to peace.
Gospel and by the moral and social teachings of the dent Ramon Magsaysay, the Nationalistic Policies of President Carlos The German theologian Hans Kung has studied the great religions,
Church, given the parameters of religious liberty” 6 . Garcia and the socio-economic program of President Diosdado in an effort to understand their ethical messages to our conflict-rid-
Catholic legislators are morally bound to follow the Macapagal were all set aside when in 1972 President Ferdinand den would. He summed up his conclusions thus: “No peace among
teachings of the Church in their law-making activities. Marcos place the country under Martial Law and his dictatorial rule nations without dialogue between the religions. No dialogue be-
They should not set aside the teachings of the Church in response, among others, to communist insurgencies and Muslim tween the religions without global ethical standards. No survival of
when formulating and voting on laws. separatist movements. President Corazon Aquino’s government was In and out / A7

We have recently written that “everyone should be


interested in knowing what bills are being considered by Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS

Home for the Angels


Congress, what positions regarding important legislators

Love Life
are being taken by senators and congresspersons. In
solidarity, civil society must articulate their support for
laws, policies, and structural changes that will improve
our lives in society and our political processes. It must
lobby to defeat bills that militate against the aspirations
of the poor, the integral development of our people, the I HAVE just come from the Home for the Angels. It is always a joy to babies and a separate room for the sick babies. It even has a play-
integrity of creation, moral values in the family, the visit the place and carry and hug the babies there that are waiting for ground on the front lawn with swings and slides.
welfare of women, children and the young” 7 . Hence, we adoption. A special feature of the Home is the volunteer work of the women
wish to commend and encourage Catholics who have The Home for the Angels was set up 12 years ago by former Mayor who have experienced abortion. The director of the Home, Cory
shown their Christian spirit by volunteering their time and of Manila Lito Atienza and his wife Beng. Atienza was president of Arevalo, encourages these women to spend time with the babies as
services to the cause of life and the defense of the family Pro-life Philippines then, and he wanted to respond in a very specific part of their recovery and healing. They lovingly carry, embrace and
and family-related values. way to the growing problem of abortion due to easy availability of feed the babies as they accept the healing forgiveness of God. Some
abortive pills sold in Quiapo by the herbal vendors. Besides the of these women share with us during our counseling sessions that
We know that you have written to your Congress pregnancy crisis counseling centers that we in Pro-life had been main- they are so filled with grief and guilt, even after two or three confes-
representatives, affixed your signatures to campaigns, taining for over twenty years now, a place to offer the women where sions, they do not feel forgiven. But this time with the babies in the
spent time at rallies or dialogue sessions, conversed they could leave their babies was necessary. Also, reports from hos- Home help them reconcile with their lost loved one who is now in
individually with our leaders and above all, prayed to the pitals show that some babies are abandoned or the mothers do ex- the bosom of the Father.
Lord of Life to continue blessing our country. Keep up press their desire to have the baby adopted. The Home for the Angels can accommodate 15 to 20 babies at a
your struggle. You can always count on the support and With the help of many ideas from the agencies that have been time. Over 250 have been placed out for adoption, most of them to
guidance of your bishops. running child-caring agencies such as Norfil Foundation, Kaisahang foreign countries like the USA, Italy, Germany, Norway, France,
Buhay Foundation, CRIBS, Heart of Mary Villa and Concordia Ser- Australia and New Zealand. Photos of the babies with their adopting
Our Catholic educational system can give a substantial vices, Lito and Beng rented an old house in Malate and started accept- families are posted on the walls of the Home, a joy and consolation
contribution to the youth in their formative years toward ing babies. Volunteer pediatricians were not lacking. On the payroll to the care-givers who often become attached to the babies but have
the formation of right conscience. After the family, our were nurses, midwives and a social worker to process the legal adop- to say good-bye to them when the adopting parents come to fetch the
schools serve as stable formators of values. tion of the babies through the Department of Social Welfare and babies to take to their countries.
Development (DSWD). License and permit were easily granted by The Home for the Angels, as well as the many maternity homes and
—“That they may have life, and have it abundantly”
DSWD because the place was indeed well equipped and staffed. child caring institutions around the country, are testimonies to our be-
(Jn 10:10): Pastoral Statement on the Defense of Life
A few years ago, Atienza decided to build a nursery in one of his lief that abortion is not the solution to difficult pregnancies. As we tell
and Family, 2000 properties in San Andres Bukid, a well planned building with office the girls and women who come to us confused and unsure of how they
spaces in the first floor that includes a counseling center and offices will carry on with their pregnancy – there are people who care. We care,
for the staff. The whole second floor is the nursery for the healthy and we will be here when you need us. Call Pro-life at 911-2911.

ISSN 1908-2940
Rev. Euly B. Belizar, SThD

CBCP Monitor
P r o ta g o n i s t of Tr u t h , Promoter of Peace
By the Roadside
Looking at Fatima
Pedro C. Quitorio IT’S October once again. On the spotlight is time of fulfillment,” he declares as he begins sufferings by offering them to the Father in
Editor-in-Chief
the devotion to Our Lady of Fatima, particu- his ministry. “The kingdom of God is at hand. union with the sufferings of Jesus on the cross
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos larly when we recall the last of her appari- Repent and believe in the good news!” (Mk at Calvary. In a word, our sufferings can be
Associate Editor Feature Editor tions on October 13, 1917 culminating in the 1:15). It shows you and me how Mama Mary redemptive when seen and embraced in
famous ‘dancing of the sun’ or ‘miraculous fulfills even until now her identity and mis- union with those of the Crucified Redeemer.
Melo M. Acuña Rosalynn Garcia solar phenomenon’ (that Pinoy Catholics are sion as the foremost disciple of Jesus Christ The irony of the Christian life that we see
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor in awe of). Lest we forget, they were not sim- the Savior. It reveals deeply how she is a most especially in the heroic sacrifices of the vi-
ply a grand display of God’s power at work faithful human collaborator in the work of sionaries Jacinta and Francisco is that the
Laurence John R. Morales Ernani M. Ramos through Mary’s intercession. They were an salvation. Which argues much for our devo- more we spend ourselves for the salvation of
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES

Online Editor Circulation Manager urgent call on people, sinners like you and tion to their Twin Hearts. Our Lady of Fatima others, the more we are guaranteed our own
Roy Q. Lagarde Marcelita Dominguez me, to conversion. Take away conversion and is in perfect sync with her Son in fulfilling salvation.
News Editor Comptroller we’re roundly off the mark on Fatima. the saving mission from the Father. Third, the visions that, for a long time, were
The apparitions at Fatima and their calls to Second, the extraordinary sufferings of the kept in secret are both a warning and a source
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP prayers and sacrifice for the conversion of visionaries, Francisco and Jacinta Marto who, of hope for us. A warning for all of us sinners
Communications Development Foundation, Inc., with sinners are seldom talked about in our day together with Lucia their cousin, relayed the as to the utter self-destruction awaiting our
editorial and business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., and age. But they reveal an ever urgent mes- message of conversion to humankind with persistence in sin. The brief vision of hell is
Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. sage for our personal, political and social courage and love, are a testament to the con- in point. We should not take the message of
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. lives. That message is ageless. tinuing reality of the Paschal Mystery of Jesus Fatima for granted in regard to conversion
Email: cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net
Website: www.cbcpworld.net/cbcpmonitor In the first place, it is an echo of the very in and through the witness of Christians. Sim- in our own personal life and in the life of our
first summons by Jesus himself. “This is the ply said, we find the deeper meaning of our Roadside / A6
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008 Opinion A5
Oscar V. Cruz, DD Fr. Melvin P. Castro
Clemency, forgiveness,
Views and Points mercy Speaking of Mary
TO grant clemency, to extend forgiveness, to did to us. ency that is attached to a given public Office.
show mercy are honorable and commendable
actions especially in Christianity. The truth is
that there is none other in the world and in
The right paring wherefore is the of-
fended forgiving the offender, or the victim
shows clemency, extends forgiveness, show
Yes! This is to question the exercise of the
prerogative of executive clemency by reason
of transaction politics, on account of social
The wonderful people
course of time who overdid Christ in being
merciful, forgiving and clement. The fact that
He taught his followers to say but one and
mercy to his or her victimizer. Needless to
say, this is difficult but somehow heroic to
do as it should be done according to the
status, by virtue of preferential treatment.
In this case, instead of the consecrated
maxim that “those who have less in life should
given by God
only one prayer, seeking to “…forgive us our Christian code of conduct. have more in law,” its exact reversal is prac-
sins as we forgive those who sin against us…” The easiest and neatest thing to do is for ticed: Those who have less should also have OF late, the articles that appeared in this column have been
This being the case, it can be rightfully said someone to grant clemency to someone who less in law. What a pity! What a farce! doctrinal. Allow me to be personal again for this particular
that clemency, forgiveness and mercy are the has not in any way hurt or violated such a In such an event, while the supposedly issue.
composite elements of the Flag of Christian- “benevolent”, “compassionate” and “under- clement supreme reigning public official October 7 is the date of my priestly ordination, and this year
ity, with the necessity however of junking the standing” persona. This clemency—granted could experience the extent of power and the marks the 10th year. The date has been a personal request on my
mandate of justice, the imperative of equity. merely by a political prerogative—is so far force of influence, and while the criminal thus part, that day being the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary.
In fact, the most salient substantive content from the “real thing”, i.e., the act is far from freed has much reason to celebrate, the vic- I wish to look back in gratitude to all the wonderful people
of the asking portion of the signal and distinct the paring of a really offended individual tim remains dead, the latter’s family feels that God placed along the path of my life to guide me closer to
Prayer “Our Father” as above cited, is the fol- vis-à-vis a deliberately offending character. betrayed and remains grieving. God, to Our Lady, and to the journey to the priesthood.
lowing: That as surely as we offend others, In this case, the “merciful, forgiving and Reason: The prerogative of executive clem- My lola . When I was yet a toddler and child, and my parents
others also offend us. That the petition goes clement” Chief Executive acts with a sense ency was exercised against its mandated pro- had to earn the living, she took care of us. But I will fondly
this way: As the Good Lord generously for- of omnipotence, more so, a feeling of divin- cedural norm, against basic reason, against recall how she would bring us to our Parokya, St. James the
gives our trespasses against Him, so too we ity. elementary prudence. This is why the other- Apostle Parish in Paombong, Bulacan. During my kindergar-
forgive those who trespass against us—espe- No! This is not to argue against the pre- wise exalted prerogative is now being ques- ten days in St. Martin de Porres Catholic School, still in
cially so when repentant for the wrong they rogative itself of granting executive clem- tioned, depreciated if not ridiculed. Paombong, she would bring me there and stay whole day to be
my bantay. She was the first one to teach me the basic prayers.
She died one morning when we were the only two persons in
Francisco F. Claver, SJ
Indigenous Peoples
our home, a morning that she told my mother that there were
no classes in school and we need not go there but the truth was
there were classes.
Sunday Afterthoughts The teachers, staff, and my classmates in St. Martin de Porres
Catholic School and the Dominican Sisters of St. Joseph, all the
basic tenets of our Faith, I learned there. Although, due to eco-
nomic constraints many are unable to be part of the Catholic
GITAMAY-TAMAY kami. to a certain degree, and Christianized. The Moros were the Muslim educational system, still it is the best place for children to learn,
I don’t think I ever heard, in all my years in Mindanao, any sadder groups in the southern islands who successfully resisted subjuga- discover, and be nourished in the Catholic Faith. It was there
or more painful words than these. “We are looked down on—we are tion, hispanization and Christianization all through Spanish times. under the Dominican Sisters that I came to know and fall in
despised, belittled—we are snubbed as inferiors.” The words were The wild tribes were the hill people that also resisted Spanish rule love with Our Lady and the praying of the Rosary. The priestly
uttered by a Manobo tribesman at a conference, sponsored by the and colonization but were not Muslims—and they were disparag- vocation, I believe, was first nourished there.
ECCC (Episcopal Commission on Cultural Communities) in the late ingly called salvajes for the reason that they refused to be “pacified” My lola had an RVM Nun as a sister, Mo. Bernarda Bartolome
1970s, on the problems of the island’s indigenous peoples under by Spanish arms and continued living outside the pale of Spanish (she died at the tender age of 102) and a Jesuit priest as a
Marcos’ martial law government. The speaker was referring to how culture and religion, clinging unredeemed to their ancient cultural brother, Fr. Pablo Bartolome, SJ. Fr. Pablo, our lolo padre, was
they were being treated by others—the government and the non- and religious (“pagan”) traditions. assigned in Malaybalay, and whenever he goes to Manila, he
tribal people of Mindanao in general, migrants from other parts of When the Americans took over, they did what the Spanish were would pass by our home. I remember the last time he passed
the Philippines. never able to do with the Moros and the wild tribes: they brought by, he gave me a Rosary and told me that I would be a priest.
The original peoples of Mindanao, he was saying, were second-class them under their control (and that by the way is the basis of the He died a week later. Our lola madre would instead always
citizens in their own island home. Precisely because of that fact, the Philippine government’s claim to sovereignty over the Maguindanao, send us religious materials, stampitas, scapularios. One of the
Commission changed its name, on the motion of IPs themselves, to the Maranao and the Tausug that the shelved MOA-AD sought to magazines that she sent marked a very deep impression in
ECTF—Episcopal Commission on Tribal Filipinos. “Tribal Filipi- render ineffective). Under American rule, the non-Muslim, non- my life, the magazine was entitled, Divine Love
nos”—a name of shame (to non-IPs) deliberately turned into a name of Christian groups were classified as tribal or “native” peoples and Magazine. One particular issue had the story of Fatima in it. The
pride: that was the reason for the new designation. (The later change to officially placed under the Bureau of Non-Christian Tribes. With story left, I believe, a lasting effect in my soul. The Fatima
the Commission’s present name, ECIP, Episcopal Commission on In- independence, the term for IPs went through several permutations, Message of Our Lady became a focal point in my life. I hun-
digenous Peoples, was made only in the early ‘90s following the United each one as unsatisfactory as the last as a description of the reality it gered to know more about Our Lord and Our Lady, and at a
Nations’ publishing of the Charter of Indigenous People’s Rights.) was supposed to cover. Thus, Native Tribes, Cultural Communities, tender age, I prayed the Consecration to the Immaculate Heart
Since then the one focus of the ECIP in its work among IPs has been National Minorities, Tribal Filipinos (at least in the Church), and of Mary.
the building up of their pride in themselves. It is bad enough when now Indigenous Peoples—all quite problematic. Later on, with my fondness to write letters and ask for reli-
one is called “inferior” by external denomination. Worse when one What all this brings out is that the IPs were looked down on be- gious materials, I came across the Pieta Prayer booklet and
accepts the name as one’s self-definition. IPs, those of Mindanao cause they were, unlike Lowland Filipinos, un-hispanicized and un- there I found the consecratory prayer to Jesus through Mary
especially, have been especially vulnerable to this danger. Building Christianized. But if they were that, it was because they were never composed by St. Louis Marie Grignon di Montfort. How I
up the human dignity of a downtrodden, neglected people—that the fully conquered, never fully brought under Spanish domination. It’s would pray almost all the prayers there everyday until one
ECIP has believed all along is a prime work of evangelization. a topsy-turvy world we live in in the Philippines: the conquered day my mother reminded me not to forget my duty as a stu-
Gitamay-tamay kami. Why the opprobrium cast on the IPs of the groups (and their descendants) are honored, hold pride of place; the dent to study well. The wisdom of the mothers!
nation? Or, another way of putting the question, why the unrelent- unconquered (and their descendants) are dishonored and are rel- I was in high school when the National Marian Year was
ing prejudices of the rest of Lowland Filipinos against them? The egated to (and kept at) the lowest rungs of Philippine society! declared. How my father would patiently accompany me in
answers are easily given: Those prejudices date back to Spanish times, If there is anything then that can result from our celebration of IP Manila to go to Luneta for the Closing of Marian Year in the
prejudices that have not disappeared in the more than 100 years since Sunday, it should be to correct that anomaly: (1) restoring honor to presence of the International Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady
the Philippines ceased being a colony of Spain in 1898. IPs—they have all the right to be proud of their heritage and not to of Fatima. There were more than a million people, and because
Just a little bit of history then (from the particular optics of IPs): In be despised for it; (2) accepting that we are all IPs, indigenous to our it was already late in the evening and we still have to commute
the Spanish colonial era, the indigenous peoples of our islands, islands (and that’s why IPs as applied solely to our tribal peoples is back home, we weren’t able to come close to the image of Our
“Indios” all to the Spanish, were classified into these three broad but most inaccurate); and (3) recognizing that, as the PCP II Final Docu- Lady. Yet decades later, I would come across her again and this
still quite precise categories: (1) “Filipinos” (I don’t have an idea ment acknowledges, all Philippine peoples have a common, generic time in charge of her travel in the Philippines.
when it started to be used generally for the colonized native popula- culture in which family is the prime value. What that document is in My father would also accompany me during the National
tion), (2) Moros and (3) “the wild tribes”. The criteria used for the effect saying is that we are all tribal peoples and denying—or at least Eucharistic Year, the Mass and Vigil at the Rizal Coliseum to
classification were quite simple and straightforward. Filipinos were not accepting—that fact, it seems to me, is precisely one of our great- mark the canonization of St. Lorenzo Ruiz, regular visits at the
the various tribes that were subjugated by Spanish arms, hispanicized est problems as a people. National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Valenzuela, and so
many other events. Thank God for these wonderful parents.
St. Martin de Porres would come to meet me again years
later. It was on his Feastday, November 3, 1989, that my mother
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola, SSL was diagnosed with breast cancer. That event devastated me. I
could not believe God would allow such suffering to befall my

Spaces of Hope Driving to heaven family. The next months would be a personal suffering for
me. I would spend evenings at the Adoration Chapel at the
EDSA Shrine begging God and Our Lady for a miracle. But
there was no physical cure that was forthcoming.
I remember one evening of December in 1990 when my
“I AM really relearning the joys of driving,” to Help Our Country. The book identifies 12 Christian Citizenship and Leadership Program mother was already very weak. I went out of our bedroom
my friend Alex said to me while maneuver- doable actions that when done habitually (HCCLP). The message is simple: “A good crying, I could not stand the thought that I would be losing my
ing the steering wheel of his vehicle. His face and in solidarity with others can contribute Christian should be a good citizen and a good mother very soon. I was crying at our sala, and my mother
evidenced joy. “Why?” I curiously countered. significantly to nation building. It has since leader.” Acts of good citizenship and leader- noticed it. Despite her weakness, she struggled to get out of
“When you drive you adjust to all kinds of become a best seller with its author having ship, when done through the eyes of faith, bed, and walked towards the living room, she hugged me and
people. You learn to be a good citizen,” was given talks to more than 500 different groups can bring us to heaven. told me, Gagaling ako, huwag ka nang umiyak. But I knew she
Alex’s quick answer. As I listened to him ex- in a period of two years. That’s nearly one Or, one might even say, these acts give a would not get well.
plain his rediscovered joy, I realized that for talk every day. glimpse of heaven on earth. Matthew 22:1- During her final days, she asked me once, Nakita muna ang
him the arduous task of driving on Filipino When Alex was writing his book, there 14, the gospel reading for the 28 th Sunday in Mahal na Birhen? Never was my answer, it will never
roads has become a sort of school for the vir- emerged, in another part of the country, sev- Ordinary Time, has a peculiar detail: a man happen. Then she told that she would see Our Lady of Fatima
tues. “Why,” I mused to myself, “driving then eral initiatives that eventually became ad- who was not dressed up for the wedding whenever she closed her eyes. I remembered how every Satur-
can make one holy.” vocacy groups. One reached out to OFWs festival of the king’s son is kicked out of the day we had our block Rosary, and she would carry the image of
Our van was now meandering on a steep and their families; another sought to do assembly. Some say the garment may have Our Lady from one house to another. She even made a request,
climb up the crest of a hill. The engine then something about illegal drugs and the use been issued by the host himself and espe- that she hoped she could come to visit Lipa Carmel
made what sounded like a sigh of relief as we of drug profits to influence the pillars of jus- cially made for the occasion. It was worn someday. She never did. My mother died in January 1991, a
found ourselves once more on level ground. tice (i.e. narcopolitics); and a third promoted over the guest’s regular clothing. Whatever day before she would have turned 47.
Then Alex made a sudden stop. graft and corruption intolerance. The three the cultural realities, the garment became Every First Saturday thereafter I would go to Lipa Carmel
“What is it Alex?” I asked. “Si Manang has since been consolidated into Dilaab requisite for participation in the feast. not only to fulfill my mother’s request but to request Our Lady
naglalakad,” he said as he pointed with his (“conflagration,” “passion,” or “tongues of Matthew’s penchant for “righteousness” as well, now that I don’t have my mother, You should be my
nose to a stooped figure several yards behind fire” from Dila and Alab). Three children gave (this appears 7x while used only 3x in all the own Mother. I am now unable to go Lipa Carmel every First
us. Putting the van on reverse, he moved birth to a mother. other gospels) has led some scholars to iden- Saturday since, I would like to believe, we brought Her closer
slowly towards the old woman who was car- Advocacy groups are not easy to “sell” tify this garment with deeds of righteous- home. Every First Saturday at the Tarlac Cathedral, we have
rying a wooden staff taller than herself. “Saan especially to people in the pews. Suspicions ness. our First Saturday dawn procession.
po kayo pupunta?” Alex asked. “Sa San Isidro lurk as to the ideological underpinnings of The biblical concept of “righteousness” On the day of my ordination, I would never forget a gift to
po,” the woman responded. By this time Alex such endeavors. Advocacy work, they feel, refers to the state of being in the right, i.e. of me. It was handed to me by a priest who didn’t tell from whom
was out helping the woman climb up the van. betrays an activism incompatible with faith. being vindicated in the eyes of God. It has to it came. It was a priestly stole, on one part is the image of Our
The first time I heard about Atty. Alexander Many feel the risks are just too great. Why do with being in right relationship with God Lady, Mediatrix of All-Grace, and on the other part, the words
Lacson was in 2006 when the late Max Soliven stick one’s neck out? Why be confronta- and with others. Perhaps this starts with the of Our Lady in Lipa Carmel which I take to mean to be meant
featured him in his column. Max was narrat- tional? Why not just try to be honest even if heart being in the right place ( cor-recto?). especially for me: I am Your Mother.
ing how one day, as his car had conked out on others are not honest? When such godly order of relationship ex- From Paombong in Bulacan, the Diocese of Tarlac has been
a busy Metro Manila street, a stranger had The challenge of a Church response for ists, we get a glimpse of heaven here on my home now for more than a decade. To the Bishop, priests,
stopped by to offer help. Visibly touched by social transformation becomes apparent earth. When acts of good citizenship are nuns, and lay faithful of the Diocese, I could not express enough
this act of bringing him to his destination, he when we read The Catechism for Filipino Catho- impelled by faith, there result deeds of righ- my gratitude for welcoming a stranger in their midst.
asked for the man’s name. It turned out to be lics, 1193: “Since we Filipino Catholics con- teousness. God indeed gives wonderful people along our path, to draw
Alex. This Filipino stops regardless of one’s stitute the great majority of our nation, we Good citizenship expands our notion of us ever closer to Him. And the most wonderful is Our Lady:
station in life. hold the primary responsibility for build- family. The daily chaos in our streets—where Totus tuus ego sum et omnia mea tua sunt, O Virgo Maria!
In 2001, Alex and his wife, Pia, were think- ing a just Philippine society.” If rampant I often feel like an endangered specie as a
ing of leaving the Philippines for abroad. They graft and corruption is any indication, this pedestrian—speaks of a predatory mentality
agreed that if the country will progress in 20 responsibility is yet to be carried out to the that results when one’s notion of family re-


years, they would stay put. If not, they would full. Perhaps there is need not only to be mains constricted. I have often asked myself:
leave. Then they realized that if they would
only do something today, there would be
good, but also to try to influence others to
be good and to be with others who want to
“What if each driver would imagine pedes-
trians trying to cross pedestrian lanes as their
Read the daily
change. After all, change starts with oneself.
Wasn’t it Plutarch who said: “What we achieve
be good. We need to take sides.
Through the modern wonders of technol-
mothers or family members, wouldn’t they
be more considerate?”
church news at
inwardly will change outward reality?”
Atty. Lacson did just that when he wrote the
ogy and networking, I was able to connect
with Alex. Soon our paths converged. Nearly
My friend Alex thinks so.
(For comments, kindly email: www.cbcpnews.com
book, Twelve Little Things Every Filipino Can Do two years ago, Dilaab launched its Heroic exposition@dilaab.net)
CBCP Monitor
A6 Local News Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

