•A3 formation

Pope: Priestly
a ‘Delicate
•B1 Priests,
‘A Year of Prayer by
with Priests and
•C1 The CROSS
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Mission’ for Priests’ and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

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June 8 - 21, 2009 Vol. 13 No. 12 Php 20.00

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

NO TO CON-ASS! Religious leaders give the constituent assembly (Con-ass) a thumbs-down sign during a forum on June 9 organized by church-based media organizations.

Church to inaugurate Year

for Priests on June 19
CBCP chief hails the special year dedicated for clergy
By Pinky Barrientos, FSP

Religious groups unite vs Con-ass

AS Church’s worldwide celebration of the Pauline
year is about to close, another big event in the life
of the Catholic clergy is set to begin. On the feast
of Sacred Heart of Jesus and the World Day of
Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests on June 19,
the Catholic Church will inaugurate a special year
dedicated for the clergy.
The Holy Father, addressing members of the Congregation for the
Clergy during their Plenary Assembly last March 16, announced a
Year of Priesthood, stating the need to encourage priests to strive
for spiritual perfection.
“Precisely to encourage priests in this striving for spiritual perfec-
tion on which above all, the effectiveness of their ministry depends,
I have decided to establish a special “Year for Priests” that will begin
on 19 June and last until 19 June 2010.”
Reflecting on the theme of the Congregation’s plenary assembly,
Priests / A6
DIVERSE faith groups are uniting against a common enemy.
Christian leaders, that have divergent theological positions,
demonstrated their willingness to lay down their differences to
fight Con-ass, or constituent assembly.
They also vowed a series of street protests starting on June 10 if
President Arroyo’s allies in Congress will not halt plans to amend
the Constitution through a constituent assembly.
Sr. Mary John Mananzan, co-chairperson of the Association of
Major Religious Superiors of the Philippines (AMRSP), said various
groups had pledged to take part in the 5 p.m. rally in Makati City.
The latest was the Catholic Educational Association of the
Philippines (CEAP), the biggest alliance of schools in the country
with 1, 252 members.
“We expect a crowd of not less than 25,000,” Mananzan said in
a forum organized by Catholic Church-based media groups. “As
long as they are against Con-ass, they can join us.”
Members of the National Council of Churches in the Philip-
pines (NCCP) vowed to mobilize thousands of people in June
10 rally, the first major since Malacañang allies revived Charter
change moves.
The NCCP is composed of the Catholic Church, Convention of
Philippine Baptist Churches, Episcopal Church in the Philippines,
Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), Iglesia Unida Ekyumenical,
Lutheran Church in the Philippines, The Salvation Army, The
United Methodist Church (UMC) and the United Church of Christ
in the Philippines UCCP).
Other religious groups that attend the mass action in Makati City
include the Promotion of Church’s People’s Response, the Associa-
tion of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines (AMRSP), and
Con-ass / A6

Bishops hit DOJ for junking case vs lewd-notebook printer

CHURCH leaders have criticized the
Department of Justice (DOJ) after it
junked a complaint against a paper fac-
tory in Malabon City for printing lewd
pictures on the cover of notebooks.
DOJ Secretary Raul Gonzales last May
6 reversed an earlier ruling by the Mala-
bon Prosecutors Office finding probable
cause against Carlos Yu, vice president
of Keng Hua Paper Products.
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the
Philippines (CBCP) president Angel
Lagdameo said the company must be
banned for publishing “morally of-
fensive” materials that are “scandalous
most especially to school children”.
“If our awakened society condemns
and objects to the spread of ‘sex video
scandal,’ we should condemn no less
the printing and spread of obscene,
indecent and pornographic pictures
in notebooks that land in the hands of
school children,” he said.
The Jaro archbishop called on the
parents and community as a whole to
be “on guard against pornographic ma-
terials that are made available through
school supplies.”
For his part, Kalookan Bishop Deogra-
Printer / A6

Amorsolo painting, a fixture Youth camp stresses impact of media on

at the Vatican young people THERE are three
known paint-
IN celebration of World Communications
ings of Filipino
Day (WCD), the Daughters of St. Paul had
National Artist
organized a gathering of young people in the
Fernando Amor-
© Kate Laceda / CBCP Media

campus of the congregation’s central house

solo in Rome.
in Pasay City on May 31.
One of them is
Dubbed as Youth C-A-M-P, the assembly
displayed at the
of young people aimed to strengthen Com-
headquarters
munion, deepen Awareness of media’s
of the Vatican
impact, Motivate them to Promote media
Radio, and the
literacy education among their peer group.
other two are
The gathering has also emphasized the Young people listen as Fr. Ramil Tapang, SSP reiterates the call of the Holy Father on the youth to use information
displayed at the
“El Primer Bautizo En Filipinas”, depicting the baptism power and impact of the new forms of com- technology to uphold good values and promote a culture of respect, dialogue and friendship.
of Rajah Humabon, his wives and local people, is headquarters of munication media, especially among the
one of the three paintings of Amorsolo in Rome, two the Propaganda

Manila gov’t defies church

youth.
of which, including this one, are displayed at the Fide.
headquarters of Propaganda Fide. A talk titled, “The Holy Father’s task to
The name
Youth,” by Fr. Ramil Tapang, SSP, National
“Propaganda Fide” comes from “Sacra Congregatio de Propa-
Vocation Promoter, has stressed on the THE city government is at the center of a row with Church of Manila bosses after it
ganda Fide” (Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the
proper usage of modern technologies for approved a measure seeking to retain the oil depot in Pandacan.
Faith) which was the former title of the Congregation for the
one’s benefits. Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim signed Thursday the city ordinance allowing all existing
Evangelization of Peoples (CEP).
The conference was followed with a heavy industries in the district, including the oil depot, to continue operating.
This congregation is responsible for missionary work and
workshop titled “My Personal Response to Lim said he is concerned of the dire economic implications that the removal of the
other related missionary initiatives of the Catholic Church.
the Holy Father’s Invitation to the Youth” oil depot could cause.
Last Tuesday, 9 June, Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, a Filipino dioc-
where participants shared their insights and The official said approving the measure strongly opposed by church leaders and
esan priest assigned at the Congregation for the Evangelization
experiences. various groups is one of his “most painful decisions” he has ever made.
of Peoples (CEP) happily showed this writer the two Amorsolo
Meanwhile, actress and singer Jolina He said that shutting down the oil terminal, as well as the manufacturing plant of
paintings on display at the Propaganda Fide building. This place
Magdangal has given a video message to Unilever, will cause thousands of workers to lose their jobs.
is located at Piazza Spagna in the historic center of Rome.
the attendees on her way of communicating According to Lim the city also stands to lose some P100 million a year in real property
The two Amorsolo artworks are among the many paintings
through music videos, while TV personality and income taxes from the industries if he will veto the ordinance.
displayed on the first floor corridor of the Propaganda Fide
Krista Ranillo discussed the impact of mod- He also cited the thousands of jobs which will be lost if the depot and other factories
where the offices of the Pontifical Mission Societies and Inter-
ern technology. will be relocated.
national Secretariats of the CEP are located. The office of Msgr.
More than 300 young people from the 500 But the Manila Mayor’s principles only earned the rage of some church officials.
Bitoon is also located in the same building.
expected attendees participated in the gath- Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo said Lim should have given primordial
The first painting titled “El Primer Bautizo En Filipinas”,
ering. Represented at the youth camp were
Amorsolo / A6 Manila / A7
Youth / A6
 World News
CBCP Monitor
A2 Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