My mom taught me to Mindanao bishops


happy with high court

value life—Cong. Mitra


MANILA, October 15, 2008—Odd Speaker Jose de Venecia, Reps.
ruling on MOA-AD
MANILA, October 14, 2008—Cotabato Auxiliary Bishop Jose Colin
Bagaforo expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court ruling
on the unconstitutionality of the Memorandum of Agreement on
Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD).
as it seems, Palawan Representa- Rene Velarde, Carissa “I’m sure many of us questioning its legality are happy the
tive Abraham Kahlil Mitra found Coscolluela and Irwin Tieng, Supreme Court was able to look at it the way we looked at it from
out how important life is when they formed the nucleus of what the very beginning,” Bagaforo told CBCPNews.
his mother battled for life. was to be the Bishops-Legisla- He called on both the Philippine government and the Moro
Several years ago, when he was tors Caucus of the Philippines Islamic Liberation Front to explore other venues to pursue peace
just starting to discover his world (BLCP). now that the Supreme Court has already ruled on the MOA-AD.
as a young, adventurous man, the Eventually, Senate President “This is not the end of everything,” the 54-year old prelate said
unthinkable happened when her Manuel Villar and Senate Minor- as he expressed optimism peace would still be attained in south-
mother suffered a dreadful stroke. ity Leader Aquilino Pimentel ern Philippines.
At a time when he was still re- and Archbishop Angel For his part Prelature of Isabela (de Basilan) Bishop Martin S
covering for the death of his fa- Lagdameo, CBCP President and Jumoad said he “welcomes the Supreme Court decision.”
ther, he thought that losing his Palawan 2nd District Rep. Abraham Kahlil Mitra interpellates fellow lawmakers dur- Archbishop Paciano Aniceto, In a phone interview with CBCPNews, the 52-year old prelate
mother was a horrible tragedy. ing plenary session on Reproductive Health bill at the House of Representatives. chair of the CBCP Episcopal described the ruling as “a decision of equality for all Filipinos as
“I feared losing my mother Cecile after I had just lost my father to Commission on Family and Life and all the members of the CBCP it also observed the rule of law recognizing the fact Mindanao is
another illness,” recalls Mitra. Hierarchy joined these extraordinary men and women to formally part of the Philippines.”
That day, he said, changed his life forever. Most of all, he learned launch the BLCP. Asked if the decision would lead to violence in southern Phil-
the value of life and family. The first ones to join the Caucus were Deputy Speaker Raul del ippines, the prelate said he also calls on both the government and
“My family endured these heartbreaking experiences simply by prayer Mar, Senior Minority Leader Roilo Golez, Reps. Rufus Rodriguez, the MILF to look for other ways to achieve peace in Mindanao
and a strong faith. My Mom survived her stroke, and seeing her live life Bienvenido Abante, Joseph Emilio Abaya, Liwayway Vinzons Chato, now that the Supreme Court has already decided on the Memo-
in prayer and thanksgiving to God gave me great resolve to defend it Hermilando Mandanas, Carmencita Reyes, Thelma Almario, Amado randum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain.
where I am now— in the House of Representatives,” said Mitra. Bagatsing, Victoria Reyes, Edgar Chatto, Trinidad Apostol, Rodolfo MILF Vice Chairman for Political Affairs Ghazali Jaafar on the
The lawmaker said that experience that unfolded affected his fu- Antonino, Roman Romulo, Mary Ann Susano, Therese Bonoan- other hand noted that the ruling on the MOA-AD as unconstitu-
ture in numerous ways. For him, today served as a reminder of how David, Herminia Roman, Cynthia Villar and Deputy Speaker Pablo tional, the Supreme Court has tacitly recognized that the accord
precious life truly is. Garcia. was official.
In Congress, Mitra is one of the pro-life organizations’ champion that In the Senate, Villar and Pimentel were joined by Senators Mar “Since the Supreme Court has ruled the Memorandum of Agree-
is bravely fighting against the controversial Reproductive Health Bill. Roxas, Benigno Aquino Jr., Richard Gordon, Loren Legarda, Miguel ment on Ancestral Domain as unconstitutional, therefore, the Su-
He had since co-sponsored the statute to abolish the death penalty, Zubiri and Juan Ponce Enrile. preme Court has also recognized it (MOA-AD) as signed and offi-
and together with many hundred and more legislators, vigorously But legislators who defend life and the family, the BLCP said, cial,” said Jaafar.
opposes the current controversial anti-reproduction bill known as continue to grow in numbers Congress has not seen before. Many The High Court’s decision “could be used as evidence against
House Bill 5043 in the House. more are joining the BLCP. Their names will be included in the next President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo that she violated the Philip-
Recently, he filed a bill criminalizing abortifacients in the market. updated listing. pine Constitution,” Jaafar added.
“Baham”, as he is popularly known, co-chairs the House Pro-Life Any legislation, therefore, that threatens life and family in gross Asked how he looks at the Supreme Court decision, Mr. Jaafar
Caucus with Parañaque Representative Eduardo Zialcita. Together disregard of the Constitution will have to contend with this formi- said “this means the Supreme Court does not want a peaceful
with Bro. Mike Velarde, founder of Buhay Party, former House dable group of legislators. (Fenny Tatad / Roy Lagarde) solution to the problems in Mindanao.”
Jaafar does not foresee any violent reaction to the Supreme
Catholic backlash / A6
Court decision from the ranks of the MILF.
Health, Responsible Parenthood, and Popu- He said he cannot speak for the controversial and renegade
lation Development Act of 2008 or House Bill Commanders Kato and Bravo. “I don’t know how they will re-
(HB) 5043 climbed to 108 from 103, only 12 act,” Jaafar added. (Melo M. Acuña)
votes shy of approval in the House of Repre-
sentatives. The bill needs 120 votes to be ap-
Quevedo / A1
proved on second reading.
CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Family the month. Arroyo’s term.
and Life head and Pampanga Archbishop The Palace said the archbishop A member of the Oblates of
Paciano Aniceto said he is not in the least was chosen to head the task force Mary Immaculate congregation,
bothered by the development as he expressed as pushed by local leaders. Quevedo was ordained bishop on
confidence that the lawmakers would even- The task force will supervise October 28, 1980 at the Cathedral
tually make the right decision in the final and coordinate rehabilitation ac- of Kidapawan.
voting. tivities in areas in North and Quevedo also served as arch-
Prayer rally for life. Catholics hold candles during a recent rally in Legazpi City to protest the passage of the “This is not a statistical contest. Above all South Cotabato, Saranggani, Sul- bishop of Nueva Segovia for two
controversial Reproductive Health bill that seeks to legalize the use of contraceptives in family planning. our strategy here is a prayerful campaign. tan Kudarat, Gen. Santos City and years before he was appointed
“If they are on the wrong side then they of the people. It should be the voice of the We will pray for the whole church that they Maguindanao. archbishop of Cotabato. He is
have to rethink their position so that their people that they should side with,” he said. will ask for divine assistance and we also pray The said areas were heavily currently on his second term as
position is aligned with their constituents,” “If they don’t carry the voice of the people, for our legislators. They are men and women damaged during recent typhoons the secretary general of the Fed-
she also said. they’re not the government of the people,” who are educated and they have their own and are prone to flooding due to eration of Asian Bishops’ Confer-
said Alo who also chairs the Episcopal Com- conscience. This is also a test of maturity for heavy siltation of major rivers ences (FABC).
‘Out of touch’ mission on Health Care of the Catholic Bish- our legislators,” he said. and the Liguasan Marsh. He likewise became president
Tatad also accused Reproductive Health bill ops’ Conference of the Philippines. The task force would work un- of the Catholic Bishops’ Confer-
principal author Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman Opportunity for catechesis der the Mindanao River Basin ence of the Philippines for two
for being “delusional” in claiming he has the Uncompromising stand The widespread discussion on the repro- Program (MRBP) budget of P6 to consecutive terms from 1999-
support of the majority in Congress. The Catholic Church’s position on the Re- ductive health bill has become an opportu- P9 billion up to 2010, the end of 2003. (CBCPNews)
“Congressman Lagman is out of touch. He productive Health bill is unconditional, said nity for catechesis, according to Quitorio. JPEPA / A1
is not in the real world and he is entitled to an official of the Catholic Bishops’ Confer- The CBCP spokesperson said the nation-
his delusions,” Tatad said. ence of the Philippines (CBCP). wide mobilizations aimed at junking the Among the provisions of the pact, which he believed are not favor-
“He knows for a fact that the movement of CBCP Media Director Msgr. Pedro Quitorio Reproductive Health bill being deliberated able to the Filipinos were the issues on sovereignty wherein foreign-
the congressmen is on the side of the anti-RH III said there’s no way that the Church will in Congress has become an opportunity to ers would be allowed to set up their own businesses.
bill. Therefore, it’s all delusion for him to soften its position against the controversial catechize the country about the meaning of He said the entry of foreign products which the Philippines al-
even announce to the press that the numbers bill currently pending in Congress. life and family. ready has and the stringent requirements imposed by Japan when
are with them,” she said. “As of now, the stand of the CBCP on the “People get to know the real issues behind accepting health care workers is likely to create results contrary to its
Tatad, wife of former Senator Kit Tatad, RH bill is firm. There’s no way to compro- the contentious reproductive health bill,” goal.
said it’s too pre-mature for Lagman to issue mise,” he said in a forum in Intramuros, Ma- said Quitorio. “I think that they should have studied the JPEPA thoroughly before
such statement especially since the bill is still nila. Quitorio said the Catholic Church has al- ratifying it,” said Iñiguez, who is also the Public Affairs Committee
up for plenary debate. Quitorio, however, admitted that they ways been consistent in its belief that over- chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.
haven’t come up with a plan yet on what their population is not the cause of poverty and But since it’s there already, the bishop urged the public to be vigi-
Reject RH bill or resign next move will be in the event the bill is ap- that maternal and child health care can be lant with the implementation and developments of JPEPA.
Meanwhile, Mati Bishop Patricio Alo said proved in Congress. provided even without the controversial Re- “We can observe what will happen to the JPEPA and the disadvan-
that lawmakers must either listen to the voice “The leadership hasn’t thought of what will productive Health bill being passed by the tages it would bring to the country. This was a great disparity to the
of their constituents or quit their posts. happen afterwards. I can just surmise that if House of Representatives. Filipino people. We’ve been so kind to our disadvantage,” Iñiguez said.
Alo, in an interview over Church-run it gets approved, the CBCP will definitely do While the reproductive health bill is being At least six bishops have earlier been calling on the Senate to reject
Radyo Veritas, said public officials should something,” he said. pursued in Congress, the Catholic Church the bilateral agreement, uphold national interest and defend Filipi-
represent the people and adhering to their continues to orchestrate its signature cam- nos’ rights and welfare.
moral demands is but necessary. Not a statistical contest paign, prayer rallies, and other activities in “We call on the Senate to stand up for the Filipino people on the
“If they do not represent the people, they It was reported lately that the number of all 2,800 parishes in 86 dioceses nationwide. issue of JPEPA,” they said, adding that side notes will do little to
should not pretend to be the representatives legislators in favor of the Reproductive (With reports from Melo M. Acuña) improve the Philippines’ situation.
According to the statement, after several hearings in the Senate,
CARP / A1 the public have yet to see credible studies to back up the fantastic
who are already rich,” he said. They also appealed to the legislators “to The bishop is referring to the inventory of claims of the government that the deal will boost the economy.
“When we speak of life in the language of vote for an extension with the pro-poor re- proposals that some famer organizations Aside from Iñiguez, other signatories of the statement were Cagayan
our farmers, we speak of land and water. For forms” in time for the expiration of funding belonging to the Rural Poor Solidarity con- de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, Manila Auxiliary Bishop
the poor farmers, land and water means sur- for CARP this December. sidered as “killer amendments”. Broderick Pabillo, Bishops Rolando Tirona (Infanta), Antonio Tobias
vival and growth,” Villena added. Expressing concern given that there are 14 The group, for instance, cited the provi- (Novaliches) and Infanta Bishop-Prelate Emeritus Julio Labayen.
Other bishops who attended the gathering session days left for Congress to act on such sion of meager funding for CARP and limit- Rather than economic development, they said, the agreement is
include Tuguegarao Archbishop Diosdado legislation, Ledesma reminded Nograles that ing Land Acquisition and Distribution to poised to further damage the already crisis-ridden Philippine
Talamayan, Bishops Carlito Cenzon of “CARP is a social legislation that represents lands that has been issued Notice of Cover- economy. (CBCPNews)
Baguio and Artemio Rillera of San Fernando, the transpartisan commitment to bring about age by June 2008. Equal treatment / A1
La Union. a brighter future for the thousands of small They also cried foul on the lifting of the
Just recently, other prelates led by Cagayan farmer families”. prohibition on the conversion of agricultural the penal system is in the coun- ing efforts to transform the pe-
de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma and Iñiguez, for his part, called the attention of lands to non-agricultural uses, use of public try… what the government should nal system from “retributive” to
Kalookan Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez met Nograles on the concern of farmer groups on funds for agriculture use into corporate farm- do is follow the standards that is a “restorative.”
again with House Speaker Prospero Nograles some amendments being introduced as per- ing and other “retrogressive amendments bit lesser than what Jalosjos and Other factors preventing the
and reiterated the call of the Catholic Bish- fecting amendments that have serious and that run contrary to the spirit and intent of others have because that is what transformation are poor living
ops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to debilitating effects on the gains of CARP and agrarian reform and social justice”. kind of prison cell we should condition in jails, prolonged reso-
expedite the deliberation of CARP extension. its failed promises to the rural community. (CBCPNews) have,” Diamante stressed. lution of cases, and lack of legal
He also said the government representation and opportunity to
Indigenous / A3 Roadside / A4 should also take a look at the rehabilitate the offenders.
ging activities in the more than 107,000 hectares of land which be- fellow human beings. Have we really “been there, done that” as a kind of prison cells other ad- Worse, Diamante said, rem-
long to different tribal communities in Luzon, the Visayas, and program of living? On the other hand, when we truly heed the mes- vanced countries have and make edying the plight of inmates is
Mindanao. sage of Our Lady through the child visionaries, God’s mercy abounds them as models in upgrading the “really not a priority of the gov-
and rescues us from sin’s clutches. country’s penal system. ernment.”
Hope for the IPs Fourth, the Holy Rosary is both our way of communing with Our The ECPPC has long been la- For his part, ECPPC head
“What’s positive with the indigenous peoples’ struggle for the re- Lady and the child visionaries as well as our spiritual means to be menting the “worsening” plight Bishop Pedro Arigo said Catho-
spect for human rights, including the rights to ancestral lands, terri- suffused, so as to live, by the mysteries of the Lord’s life, suffering, of the country inmates. It said the lic faith teaches people to dem-
tories, and resources is that it has continued to move the tribesmen death and resurrection that are key to our salvation. We pray for prison system is stretched to onstrate loving compassion to-
and women and has impelled to dispel all dissimilarities across tribes salvation not only for ourselves but for all mankind. The saying, breaking point, with the over- wards the most marginalized and
and with our non-indigenous brethren to finally work hand-in-hand “We’re in this together” is nowhere more right than in our human crowding problems reaching cri- forgotten in society.
in a unified action,” Himpad told CBCPNews. journey to salvation. sis proportions. Arigo is also the bishop of the
With strong disposition about the issues affecting the lives of the Finally, we who call on Our Lady of Fatima are ever challenged to “It’s getting worse... It’s very Vicar Apostolic of Puerto
Filipino indigenous peoples, Himpad shared also with CBCP News join Mama Mary’s continuing crusade. Devotion to her must lead us sad and pathetic,” said Diamante. Princesa where one of the biggest
their call for unity and action. to humbly face up to our sinfulness and, with confidence, to rely on On October 20, the Church will penal colonies in the country is
Himpad hopes the Catholic Church will continue with its unwa- the power of God to aid us as we rise to follow Jesus on the way to kick off its week-long celebration located.
vering support for the indigenous peoples as they steadfastly fight the realization of his Kingdom on earth. Mama Mary’s powerful of the “Prison Awareness Week”, “The Church urges us to seek
for their rights to self-determination. intercession and witness are a cause for hope and source of strength. when parishes are being asked to the humanity in the wrongdoers
During the celebration of the Indigenous People’s Sunday, the St. John Chrysostom said: “When you perceive that God is chas- mark Prisoners’ Sunday, a day of and look at the prisoners and
Catholic Church has echoed the prayers of Filipino tribal minorities tening you, fly not to his enemies…but to his friends, the martyrs, reflection and prayer for inmates. their victims as our neighbors
in all parishes nationwide and showed its continued advocacy for the the saints, and those who were pleasing to him…” (Oratio, viii, Adv. He said congestion in jails and and show them our love,” he said.
IPs. (Noel Sales Barcelona) Jus., 6). One of them stands out—Mary, Our Lady of Fatima. the lack of facilities are hinder- (Roy Lagarde)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008 Diocesan News A7
News Briefs
ACWAD holds symposium on Minda conflict
DAVAO City— The Association of Consecrated Women of the
Archdiocese of Davao (ACWAD) has conducted a symposium on
the history of Mindanao conflict and updates on Memorandum
of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MoA-AD) Oct. 11. The sym-
posium centered on understanding the root of the Bangsamoro
struggles, issues hounding the Bangsamoro problems and the
strands of the ancestral domain agreement. (Mark Ventura)

Bishop calls on migrant workers to keep the faith


OZAMIZ City— Archbishop Jesus Dosado, CM, called on the
Catholic migrants in non-Christian countries “to proclaim the
Gospel of Christ and not to renounce their Catholic faith.” “In the
case of non-Christian immigrants, the Church is also concerned
with their human development and with the witness of Christian
charity, which itself has an evangelizing value that may open
hearts for the explicit proclamation of the gospel,” the prelate
said. (Wendell Talibong)

Teach young people the culture of peace, says


prelate
ILIGAN City— Bishop Elenito Galido encouraged the faithful in
his diocese to teach the young people about the culture of peace
as a necessary alternative in attaining the genuine peace and elimi-
nating the biases. Galido said there is need to teach young people
about the culture of peace. “This should begin as early as pos-
sible,” he said. (Wendell Talibong)

Mindanao youth to gather in peace camp


Thousands gather for anti-
CAGAYAN DE ORO City— Around 150 youth leaders from all
over Mindanao are expected to attend the 4th Mindanao Tripar-
tite Youth Peace Camp scheduled from Nov. 5-9 at Songco,
Lantapan, Bukidnon. Organizers said the event will provide a
venue of transformative and intercultural experiences for Mus-
RH bill rally in Albay
LEGAZPI CITY—About 4,000 residents in Albay province went to Quiambao also lambasted the RH bill’s clause for mandatory sex
lims, Indigenous Peoples and Christian youth. (Maryann Zamora) Peñaranda Park here on October 3 to attend a “Prayer-Rally for Life” education for children and adolescents, saying that a child does not
bashing the reproductive health bill. need to know things which are not yet appropriate at one’s age which
Fight challenges to Church, prelate tells religious Legazpi Apostolic Vicar Bishop Lucilo Quiambao led the call for will lead to promiscuity.
group strong opposition to the bill. He also cited his opposition to calling contraceptives in the bill as
OZAMIZ City— Archbishop Jesus Dosado, CM urged leaders Students, religious groups and lay people from Legazpi’s three essential medicines.
and members the Apostleship of Prayer to fight the existing dan- vicariates carried placards opposing the consolidated bill and marched The participants ended the prayer-rally with a candle-lighting cer-
gers and challenges to the church. He said the dangers and chal- the streets of the city before converging at Peñaranda Park for the emony calling on God not to allow the passage of the controversial
lenges faced by the Church including the Apostleship of Prayer speeches and concelebrated Mass. house bill.
come mostly from within. He added some members of the Church Former health department official Ligaya Acosta, now executive Meanwhile in Manila, CBCP spokesman Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III
director of Human Life International Asia, appealed to Bicolanos to reiterated there is no way that the Church will soften its position
(from abroad) “are trying to influence us and change our values.”
support the fight against the pending RH bill. against the RH bill.
(Wendell Talibong) Acosta said Bicolanos should be conscious of the negative effects of “As of now, the stand of the CBCP on the RH bill is absolute.
abortifacients and condoms, pills, injectables, which will severely There’s no way to compromise,” he said.
Devotees asked to do ‘communal discernment’ after affect women’s health. She also underscored the bill’s unconstitu- But he admitted they have not come up with a plan yet on what
Peñafrancia festival tionality. their next move will be in the event the bill is approved in Congress.
NAGA City— “Let us do communal discernment now that the In his homily, Quiambao said the Catholic Church’s position remains “The leadership hasn’t thought of what will happen afterwards. I
Peñafrancia Festival is over while we continue to renew our faith unchanging, that “human life begins at conception” as against the bill can just surmise that if it gets approved, the CBCP will definitely do
in God through Ina and as we prepare for the 2010 tricentennial which adopts the view that life begins at the moment of implantation. something,” he said. (Jose Locsin Jr. / Roy Lagarde)
celebration of our devotion to the patroness of Bicolandia,” said
Archbishop Leonardo Legaspi. This can somehow be done, he
said, by answering questions like ‘‘How is our devotion to Ina?”
and “How did we celebrate the fiesta?” (Elmer Abad) Bishop seeks justice for slain lay leader
Christians, Muslims pray and share food to mark Id OZAMIZ CITY—A Philippine Independent tice to our lay leader who was shot for still Salaguste said they have intensified their in-
Al-Fitr Church (Aglipayan) bishop in Misamis Occi- unknown motive,” Bishop Harantilla said. vestigation and hopes to arrest the lay leader’s
dental appealed to the police to give justice He said they continue to appeal for justice killer.
ZAMBOANGA City— Christians and Muslims here prayed and
and arrest the culprit of the killing of their for Carillo, whom an unidentified person Carillo was laid to rest at the PIC cemetery
shared meal together to foster peace and mark Id Al-Fitr, the lay leader. shot dead late evening of Sept. 29, while she in Lam-an October 3.
feast that comes at the end of holy month of Ramadan. On Sept. PIC bishop Pablito Harantilla, pastor of PIC was vending at the public market. Carillo’s husband Boy said he is at a loss
30, at the completion of prayers in a mosque, Muslims shares Immaculate Conception Cathedral parish, The bishop described the victims as a good and could not find any motive behind the
meal with family members, neighbors and friends, said a press lamented over the slow investigation into lay leader and her death caused irreparable killing. “We are appealing to Mayor
statement issued by Silsilah. (Santosh Digal) the killing of Editha Carillo. loss to their community. Reynaldo Parojinog, Sr. to help us get jus-
“I appeal to police authorities to give jus- Ozamiz police head Chief Insp. Wilbur tice,” he said. (Wendell Talibong)
DACS president to educators: Be messengers of

Church, military advisory Holiness is for all,


peace
DAVAO City— The head of the Davao Association of Colleges
and Schools (DACS) told educators especially in Mindanao to

group established in Panay says Laoag bishop


become messengers of peace. Fr. Danny Montaña, RCJ, said that
especially in these times of trouble there is a pressing need for
the people to take an active role in peace making. He added
educators should take the cudgel of becoming messengers of peace
and good news in their respective areas. (Mark Ventura) JARO, Iloilo City—A Church and Military Advisory Group known
as CMAG-Panay was established with the signing of a Memorandum
LAOAG CITY—”Holiness is prelate added.
of Understanding between Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade
Women’s group launches signature campaign vs. for everybody!” thus said To correct the people’s mis-
and the four bishops of Panay, last October 8.
repro bill Laoag Bishop Sergio L. Utleg conceptions about sainthood
The CMAG was envisioned to foster harmonious relationship and
OZAMIZ City— The Daughters of Mary Immaculate International during his homily at St. Therese Bishop Utleg said, “Let us
cooperation between the Church and the military in Panay, which
based here launched a signature campaign against the controver- of the Child Jesus feastday change our definition of a saint.
used to be a hotbed of insurgency.
Mass at San Nicolas de Saints are those who are close
sial Reproductive Health and Population Development Act of With the Memorandum of Agreement, which was signed at the
Tolentino Parish, San Nicolas, to God and those who do the
2008. DMII Archdiocesan President Judge Meriam Orongquiza archbishop’s residence in Jaro, both parties vowed to keep commu-
Ilocos Norte. will of God.” He explained,
Anggot said the officers and members of the DMII Archdiocese of nication lines open and bring to reality the needed peace and devel-
The prelate said the life of “they are not those who make
Ozamiz manifested their spiritual conviction through a signa- opment in the area.
Saint Therese made ordinary extraordinary things but those
ture campaign against the pending Reproductive Health bills. The CMAG, though a simple advisory group, will also serve as a
things into extraordinary ones who make ordinary things ex-
(Wendell Talibong) venue to receive and resolve human rights violations and related
all because of love. He said the traordinary.”
cases or issues that may arise in Panay and Guimaras islands.
life of St. Therese is an out- In closing, Bishop Utleg said
With the CMAG, the military hopes to tap the Social Action Center
Cagayan de Oro ends National Catechetical Month standing example for Chris- “the secret of being holy is the
(SAC) offices of the four Panay Dioceses as centers where to receive
CAGAYAN DE ORO City— The archdiocesan celebration of this tians to follow. She made no thing that Saint Therese did. It
complaints and concerns against erring personnel from individuals
year’s National Catechetical month ended Sept. 27 here. With the miracles during her lifetime is giving love to all that you
or groups who are afraid or hesitant to report to military authorities.
theme “That Christ be formed in us,” over a thousand catechists but she became a saint and do.” The prelate added “that
Also, with the CMAG, the military expects to effectively dismiss
and religious women working as parish and district coordina- Doctor of the Church because everything here on earth,
any Church-leaning group filing cases against them unless it is certi-
of her deeds; of how ordinary whether big or small, has its
tors from all parishes of the archdiocese attended the concluding fied by the CMAG as legit Church-group.
things she had done became ex- own purpose.”
rites and final Eucharistic Celebration presided by Cagayan de Signing for the four ecclesiastical jurisdictions were Most Rev. Angel
traordinary because of love. After the Mass, three MCST
Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ and ten other priests in- N. Lagdameo, D.D. (Jaro), Most Rev. Onesimo Gordoncillo, D.D.
“Holiness is not limited Sisters of San Nicolas renewed
volved in catechesis at the Corpus Christi Gym. (Pinky Lim) (Capiz), Most Rev. Jose Romeo Lazo, D.D. (Kalibo), and Very Rev.
only to the clergy, religious their vows before Bishop Utleg.
Fortunato M. Abiera (San Jose de Antique).
men and women, the monks Afterwards the MCST Lay Co-
Iligan Prelate urges all peace stakeholders to work Col. Gerardo T. Layug, representing Col. Renato A. David, MNSA,
and the penitents,” said Bishop operators also renewed their
the 301st Brigade Commander, signed the understanding in behalf of
together Utleg. “God calls us all to holi- vows.
the military in Panay.
ILIGAN City— Bishop Elenito Galido has urged all peace stake- ness, not only me or the priests The MCST Sisters are in
Bishop Leopoldo S. Tumulak, D.D., the Military Vicar-General,
holders to coordinate and work together by holding peace fora, but even the housewife, the charge of Laoag’s catechetical
and B/Gen. Josue S. Gaverza, Jr., representing Major General Nestor
peace education, and by building peace sanctuary. Galido said policeman, the doctor, or the program. They also manage
Z. Ochoa of the 3rdID based in Jamindan, Capiz, signed the docu-
“we need to have mutual respect for one another and of course, janitor, are called to become the Sta. Rosa Academy in San
ment as witnesses.
there is the need for docility of both parties.” (Wendell Talibong) holy by God,” the 65-year old Nicolas town. (Mark Vertido)
The CMAG–Panay is a product of several exploratory talks be-
tween priests and military officials right after Typhoon Frank bat-
Priest encourages youth to be socially involved tered Panay. (Fr. Ryan Teves) In and out / A4
DAVAO City— Speak up, show the people what you got. This is our world without a global ethic.” How crucial and urgent must be
how Fr. Jovilo Bongay wants the young people in his parish to Action / A1
the sharing on moral values and ethical standards that will be given
act instead of becoming too passive with the social issues affect- concerned agencies.” communities remains a constant by the different religions.
ing the country today. Bongay, also the parish priest of St. James The dialogue was part of the source of “insecurity to the life of The three Popes who preceded Pope Benedict XVI have shared
the Apostle in Bunawan this city, said it is about time that the activities of the ECIP-organized national minorities.” their convictions about peace-building. For Pope Pius XII it is “ Opus
youth must have an avenue where they feel that they are being meeting with various IP organi- Himpad Mangumalas, an in- justitiae pax ,” peace is the work and the result of justice. For Pope Paul
listened to. (Mark Ventura) zations at the San Carlos Semi- digenous Higaonon and spokes- VI: “Development is the new name of peace.” For Pope John Paul II
nary Gym in Makati City in cel- person of the Kalipunan, said it is “Opus solidaritatis pax,” peace is the work and result of solidarity.
ebration of the IP Month 2008. there are at least 16 out of 24 pri- Pope Benedict XVI’s message for January 2007: “The Human Person,
Libmanan intensifies program on sustainable
The participants also marched ority mining projects of the gov- the Heart of Peace.”
agriculture
on Ayala Avenue, Makati, to pro- ernment that cover ancestral Mahatma Gandhi, who is our fellow Asian described his vision of
LIBMANAN, Camarines Sur— The Prelature of Libmanan, test mining operations on their lands of IPs. the culture of peace for us as an act of every individual at the center
through its Social Action Center has embarked on activities in- ancestral lands. “Using various government of “an oceanic circle,” who is always ready to perish for the village
tended to boost its thrust to improve the quality of life of farmers Indigenous Filipinos under the agencies and anti-indigenous and the village ready to perish for the circle of villages, till at last the
by adopting the concept of sustainable agriculture for its flagship banner of Kalipunan ng mga people laws, the Arroyo govern- whole becomes one life composed of individuals sharing the maj-
program. This program was started at the Dusayan Village, a Katutubong Mamamayan ng ment now facilitates the easy and esty of the oceanic circle of which they are integral parts.
relocation site with duplex housing units established for resi- Pilipinas said the government’s fast processing of applications for Nourished by the teachings of our respective religions, the peace
dents who are mostly farmers of Castillo, Cabusao, this province sponsoring of foreign-funded de- transnational mining compa- that we dream and envision will eminently be the work and fruit of
that was ravaged by typhoon Reming in 2006. (Elmer Abad) velopment projects in various IP nies,” he said. (Roy Lagarde) communion of communities.
CBCP Monitor
A8 People, Facts & Places Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

Caritas marks 55th


Bacolod launches
diamond jubilee with
celebration
anniversary
Marian exhibit

Caritas Executive
Caritas Executive Director
Director Fr.
Fr. Anton
Anton CT
CT Pascual
Pascual (right)
(right) views
views thethe Pieta,
Pieta, one
one of
of the
the various
various Marian
Marian images
images on
on display
display in
in the
the ongoing
ongoing Marian
Marian Exhibit
Exhibit sponsored
sponsored by
by Caritas
Caritas Manila
Manila at
at Shangri-La
Shangri-La Mall.
Mall. With
With him
him in
in photo
photo are
are Mrs.
Mrs. Carmelita
Carmelita Abalos,
Abalos,
Ambassador Henriett
Ambassador Henrietta T.. De
a T De Villa
Villa and
and Ramon
Ramon del
del Rosario
Rosario Jr.,
Jr., Vice
Vice chairman
chairman of
of Caritas
Caritas Manila Board of Trustees.
Trustees.

CARITAS Manila marked its 55th anniver- Zenny Cabrera, Caritas Restorative Justice Cabrera said they also field paralegal vol-

Markings
sary with a Marian Exhibit at Shangri-La Edsa (Caritas RJ) program coordinator. unteers to follow up cases and help facilitate
Mall on October 11. “More importantly, aside from promoting the release of those proven innocent and
In collaboration with Radio Veritas, Caritas’ program for prisoners, we are able those who have served their term in prison.
Caritas Manila will feature, aside from the to help them earn some income and provide Caritas Manila executive director Fr. Anton
usual Marian statues and images, an exhibit gainful outlet for their artistic talents,” she Pascual said that last year, at least 233 inmates
of paintings and other artwork done by pris- added. were freed, as a result of the paralegal assis-
oners. Caritas RJ works to improve the living tance provided by them.
“These paintings are really beautiful and conditions and promote effective rehabilita- With the theme “Mary and the Prisoners”,
the public will be surprised at how afford- tion of detainees in Metro Manila jails through the exhibit will only be up to October 26. CELEBRATED. Sisters Association of Mindanao (SAMIN), 25th anniver-
sary of foundation as an organization of Mindanao-based nuns, Sep-
able they are given the quality,” said Sr. an integrated and holistic program. (CBCPNews)
tember 22, 2008. Reflecting on the theme “SAMIN: Gratefully Celebrates

CFA to hold ‘film and faith’


God’s Abiding Presence in Journeying with the Anawim and in Witness-
ing to Her Prophetic Calling for 25 Blessed Years and Beyond,” the
observance focused on celebrating the gratuity of God and in remem-
bering the fruitful experiences of the association for the past 25 years.
SAMIN witnesses to its prophetic calling through its involvement on

seminar in January
social issues which is rooted in spirituality and Christian values. The
gathering was held at Sacred Heart Spirituality and Formation Center in
Cat alunan Grande, Davao City.

CELEBRATED. Sa-
cred Heart of Jesus
THE Communication Founda- Film and Faith 3 will be held at in the afternoons, 3:30 and 6:00 Malone is a former member of Parish, Anakan,
tion for Asia (CFA) will hold a the CFA on January 17-24 with p.m., from January 20-24. the Rome-based Pontifical Coun- Gingoog City, 44th
foundation anniver-
workshop on film and faith for the theme “The Search for God in Every January since 2007, cil for Social Communications and sary, September 28-
the third time in January 2009. Films”. Malone has been giving Film and was the first President of SIGNIS, October 1, 2008.
After the tremendous success It will feature a more serious Faith seminars at CFA. The most the international Catholic body for With the theme,
of the first two seminars, Fr. Pe- look at God and spirituality on recent one was a seminar on mov- film, radio, and television. “Simbahan sa
A n a k a n :
ter Malone, MSC, will return to the first day, a comic view of God ies for values education, held on Those interested to join may Mapasalamatong
Manila to conduct the third work- as well as a look at portrayals of January 12-13, 2008, with the sup- contact the CFA Training Depart- nagapadayon sa
shop on Film and Faith, this time priests and nuns on the second port of Aid to the Church in Need. ment at 713-2732 or 713-2972 or dalan padulong sa
with a week-long Film Festival day and a look at the devil and The first seminar (held on Janu- email: training@cfamedia.org or l a n g i t n o n g
dakbayan”, the cel-
of award-winning Signis films, evil on the third day. ary 15-17, 2007) and the upcom- cfamedia_training@yahoo.com.
ebration was launched September 28 with a holy Mass presided by Fr.
according to a CFA press note. Festival film showings will be ing one are sponsored by Signis. (Santosh Digal) Roger Almonia, SSJV, parish priest of Anakan. The anniversary cel-
ebration culminated on October 1 with a holy Mass led by Msgr. Elmer

St. Jude devotees to


Abacahin, PC, SSJV, and Fr. Almonia, Fr. Julian Guinit, SSJV, parochial
vicar of Anakan parish; Fr. Rickets Dancela, SSJV, Binuangan parish
priest; and Fr. Ismael Scott Escanilla, SSJV, Balingoan p arish priest

hold 2nd Congress


concelebrating.

CELEBRATED. Fr.
Melvin Castro, 10th
THE St. Jude Archdiocesan Shrine at J.P. Lau- sacerdotal anniver-
rel Sr. San Miguel will hold the “Second St. sary, October 7,
Jude Thaddeus Devotees’ Congress” on Oc- 2008 at San
tober 28, 2008. Sebastian Cathe-
dral, Tarlac City. Cur-
With other St. Jude Parishes nationwide, rently the Chancellor
the Shrine has been making preparations for of the Diocese of
the upcoming celebration of the Saint’s Tarlac, Castro is also
feastday, said Fr. Roland U. Aquino, SVD, the Executive Sec-
parish priest and Shrine Rector. retary of the Episco-
St. Jude is the patron of desperate situa- pal Commission on
Family and Life of the
tions, forgotten causes, hospital workers, hos- Catholic Bishops
pitals, impossible and lost causes. Conference of the
The wonderful “Devotees Congress” held Philippines. He is the founder and President of the Confraternity of
last year, October 25, 2007, has been inspiring Mary, Mediatrix of all Grace and a member of Pueblo Amante de Maria –
and heartwarming. The gathering has since Mariological Society of the Philippines (PAAMSPhil).
become the converging part of the devotees INVESTED. Msgr Higinio Velarde, H.P., V.G. as Protonotary Apostolic
from different parts of the country, he said. Supra Numerum; Rev. Fr. Patricio Salarda, Rev. Fr. Excel Jaen, Rev. Fr.
It is a great honor and distinct privilege Maurillo Silva, Rev. Fr. Rolando Haguisan, Rev. Fr. Ramon Masculino,
for the parish again to host the Second Devo- and Rev. Fr. Sinforoso Padilla, Jr.; as Chaplains of His Holiness, Pope
The Sisters of Missionary Catechists of St. Therese and lay faithful filled the expanse of St. Ferdinand
tees’ Congress from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. with Benedict XVI; October 6, 2008 at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Jaro by
the theme: “St. Jude Thaddeus: the Service Most Rev. Angel Lagdameo, DD. The newly appointed ProtoNotary Ap-
Cathedral in Lucena City during the Eucharistic celebration of the congregation’s 50th anniversary of ostolic and Monsignori are members of the clergy of the Archdiocese of
foundation last August 12. A total of 32 Archbishops/Bishops and 216 diocesan and religious priests and Inspiration.” Jaro. Msgr. Velarde is Vicar General and an ex-officio member of the
concelebrated at the Thanksgiving Mass. The main topic of the forum will be “How Presbyteral Council and Director of Ministerial Accountability. Msgr
well do I know St. Jude?” Salarda is an elected member of the Presbyteral Council and the Vicar
Guest speakers are Fr. Godwin
Catholic Mass Media Awards
Forane of St. John Vicariate. Msgr. Jaen is the Vicar Forane of the
Tatlonghari, Assistant Minister of the Litur- Vicariate of St. Jude Thaddeus and an elected member of the Presbyteral
Council. Msgr. Silva also an elected member of the Presbyteral Council,
gical Ministry, Manila Archdiocese and Fr.
is the V icar Forane of St. Matthew. Msgr. Haguisan is the parish priest
Randy Flores, SVD, scripture professor at

slated October 29 communicators well-versed in the subject.


Divine Word School of Theology.
Legend has it that St. Jude was born into a
Jewish family in Paneas, a town in the Gali-
of La Paz, Iloilo City. Msgr. Masculino is a member of the Board of
Consultors and the Presbyteral Council, ex officio. Msgr. Padilla is an
elected member of the Presbyteral Council and the Vicar Forane of the
Vicariate of St. John.
THE annual Catholic Mass Media Awards lee portion of ancient Palestine, the same re-
(CMMA) of Philippine Catholic Church will These are: Ms. Marion Cruz, school directress gion where Jesus grew up. He probably spoke
ORDAINED. Rev. Jovane Cañete to the sacred order of Deacons at the
of Cradle of Joy and a former judge for the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Archdiocese of Ozamiz; October 7,
be held on October 29, 2008. Greek and Aramaic. 2008 by Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado, CM. Cañete took his college
The Communication Foundation for Asia same category during last year’s awards; Dr. Popular devotion to St. Jude began in the seminary training at Mother of Life Seminary and theology at St. Mary’s
(CFA) is helping the Asian Catholic Commu- Clodualdo del Mundo, award-winning film 1800’s, starting in Italy and Spain, spreading Theologate, Iligan City.
nicators Inc. to coordinate the screening of en- scriptwriter/director and former dean of to South America, and finally to the U.S. in
Communication Arts of De La Salle Univer- ORDAINED. Rev. Fr. Richard Lachica, to the order of priesthood, Octo-
tries for the 2008 Cardinal Sin Catholic Book the 1920’s. Novena prayers to St. Jude helped
ber 14, 2008, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Diocese of Kabankalan;
Awards for the family life, youth and children sity and Fr. Arsenio Lumiqued Jr., MSC, coun- people, especially newly-arrived immigrants by Most Rev. Patricio A. Buzon, SDB, DD. Lachica took his philosophical
category, according to a CFA press release. selor and faculty member of the Center for from Europe, deal with the pressures caused formation at the Sacred Heart Seminary, Bacolod City. He finished his
CMMA gives its trademark rock trophies Family Ministries, Loyola School of Theol- by the Great Depression, Second World War, theology at the Central Seminary of the University of Sto. Tomas. He is
to honor the country’s best values-oriented ogy, the press statement said. and the changing workplace and family life. the first priest of St. Michael Parish, Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental.
work in student communications, radio, print, In a meeting at CFA on July 23, 2008, the His feast day is on October 28. (CBCPNews)
television, cinema, music, the internet, and judges discussed their choices and decided on
advertising.
The Catholic Media
Awards have had a strong
the final winner. There were five books sub-
mitted to ACCI for the cat-
egory, published from May
Caceres prepares for Peñafrancia tricentennial in 2010
influence upon commer- 2007 to April 2008. The win- THE Archdiocese of Caceres is now preparing for the challenge to church and civil authorities just what has
cial media in the Philip- ner was judged according to 300th year celebration of the devotion to Our Lady of happened in the recently concluded Peñafrancia Festi-
pines, over the last 20 content (originality of de- Peñafrancia in 2010. val. Some serious steps are being considered for imple-
years. They have won velopment of topic, accu- This was learned from Msgr. Romulo Vergara, rector mentation to prevent similar unfortunate incidents the
great prestige, and are the racy, clarity and organiza- of the Basilica Minore, where the revered image of the next time around,” Fr. Luisito Occiano, Caceres Com-
most coveted awards in the tion) - 60%, writing style - Patroness of Bicolandia is housed after the month-long mission on Communications director said.
country, because of the in- 20%, and book design - 20%. celebration every September. The archdiocese has outlined reminders on how the
tegrity of the judges. The following core val- According to Bicol historian Professor Danilo Gerona Fiesta should be celebrated so its religious meaning and
CFA’s main task was to ues were taken into con- of the Ateneo de Naga University, records and docu- significance may be preserved.
select the judges for the cat- sideration in choosing the ments retrieved from Madrid, Spain show this devo- The 300th year anniversary of this devotion to Ina will
egory as well as to orga- final winner: love of God, tion to ‘Our Mother’ or ‘Ina’ to the pilgrims and devo- be in September in 2010.
nize and host the meeting love for humanity, love tees, dates back in 1710 and has remained uninterrupted “We are expecting reforms from the side of those in
to consolidate the judges’ for creation, love of coun- up to now. The number of devotees has grown and so the church, the devotees and the City Government of
results. try and love for the poor with the tradition which has been enriched through the Naga so that we can have solemn and meaningful cel-
The panel of judges con- and disadvantaged. years. ebrations of our devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia”,
sists of three educators/ (CBCPNews) “The growing number of devotees now poses a big Fr. Occiano further disclosed. (Elmer Abad)
CBCP
CBCP Monitor
Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21 B1
October 13 - 26, 2008