Pope defends Venezuelan bishops

in public square
VATICAN CITY, June 8, 2009—Benedict XVI is de-
fending the right and duty of Venezuela's bishops
to enlighten public life with the Gospel.
The Pope spoke of this obligation when he
received in audience today the South American
bishops, in Rome for their five-yearly visit.
The Holy Father did not make direct reference
to the tension between the Church and state in
Hugo Chávez's Venezuela—tensions perhaps
best symbolized by the twin attacks against the
apostolic nunciature earlier this year. In fact, the
state's relations with faith-groups have become so
troubled that the U.S. Commission on International
Religious Freedom included Venezuela on its
Watch List in its annual report released May 1.
But the Pontiff affirmed his appreciation for the
bishops' efforts to "irradiate the light of the Gospel
over the most relevant events affecting your coun-
try, with no other interest than spreading the most
genuine Christian values, with a view also to favor-
ing the search for the common good, harmonious
coexistence and social stability."
Benedict XVI emphasized that political activity
is a commitment that corresponds to the laypeople,
who "as disciples and missionaries of Christ, are
called to enlighten and structure temporal reali-
ties in a way that responds to the loving design
of God."
"For this," he continued, "a mature laity is need-
ed, which gives faithful testimony of their faith
and feels the joy of their belonging to the Body of
Christ." In this regard, the Pope emphasized the
importance of an "adequate understanding of the
social doctrine of the Church."
Speaking up
The president of the Venezuelan episcopal con-
ference, Archbishop Ubaldo Santana Sequera of
Maracaibo, in his address to the Pope assured that
the bishops "from the point of view of the faith"
have worked to "enlighten the difficult path that
the Venezuelan people have walked for a decade
now."
"As is known," he said, "since a decade ago
in Venezuela there has been the imposition of a
new political project that is called 21st century
socialism, of a revolutionary stripe, which has
introduced far-reaching changes in all the dimen-
sions of life in the country. […] The progressive
execution of this project has polarized the country
and divided it into opposing groups."
"Before such threats, and knowing that the great
majority of the population is profoundly religious
and Catholic, we have felt called as pastors to issue
numerous messages, letters and pastoral exhorta-
tions," Archbishop Santana Sequera noted.
Time for hope
Benedict XVI encouraged the Venezuelan prel-
ates to "increase the initiatives to make known the
figure and message of Christ in all its integrity
and beauty."
"To do this," he continued, "in addition to a
good doctrinal formation of the whole People of
God, it is important to nourish a deep life of faith
and prayer."
"In the liturgy and in the intimate dialogue of
personal or communitarian prayer, the Risen One
comes out to meet us, transforming our heart with
his loving presence," he affirmed.
The Bishop of Rome acknowledged the chal-
lenges facing the Venezuelan prelates, added to,
moreover, by the global recession.
But, he stated, "the current time also offers nu-
merous and real motives for hope, this hope that is
capable of filling the hearts of man." (Zenit)

Cardinal Zen calls for truth Catholic convent

on Tiananmen demolished in Vietnam
HONG KONG, June 8, 2009—Cardinal Joseph Zen says the Chinese government
should change its position regarding the force used 20 years ago to quell the democ-
racy demonstrations in Tiananmen Square.
The retired bishop of Hong Kong spoke about the anniversary of the June 3-4,
1989, uprising and massacre, saying, “I hope that [they] really consider seriously the
possibility of a reassessment of the verdict,” RTHK radio reported, informing on a
discourse given by the cardinal at Hong Kong’s Foreign Correspondents’ Club. “It
will not damage anyone, but would be to the advantage of the whole nation.”
The cardinal called for the investigation so that justice is done, not only for the
“consolation of the families,” but also for future generations “to discern between good
and bad,” and so that nothing similar happens again.
It is unclear how many hundred of protestors died when the Chinese military
stamped out the demonstration. The Communist authorities presented the slaying
as necessary to stop anti-government forces. (Zenit)