‘The Foundation of Everything,


It Is the True Reality’
(Opening reflection of Pope Benedict XVI at the first general congregation of the world Synod of Bishops on “The Word of God in
the Life and Mission of the Church,” October 6, 2008)
AT the beginning of our Synod the Lit- place where the history of love between universe was conceived for. He wel- born. They know this, they give the cor- in the human words. Only by conform-
urgy of the Hours proposes a passage God and His creature can develop. “Om- comes all. We enter in the movement of rect answer: in Bethlehem. They are great ing to the Mystery of God, to the Lord
from Psalm 18 on the Word of God: nia serviunt tibi.” The history of salva- the universe by uniting with Christ. One specialists, who know everything. How- who is the Word, can we enter within
praise for His Word, expression of the tion is not a small event, on a poor can say that, while material creation is ever they do not see reality, they do not the Word, can we truly find the Word of
joy of Israel in learning it and, in it, to planet, in the immensity of the universe. the condition for the history of salva- know the Savior. God in human words. Let us pray to the
learn about His will and His face. I would It is not a minimal thing, which happens tion, the history of the Covenant is the Saint Augustine says: they are signs Lord that He may help us to look for the
like to meditate on a few verses of this by chance on a lost planet. It is the moti- true cause of the cosmos. We reach the on the road for the others, but they them- word, not only with our intellect but also
Psalm with you. vation for everything, the motivation for roots of being by reaching the mystery selves do not move. This is a great dan- with our entire existence.
It begins like this: “In aeternum, creation. Everything is created so that of Christ, His living word that is the aim ger as well in our reading of the Scrip- At the end: “Omni consummationi
Domine, verbum tuum constitutum est this story can exist, the encounter be- of all creation. “Omnia serviunt tibi.” In tures: we stop at the human words, vidi finem, latum praeceptum tuum
in caelo... firmasti terram, et permanent.” tween God and His creature. In this sense, serving the Lord we achieve the goal of words form the past, history of the past, nimis.” All human things, all the things
This refers to the solidity of the Word. It the history of salvation, Covenant, pre- the being, the goal of our own existence. and we do not discover the present in we can invent, create, are finite. Even all
is solid, it is the true reality on which we cedes creation. During the Hellenistic Let us take a leap forward: “Mandata tua the past, the Holy Spirit who speaks to human religious experiences are finite,
must base our life. Let us remember the period, Judaism developed the idea that exquisivi.” We are always searching for the us today with the words from the past. showing one aspect of reality, because
words of Jesus who continues the words the Torah would have preceded the cre- Word of God. It is not merely present in This is not how we may enter the inter- our being is finite and can only under-
of this Psalm: “Sky and earth will pass ation of the material world. This mate- us. Just reading it does not mean necessar- nal movement of the Word, which in stand one part, a few elements: “latum
away, but my words will never pass rial world seems to have been created ily that we have truly understood the human words hides and opens the di- praeceptum tuum nimis”. Only God is
away.” Humanly speaking, the word, my solely to make place for the Torah, for Word of God. The danger is that we only vine words. Therefore, there is always a infinite. And therefore His Word too is
human word, is almost nothing in real- this Word of God that creates the answer see the human words and do not find the need for “exquisivi”. We must always universal and knows no boundaries.
ity, but a breath. As soon as it is pro- and becomes the history of love. The true actor within, the Holy Spirit. We can- look for the Word within words. Coming into communion with the Word
nounced, it disappears. It seems like noth- mystery of Christ already is mysteri- not find the Word in the words. Saint Au- Therefore, exegesis, the true reading of God, we enter a communion of the
ing. But already the human word has in- ously revealed here. This is what we are gustine, in this context, recalls the scribes of the Holy Scripture, is not only a liter- Church that lives the Word of God. We
credible force. It is words that create his- told in the Letter to the Ephesians and to and Pharisees consulted by Herod when ary phenomenon, not only reading a do not enter into a small group, with the
tory, it is words that form thoughts, the the Colossians: Christ is the prototypos, the Magi arrived. Herod wants to know text. It is the movement of my existence. rules of a small group, but we go be-
thoughts that create the word. It is the the first-born of creation, the idea the where the Savior of the world would be It is moving towards the Word of God yond our limitations. We go towards the
word that forms history, reality. depths, in the true grandeur of the only
Even more, the Word of God is the
foundation of everything, it is the true
Saint Augustine says: they are signs on the road for the others, truth, the great truth of God. We are truly
a part of what is universal. And thus we
reality. And to be realistic, we must rely but they themselves do not move. This is a great danger as well go out into the communion of all the
upon this reality. We must change our in our reading of the Scriptures: we stop at the human words, brothers and sisters, of all humanity,
notion that matter, solid things, things because the desire for the Word of God,
we can touch, is the most solid, the most words form the past, history of the past, and we do not dis- which is one, is hidden in our heart.
certain reality. At the end of the Sermon cover the present in the past, the Holy Spirit who speaks to us Therefore even evangelization, the proc-
on the Mount, the Lord speaks to us
about the two possible foundations for
today with the words from the past. This is not how we may lamation of the Gospel, the mission are
not a type of ecclesial colonialism,
building the house of one’s life: sand and enter the internal movement of the Word, which in human where we wish to insert others into our
rock. He who builds on sand only builds
on visible and tangible things, on suc-
words hides and opens the divine words. Therefore, there is group. It means going beyond the indi-
vidual culture into the universality that
cess, on career, on money. Apparently always a need for “exquisivi.” We must always look for the connects all, unites all, makes us all
these are the true realities. But all this Word within words. brothers. Let us pray once again that the
one day will vanish. We can see this now Lord may help us to truly enter the “vast-
with the fall of two large banks: this ness” of His Word and thus open the
money disappears, it is nothing. And universal horizon to humanity, what
thus all things, which seem to be the true unites us despite all the differences.
realities we can count on, are only reali- At the end, we return to a preceding
ties of a secondary order. Who builds verse: “ Tuus sum ego: salvum me fac”. This
his life on these realities, on matter, on translates as: “I am yours”. The Word of
success, on appearances, builds upon God is like a stairway that we can go up
sand. Only the Word of God is the foun- and, with Christ, even descend into the
dation of all reality, it is as stable as the depths of His love. It is a stairway to reach
heavens and more than the heavens, it is the Word in the words. “I am yours.” The
reality. Therefore, we must change our word has a face, it is a person, Christ. Be-
concept of realism. The realist is he who fore we can say “I am yours”, He has al-
recognizes the Word of God, in this ap- ready told us “I am yours”. The Letter to
parently weak reality, as the foundation the Hebrews, quoting Psalm 39, says: “You
of all things. Realist is he who builds his gave me a body... Then I said, ‘Here I am,
life on this foundation, which is perma- I am coming’”. The Lord prepared a body
nent. Thus the first verses of the Psalm to come. With His incarnation He said: I
invite us to discover what reality is and am yours. And in baptism He said to me:
how to find the foundation of our life, I am yours. In the Holy Eucharist, He al-
how to build life. ways repeats this: I am yours, so that we
The following verse says: “Omnia may answer: Lord, I am yours. In the path
serviunt tibi.” All things come from the of the Word, entering the mystery of his
Word, they are products of the Word. incarnation, of His being among us, we
“In the beginning was the Word”. In the wish to appropriate His being, expropri-
beginning the heavens spoke. And thus ate our existence, giving ourselves to Him,
reality was born of the Word, it is He who gave Himself to us.
“creatura Verbi”. All is created from the “I am yours”. Let us pray the Lord that
Word and all is called to serve the Word. we may learn to say this word with our
This means that all of creation, in the whole being. That way we will be in the
end, is thought to create the meeting heart of the Word. That way we will be
place between God and His creature, a saved.
CBCP Monitor
B2 Updates Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

Pedophiles and Catechesis in


ordination
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina Apostolorum uni-
versity, answers the following queries:)
our time
Q: Is it true that three things necessary to validate any of the seven sacra-
ments are: 1) proper substance, 2) proper form, and 3) proper intentions?
If true, could a man who is secretly a “hopeless” pedophile enter and com-
plete the course of study, never having revealed his lifestyle (through delib-
erate omission), and become ordained? If your answer is “Yes, this is a
valid sacrament,” then how do we explain the proper intentions require-
ment? Finally, do you think if this scenario has ever come to pass, is the
Church legally responsible for his later misconduct, and what is your solu-
tion?— E.N., Penngrove, California

A: Our reader is correct regarding the general criteria for invalidating the sacra-
ments. Some other sacraments have added criteria, but these three are common to all.

When the Church speaks of correct intention with respect to sacrament al validity,
the requirement is fairly minimal. It basically means that the person administrating the
sacrament and the one receiving the sacrament want to administer and receive the
sacrament as the Church understands it.

It does not require a full theological knowledge of the sacrament, nor is it necessary
to desire all of its specific effects. Thus it is theoretically possible for a non-Christian to
validly baptize a person by simply intending to give what Christians give when they
perform this rite.

This fairly simple concept makes it hard to invalidate a sacrament from the standpoint
of intention. To do so requires that at the moment of the celebration the person admin-
istrating the sacrament or the person receiving it mentally oppose and deny what
externally they appear to accept.

There might be cases, however, when other outside factors make it impossible for
the persons involved to intend what the Church intends. For example, the Catholic
Church does not accept the validity of Mormon or Jehovah’s Witness baptisms for,
although the rites are apparently the same, the difference in understanding who the
Father, Son and Holy Spirit are make it impossible to intend to act as the Church
understands.

This rather long premise is necessary in order to understand the answer to the
specific question at hand.

Could a man who, during formation, deliberately hid pedophile tendencies, or indeed
any other condition that would have prevented his ordination, be validly ordained? The
answer, sad to say, is probably yes, for the intention required at the moment of
ordination is the intention to receive the priesthood. Has this ever happened? Almost Illustration by Bladimer Usi
certainly yes.

In some concrete cases a hidden tendency might produce a spiritual or psychologi- By Jaime B. Achacoso, J.C.D. and teaching”. And this is a service ren- obliged to form their children in the faith and
cal condition so that the person becomes incapable of really intending what the Church dered not only to the Christian commu- practice of the Christian life by word and ex-
desires when it gives priesthood. This would invalidate the sacrament but is extremely
hard to prove. The Church has a special canonical process for judging the question of nity, but to the entire society. ample (c.774, §2). This is a primary right-
invalidity of sacred orders, but it is relatively rarely used. MY grandmother used to tell us that when However, the diversity of participants duty of parents, for which they may
she was a child, their parish priest used to leads to catecheses of different natures count on the help of the catechesis orga-
Is the Church responsible? There is moral responsibility if any means of revealing gather the children of their town on Satur- and different levels of authority. While nized by the pastors but only as a sub-
this tendency was culpably neglected before ordination, or if it failed to act immediately
once the problem became manifest. The Church would not be morally responsible if an day and Sunday afternoons to teach them the all catechesis is an ecclesiastical action sidiary measure. On the other hand, the
astute man was able to overcome these preventive controls which by their very Catholic faith. It was from him—in those lively and consequently will always depend on Code itself establishes that the pastor is to
nature are fallible and subject to manipulation. sessions—that she learned the Creed and the the pastors to some extent, it is no less promote and foster the role of parents in the
Ten Commandments, and got her first no- clear that all the faithful have the right family catechesis (c.776, in fine).
Legal responsibility depends on each country’s legal system. Most countries have a
tions of the Sacraments. Nowadays, it seems, to catechize. Thus, before anything else, 2° Godparents and Guardians: Godpar-
concept of civil responsibility in which the Church, just as any juridical person, might be
required to pay civil compensation even if not morally responsible for an action of one catechetical instruction is quite low in the it is important to make the following ents and those who take the place of parents
of its agents. priorities of the parish. In contrast, the Born- fundamental distinction. are bound by an equivalent obligation (c.774,
again Christians, Jehovah’s Witnesses and 1) Official vs. Unofficial Catechesis §2). Thus, this is also a right-duty.
What can be done? I believe that in the last few years the U.S. bishops have put in
other sects are quite aggressive in their a) Official catechesis—is that which 3° Pastors of souls (i.e., parish priests
place a series of vetting measures in seminaries and other institutions in order to
assure that those who should never be ordained, effectively don’t reach ordination. proselytism—even conducting house-to- depends on and receives public recogni- and chaplains): There is a proper and seri-
house visits. Does the law of the Church es- tion from the authorities who direct it. ous duty, especially on the part of pastors of
This, alongside an increase in the quality of the disciplinary and spiritual life in tablish anything in this regard? It has an institutional character, and the souls, to provide for the catechesis of the
seminaries, makes for a very uncomfortable environment for anyone attempting to get
pastors are publicly responsible for its Christian people so that the faith of the faith-
through six years of formation without a sincere motivation.
organization and adequate provision. ful becomes living, explicit and productive
No system is ever perfect, but the situation has improved greatly and should con- IN the previous article, we talked about Such Catechesis is intimately bound with through formation in doctrine and the expe-
tinue to improve in the years to come. the ministerium verbi. Among the forms the pastoral life and functions of the rience of Christian living (c.773).
of exercising this ministerium verbi is also Church. The reason for this is because 4° Religious superiors: Superiors of re-
catechesis “which—in the words of not only her geographical extension and ligious institutes and of societies of apostolic
Vatican Council II—is intended to make numerical increase, but even more her life are to see to it that catechetical formation
man’s faith become living, conscious and inner growth and correspondence with is diligently imparted in their churches,
active through the light of instruction.” God’s plan depend essentially on schools and in other works entrusted to them
in any manner (c.778).
Notion and Content of Catechesis 5° Local Ordinary: It is the responsibil-
Catechesis is the teaching of Christian Nowadays, it ity of the diocesan bishop to issue norms con-
doctrine generally given in an organic
and systematic manner, directed to-
seems, cerning catechetics and to make provisions
that suitable instruments for catechetics are
wards initiation into the Catholic faith catechetical in- available...by fostering and coordinating
and the growth and fullness of Chris- str uction is quite
struction catechetical endeavors (c.775, §1).
tian life. Its function is to develop in men
a living, explicit and active faith, en- low in the priori- 3) Catechetical Materials. The cat-
echism is a synthesis of all the funda-
lightened by doctrine. It is therefore a ties of the parish. mental truths of the Catholic faith, ex-
process during which one discovers his
initial conversion and educates it to- In contrast, the pressed in an elementary, organic and
systematic way, with specific and un-
wards maturity. We shall consider the Bor n-a
n-agg ain Chris- equivocal formulas. Canon Law regu-
aspects of catechesis with greater juridic
relevance—i.e., content, subjects and
tians
tians,, J eho
Jeho v ah’
ehov ah’ss lates catechisms and catechetical texts in
the following terms:
catechetical materials. W itnesses and 1° Universal level (e.g. text of the cat-
The Church has always considered it other sects are echism for universal use): Norms depend
a sacred right and duty to transmit the
teachings of Christ and not just the doc- quite aggressive on the Holy See.1
2° National level : National catechisms
trine of any teacher. Thus, it is never licit in their should be approved by the pertinent
for anyone, on his own initiative, to
make a selection of the deposit of the proselytism—even Episcopal Conference, not just by an or-
ganism dependent on it (even if the Epis-
faith for catechetical instruction; rather, conducting house- copal Conference may make use of such
everyone must faithfully follow the di-
rectives of the Magisterium of the
to-house visits. organism for the preparation of the cat-
echism). The reason for this is that such
Church, whether solemn or ordinary. Does the law of organisms do not have any normative
In general, the following have consti- the Church estab- capacity, and the normative capacity of
tuted the central topics for catechetical
instruction since the first centuries of lish anything in the Episcopal Conference in this matter
cannot be delegated. In any case, these
Christianity: the Creed , the Decalogue, this regard? catechisms need approval (recognitio) of
the Sacraments and the Lord’s Prayer. the Holy See.
Specifically, c.777 of the Code establishes 3° Particular level: The diocesan
that: In accord with the norms established catecheses. As such, catechesis is bound bishop can approve and establish cat-
by the diocesan bishop, the pastor is to make to the other pastoral functions while not echisms for use in the catechesis officially
particular provision: losing its specific character. carried out in his jurisdiction, even if a
1° that suitable catechesis is given for b) Unofficial catechesis—is that which duly approved national catechism exists.
the celebration of the sacraments; does not have an institutional character, 4° Non-official level: The Catholic
2° that children are properly prepared but rather depend on the free action of faithful, in the free exercise of their right-
for the first reception of the sacraments the faithful and which is only under the duty to do catechetical work, can seek
of penance and Most Holy Eucharist and general supervision of the pastors. It approval for the use of other catechism
the sacrament of confirmation by means arises because the faithful do not require and catechetical texts. In this case, the
of a catechetical formation given over any mandate or any authorization from ecclesiastical authority is truly obliged
an appropriate period of time; the hierarchy to catechize. No less than to give approval if the contents of such
3° that children are more fruitfully John Paul II had pointed out the danger materials are in accord with Catholic
and deeply instructed through of parochial catechesis tending to “mo- faith and morals and the universal
catechetical formation after the reception nopolize” and “homogenize” the multi- catechetical norms.
of First Communion; faceted catechetical task.
5° that the faith of young people and 2) Active Subjects of Catechesis. Un- Conclusion
adults be fortified, enlightened and de- der the supervision of legitimate ecclesiasti- To end, perhaps we can just say that
veloped through various means and en- cal authority, this concern for catechesis per- catechesis has not lost its importance,
deavors. tains to all the members of the Church in neither in the Law of the Church nor in
proportion to each one’s role (c.774, §1). In its pastoral programs. It cannot be oth-
Subjects of Catechetical Instruction the words of the 1977 Synod of Bishops, erwise, since it comes ahead in Christ’s
The most precious gift that the Church catechesis is a shared responsibility that mandate to the Apostles just before his
can offer to the confused and restless rests on the shoulders of all the mem- glorious Ascension to Heaven: Go and
world of today is to form convinced bers of the Church. Everyone must there- preach to all nations…!
Christians through an organic program fore shoulder this commitment accord- (Footnotes)
of thorough catechesis. As John Paul II ing to one’s possibilities and the particu-
affirms: “To evangelize is the proper lar gifts or charisms one has received. Aside from the Code, of primordial importance
1

are: John Paul II, Apostolic Exhortation Catechesi


grace and vocation of the Church, its most Nevertheless, the Code makes specific tradendae, 16.X.1979; General Catechetical Direc-
profound identity. The Church exists for mention of the following subjects: tory, 11.IV.1971; SCDF, Response regarding ap-
evangelizing, which means preaching 1° Parents: Parents above others are proval of catechisms, 7.VII.1983.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008 Diocese B3

IMPORTANT FACTS
Archbishop ………..…….. 1
Auxiliary Bishops ………. 2
Diocesan Priests …….... 320
Religious Priests:
Filipino …….………….. 262
Foreign .....…………….. 35
Brothers:
Filipino .………………... 195
Foreign ……….………… 1
Sisters:
Filipino ……………….… 904
Foreign ……………….... 47
Seminaries:
High School ……….……. 1
Pre-College …………….. 1
College ……….…………. 1
Theologate ……………… 1
Diocesan Divisions:
Districts ……………..…… 7
Vicariates ………………. 23

© Dennis Dayao / CBCP Media


Minor Basilica …….....…. 1
Educational Centers:
Universities …………….. 2
Colleges ………………… 9
High School …………..... 52
Elementary Schools ….. 30
Kindergarten ……....…… 37
Population …….... 4,144,610
Catholics …..… 3,733,822
Area …….. 5,088.44 sq.kms.

Archdiocese of
ON
ON BACKGROUND:
J.
his
of
BACKGROUND: His
J. Cardinal
Cardinal Vidal,
his flock
flock at
of Santo
Santo Niño,
Basilica
Basilica del
BELOW:
BELOW: The
Niño, which
del Santo
His Eminence
Eminence Ricardo
Vidal, archbishop
at the
archbishop of
the grand
which commenced
Santo Niño
The Cebu
Niño last
Ricardo
of Cebu,
grand procession
Cebu, leads
procession in
leads
in honor
commenced at
last January
Cebu Metropolitan
honor
at the
the
January 19.19.
Metropolitan Cathedral.
Cathedral.
Co mp iled b y Msg r . D en n is
Villarojo
Cebu
the Philippine islands.
The island of Cebu had about 25,000
to 40,000 inhabitants at this time. These
were evangelized by the Augustinians
who came with Legazpi. As more mis-
stone churches and convents but also
“reducciones”, the nucleus of today’s
towns and cities.
At the end of the 16th century, Cebu
province had only four parishes. Five
PHILIPPINE history and the beginnings
of the Archdiocese of Cebu coincide at sionaries arrived in 1569, it did not take more were created in the 17th century,
the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan’s fleet very long before the whole island came but by the end of Spanish rule in 1898,
in what was then the town of Zubu, ruled under the shadow of the cross. On June the number had gone up to 55.
by Rajah Humabon and his Queen. The 11, 1580, six convents were established The burgeoning population of the
encounter between two different cul- in the Visayas. The parish of Bantayan Diocese and its unwieldy geographical
tures began auspiciously, culminating in in the north evolved from one of these structure necessitated its break-up into
the baptism of eight hundred subjects of convents. Four years later, the parish of two dioceses. In 1850, the Diocese had a
Humabon. The occasion merited for the San Nicolas was founded. population of 1,280,402 Christians. In
Queen a gift from the conquistadores, a When Legazpi decided to transfer his contrast, Manila had 1,329,894. By 1860,
small statue of the Child Jesus in kingly capital to Manila, Cebu receded into the Cebu had already 1,700,000 souls.
regalia, orb and scepter in hand, an backwaters as influence and power The relative peace and stability of the
elaborate crown on its head. shifted north to Luzon and its wide ex- 19th century belied the seething cauldron
The Spanish foothold was immedi- panse of fertile lands. In 1578, Manila of popular disenchantment with Span-
ately resisted by Lapulapu, the chieftain became a suffragan of the Archdiocese ish rule. In April 3, 1898, Cebu felt the
of Mactan. Magellan perished in what of Mexico, and in 1595, it became an arch- repercussions of the Philippine Revolu-
could have been a traditional rivalry be- diocese with three suffragans: Cebu, tion in the local uprising of Leon Kilat.
tween two chieftains. This effectively Nueva Segovia and Caceres. Hardly had its effects simmered down
pushed the Cebuanos back into pagan- Distance having shielded the fledgling when the coming of the Americans sev-
ism. Diocese from the intrigues and power ered the Church from its traditional part-
The expedition of Miguel Lopez de struggles of the Capital, much of Cebu’s nership with the State. The Aglipayan
Legazpi in 1567 marked the formal con- ecclesiastical history is a leisurely nar- schism did little to heal the wounds en-
quest and evangelization of Cebu and rative of arrivals and foundations, of gendered by the social and political up-

The arrival of the missionaries was always a wel-


come relief for a diocese as expansive as Cebu.
The Augustinians of course arrived with Legazpi,
and their immediate assignment was to build a
shrine for the Santo Niño. The first Bishop of Cebu
was himself an Augustinian, Fray Pedro de Agurto.
He is credited with the establishment of the pri-
mar y ecclesiastical structures of the islands,
which he stabilized by way of the first Diocesan
Synod in 1600.
synods and celebrations. heavals at the advent of the 20th century.
The arrival of the missionaries was The Filipinization of the local Church
always a welcome relief for a diocese as radically increased the number of Fili-
expansive as Cebu. The Augustinians of pino priests in the Diocese. They now
course arrived with Legazpi, and their constituted the majority in parish admin-
immediate assignment was to build a istration in contrast to the Spanish era.
shrine for the Santo Niño. The first To the delight of the Cebuanos, Fr. Juan
Bishop of Cebu was himself an Augus- B. Gorordo, one of their own, succeeded
tinian, Fray Pedro de Agurto. He is cred- Bishop Thomas Hendrick in 1910 as
ited with the establishment of the pri- Bishop of Cebu. He served the Diocese
mary ecclesiastical structures of the is- faithfully until 1931, when he succumbed
lands, which he stabilized by way of the to ill-health. Bishop Gabriel Reyes took
first Diocesan Synod in 1600. possession of the Diocese in 1934.
The Synod provided guidelines for On April 28, 1936, two years after
the teaching of Christian doctrine. To Bishop Reyes’ assumption, Cebu was
this end, the early Cebuano translation elevated into an Archdiocese by Pope
of the catechism was revised and pol- Pius XI. Under the new Metropolitan
ished, and the evangelization of the far- Province of the Santisimo Nombre de
flung islands of the Diocese was firmly Jesus were the suffragan dioceses of Jaro,
pushed with the help of the missionary Calbayog, Zamboanga, Bacolod, and
orders. Cagayan de Oro.
In 1621, the Recollects established The Second World War caused great
their first convent, the “La Concepcion” physical, social and economic disloca-
in Ermita, in an area now occupied by tion in the new Archdiocese. Many old
the University of San Jose Recoletos. churches were reduced to rubble. Little
Together with the Jesuits and the was left of the Cathedral, which has just
Augustinians, they fanned out into the been embellished for the 20th Sacerdotal
neighboring villages, founding not only Cebu / B5
CBCP Monitor
B4 Features Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

Opening interventions of the Philippine


Bishops at the Synod of Bishops
MOST REV. ORLANDO B. QUEVEDO, O.M.I MOST REV. ARTURO M. BASTES, SVD
Fr. Luis Supan Secretary General, Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC) Bishop of Sorsogon
Archbishop of Cotabato Chairman, Episcopal Commission on Biblical Apostolate

THE QUESTION BOX October 7, Fourth General Congregation

INCREDIBLY rich in a marvel-


October 11, Eleventh General Congregation

1) BIBLICAL courses in the semi-


ous mosaic of ancient cultures nary are too intellectual, using
and religions, we in Asia are nev- the western method of historico-

Questions on ertheless a continent of the poor,


of economic and political imbal-
ances, of ethnic division and con-
critical exegesis, which bores
most seminarians. This academic
approach should be comple-

Population Control
flict. Our profound sense of tran- mented with methods that take
scendence and harmony is being into account the culture and life
eroded by a globalizing secular situation of the hearers.
and materialist culture. 2) The members of the Catho-
But the Word of God in Asia lic Biblical Federation (found in
Why is the Church’s objection to contraception non-nego- is calling to the Father in the 129 countries today) have devel-
tiable? Holy Spirit thousands of small oped techniques in doing bibli-
Contraception is morally wrong not because the Church communities of the poor. And cal pastoral ministry which
prohibits it; rather, the Church does so because contraception the poor in turn are heeding prove to be effective in transmit-
is an intrinsically evil action—it will always be morally wrong God’s Word. In so doing they ting God’s message to contem-
even if the majority (Catholics or not) were to launch a signa- are building a “new way of be- porary men and women. These
ture campaign to pressure the Pope to reverse the Church’s ing Church”—really an old creative methodologies must be
stand. The moral law is given by God to man so that he may way—the way of the early inc1uded in the official curricu-
have a guide to reach his ultimate destiny: God Himself; the Jerusalem community (see Acts lum of the formation programs
moral law is not the result of a plebiscite. 2:43-46 and 4:32-35). Guided by their ordained pastors and trained lay in theological faculties and houses of formation. An example of such a
leaders and collaborators, grassroots people gather every week in method appealing to people of today is the “Bibliodrama.”
What is an intrinsically evil action? chapels and households to celebrate a Service of the Word. 3) The urgency of developing an Asian way of reading the Bible is
“Intrinsically evil” means that the action is evil in itself; it They listen to the Word of God, reflect on the Word, pray over the felt because of the tremendous challenge the Church is facing in this
cannot be made good by appealing to the good effects which Word, and discern together how to apply the Word to their daily huge continent where millions of people feel hungry for God’s Word.
could possibly result from it, or to the “good intentions” of lives. They receive Jesus in the Eucharist from trained lay extraordi- There are now successful attempts to develop a biblical hermeneu-
the one who commits it. Examples of such actions: blasphemy, nary ministers of Holy Communion. For them the Word of God is tics that take into account the rich culture and history of Asian peoples.
murder, abortion, fornication, contraception, direct steriliza- faith-empowering, urging them to participate actively within the There is a plan to produce an Asian Biblical Commentary that will
tion, homosexual acts. (Cf. Compendium of the CCC, no. 369). Church and in social transformation. They are Basic Ecclesial Com- make use of the historico-critical method of the West and a compara-
munities, renewing families, parishes and dioceses into vibrant com- tive cultural hermeneutics to render the profound spiritual sense of
Why is contraception intrinsically wrong? munities, witnessing to the Word of God, quite often in a hostile the biblical text accessible to the Asian soul. The Asian members of
It is intrinsically wrong because it goes against the will of multi-religious environment. the CBF have also decided to establish an Asian Bible Institute, which
God with respect to the conjugal life of spouses. “The conju- They are communities of solidarity and fellowship at the will hopefully give the desired holistic biblical formation program.
gal act has a two-fold meaning: unitive (the mutual self-giv- grassroots, effectively challenging in their own little way the mod- 4) This is one way of contributing to the “missio ad extra” in Asia,
ing of the spouses) and procreative (an openness to the trans- ern culture of secularism and materialism. the majority of whose people have not yet heard of Christ. Through
mission of life). No one may break the inseparable connec- To a certain extent they can echo even now the words of John, the a gradual process of evangelization presenting Jesus of the Gospels
tion which God has established between these two meanings beloved Disciple: “quod vidimus et audivimus annuntiamus et vo- as Teacher, Story Teller, Healer, Miracle Worker, Friend, Consoler “
of the conjugal act by excluding one or the other of them” bis, ut et vos communionem habeatis nobiscum. Communio autem images that are pleasing to Asians “ people of Asia may eventually
(Compendium of the CCC, no. 496). nostra est cum Patre et cum Filio eius Jesu Christo” ( 1 Jn 1:3). be led by the Spirit to believe in Christ as the Son of God.
Thus, Pope Paul VI taught in Humanae Vitae (1968) that every
marital union must be open to procreation —which does not
mean that it must lead to conception each time (since this is im- MOST REV. LUIS ANTONIO G. TAGLE MOST REV. BRODERICK S. PABILLO
possible in the infertile periods of the wife, or after menopause) Bishop of Imus Auxiliary Bishop of Manila
—and that every contraceptive act is intrinsically a moral evil. October 7, Third General Congregation October 7, Third General Congregation
Pope John Paul II, using analogy with human language, said
that contraception is like telling a lie. The purpose of human THE Synod rightly deals with the THERE is a need for guidelines to
language is to communicate truth through meaningful sounds disposition of listening. In Scrip- help Catholics interpret the Bible
we call words that convey concepts. The conjugal act is the tures, when people listen to God’s properly. Let these guidelines be
Word they experience true life. If clearly presented. These can in-
they refuse, life ends in tragedy. clude the following criteria for a
Contraception, in many of its Listening is a serious matter. The Catholic reading of the Bible:
forms—aside from weakening Church must form hearers of the 1) Knowing the Bible is not so
Word. But listening is not trans- much knowing a book but knowing
the sincerity of the marital love mitted only by teaching but more and relating to the Person of Christ.
of the spouses, and being a by a milieu of listening. I pro- 2) The liturgy is the primary
rejection of the will of God that pose three approaches for deep-
ening the disposition for listen-
place of encountering the Bible
as Word of God.
spouses co-operate with Him ing. 3) A true understanding of the Bible
in giving new human life—is 1. Our concern is listening in
faith. Faith is a gift of the Spirit,
should be in accord with the authen-
tic life (as the lives of the saints), prac-
also a serious health hazard yet it also is an exercise of hu- tices and teachings of the Church.
for women. Promoters of con- man freedom. Listening in faith 4) A proper understanding of
means opening one’s heart to the Scriptures should be guided
traception have turned a blind God’s Word, allowing it to pen- both by faith and by study.
eye to the results of medical etrate and transform us, and practicing it. It is equivalent to obedi- 5) Any Bible passage is to be read in the context of the inner unity
research that prove this dan- ence in faith. Formation in listening is integral faith formation. For-
mation programs should be designed as formation in holistic listen-
of Scripture,
6) A proper understanding of the Bible should consider and ad-
ger to women. ing. dress the concrete situations of today.
2. Events in our world show the tragic effects of the lack of listen- 7) Reading the Bible should not end in mere knowledge; it is a call
ing: conflicts in families, gaps between generations and nations, and to conversion and transformation.
physical expression of the mutual love of spouses. If contracep- violence. People are trapped in a milieu of monologues, inattentive- 8) The correct use of the Bible should promote unity within the
tion intervenes, the marital union is no longer an “I – Thou” ness, noise, intolerance and self-absorption. The Church can provide Church and among Churches.
dialogue; it has degenerated into an “I – it ” interaction: the “it” a milieu of dialogue, respect, mutuality and self-transcendence. 9) We need to approach the Bible in a spirit of humility; it enables
can be anything except the unique personality of the spouse. 3. God speaks and the Church, as servant lends its voice to the us to value the interpretation of the Bible by the poor.
To use contraceptives is like telling the spouse “I communi- Word. But God does not only speak. God also listens especially to the I strongly suggest that there be more interaction among biblical
cate with you, but I don’t mean everything I say”. And so, as at just, widows, orphans, persecuted, and the poor who have no voice. scholars and pastoral workers. Together they should search for meth-
that point language is reduced to mere sounds without mean- The Church must learn to listen the way God listens and must lend ods of understanding and topics of study that would deepen the faith
ing, so is the marital union reduced to a soulless physical its voice to the voiceless. of our peoples in our own cultures.
activity. This could be the start of the weakening of the mu-
tual love and respect of the spouses.
MOST REV. PABLO VIRGILIO S. DAVID
What other factors make contraception morally unacceptable? Auxiliary Bishop of San Fernando
Contraception, in many of its forms—aside from weaken- October 10, Eight General Congregation
ing the sincerity of the marital love of the spouses, and being
a rejection of the will of God that spouses co-operate with THE Instrumentum laboris
Him in giving new human life—is also a serious health haz- rightly calls attention to the
ard for women. Promoters of contraception have turned a healthy tension between exege-
blind eye to the results of medical research that prove this sis and theology in the Church.
danger to women. While theology often dwells on
What is worse, contraceptives (drugs and IUD’s) nowadays the power of the Word of God;
not only prevent conception: in case, they fail in their contra- we will always need exegesis to
ceptive mechanism, they can prevent the implantation of the remind us as well of the humil-
fertilized ovum (already a unique human person) in the womb: May kasagutan na sa inyong mga
ity of the Word of God. Do we
plain abortion. This is why these devices and drugs are called problema sa karapatan ng pamilya, not too often find ourselves
“abortifacients”. kababaihan at mga bata. speechless when confronted by
If the spouses, after pondering the matter in God’s pres- serious readers of the Bible
ence, decide to delay their having a child, due to grave rea- Makinig sa bagong programa ng Radio among our faithful who feel
sons, what morally acceptable measures can they take, if they Veritas “MAGKABIYAK SA BATAS” scandalized by Scriptural pas-
cannot use contraceptives? tuwing Sabado, alas-siete y medya sages that are full of violence,
“The regulation of births, which is an aspect of responsible hanggang alas nuebe ng umaga. bigotry, cruelty, duplicity, and
fatherhood and motherhood, is objectively morally accept- all other contradictions that are
able when it is pursued by the spouses without external pres- Katatampukan ng mga batikang mag- characteristic of the humanity we
sure; when it is practiced not out of selfishness but for serious asawang abogado na sina Atty.Luigi at share with all other sons and
reasons: and with methods that conform to the objective crite- Gwen Pimentel-Gana kasama sina daughters of Adam? And yet we have not cancelled them out from
ria of morality, that is, periodic continence and use of the Atty.Eric at Alma Malongga na kapwa the canon of Scriptures. We have in this canon texts that deny the
infertile periods.” (Compendium of the CCC , 497). nagtapos sa UP College of Law. resurrection and afterlife and texts that affirm them. We have texts
that regard Satan as part of the heavenly court with a specific task
Is the moral objection to contraception applicable only to Sina Eric Malongga at Gwen Gana ay and texts that present him as a fallen angel. We have texts that de-
Catholics? President at Vice-President ng Meritxell clare evil as a consequence of human sin and insist on human culpa-
No, it applies to all, to non-Catholics and to non-Christians bility and texts that present evil as a disease and human beings as
Foundation.
as well, because it is derived from Natural Law. “The natural mere victims that can only rely on God’s forgiveness. We have texts
law, present in the heart of each man and established by rea- that emphasize divine grace, and texts that put a prime on human
son, is universal in its precepts and its authority extends to all
Ang apat na abogado ay eksperto sa
“Family and Child Law”. effort.
men; it is immutable and permanent throughout the varia- Ascent and descent, the divine and the human, the sublime and the
tions of history” (CCC 1956, 1958); “The natural law is nothing wretched-these are aspects about the mystery of divine revelation,
other than the light of understanding placed in us by God; Binuo ng Radio Veritas 846 ang about God’s Word in human words, about the God made flesh, that
through it we know what we must do and what we must programang MAGKABIYAK SA BATAS will always require both the contributions of exegetes and theolo-
avoid. God has given this light or law at Creation” (St. Tho- bilang adbokasiya ng simbahang katolika gians, and above all of the pastors who have to keep us all together
mas Aquinas, CCC 1955). Moral relativism (“human actions sa pagtatanggol sa karapatan ng bawat in humility and with the proper disposition of listening and self-
cannot be objectively right or wrong”) is a denial of this God- pamilyang Pilipino na itinuturing na emptying, keeping our focus on Jesus-the God with a human face—
given capacity of man’s reason. “basic unit of society”. on his power in weakness, on his wisdom in foolishness, on his
exaltation through humiliation.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008 Statements B5
A Statement Launching Anti-Mining Solidarity Week

Yes to food
production, no
to mining
operations!
TODAY, we, the Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM), a network of min-
ing affected communities, indigenous peoples’ groups, aca-
demics, religious organizations and other support groups op-
posed to large scale mining, launch the “Anti-Mining Solidar-
ity Week” to call attention to the threat posed by mining on
our food sovereignty and biodiversity.
We do this to expose the lies being peddled by a govern-
ment bent on attracting mining investments, no matter what
the cost. We keep hearing about the millions of dollars of in-

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media


vestments that mining will bring into the country. What we do
not hear government talking about is the cost of trading off
biodiversity and our people’s capacity to produce their own
food for often illusory gains.
The history of the last four decades is replete with stories of
damage to environment caused by mining operations. Rapu-
Rapu, Lepanto, and Philex are but a few, and certainly not the
worst. In 1999 Atlas Mining and Development Corporation,

Uphold the right to life


then operating the biggest copper mining project in the re-
gion, released 5.7 million cubic meters of acidic water into the
nearby river and sea in Toledo City, Cebu. The accident
discoloured the nearby coast up to 2 kilometres from the shore

A statement of the Indigenous Filipinos and their advocates and resulted in a horrendous “fish kill.”
Of course, who can forget the Marcopper Mining disaster in
Indigenous Peoples’ Month 1996 when Marcopper’s open pit burst, releasing 2-3 million
cubic meters of mine tailings into the Boac River in
Marinduque? The incident killed off aquatic life in the 26-kilo-
WE the indigenous peoples of the Philippines “[t]he right to life of the people is insepa- INSTEAD ENACT AN ALTERNATIVE MIN- meter waterway and resulted in the flooding of farmlands and
constitute at least a third of the national rable from their right to sources of food and ING LAW; villages along its banks.
population. Comprised of at least 110 ethno- livelihood. Allowing the interest of big min- * RESPECT OUR RIGHT TO SELF DETER- In all these cases, those responsible have often been left with-
graphic societies we are the repositories of a ing companies and other commercial inter- MINATION, PROMULGATE AND ENFORCE out so much as a slap on the wrist. It is precisely this lack of
precious cultural heritage. Our numbers and ests to prevail over peoples’ right to these LAWS THAT WILL GUARANTEE THE EX- accountability that leads to continuing abuse. And it is not just
diversities verily make us the nation’s social sources, amount to violating their right to ERCISE OF OUR RIGHTS TO AUTHENTIC biodiversity which is in danger. Mining has also directly af-
capital with rights to our ancestral domains, life.” AND EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION IN DE- fected people’s food security whether as a result of environ-
self determination and integrity of WE THEREFORE CALL ALL CONCERNED CISION MAKING AFFECTING OUR LIVES; mental damage or the loss of land in which to grow food.
culture. Recognition and respect for our TO RESPECT OUR RIGHTS TO OUR ANCES- In many cases, the loss of land for food production is not due
rights as human beings and as indigenous TRAL DOMAINS, SELF DETERMINATION * REDRESS ALL VIOLATIONS OF HUMAN to any accident or disaster but a direct result of the mining
peoples is fundamental and imperative to the AND CULTURAL INTEGRITY. ENFORCE RIGHTS OF IPS AND PARTICULARLY operation itself. In Bgy. Didipio, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya,
country’s quest for peace and prosperity. THE RIGHT TO FREE AND PRIOR IN- THOSE ARISING FROM ABUSES OF GOV- Oceanagold Philippines’ operations, have either damaged or
Deplorably, the government’s develop- FORMED CONSENT, AND REDRESS ALL ERNMENT AND THE MILITARY; destroyed the community’s farmlands, irrigation systems, and
ment paradigm, markedly demonstrated in VIOLATIONS, ENCROACHMENT AND * STOP MILITARIZATION OF IP AREAS fruit-bearing trees. Worse, the mining project continues to pose
its pursuit of projects that militate against a UNLAWFUL DISPOSSESSION OF AND RECRUITMENT OF OUR CHILDREN a direct threat to the three watersheds located in the area should
sustainable, authentic human development, IPS. PARTICULARLY, INTO MILITARY SERVICE; an accident similar to Toledo or Marinduque occur.
have left a great number of us economically * WE CALL ON GOVERNMENT TO UP- * COMPEL NCIP TO UPHOLD ITS MAN- The food supply scare early this year has exposed the fallacy
deprived, socially excluded, politically dis- HOLD OUR RIGHTS AND FULLY IMPLE- DATE AS THE PRIMARY AGENCY FOR THE of the oft-repeated argument that we need not produce our
enfranchised and culturally MENT THE MANDATES OF THE CONSTI- PROTECTION AND PROMOTION OF IP own food. It has laid bare, for all to see, the importance of self-
marginalized. Together with millions of TUTION AND THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ RIGHTS AND NOT AS FACILITATOR AND sufficiency as a basic foundation of food security.
other marginalized and poor Filipinos, we RIGHT ACT (IPRA), PARTICULARLY THOSE PROMOTER OF INTERESTS ADVERSE TO It is therefore unconscionable that government should al-
are unjustly taking the brunt of graft and cor- PERTAINING TO OUR ANCESTRAL DO- IPS; low foreign investors to destroy vital food sources in their
ruption, injustice, un-peace, and development MAIN AND TO STRENGTHEN THE LEGAL *DEVELOP AND/OR SUPPORT hunt for gold, copper or nickel. It is unpardonable that people
aggression. FRAMEWORK FOR PROTECTION AND PROJECTS, SPECIFICALLY IP EDUCATION, who rely on the bounties of nature for their sustenance be
THIS IS AN URGENT CALL THEREFORE PROMOTION OF OUR RIGHTS BY PRIORI- INDIGENOUS AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES deprived of it in the greedy quest for precious metals.
FOR ALL CONCERNED TO UPHOLD LIFE, TIZING THE RATIFICATION OF ILO CON- AND CULTURAL PROGRAMS THAT PRO- We demand our right to food sovereignty which ensures
PROTECT AND PROMOTE HUMAN VENTION 169; MOTE THE BEST INTEREST AND WELFARE that the rights to use and manage our lands, territories, waters,
RIGHTS, RECOGNIZE AND RESPECT IN- * TO STOP ALL DESTRUCTIVE AND OF ALL IPS. seeds, livestock and biodiversity are in the hands of those of us
DIGENOUS PEOPLES’ RIGHTS, AND BRING LARGE SCALE EXPLOITATION OF NATU- who produce and depend on food.
BACK THE COUNTRY TO THE ROAD OF A RAL RESOURCES IN ANCESTRAL DO- With one voice and with the power of our Today we rededicate ourselves to the struggle against large-
TRUE AUTHENTIC, HUMANE, SUSTAIN- MAIN, STOP MINING, LOGGING AND combined strength we call on all concerned scale mining. We want this government and the miners to
ABLE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOP- OTHER FORMS OF DEVELOPMENT AG- to support our advocacies so that together know, we will not go quietly into the night. We will not allow
MENT. GRESSION; we may work towards the realization of a the continued rape of our mountains, our forests, and our riv-
“Do not defile the land where you live and where * RESPECT MINING MORATORIUM AND just and better world. ers. We will not let the lure of gold rob us of our rights to food
I dwell…” (Numbers 35:33) LOGGING BANS DECLARED BY LOCAL We hope that what is now RAMDAM ANG and a healthy environment.
To us Indigenous Filipinos, Land is Life. GOVERNMENT UNITS, AT THE SAME TIME KAHIRAPAN, can truly become RAMDAM We will not let mining investors limit our choices. We will
We have nurtured and cared for our lands, STRICTLY OBSERVE PROCESSES ON SE- ANG KAUNLARAN . not let mining interests dictate our development options. We
our ancestral domains, as our ancestors have CURING GENUINE FPIC; will not let them run roughshod over our basic rights. We will
done and as generations after us will * TO COMPEL JUST COMPENSATION not let them rest and we will hound them every step of the
do. Appallingly, government has caused our AND REHABILITATION ON THE DE- IP Delegates and Participants on the Occa- way!
lands, our domains to be defiled by large scale STRUCTION THAT MINING HAS CAUSED sion of IP Month 2008
exploitation of natural resources which de- TO OUR LIVES AND PROPERTIES; San Carlos Seminary, Guadalupe 07 October 2008
stroys life. Indeed, as our Bishops admonish, * REPEAL THE MINING ACT OF 1995 AND 8 October 2008

An Appeal for Compassion Cebu / B3

Anniversary of Archbishop Gorordo in the College of Cardinals on May 25, 1985 1965 National Celebration of the Fourth
1940. augured well for the Synod, which for- Centennial of the Evangelization of the

and Human Solidarity The task of post-war reconstruction


fell upon Archbishop Julio Rosales who
took possession of the Archdiocese in
1950. His incumbency proved to be the
mally opened in November 10, 1985.
Under the Cardinal’s inspiring leader-
ship, the assembly of clerics and lay
people formulated a guiding vision for
Philippines and Pope John Paul II’s visit
in 1981.
In August of 1983 the low-key and
unassuming Msgr. Vidal found himself

(Issued by Bishops-Ulama Conference in behalf of longest and certainly one of the most
fruitful for the Archdiocese. The re-
the Archdiocese’s encounter with the
third millennium.
in the shoes of the larger-than-life Car-
dinal Rosales and assumed pastoral ad-

the Civilian Population caught in the crossfire of soundingly successful celebration of the
4 th Centenary of the Christianization of
The Synod set for the Archdiocese the
mission of building basic ecclesial com-
ministration of over a million faithful
in this heartland of the Visayan islands.
the Philippines in 1965 focused national munities in the parishes. Commissions With vital structures and infrastructures
the present conflict in Central Mindanao) and international attention on Cebu. Not
long after, Archbishop Rosales was
were also set up to attend to the various
needs of the faithful. In 1995, the Arch-
already put in place (like the seminar-
ies, the Archbishop’s Palace, Patria de
raised to the College of Cardinals, mak- diocese of Cebu joined the archdioceses Cebu and Caritas buildings, the restored
ing Cebu one of the few Archdioceses in of Caceres, Nueva Segovia and Jaro in Metropolitan Cathedral and multifari-
the world to merit a Cardinal as Arch- celebrating their 400th year as a Diocese. ous parishes established, to cite some),
IN the name of God Almighty, the Most the evacuees for food, clothing, shelter bishop. The Archdiocese played host to the First the new Archbishop set his own course
Merciful, the Most Beneficent and the and medicine, we appeal for more, and The illustrious career of Cardinal National Mission Congress in 2001. of action and steered the Archdiocese to
Most Loving: continue providing these helps to the Rosales came to an end on his death on In 2002, the clergy held its first Dioc- a new direction.
We, the convenors of the Bishops- evacuees now temporarily living in sev- June 2, 1983. His able coadjutor, then esan Priests’ Congress, followed a year Owing to his vast experience as
Ulama Conference, strongly appeal for eral areas in Northern and Central Msgr. Ricardo Vidal, was installed Arch- later with the Congress of the Laity. The formator (he spent most of his priestly
the welfare of the unfortunate civilian Mindanao. bishop of Cebu on September 18 of the latter two gatherings continued the tra- ministry as seminary formator culmi-
victims of the ongoing bloody conflict 3. Considering the trauma experienced same year. jectory of the 1984 Synod through a par- nating in the rectorship of a regional
in Northern and Central Mindanao and by these victims of war, especially chil- The former Archbishop of Lipa, Msgr. ticipatory process, where both clergy and major seminary in Luzon) then Msgr.
hereby bring to the attention of all con- dren and young people, we appeal to Vidal was reluctant at first to accept the laity examined their realities and pro- Vidal, who was elevated to the College
cerned especially the leaderships of the individuals, groups as well as institu- heavy responsibility of administering an vided directions for the future. of Cardinals in 1985, stamped his mark
Armed Forces of the Republic of the Phil- tions which have the training and ex- Archdiocese whose culture and tradi- The 75 th Anniversary of Cebu as an on the Archdiocese by giving stress on
ippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation pertise to conduct psycho-social inter- tions are rather different from his Archdiocese comes at a time when the formation.
Front (MILF) the sad plight of our civil- ventions and counselling to start the former environment. But his quiet ways vision of the Synod has begun to trans- Reflective of his character, he did not
ian population. healing of the physical and spiritual and conciliatory stance quickly won for form the structural landscape of the Arch- instigate shocking reforms. Instead, he
We, now state forcefully three (3) ma- wounds leading to forgiveness, recon- him the affection and devotion of the diocese. The seeds of the basic ecclesial introduced gradual but trenchant
jor concerns that require immediate at- ciliation and wholeness of life. Cebuanos. communities, sown right after the changes culminating in the convocation
tention: We hope and pray to the God of peace Gifted with expansive vision and a Synod, have begun to bear fruit in the of the Fourth Diocesan Synod of Cebu
1. If, as we were to understand, vio- of all people for a genuine and lasting firm and steady hand, the new Arch- lives of the faithful. in 1985-86. Since then the thrust of the
lent encounters have become inevitable peace in our beloved land. We do this as bishop quickly set out to put his stamp local church took a definitive shift.
in view of the current campaign of the instruments of peace serving all peoples on the face of the Archdiocese. In Janu- Priorities and Directions One of his first major acts not long
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Mindanao. ary 15, 1984, barely five months after his After thirty-three years of sterling ser- after he took office was the reorganiza-
to pursue, capture, and bring to justice Signed this 11th day of October, 2008 installation, he announced the convoca- vice to the Archdiocese of Cebu as Arch- tion of the diocesan structure into dif-
the three (3) MILF commanders, we in the City of Davao, Republic of the tion of a Diocesan Synod, the fourth in bishop, Julio Cardinal Rosales, in 1983, ferent episcopal districts to ensure closer
make this urgent appeal to both, AFP Philippines. the history of Cebu, to “review the turned over to his successor, Archbishop coordination and interaction between
and MILF parties, combatants and other progress attained by the Archdiocese in Ricardo J. Vidal, a local Church that saw and among priests.
armed groups: SPARE THE INNOCENT FERNANDO R. CAPALLA, DD the last 50 years of its existence” and “pro- itself rising from the rubble of the Sec- Under the care of an auxiliary bishop
CIVILIAN POPULATION! Archbishop of Davao vide for the pressing pastoral needs in ond World War to its present vibrance and assisted by an episcopal vicar, each
2. Even as we recognize the efforts of the coming decades”. and on the side hosting, among the other district is composed of several vicariates.
individuals, groups and organizations HILARIO M. GOMEZ, JR., Ph.D The elevation of Archbishop Vidal to memorable and historic occasions, the
to respond to the immediate needs of UCCP Bishop Emeritus Cebu / B6
CBCP Monitor
B6 Reflections Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

Fr. Roy Cimagala

Mainstreaming
the social doctrine
THE Church’s social doctrine needs to be widely spread, known and prac-
ticed. The common impression is that it’s classified information or that it’s a
subject proper only to those who like to dabble in social activism.
We have to redeem it from that predicament—quickly and relentlessly,
since the effort surely involves a long and even agonizing process. It’s also a
never-ending activity.
Since the Church’s social doctrine brings the true spirit of Christ into our
social life in all its dimensions—from the family to our business and politics
and to the most global aspects of our earthly life—it is indispensable and
concerns us all.
In fact, with our increasingly challenging times, it is imperative that the social
doctrine be systematically taught far and wide, its corresponding virtues devel-
oped and its appropriate structures and network built up progressively.
Given that living the Christian spirit in our social life is most tricky, it is
necessary that the Church’s social doctrine be integrally learned and assimilated.
Otherwise, we’ll have a terrible mongrel that can cause more evil than good. Illustration by Bladimer Usi
That’s what we are seeing now. The few occasions when it’s cited by civil

Making the Gospel


society leaders and even some Church officials show bias, improper selectivity
and reductionism. All sorts of exaggerations and gratuitous assertions are made.
Thus, even Church pronouncements can sound politically partisan. And
since they often lack interdisciplinary considerations, they end up becoming
cliquey, insular and divisive, easily held hostage by the shenanigans of

message ‘performative’
politicians, ideologues and mob forces.
Valid points in the smaller aspects of an issue often fail to reconcile with
the demands of a larger picture. They easily get dogmatized and inflexible,
powerless to flow with the streaming situations.
Many times, they just show more emotion than practical wisdom, indicat-
ing a reactive, not pro-active approach. Traces of agitation, obviously re-
strained, are all over, causing unease in many people. The net effect is confu-
sion rather than relief.
World Mission Sunday; 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The fragile link between the social and the spiritual, the personal good
and the common good, truth and charity, justice and mercy, etc., is not duly
Mt 22: 15 - 21; October 19, 2008
monitored and constantly readjusted. The points come as a result mainly of
reflex, rather than reflective reaction. By Msgr. Joselito C. tion and cynicism towards gift of a new life. Thus, the Christian message will bring.
Thus, in many parts of the media today some statements of our Church government leaders, of rela- Christian message becomes Making the Gospel message
leaders have been roundly criticized, aggravated by the fact that Church Asis
tivism in morality and be- not only “informative” but performative is actually our
officials generally do not know how to handle the media. liefs, etc., etc. also “performative!”(cf. Spes great challenge today.
For this difficult task, the Church’s Compendium of Social Doctrine says: For a pessimist, his usual Salvi 2). In order for us to make the
THIS year’s celebration of
“The primary responsibility for the pastoral commitment to evangelize social reali- reaction is: There is no more In the Second Reading, Paul Gospel performative and life-
World Mission Sunday takes
ties falls to the Bishop, assisted by priests, religious men and women, and the laity. hope. But for us, who believe reminds the community in changing, we must exert ef-
the opportunity of reflecting
“With special reference to local realities, the Bishop is responsible for promoting in Christ: It is only in Him Thessalonica that the de- forts to suffer with others and
on the missionary life of the
the teaching and diffusion of the Church’s social doctrine, which he should do through that humanity finds redemp- mands of being called is to for others; to suffer for the
great “Apostle to the Gen-
appropriate institutions.” (539) tion and hope! St. Paul under- manifest the works of faith sake of truth and justice; to
tiles” Saint Paul, whom we
This is, of course, a tall order, extremely demanding but not impossible. It stood this very well. Thus, he and labors of love; and to suffer out of love; and to be-
commemorate in a special
requires nothing less than solid and authentic spiritual life. Otherwise, the sees the urgency to tell every- have hope and endurance in come a person who truly
Jubilee on the occasion of the
anomaly will just surface sooner or later. loves ( cf. Spes Salvi 39).
bi-millennium of his birth.
The teaching and spread of the social doctrine involves everyone in his proper
ways, with clear distinctions between those of the clergy and those of the laity.
Pope Benedict XVI in his Mes- To tell the world that our future We can learn it from Jesus,
who became man in order to
sage invites us, all baptized
The universal involvement should not blur the specific roles of each one.
Christians, to become famil- rests on our hope in Christ, suffer with humanity. Actu-
Subsidiary institutions that can and should help are the families, parishes
and other Church structures, schools, media, governmental and non-gov-
iar with the life of St. Paul, gives us a new perspective of ally, He is our source of in-
spiration so that we may be
ernmental agencies. Continuing education on the social doctrine, especially
the model of our apostolic
commitment; and to take this
the Gospel. The Gospel be- able to suffer with our broth-
for those holding positions of influence, is a must.
So far, I have not seen any serious effort in this direction. It’s a neglect that
occasion as an opportunity to comes not merely a communi- ers and sisters too, particu-
larly the least ones. Our kind
certainly has very foreseeable tragic consequences. It’s like cultivating a
propagate the proclamation
of the Gospel to the ends of
cation of things that can be visits to the sick, the prison-
crisis. This has to be corrected.
the world (cf. 2008 World Mis- known – it is one that makes ers, old friends whom we
We should nurture the sense of constant vigilance and the skill to inte-
grate the different flowing elements of our social life. This would enable us
sion Sunday). things happen and is life- have never seen for a long
time. Our efforts to bring
Know that the person of St.
to read and foresee the signs of the times as they come, promptly noting
Paul represents for us, a key changing. Thus, the Christian about healing of the internal
their positive and negative features.
With the social doctrine, we can manage to keep distance from the predatory
role in the Church: its pro- message becomes not only and external wounds of our
being.
tendencies brought about by our own weaknesses, failures and sins, not to
phetic and missionary nature.
It is that part of the Church
“informative” but also Our sometimes painful de-
mention the very subtle snares of the devil and our world alienated from God.
which constantly works on “performative!” cisions of placing above all the
the edge, pushing the bound- values of truth and justice in
aries of the Church further exchange of our own welfare,
out, not only in a geographi- one that without Christ, hu- waiting for Christ, the Lord. career and possessions. Our
cal sense but also pushing the manity is without hope (cf. He also emphasizes that the practice of setting aside an
Bo Sanchez amount or saving something,
concerns of the Church into Eph 2:12). Gospel he proclaimed is not
not for our future security but
Friendships are
neglected areas of social con- To tell the world that our merely words, but miracles,
cern and creatively develop- future rests on our hope in Holy Spirit and plenty of ev- for the immediate needs of
ing new ways of communi- Christ, gives us a new per- erything! Meaning, the Gos- our less fortunate brethren.

your greatest cating the Christian message.


“Humanity needs to be lib-
spective of the Gospel. The
Gospel becomes not merely a
pel he preached is life-chang-
ing and performative!
These are the many chal-
lenges facing us as followers

treasure erated and redeemed”—says communication of things that Today there are countless of Christ and heralds of the
the Holy Father. Looking can be known – it is one that people who want to hear this Gospel. This is our mission
closely at the situations of the makes things happen and is life-changing message of sal- today. Do not miss every op-
world today, we are faced life-changing. vation; people who are thirst- portunity to reach out to those
WHEN I was single, I did everything with lightning speed. who have not yet experience
I remember it took me only nine minutes to eat breakfast, shower, dress with the grim scenarios of The dark door of time, of ing to experience love and
multiple crises: oil and food the future, has been thrown hope. These people may not the liberating love of Christ.
up, and get ready to drive off to wherever. No kidding. Together with Paul, we may
When I got married, preparing to leave home takes me a little bit more crises, of climate change and open. The one who has hope totally ignorant about Christ
constant threat to our envi- lives differently; the one who but are actually looking for a also exclaim “Woe to me if I
time. (About one hour and fifty-one minutes more.) do not preach it!”(1 Cor 9:16).
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not complaining. ronment, of endless corrup- hopes has been granted the life-changing effect which the
You see, my wife is a woman.
(Thank God.)
If I wanted to continue my quick pace in life, I should have remained Cebu / B5
single. Or married another guy. Which would look strange, especially that
I’m a preacher. New Parishes The very composition of the Pastoral of consequence. It is during this time
You see, I’m the typical male that’s totally goal-fixated. Men are creatures The steady increase of population and Planning Board is reflective of the spirit that priests are updated of the pertinent
of purpose while women are creatures of process. the clamor of the people for closer pas- of the times wherein a close collabora- issues of the time.
Let me explain it another way: As a man, I don’t care much for the jour- toral care necessitated the creation of tion between the Clergy and the Laity Another source of renewal for the
ney—just the destination. So the shorter the trip, the better. My wife, how- more parishes in the Archdiocese. If for on the one hand and between the Secu- clergy is the annual retreat. Retreat mas-
ever loves every inch of the journey. She walks leisurely, hums a tune, anything, creation of a new parish is a lar and the Religious on the other hand ters of national and international re-
pauses for scenery. cogent index of the coming of age of a is evident. nown have been invited in the past to
That’s why each morning, she enjoys a cool shower, while I just try to get certain Christian community in a given conduct spiritual exercises. Special pro-
moist. And that’s why she treats as near-sacred her time in front of an open territory wherein continuous support of grams like seminars and symposia for
closet, choosing and re-choosing what clothes to wear. I however just grab the pastor and separate ecclesial exist- Ongoing Formation of the Clergy the ongoing formation of priests have
what I wore yesterday. ence are already viable. One important component of any dio- also been availed of by some.
But more importantly, this is the reason why my wife majors in relation- In 1981 there were 96 parishes and cese is the clergy that serves it. Cebu has
ships, and I don’t think much about them. Because relationships don’t have three chaplaincies, 34 of which were es- been blessed with a dynamic BEC: The Way of Being Church towards
purposes; the relationship is the purpose. tablished by late Cardinal Rosales. To- presbyterate through the years. Yet it did the Third Millennium
Like if I sprint out of the house while stuffing breakfast in my mouth, my day there are already 141 parishes. not stop His Eminence from pursuing When the Synod was convoked in the
wife takes delight in a slow meal, where food isn’t the only thing shared, but Therefore in a little over 27 years, the his own programs for the ongoing for- mid-80’s a new pastoral approach was
conversation, stories, warmth, and laughter. current Local Ordinary, Cardinal Vidal, mation of priests to ensure a sustained already making waves in the Church, at
She also has the time to regularly stop her work to check on the state of has already established 38 parishes. level of competence in the ministry. least in the ‘third world Church’. As re-
our friendship. She asks, “Do you love me?” When I respond, “Yes, I do,” she The regular monthly recollections cent as Vatican II yet as ancient as the
teases, “How much?” After I tell her, “Very much,” she peacefully goes back Pastoral Planning Board were refashioned to become an extended Church herself, formation of Christian
to whatever she was doing. This dialogue is repeated about fourteen times During the Fourth Synod the admin- program of renewal of the clergy. communities as a new way of experienc-
in a regular day. istrative and pastoral administration of Handled by a group of priests and lay ing ecclesial life traces its roots to the time
Because of her, I’ve learned anew an ancient truth: That friendships are the the Archdiocese was looked into, result- counterparts, monthly recollections give when Christianity was still nascent. But
most sacred, most precious, most life-giving stuff of human life. ing in the formation of a special body to priests the opportunity to evaluate and its twentieth century revival started in
They are our richest treasure! oversee the drawing up of the pastoral discuss the different aspects of their min- Latin America in the 60’s and was adopted
My friends are many. programs of the Archdiocese and their istry and address some concerns that to the Philippine setting shortly after.
God is my first Friend. implementation. Thus the Pastoral Plan- touch on the personal (relational and pro- The Fourth Synod officially adopted
I consider my wife to be my best friend. ning Board was created shortly after the fessional) dimension of their pastoral ser- Basic Ecclesial Community or BEC as the
And I have my family and my community as wonderful, beautiful friends. Synod. It is actually the Diocesan Pasto- vice. From purely lecture-style assem- pastoral approach of the Archdiocese
As I waste my time with them and wonder whether I’m accomplishing ral Council which operates under the blies, group-dynamics activities were re- thereby ensuring radical re-focusing of
anything, I have to hammer this reality to my head: Friendships are not direct supervision of the Cardinal and is cently incorporated in the format. the vision and mission of the Cebuano
about goals or purposes or results. Because friendship, in essence, is the managed and coordinated by a priest In this way relationship between older Church. A Secretariat was formed to
journey and the destination. who acts as the Pastoral Planning Board and younger clergy has become closer oversee and spearhead the introduction
I’ve now learned that relationships are more important than accomplishments. Coordinator. and perennial spats between parish of BEC’s in the parishes.
That time-efficiency is second only to love-efficiency. The board is composed of the Chair- priests and their vicars have been dif- In 1991 a five-year renewal program
That nurturing friendship is the greatest thing that I can ever accomplish men of the different Archdiocesan Com- fused although not entirely eliminated. was drawn up in preparation for the
in life. missions, together with two Men Reli- The Cardinal’s Hour which comes to- quadricentennial celebration of Cebu as
In essence, that’s my purpose for being. gious, two Women Religious and five wards the end of the day is one forum a diocese with the theme BEC: Towards
(Male thinking, hmm?) lay people, all of whom are appointed wherein His Eminence addresses his Maturation in Faith wherein it was en-
by the Archbishop. priests and discusses with them matters Cebu / B7
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008 Social Concerns B7

Agriculture and food security in


a changing environment
By Joyce O. Palacol that a rise in temperature can lead to 0.59 meter based on different consequence of deforestation,
to extremes weather. There can scenarios. Various researches re- there would be biodiversity
be more frequent and stronger veal that the Philippines being a depletion through habitat loss
THE threat of climate change is typhoons accompanied by flood- climate hotspot, is the most vul- and breaking of biological food
of global concern. It affects coun- ing. More incidents and longer nerable to the worst manifesta- chain, extensive and persistent
tries, rich and powerful but most periods of droughts may occur. tions of climate change. colonization of invasive low pro-
vulnerable are the developing Such events will affect food sup- Conservatively, one-meter in ductivity grass ( Imperata
countries including the Philip- ply from land and from sea. New sea level rise will affect 64 of the cylindrica); and loss of water and
pines. diseases maybe triggered; there Philippines’ 81 provinces, which water generation capacity of wa-
The Philippines is an archipe- may be resurgence of those that cover at least 703 of the 1,610 tersheds. Unsustainable agricul-
lagic country characterized by may have been eliminated in the municipalities and submerge al- tural practices such as overgraz-
disrupted, isolated and frag- past like tuberculosis and ma- most 700 million square meter ing, slash and burn farming, and
mented island ecosystem, with laria. Many species of plants and of land. Top 20 provinces which heavy use of fertilizers render the
scenic but degrading landscapes animals will disappear for fail- would be affected by sea level rise land infertile robbing the land of
and bio-habitat with rich but ing to adopt such changes. are Sulu, Palawan, Zamboanga micro-nutrients.
highly diversified flora and With the rise in global tem- del Sur, Northern Samar, These factors are further aggra-
fauna. Our country is home to a peratures and sea levels, there Zamboanga Sibugay, Basilan, vated by the effects of climate
myriad of plants and animals would be much pressure in agri- Cebu, Davao del Norte, Bohol, change. The changing weather
endemic only to the country. cultural production and strain on Camarines Sur, Quezon, Tawi- patterns heavily affect seasonal
Rare, threatened and endangered water resources. Many fear that tawi, Masbate, Negros Occiden- farming resulting to the decrease
animals such as the Philippine eagle, the drought, floods and rising sea tal, Camarines Norte, Capiz, in agricultural yield. It is inter-
Calauit deer, Tarsier, Philippine levels due to warmer weather Catanduanes, Samar, esting to note that the area in-
Tube-nose Bat, Sibuyan Pygmy would create millions of refugees Zamboanga del Norte and tended for agricultural purposes
fruitbat, furous-lored kingfisher, cin- from drowning island—nations Maguindanao. Of major concern, is further diminished due to slope
namon bittern, celestial monarch and and possible disputes over in- these 20 provinces that will be categorization and erosion factor.
endangered plants such as wild creasingly scarce fresh water. heavily affected by sea level rise The possible encroachment of
pandan, wild palm and a It is projected that economies are the major rice producing salt water on productive fields
diputerocrap. would take a big blow as farm- provinces catering the rest of the would render the soil infertile.
The Philippines was predomi- ing, fishing and business would country. In the same way, contamination
nantly agricultural until the early be adversely affected by the Of the different sectors that of fresh water would be a prob-
90s. Seventy percent of our land
area was fully devoted to agri-
culture until the passage of the Of the different sectors that would be adversely affected by climate educating farmers on new and
Local Government Code of change, it is agriculture and consequently food production and secu- more efficient farming methods
and the introduction of micronu-
1991which paved the way for
land conversion wherein govern- rity. Of particular interest is rice and corn production which are the trients to enhance the fertility of
ment allowed the conversion of staple food of Filipinos. Presently, each year the Philippines imports croplands, experiments on water
containment facilities, the need
agricultural land for other land
uses. The Philippines was once rice to augment local production and to answer the increasing demand for water managers for the effi-
the leading rice exporter in Asia due to population increase. cient use of existing water sup-
considering that the amount of ply, introduction of rainwater
rainfall, the temperature and the harvesting structures and most
quality of soil is best for rice pro- change of climate. would be adversely affected by lem for irrigating agricultural The Philippine government importantly lobbying for the
duction. We too, have govern- The IPCC report of 2006 de- climate change, it is agriculture fields. has always been supportive of government to integrate climate
ment institution devoted mainly fined that the result of human and consequently food produc- Contamination of the source of the agricultural sector most es- variability and climate change to
in developing better variety of activities increases the concentra- tion and security. Of particular water for irrigation would defi- pecially that of rice production. all its development policies.
rice to adapt to adverse climatic tion of greenhouse gases in the interest is rice and corn produc- nitely adversely affect more than Our president, Gloria Macapagal Given the parameters which
conditions and to boost yield. atmosphere such as carbon diox- tion which are the staple food of half of the productive area de- Arroyo, has taken a step further are beyond our control, we need
International Rice Research Insti- ide, methane and nitrous oxide. Filipinos. Presently, each year the voted to agriculture. This would by alloting a sizeable chunk of to use our God given talent and
tute (IRRI) based in Los Baños, The global increase in carbon di- Philippines imports rice to aug- result to diminished food supply. the national budget for (a) Re- resources to design and imple-
Laguna has been the center for oxide concentration is primarily ment local production and to an- The swelling of salt water may search and Development of variet- ment mitigating measures and to
rice research and had been the due to the increased use of fossil swer the increasing demand due even contaminate wells bringing ies of seeds resilient to climate adapt in order that this genera-
training ground of agricultural fuels like oil and coal, while meth- to population increase. scarcity of water supply for hu- change such as those that can be tion and the next will survive.
scientists coming from neighbor- ane and nitrous oxide are prima- As population grow, agricul- man use. planted to marshland/swamps, The Lord made everything in
ing Asian countries such as Thai- rily due to agriculture. ture faces increasing competition those that do not require much perfect harmony, giving man
land, Vietnam and Cambodia. More intense and longer from urban and industrial sectors Strategies for adaptation to cli- water, and high yield crops (b) sufficient resources for every-
Rice sufficiency was achieved droughts have been noted over for water and land. The increase mate change fertilizers and farm implements such thing that he needs. And He ad-
during the time of the late Presi- wider areas since the 70’s, particu- demand for housing due to the Our prospects look dim and the as hand tractors (suyod, kuliglig, monished man to subdue and
dent Ferdinand E. Marcos when larly in the tropics and subtrop- bulging population growth and realization of the gravity of this etc) (c) Post harvest facilities such take care of the earth giving him
he introduced the program of ics. Widespread changes in ex- other uses such as mining, com- problem is heartbreaking. We as solar dryer, warehouses and all the faculties to manage the
Masagana 99. Today, the agricul- treme temperatures have been mercial, institutional, necessi- need to pose and assess what we rice mills (d) Training and organiz- earth’s resources. This is our re-
tural sector is burdened with feed- observed over the last 50 years. tates massive land use conver- have done in the past that con- ing of farmers into cooperative and sponsibility as God’s people.
ing almost ninety million Filipi- There would be far-reaching sion. These lead to diminished tributed to these problems. We (e) Financial Subsidy.
nos whose staple food is rice. consequences for the planet’s area devoted to agriculture. Cli- need to go back to Him for redi- The church, the civil society (Joyce O. Palacol is the Ecology
Low yield per hectare, decreas- biodiversity predicting an in- mate change, which is expected rection how to cope and adapt to organizations (CSO) and Na- Program Coordinator of the Episco-
ing area devoted to agriculture crease of 1.5 – 2.5 degrees Celsius to alter the timing and location the changes which are outside tional Government Organiza- pal Commission on Social Action,
and a myriad of projected ad- would threaten 20–30 percent of of rainfall, is likely to compound our powers. With these thoughts, tions (NGO) need to play an im- Justice and Peace of the CBCP. This
verse effect of climate change species. Few ecosystems would the problem. we need to collectively design portant role in is an abridged version of the paper he
compound our food security adapt to a 4 degrees increase in Other factors affecting agricul- strategies that would one way or advocating nutrition security in presented at the International Con-
problem. global temperature. The same ture are deforestation due to the another alleviate the impact of agriculture, lobbying for a mora- ference on Climate Change Institute
report projects that by the end of increase demand of wood for global warming and climate torium on land conversion of of Defense Studies and Analyses
Climate change and agriculture the 21st century, global sea level housing, paper products and change especially on agriculture agricultural land for any pur- (IDSA), New Delhi, India, Septem-
Climate scientists have warned rise would range from 0.18 meter other commercial purposes. As a and food security. poses especially irrigated lands, ber 3-4, 2008.)

Cebu / B6

visioned that by 1995 all parishes in the promotion of BEC. catholic schools, seminarians, religious formation, they nevertheless show that who dedicate themselves to catechetics
Cebu shall have been “BECised” already. brothers, sisters and priests. catechesis is one serious mission that the and Catholic education
Although this has not been realized Catechetical Apostolate of the Archdio- If we go by percentage alone then we Archdiocese is undertaking to sustain the 2. The Siervas de la Virgen de la Paz
100 percent, comparable study would cese glean from the proceeding numbers that religious and moral formation of the (SNSP), founded by a layman, dedicated
bear out that indeed BEC is already tren- Vis-à-vis the promotion of BEC as pas- the catechetical endeavor of the archdio- faithful. to catechetics.
chant in all the corners of the Archdio- toral approach is the intensive cese has been extensive. 3. Living the Gospel Community
cese. In 1980 the Quinquennial Report catechetical drive of the Archdiocese. Six Out of 1,420 schools in the Primary Religious and Secular Institutes (LGC), with their special apostolate in
to the Holy See listed only around forty Archdiocesan bodies have been at the and Elementary levels, 1,163 were A steady rise in the number of reli- catechesis.
small Christian communities existing. forefront of this endeavor. They are the reached out and given religious instruc- gious communities established in Cebu There is one Secular Institute for
But in 1994 it rose dramatically to 2,470 1) Archdiocesan Catechetical Center tions. This represents 82 percent. has been noted in the past years. Right Women in Cebu, the Instruction
although the exact number of active (ACC); 2) Archdiocesan Catechetical There are 8,770 sections in the Primary now there are already six monasteries Teresiana, dedicated to campus ministry
communities cannot be ascertained, nor Board (ACB); 3) District Catechetical and Elementary schools and 8,169 sec- of cloistered women and one indepen- and apostolate of prayer. The Opus Dei
can sheer numbers alone be an accurate Center (DCC); 4) Vicariate Catechetical tions were reported as given catechetical dent men’s monastery. These are the 1) which has a status of Personal Prelature
gauge for the maturation of the Center (VCC); 5) Parish Catechetical instruction, which is 93 percent of the Discalced Nuns of the Blessed Mary of is active in lay spiritual formation espe-
Cebuano’s faith. Center (PCC); and 6) Catechetical Train- total. Mount Carmel (OCD); 2) Order of St. cially in the professional sector.
A sustained annual mission program ing Institute of Cebu (CATIC). Out of 238 schools in the Secondary Clare (OSC); 3) Augustinian
of the Archdiocese called the Cebu Involved in various catechetical works level 173 schools were reached out by Contemplatives (OSA); 4) Sisters of the Involvement of the Laity
Archdiocesan Mission Program (CAMP) are: professional catechists, volunteer catechists, or 73 percent. Cross of the Good Shepherd (SCGS); 5) Long before PCP II envisioned a
composed of newly ordained priests and catechists from different church organi- Although these data do not automati- Sister Servants of the Holy Spirit of Per- Church of an empowered laity, the local
lay counterparts has been a big boost to zations, student catechists from various cally translate into fail-safe Christian petual Adoration (SSPS-PA); 6) Order of Church of Cebu was already well on its
the Most Holy Redeemer (OSsR); and 7) way towards lay empowerment. A shin-
The Benedictine Order of St. Sylvester ing example of that was the Fourth Di-
which established its monastery recently ocesan Synod of Cebu and the Congress
in Carmen, Cebu. of the Laity, wherein the lay delegates
Aside from these there are 21 Men’s took active part in shaping the future of

CBCPMonitor Name Religious Orders and Congregations of the Cebuano Church.


Papal Right some of which have been in Aside from the traditional church-
_________________________________________________ Cebu for centuries and decades already. mandated organizations, various lay
(Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name) In fact the two Catholic Universities in movements and associations are mush-
SUBSCRIPTION RATES Cebu are run by religious congregations: rooming nowadays, each trying to an-
Mailing Address University of San Carlos by the Society swer particular needs of the lay people
of the Divine Word and University of and offering diverse avenues of spiritu-
The CBCP Monitor is published ________________________________________________________________________________________________ San Jose Recoletos by the Order of Au- ality and renewal.
gustinian Recollects. To date more than 25 lay organiza-
fortnightly by the CBCP Media Of- Phone No.: ________ Fax No.: ________ E-mail: ___________ On the other hand the Basilica del Sto. tions, movements and associations have
fice, with editorial and business of- Mode of Payment Niño is under the care of the Augustin- been recognized by the Archdiocese and
fices at 470 Gen. Luna St., ian Fathers while the Major Seminary, they are grouped under one umbrella
Intramuros, Manila. PO Box 3601, Check/PMO enclosed Cash Payment formerly under the administration of the called the Council of the Laity. But lay
1076 MCPO (Payable to: CBCP Communications Development Foundation Inc.) Vincentian Fathers, has been given over involvement goes deeper than mere
• Domestic to the Diocesan clergy. membership of an organization.
1 Year Php 500.00 On the distaff side, there are 37 Some lay persons whose expertise and
________________________ Women’s Congregations of Papal Right service to the Church have been note-
2 Years Php 900.00 working in the different endeavors of worthy are now actively involved in
Signature
• Foreign: Asia PLEASE SEND TO: the Church. The Archdiocese of Cebu is pastoral administration, seminary for-
1 Year US$ 55.00 CBCP Monitor, P.O. Box 3601, Manila, Philippines also home to three Women’s Congrega- mation, renewal programs and other
• All Other US$ 80.00 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines | Tel (632) 404-2182 • Telefax (632) 404-1612 tion of Diocesan Right namely: apostolates which in the past belonged
Or e-mail this at cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.com 1. The Daughters of Saint Teresa (DST) only to the province of the ordained.
CBCP Monitor
B8 Entertainment Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

Moral Assessment Technical CINEMA Rating Guide


Assessment
Abhorrent VA - For viewers of all ages
Disturbing Poor V13 - For viewers age 13 and below
Acceptable Below average with parental guidance
Wholesome Average V14 - For viewers 14 and above
Exemplary Above average V18 - For mature viewers 18 and above
Excellent NP - Not for public viewing

Title: Igor to their kind, he was named Igor. As an and his followers are.
Cast: (Voice) John Cusack, Steve adult, he now works for a wicked mas- Igor tries to be a film for all viewers.
Buscemi, John Cleese, Christian ter scientist. In spite of his talent in sci- There is the struggle between the bad
Slater, Jennifer Coolidge, Arsenia ence, Igor is not allowed to try and use and good characters to gain the upper
Hall, Sean Hayes, Eddie Izzard,
Jay Leno, James Lipion, Molly his skills. He is only to do the simple hand. The acting casts are computer gen-
Shannon tasks that his master gives him. Still, he erated images not easily identifiable for
Director: Tony Leondis is determined to become like his mas- viewers. One example is a brain soaked
Producers: John D. Fraklis, Max ter, to the extent of winning the title of in a jar called Brain; and another, among
Howard “Best Evil Scientist” at the annual Evil others, is a very skinny rabbit named
Screenwriter: Chris McKenna Scientist Fair. Scamper which keeps on trying to kill
Music: Patrick Doyle A chance for Igor to start something itself. The characters or images are too
Editor: Herve Schneid comes when a disastrous accident in the many and they move at a pace that makes
Genre: Animation, Comedy lab takes place; he attempts to develop a it difficult to understand what is taking
Distributor: International: The gigantic woman he calls Eva, mistaken place as the story moves along.
Weinstein Company, Local:VIVA
Running Time: 85 min. for “Evil” for a while. He prepares and Wanting to be like his wicked boss,
Technical Assessment: trains her to help him create and spread Igor was willing to turn evil. But it turns
Moral Assessment: evil all around. Things become compli- out he is too naturally good to turn bad.
CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14 and cated however, when his master goes af- What happened had positive effects on
above ter him, and also catches Eva to brain- Eve and his group of followers. It may
wash her for his own agenda. But Eva not be a good idea for the younger teens
(once “Evil”) is found to be a naturally to watch Igor because of some of the
IN the land called Malaria, a child with a good character that could not be easily weird and scary unrecognizable charac-
humped backed was born. Since this turned bad. Igor also finds out that he ters shown. There are also some violence
kind of phenomenon was unacceptable could not really be evil as his master depicted, although in cartoon style.

Mac en Colet Ni Bladimer Usi

Buhay Parokya
By Bladimer Usi
There are three missing articles in this
cartoon. Find the images of Pope John Paul
II, Jaime Cardinal Sin and the Crucifixion.

Title: Matakot Ka sa Kulam


Cast: Judy Ann Santos, Dennis Trillo, TJ Trinidad, Ces
Quesada, Sharlene San Pedro, Kris Bernal, Irma Adlawan
Director: Jun Lana
Producer : Lily Y. Monteverde
Screenwriter: Jun Lana
Genre: Horror/ Drama
Distributor: Regal Films
Location: Manila/ Batangas
Running Time: 100 min.
Technical Assessment:
Moral Assessment:
CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14 and above

NAGKA-AMNESIA si Mira (Judy Ann Santos) bunga ng isang


matinding aksidente. Hindi naman sumuko ang asawa niyang
si Paul (Dennis Trillo) sa pag-aalaga sa kanya at sa pagpapaalala
kung sino siya. Unti-unti ay inilalapit ni Paul si Mira sa kanilang
nag-iisang anak, si Sophie (Sharlene San Pedro) na isang bulag.
Habang pinagtatagni ni Mira ang kanyang pagkatao ay may
nakikita siyang isang babaeng nagmumulto. Kasabay nito ay
ang pagkakatuklas niya iba pang katotohanan sa kanyang
pagkatao sa pamamagitan ni Dave (TJ Trinidad) na siyang
tanging pinagtaguan niya ng kanyang mga sikreto. Isa sa mga
sikretong ito ay ang kanyang kakambal na si Maria (Judy Ann
Santos) at ang kanilang pinagmulang angkan ng mga
mangkukulam. Si Maria nga kaya ang babaeng nagmumulto
at hindi matahimik? Habang tumintindi ang banta sa buhay
ng pamilya ni Mira ay unti-unti rin siyang napapalapit sa
katotohanan ng kanyang pagkatao.
Isang matagumpay na pelikulang katakutan ang Kulam.
Maayos ang daloy nito at talaga namang tatakutin ka mula
simula hanggang wakas. Mahusay ang pagkakasulat at
pagkakadirehe. Tamang-tama ang timpla ng drama at horror at
sakto sa bilang ang pagtatago at pagbubunyag ng mga sikreto.
Mahusay din ang pagkaka-arte ng lahat ng tauhan lalo na si
Judy Ann Santos na gumanap ng isang tunay na mapaghamong
papel. Maging ang mga pangalawang tauhan ay pawang
mahuhusay din tulad nina Sharlene San Pedro na mahusay sa
pagkakaganap na bulag at Irma Adlawan bilang kanilang inang
mangkukulam. Lubos na nakatulong din ang maayos na pag-
iilaw at disenyong pamproduksiyon. Bagama’t halatang ang
ibang eksena ay hango mula sa mga Korean horror, nagawa pa
rin nitong bigyan ng tunay na Pilipinong bihis ang pelikula
dahil sa tema nitong tunay na malapit sa kalinangang Pilipino.
Totoo nga kaya ang kulam? Ito ang tanong na matagal ng
bumabagabag sa bawat ordinaryong Pilipino na makakarinig
ng tungkol dito. Totoo man o hindi, isang bagay ang malinaw,
ito ay hindi kagagawan ng kabutihan kundi ng kasamaan.
Ipinakita ng pelikula ang lakas ng kapangyarihang itim na ito
ngunit ipinakita rin dito na sa bandang huli, ang kabutihan pa
rin ang magwawagi. Higit na makapangyarihan ang pag-ibig
at pagmamahal sa anumang mahika o vertud tulad ng sa kulam.
Marami nga lang mga eksenang nangangailangan ng gabay
ng magulang sakaling manood ang mga kabataan. Nariyan
ang pagpapakamatay, pakiki-apid at ilang mga nakakakilabot
na eksena na maaaring magdulot ng trauma o bangungot sa
mga bata.
CBCP
CBCP Monitor
Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008
C1

The Cross
A Supplement Publication for KCFAPI
and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

KCFAPI
KCFAPI Chairman
Chairman Patrocinio
Patrocinio R.
R. Bacay
Bacay and
and KCFAPI
KCFAPI President
President Antonio
Antonio B.
B. Borromeo
Borromeo led
led former
former Chairmen
Chairmen and and Presidents
Presidents of
of KCFAPI:
KCFAPI: Alberto
Alberto P.
P. Solis,
Solis, Alfredo
Alfredo O.O. Taruc,
Taruc, Edijer
Edijer A.
A. Martinez,
Martinez, Pedro
Pedro M.
M. Rodriguez
Rodriguez and
and incumbent
incumbent Chairmen
Chairmen and
and Presidents
Presidents
of
of KCFAPI
KCFAPI Subsidiaries:
Subsidiaries: Justice
Justice Jose
Jose Reyes,
Reyes, Jr.,
Jr., Patricio
Patricio J.
J. Vera,
Vera, Alonso
Alonso L.
L. Tan
Tan and
andAntonio
Antonio T.
T. Yulo
Yulo in
in giving
giving loyalty
loyalty awards
awards to
to employees
employees of
of KCFAPI.
KCFAPI. A A special
special recognition
recognition was
was given
given to
to former
former KCFAPI
KCFAPI Chairman
Chairman and
and President,
President, Bro.
Bro. Teodoro
Teodoro O.O. Arcenas,
Arcenas,
Jr.,
Jr., who unselfishly served KCFAPI Group for the longest term of 25 years. Bro. Teodoro O. Arcenas, Jr. is currently the Chairman of Keys Realty Development Corp. Also in photo are his wife Dra. Zenaida and son Teodoro Arcenas III. On
who unselfishly served KCFAPI Group for the longest term of 25 years. Bro. Teodoro O. Arcenas, Jr. is currently the Chairman of Keys Realty Development Corp. Also in photo are his wife Dra. Zenaida and son Teodoro Arcenas III. On st
stage
age

KCFAPI posts highest


are KCFAPI Service Awardees Cynthia Genosa, Edwin Dawal, Magdalene Flores, Ronulfo Infante and KCFAPI Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia and Perfect Attendance Awardees Rommel
are KCFAPI Service Awardees Cynthia Genosa, Edwin Dawal, Magdalene Flores, Ronulfo Infante and KCFAPI Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia and Perfect Attendance Awardees Rommel Guanzon and Michael de Castro. Guanzon and Michael de Castro.

monthly sales
By Joseph P. Teodoro ducers brought more than Php2 Million FYCI

Holy Trinity Memorial Chapels


during the month.
THE Knights of Columbus Frater- Central Luzon Conquerors led by Manuel
nal Association of the Philippines Naldoza made Php1 Million making them
the second best for the month.
(KCFAPI) has posted its highest in-

commemorates 26 years of
Newly appointed Reynaldo Valencia of the
come for the month in 50 years with Metro Manila Dragons led his team for third
Php9.814 Million First Year Contri- place with Php685,000.00 FYCI.
bution Income from regular plans The Php9.814 Million September output is

compassionate service
for September 2008. still the best month in years eclipsing the pre-
With remittances in transit the KCFAPI vious high posted in July 2008 with about
Fraternal Benefits Group (FBG) believes that Php9.6 Million.
it has hurdled its aim to deliver Ten Million The attainment of this objective will be re-
Pesos (Php10,000.00) First Year Contribution corded as the first time that KCFAPI broke
Income for the month to mark the celebra- the Ten Million Sales in 50 years. THE Holy Trinity Me-
tion of the 50 Years of Fraternal Service with The group buckled down to work for the morial Chapels, a divi-
added color. achievement of the target. Management of- sion of Keys Realty &
The biggest contribution came from the fered an incentive while the field sales force Development Corp.
Central Luzon Believers (CLB1) headed by increased their sales activity under the watch- (KRDC), held a thanks-
Efren Casupanan. ful eye and motivating words of encourage- giving Mass on October
Two of his Fraternal Counselors are eye- ment of their Area Managers. 10 at HTMC Building,
ing the much coveted 2008 Fraternal Counse- By the end of September 30, 2008, FYCI Sucat, Paranaque, as part
lor of the Year Award. CLB1 deep bench of pro- from regular plans stood at Php9.814 Million. of its anniversary cel-
ebration. And in obser-
vance of the rosary

First 10 housing units now month, the holy rosary


will be prayed daily for
the whole month of Oc-
tober by the nuns of the
stand at KC Village Daughters of St. Francis,
Philippines, together
with the office staff. cluding a crematorium grams for priests and col- ings to the less fortunate,
As the company cel- equipped with two most legiate scholarships to the outpouring of His
ebrates its 26th year an- environmentally-sound US poor and deserving stu- graces and favors is evi-
niversary, the Board of made cremation machines. dents. It is the only funeral dent in the long journey
Directors, officers and As part of its obligation to parlor in the south of Metro of this institution which
staff express their deep its mother company, the Manila that has its own reached 26 fruitful years
and profound gratitude Knights of Columbus Fra- DENR-approved waste wa- of compassionate ser-
to all their clientele who ternal Association of the ter treatment facility. The vice.
patronize and support Phils, Inc. (KCFAPI) own- company consistently For all of these, HTMC
the company all these ers of Keys Realty and De- abides and complies with gives back the glory and
years which enables it to velopment Corp., HTMC all the ordinances of the honor to God the Al-
achieve its vision/mis- continues to uphold its local and national govern- mighty Father, Son and
sion and objectives. commitment to the KC Phil- ment rules and regulations. Holy Spirit, from whom
Today the company ippines Foundation’s be- God’s generosity to the the company owes ev-
has its own world-class nevolent activities by sup- company cannot be out- erything. (Carmen C.
and modern facilities in- porting its scholarship pro- done as it shares the bless- Flores)

KC Foundation awards volunteers for


TEN new model units ready for occupancy
now stand at the Knights of Columbus Vil-
Hills) under District M-29 headed by District
Deputy Bro. Manuel Payumo.
KC Village Bayanihan
lage at the Bagong Pangarap GK Site in According to Gawad Kalinga Foundation, KC Philippines Foundation, Inc. has recently awarded Aside from the certificates, the awardees also received
Tungkong Mangga, San Jose Del Monte City, Inc. Metro Manila North Sector “A” Head, the employees of KC Fraternal, Keys Realty, Mace Insur- tokens of miniature GK houses.
Bulacan. Mr. Beng Garcia, the screening and selection ance and KC Luzon Jurisdiction Certificates of Apprecia- During the awarding ceremony, Justice Reyes warmly
The units serve as the showcase model of of the 10 families who will be the beneficia- tion and Gratitude for their participation in the construc- expressed his gratitude to all the volunteers whose self-
the Knights of Columbus (K of C) Village ries is in progress and will be finalized be- tion of ten housing units at Bagong Pangarap, GK Site, less service greatly contributed to the successful comple-
Gawad Kalinga (GK) Project situated within fore the formal turn-over ceremonies sched- Tungkong Mangga, San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan. tion of the worthy and noble endeavor.
the Araneta Estate property at Bagong uled at 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2008. SK Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., Foundation Chairman; He said that GK does not only mean “Gawad Kalinga”
Pangarap GK Site. Members of the Board of Trustees, the man- and SK Alonso L. Tan, Foundation President and Knights but also stands for “God’s Kingdom”. He added that this
KCFAPI management and staff and its Af- agement, and staff of KCFAPI and its Affili- of Columbus Luzon Deputy led the awarding ceremony. Bayanihan Build is Gawad Kalinga’s expression of tire-
filiates, Keys Realty & Development Corpo- ates will celebrate the turn-over occasion Seven of the 60 employees who volunteered from June less service and love for “God’s Kingdom” through chari-
ration, Mace General Insurance Agency, Inc., with the following bayanihan activities: work 28 to September 6, 2008 were cited for completing the table works and he is glad that the Knights of Columbus
KC Philippines Foundation, Inc., and the Fr. of beautifying the ten housing units with scheduled six Saturdays of volunteer works: Ms. Carmelita shared the same passion.
G. J. Willmann Charities, Inc., have volun- garden plants, medical mission for the GK Ruiz, Ms. Imelda Kabigting, Ms. Rowena Merciales, Mr. KCFAPI President Bro. Antonio Borromeo said he was
teered their time and energy and joined the site inhabitants, and, award of serviceable Pedro Lubenia, Ms. Ma. Luisa Manuel, Ms. Denise Solina very happy to observe that the employees have already
“bayanihan” sorties during two Saturdays of home and kitchen appliances together with and Joselito Mañalac, Foundation General Manager. developed their sense of care for the needy. He noted
each month since June 28, 2008 to toil in the distribution of used clothings for the benefi- that they shared not just their personal money but most
building of the first 10 housing units. ciary-families of the ten K of C Village hous- importantly their labor in completing the project for the
Construction was finally completed on Sep- ing units. beneficiaries of the ten-unit dwellings under the joint
tember 20. The houses were individually The employees will enliven the atmo- Gawad Kalinga and KC project.
painted in bright life-colors and its interiors sphere during morning turn-over ceremonies Meanwhile, Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III in his homily
made habitable, after six “bayanihan” sorties. with special “barrio fiesta” style street deco- during KCFAPI’s regular Monday morning Mass,
Other volunteers who also enthusiastically rations, festive music, and entertainment ren- emp hasized the value of social responsibility while re-
joined “bayanihan” sorties at different Sat- ditions. flecting on the reading of the day—the Parable of the
urdays, were KC Luzon Jurisdiction State Of- A beautiful marker will be erected at the Good Samaritan.
ficers and Office Personnel; CBCP Media Of- front lot of the area reserved for the construc- He also added that social concern is clearly manifested
fice staff; Manila Council 1000 officers and tion of 32 housing units at Knights of Co- in activities like the Gawad Kalinga and that our chari-
members; officers and members of the six lumbus Village at Bagong Pangarap GK Site. table works must not end on October 18, the turn-over
councils of San Jose del Monte City (Nos. 6745 The sign will commemorate the first ever ceremony, but rather, should continue our evangeliza-
of Poblacion, 8833 of Sapang Palay, 12204 of partnership between KC Philippines Foun- Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., Foundation Chairman (3 rd from right) and SK tion keeping in mind the two great commandments—
Francisco Homes, 13344 of Muzon, 14227 of dation and Gawad Kalinga Foundation. Alonso L. Tan, Foundation President, with Perfect Attendance Awardees.
love of God and loving our neighbor as ourselves.
(From left) Carmelita Ruiz, Imelda Kabigting, Rowena Merciales, Pedro
Area D Sapang Palay, and 14419 of Pleasant (Joselito E. Mañalac) Lubenia, Ma. Luisa Manuel, Denise Solina (far right). (Denise Solina)
CBCP Monitor
C2 The Cross Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

President’s Message
Antonio B. Borromeo
President, KCFAPI
KCFAPI, pillar of a sound
financial institution
WE have just celebrated our 50 th anniversary. With all the pomp and pageantry we

KCFAPI awards BC
should not forget that in all these 50 years, KCFAPI has grown to be one of the
pillars of a sound financial institution not only in rendering pecuniary service to
the KC members and their families but also to the insurance and financial indus-
tries. Our financial stability has been tested from the 1997 Asian crisis to the
present Lehman Brothers and AIG turmoil. KCFAPI does not have any direct expo-
sure to the financial institutions going bankrupt or being under siege. What we
have is a stable financial position arising out of sound and tested investments. Our
liquidity has always been sound and we are proud to state that we will be here for
Holder Bonanza Grand
the next 50 years.
Draw Winner from Cebu
For Brother Knights by Brother Knights By Allen Bohol
THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Phil-
By Joseph P. Teodoro ippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) in celebration of its 50 th Founding
Anniversary has offered the Golden Jubilee Bonanza Raffle
TWO highest aspirations of today’s Filipino parents are to provide their families homes they can call their own and education for their Promo from January 01 to August 31, 2008, to holders of
children. Members of the Knights of Columbus are more fortunate to enjoy a privilege of having KCFAPI which takes care of these needs— inforce Benefit Certificate of KCFAPI. There were seven
ensuring the financial security of their families including helping them plan for their children’s college education. monthly draws through electronic raffle with fabulous prizes
Bro. Augusto Cesar C. Ventenilla of Pangasinan Council 3711 is one of those who took the opportunity of owning the College Savings Plan and one grand Winner of “Family Vacation Trip to
when this was first offered. Bro. Ogie and Sis. Maria Linda enrolled their two daughters, Arianne Maricarl and Princess Miles to the Hongkong Disneyland plus Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00)
educational program. shopping allowance.
Bro. Ventenilla, a past Grand Knight, a former District Deputy and a past Faithful Navigator, and Sis. Maria Linda invite every KC parent During the grand draw held last September 12, Sis.
who have children between ages 0-10 to take advantage of this unique opportunity available only to the members of our Order. Evangelyn B. Parages holder BC No. 6048768 was announced
as the lucky winner of the Hongkong Disneyland package
Dear Fellow KC Parents, tour.
Sis. Evangelyn B. Parages, a housewife and a native of
SOMETHING good happened to our family courtesy of the Dalaguete, Southern part of Cebu, is married to Bro. Jose
Steve S. Parages, a jeepney driver and a member of our Lady
Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, of Guadalupe Council No. 5883. When she received a call
Inc. (KCFAPI) the second-to-none life insurance provider of from Manila office informing her that she won the Grand
KC members and their families. Through this letter, Marilyn, Prize—Trip to Hongkong Disneyland, she never thought it
my two daughters and myself would like to share it with you was true, “di ko motuo kay binuang na” (I don’t believe, it’s
only a joke) she said. She was finally convinced when Cebu
the benefits of our membership. Service Office made a follow-up call.
More than six years ago KCFAPI offered its version of an “Wa gyud ko magdahum nga nituod diay nga nakadaug
Educational Program for children of our fellow members. I ko” (I never expected that I truly won), she said.
examined the benefits of the plan and found out they are more However, upon knowing the requirements and the neces-
sary documents for the passport, she opted for a cash con-
superior than those being sold by commercial companies. The
version in the amount of Fifty Thousand Pesos (PhP50,000.00).
premiums are competitive. On top of these the program is be- Sis. Evangelyn mentioned that it was an answered prayer
ing handled by brother knights. since she really needed some amount of money to defray
My eldest daughter, Arianne Maricarl, now benefits on the expenses in the first year death anniversary of her mother to
education plan of KCFAPI. Checks come promptly in time for be celebrated in her home town, Dalaguete and for the
schooling of her seven year-old son.
enrollment. “Nagpasalmat gyud ko sa KCFAPI, daku kaayo ni og
It is for this reason that I am inviting you my fellow KC matabang namo, makapalit na gyud ko og computer para sa
parents to grab this unique opportunity available only to the ako anak,” (I thank KCFAPI, this will help us a lot and I can
members of our Order. Give your children the education they now buy a computer for my son) Sis. Evangelyn said.
She put part of her winnings under time deposit and
deserve and should enjoy and through KCFAPI. planned to get the Enhanced College Savings Plan for his
Vivat Jesus! son. Despite the meager income of her husband, Sis
Evangelyn, managed to save for KCFAPI insurance.
Sincerely, KCFAPI Chairman of the Board Engr. Patrocinio R. Bacay
Ventenilla Family: (Back, L-R) Arianne Maricarl, Princess led the awarding ceremony last September 30, 2008 at Cebu
Service Office, 36 Archbishop Reyes Avenue Cebu City. Also
Augusto Cesar and Maria Linda Ventenilla Miles (Front) Bro. Augusto Cesar and wife, Sis. Maria
present during the ceremony were Visayas Deputy, Dionisio
Linda R. Esteban Jr.; Area Manager of Central Visayas Assurers,
Wilfredo E. Lauron; Fraternal Counsellor of Our Lady of

Our Home: ‘KCFAPI’s Golden Jubilee


Guadalupe Council 5883, Valentin Olandria; and Cebu Ser-
vice Office Administrator, Allen C. Bohol.
On October 12, 2008, during the scheduled council meet-
ing of our Lady of Guadalupe Council No. 5883, Sis

Celebrating 50 Years of Fraternal Service!’ Evangelyn will be announced and be presented as KCFAPI
GOLDEN JUBILEE WINNER.

By Gari M. San Sebastian message of Chairman Bacay. An appetizing and

THERE’S no place like home. KCFAPI is more than


sumptuous formal sit-down dinner was served by
the Manila Hotel banquet while Nonoy Lopez and 7th and Final Raffle Draw – BC Holders Bonanza
September 12, 2008
a company, it’s a place we call home! his band serenaded the guests with their music.
The month of September was the busiest yet During the anniversary celebration, KCFAPI
memorable for KCFAPI employees starting from management acknowledged the Knights who put
the invitation committee headed by Ms. Carmelita their effort, hard work, dedication and commit-
“Bong” Ruiz who distributed the invitations to al- ment to the organization. One of the highlights of CONGRATULATIONS
most 400 guests. The invitees included KCFAPI’s the affair was to thank everyone who contributed BRO. ELPIDIO O. BARCELONA III
board (past and to the 50 years of (Davao City)
present), its subsid- KCFAPI. The Asso- WINNER OF BRAND NEW CELLPHONE
iaries, former and ciation recognized
present employees its past Chairmen
and special guests and Presidents WINNERS OF GOLDEN JUBILEE JACKET
who have been part starting from Fr. Romuel S. Corpuz, San Mateo, Rizal Elizabeth M. Abreu, Benguet
of KCFAPI’s his- George J. Romulo M. Manlapaz, Pampanga Ernesto L. Erguiza, Quezon City
tory. Willmann as the Helen T. Aisporna, Nueva Ecija Maria Clara L. Magat, Quezon City
On September 13, founder. It was fol- Ma. Socorro P. Santiago, Pampanga Rhoda V. Rodriguez, Bulacan
2008, all guests (in lowed by acknowl- Antonio F. Montemayor, Quezon City Ofelia C. Mateo, Nueva Ecija
their finest Barong edging the employ- Paul Q. de Guzman, Pangasinan Melba R. Hinlo, Bukidnon
for men and glam- ees who had served Threxsia S. Sande, Zamboanga del Sur Rolito B. Castillo, Cagayan de Oro
orous evening KCFAPI for more Mylyn V. Virtuoso, Iloilo
gown for women) of than a decade,
the Grand Golden KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo exchanges pleasantries with twenty years and WINNERS OF GOLDEN JUBILEE TRAVELLING BAG
Jubilee ball were Kalookan Bishop Deogracias S. Iñiguez (left) and Manila Mayor Alfredo
even thirty years. Antonio D. Sinchioco, Makati City Desiderio N. Vaquilar, Ilocos Sur
S. Lim (right) during the Golden Jubilee Ball.
amazed at the spec- One of the pillars Rolando E. Alip, Jr., Olongapo City Efren G. Pinkihan. Ifugao
tacular entrance of the Centennial Ballroom of Ma- of KCFAPI, Bro. Teodoro O. Arcenas Jr., was given Mario R. Palisoc, Quezon City Jofel C. Ugale, Cagayan
nila Hotel when they experienced being treated in a special tribute as the member of the Board who Melville A. Maniego, Bulacan Raul R. Tiongson, Quezon City
the walk of fame similar to Oscar’s award pictorial has served for a total of 25 years. KCFAPI’s mile- Pepito E. de Leon, Pangasinan Enrico C. Corona, Batangas
and interviews. stones were revisited with live performances in Aurea E. Plan, Kalinga Edilberto O. Abril, Quezon Province
Leading the welcome greeters with a warm smile between the glorious moments. Gloria V. Follosco, La Union Wilbert Paguio, Cavite
and a handshake were none other than KCFAPI’s The evening sparkled with the very energetic per- Rogelio U. Borinaga, Zamboanga del Norte Armando S. Dy, Nueva Ecija
Chairman Bro. Patrocinio R. Bacay and President formance of the world-renowned violinist, Mr. Jay Camilo T. Lammawin, Jr., Kalinga Francisco M. Gomez, Quezon City
Bro. Antonio B. Borromeo with the rest of the Board Cayuca. He entertained guests who enjoyed his eclec- Marcelino M. Regalado, Nueva Ecija Claire Desiree S. Tana, Misamis Oriental
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES

of Trustees and Officers. As early as 5:30 p.m. ush- tic style and many versions from the classical to con- Ananias P. Manreal, Cebu City Jimmy E. Pilapil, Cebu Province
ers and usherettes were already waiting for all temporary jazz. The finale of the momentous occa- Mario C. Reta, Davao City Mario T. Mitra, Zamboanga City
guests to arrive. sion was the singing of the Golden Jubilee theme Romulo E. Tanghinan, South Cotabato Manolo P. Aleligay, Pasig City
The gate closed at exactly 7:00 p.m. for the grand song “Hands of Love” led by Jubilee president Bro. Imelda C. Carino, Ilocos Sur Rev. Fr. Severino N. Diamante, Jr., Butuan City
procession of KCFAPI’s incumbent Board of Trust- Tony, and accompanied by violinist Jay.
ees with their ladies and escorted by more than 70 There was no lull and dull moment as the pro- WINNERS OF GOLDEN JUBILEE T-SHIRT AND UMBRELLA
honor guards who showcased their best regalia uni- gram ended with ballroom dancing with dance Philip O. Cueva Sr.,Samar Michael E. Arzaga, Palawan
form led by Bro. Christian Balis. instructors keeping everyone on their toes. Janette O. Lao, Ilocos Sur Melencio V. Cruz, Bulacan
The program started by a one-of-its-kind song in- It was truly a night to remember but most of all Mena P. Bautista, Bulacan Felisa A. David, Bulacan
vocation titled “The Prayer”. It was followed by the it was a reunion of many people who have been a Reynaldo D. Melicor, Bukidnon
welcome remarks of KC President Borromeo and part of KCFAPI.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008 The Cross C3

Address to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI


by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson
Private Audience for the Knights of Columbus Board of Directors
Friday, October 3, 2008
Sala Clementina
HOLY Father, it is with joy that the Supreme Directors of the Knights of We will continue to answer your call to be co-workers with our bish- countries in which we work.
Columbus greet Your Holiness during our pilgrimage to Rome in honor ops and priests in the new evangelization; and for the renewal of soci- On this occasion we are privileged to present to Your Holiness the
of the Prince of the Apostles and as a sign of our devotion to his succes- ety, which is a special responsibility of the laity. annual proceeds of our Vicarius Christi Fund. Since its establishment,
sors. We thank you especially for your encyclicals, Deus Caritas Est and Spe this fund has provided more than $43 million for the charitable work of
We recall with gratitude your recent visit to the United States. Salvi —they have become indispensable guides as we continue to live Your Holiness and that of your beloved predecessor.
We are grateful as well for the recent International Eucharistic Con- more fully our principles of charity, unity and fraternity in fidelity to Holy Father, today we ask that the Lord may exceedingly bless your
gress held in Quebec City and for the upcoming World Meeting of the vision of our founder, the Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney. ministry on behalf of the universal Church, especially your efforts to
Families to be held soon in Mexico City. On behalf of our more than 1,750,000 members and their families in bring peace, reconciliation and greater charity to the world. We pray as
We believe these events to be grace filled occasions to build greater the United States, Canada, Philippines, Mexico, the Caribbean and Po- well that you may always find in the Knights of Columbus a strong
solidarity among all the faithful of North America. land we pledge greater efforts in building a new culture of life in all the right arm in service to the Church.

The Knights of Columbus


In the Philippines
A Catholic, Family, Fraternal, Service Organization

Represented by

ALONSO L. TAN DIONISIO R. ESTEBAN, JR. SOFRONIO R. CRUZ


Luzon Deputy Visayas Deputy Mindanao Deputy

and

Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc.


Mutual Benefit Association providing the second-to-none life insurance coverage
To brother Knights of Columbus and their families

Represented by Pope thanks Knights of


Columbus for defending life,
moral truths
VATICAN, Oct. 3, 2008—Pope Benedict XVI ex- people a solid formation in the faith and for
pressed gratitude to the Knights of Columbus their efforts “to defend the moral truths nec-
PATROCINIO R. BACAY ANTONIO B. BORROMEO for defending moral truths and the right to life essary for a free and humane society, includ-
and for their dedication to charitable works. ing the fundamental right to life of every
Chairman President The pope made the remarks during a pri- human being.”
Strongly manifest vate audience Oct. 3 with Carl Anderson, su- The pope noted the vision that inspired the
preme knight of the Knights of Columbus, founding of the association was to encour-
and members of the fraternal association’s age the lay faithful “to recommit themselves
administrative council. to growth in holiness and active participa-
Our support to the stand of the Catholic Church as expressed by the Pope Benedict said he hoped the Knights tion in the church’s mission.”
would “discover new ways to serve as leaven He expressed his gratitude to the Knights
Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines against the of the Gospel in the world and a force for the for their acts of charity and their annual mon-
Reproductive Health Bill. renewal of the church in holiness and apos- etary contribution to the pope each year to
tolic zeal.” support papal charities and special projects.
As a family organization, we believe the bill is destructive He thanked the Knights for giving young (CNS)
to public morals and family values.
Announcement: New Payment Facility
Now you can pay your insurance contribution with
utmost convenience through BPI’s bill payment facility.

If you are a BPI Express Teller accountholder, just


enroll your reference number in BPI’s bill payment fa-
cility. Then you can start paying your insurance contri-
bution through the bank’s electronic channels.

You can enroll in three ways:

1. Call Express Phone 89-100 or 1-800-188-89100 TOLL


FREE, dial “0” for Other Products and Services, then
another “0” for Other Concerns.
2. Log on to www.bpiexpressonline.com (for exist-
ing Express Online users only)
3. Visit your branch of account

Once enrolled, payments can be made through any of the following:*

· ATM
· Telephone, just dial 89-100
· Cellphone, just go to Globe Services>My Favorites>BPI Mobile
· Internet, just log on to www.bpiexpressonline.com

*Payments via telephone, cellphone and internet are available to accountholders who are
enrolled users of these channels.
CBCP Monitor
C4 The Cross Vol. 12 No. 21
October 13 - 26, 2008

FR. GEORGE J. WILLMANN, SJ:


Knight and Provider, a Man of God
By Msgr. Gaspar D. Balerite

The Art Thomas Aquinas. This brings the are four Corinthian pillars that The Artist paintings, including life-size por- Aside from his interest in
The painting portrays Fr. message of scholarship dedicated represent the four cardinal prin- MSGR. GASPAR D. BALERITE, traits of four Filipino cardinals painting, Msgr. Balerite is also
George J. Willmann, S.J. holding to him. On his left is a grieving ciples of the Order of the Knights who is currently the Parish Priest which are displayed at the known for his writings. His
the shoulder of a poor boy since widow holding a KCFAPI check. of Columbus: Charity, Unity, of Allen, Northern Samar, is a Pontificio Collegio Filippino in works include: “Knowing the
Fr. Willmann had the heart for These two figures are assurances Fraternity, and Patriotism. Hov- member of the Knights of Co- Rome. He had a Painting Exhibit Written Word of God” (1991);
the poor and the young. His right of two futures: the eternal life and ering in the sky is a Dove, a sym- lumbus since 1977 (Council 3597) in UST last 1975 and won First “Violent Revolution and Jesus
hand holds a scroll with the writ- the existential life. On the right bol of the Holy Spirit, the Sancti- and a KC Fourth Degree since Prize in the poster contest spon- Mission of the Kingdom of God”
ing “ AD MAIOREM DEI of the canvas is a figure of a fier. “Dove” in Latin is 1982 (Northern Samar Assembly). sored by Vocation Directors in the (1992); and “The History of the
GLORIAM ” (for the Greater Brother Knight holding a banner COLUMBA. He is a KC priest-scholar and has Philippines in 1976. Msgr. Balerite Church in Northern Samar”
Glory of God), the motto of the which flows in changing color The painting was unveiled earned his licentiate and doctor- likewise participated in the Paint- (1996). He has translated Missals
Society of Jesus, and all of us who from golden yellow and white, during the Golden Jubilee Cel- ate degrees in Biblical Theology ing Exhibition of Filipiniana Art- and Catechisms in Waray. In
labor for excellence. the ecclesiastical flag, to the red ebration of the Knights of Co- from the Angelicum University ists in Rome, Italy (1985) and Paint- 1997, he authored the Samarenyo
On his right is a seminarian and blue, the color of the Philip- lumbus Fraternal Association of in Rome, Italy. He was appointed ing Exhibition in Rome, Italy, version of the New Testament.
who is reading a breviary with pine flag, a flag of Fr. the Philippines, Inc. on the 13th Honorary Prelate by the late sponsored by Philippine Embas- Msgr. Balerite’s latest project is
two books, the Holy Bible and Willmann’s acquired citizenship. day of September, 2008 at the Fr. Pope John Paul II in August 1995. sies to the Quirinale and to the the translation of the whole Bible
the Summa Theologica of St. Spread throughout the canvas George J. Willmann S.J. Center. Msgr. Balerite has done various Holy See (1988). in Binisaya Samar-Leyte version.

SUPER SPEK
Super SPEK provides you the LOWEST Contribution Rates that for financial concerns.
bring the HIGHEST Level of Protection for You and Your Family.
PARTICIPATING
TOTAL PROTECTION UP TO P59,800.00 As a member of the Association, you shall be entitled to yearly
dividends which you may: a) withdraw, b) use to reduce contribu-
We will accept you regardless of your health condition: tion, c) leave with your Association to accumulate at interest, or d)
· NO health questionnaires to accomplish! INSURANCE CONTRIBUTION PAY PERIOD buy paid-up additional insurance.
· NO medical examination to undergo! Plan becomes fully paid up at age 90.
ADDED VALUE PROTECTION
INSURANCE COVERAGE PERIOD IMMEDIATE CASH FOR EMERGENCIES After ten (10) full years, additional coverage will be provided at
Insured member is covered up to age 100. After three (3) full years, you may borrow the available cash value no extra cost.

You might also like