U.S. bishops launch website for Year for Priests HO CHI MINH CITY, June 8, 2009—The monastery of the
Congregation of the Brothers of The Holy Family of Banam
(Frères de la Sainte Famille de Banam) has been demolished
WASHINGTON D.C., June 9, 2009— The site includes Pope Benedict’s by government order, a spokesman for the diocese of Long
The U.S. bishops’ conference has set message for the Year of Priests and the Xuyen, capital of An Giang province, reported. As a result of
up a website to help mark the Year announcement of the celebration’s ple- the sudden decision by local authorities the monastery shares
for Priests by providing prayers and nary indulgence in English and Span- the same fate of monastery of the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres
other resources. ish. It also provides prayers for both in Vinh Long, Mekong Delta province.
Pope Benedict XVI designated priests and laity in PDF format so that Built in 1971 the two-storey building was still in so good
the Year to begin on the Feast of the they may be downloaded and printed condition and had been used to house members of the Order
Sacred Heart of Jesus, June 19. His an- for diocesan and parochial use. of the Holy Family.
nouncement also designated St. John The Secretariat plans to provide As a result of the demolition the altar and religious statues
Vianney, the patron saint of parish monthly articles by prominent Catho- were all discarded in a rubbish dump.
priests, as the Universal Patron of All lic women who will write about their The sudden decision to tear down the monastery took Catho-
Priests. According to a press release “faith and trust” in the priesthood.
lic officials by surprise. They are still unaware of the authorities’
from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Other activities for the Year of
motives for the destruction and of their intention for the future
Bishops, the Secretariat for Clergy, Priests include a gathering of priests
Consecrated Life and Vocations has in Rome as well as a retreat on the use of the land. However, in the recent past many Church prop-
set up a website in service of the national level. Information on the erties have been turned into hotels and tourist resorts.
year’s theme. retreat will also be provided through At the same time Vietnamese Catholics are concerned for the
“Please pray for our priests that they might always be faithful to the website, which is located at http://www.usccb.org/yearfor- recent government crackdown. For months now the Communist
their sacred calling,” the site says. priests/index.shtml. (CNA) state has been involved in an anti-Catholic campaign, seizing its
properties, dragging the reputation of priests and men religious

Uruguayan bishop challenges priests to embrace their identity

Romero sent a letter to the priests of his
diocese in which he reminded them, “We
are experiencing in the Church right now
a time of strong calling to spirituality and
conversion to a more evangelical way of
life. Listening to the Word of God in the
Christian community and in one’s personal
life is the way in which the Spirit of God is
manifest,” he said.
© www.cardinalseansblog.org
through the mud, for the only reason of trying to protect the
environment. For all intents and purposes the government is
trying to limit the right to worship.
On 21 May, Nguyen Thanh Xuan, the government’s deputy
chief of religious affairs, made it clear that the state “has no
intention of returning any property or goods to the Catholic
Church or any other religious organisation.”
The demolition of the convent is thus another sign that reli-
gious freedom is under threat in Vietnam.
The Congregation of the Brothers of Banam was established
in 1931by Bishop Valentin Herrgott, then Vicar Apostolic of

For this reason, Bishop Romero said there is Phnom-Penh, Cambodia.

MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay, June 5, 2009—
Bishop Orlando Romero Cabrera of
Canelones, Uruguay has called on priests
to take up the challenge of their “priestly
identity” by living a “priestly spirituality
that is humane and that transforms us.”
On the occasion of the Year for Priests
decreed by Pope Benedict XVI, Bishop
an urgent need for “a personalized spirituality
in the experiential encounter with the Lord, in
the contemplation of the Word of God made
flesh, assumed progressively through the
methodology of Lectio divina.”
We need “a spirituality that is rooted in
our human condition and that brings healing
and sanctification, a priestly spirituality that
makes us more humane and that transforms
us,” the bishop said. (CNA)
In 1970, after a coup against Cambodian King Norodom Siha-
nouk, the Congregation of the Brothers of Banam moved to the
diocese of Long Xuyen, Vietnam, for security reasons.
In 1984 all the members of the order were arrested charged
with “counter-revolutionary activities” and their convent was
shut down.
On several occasions churchmen have been imprisoned
without trial. Several times the congregation has called justice,
protesting against the detention of men religious, demanding
the return of seized property, but to no avail. (AsiaNews)

Israel rescinds order to freeze Church funds in the Holy Land Caritas launches appeal to
confront unemployment in Japan
ROME, June 8, 2009—The order by Israel’s Finance Ministry to freeze
funds held by some Church institutions has been rescinded. A press
release by the Israel’s Vatican Embassy said that “the seizure of funds
by the Ministry of Education destined for education institutions of TOKYO, Japan, June 1, 2009—Caritas Japan has launched an
the Catholic Church in Israel shall not be carried out. The [current] appeal entitled, “Emergency Contributions to Save Lives,”
© www.daylife.com

situation remains unchanged.”
On 20 May the Chief Tax Collector at Israel’s Finance Ministry
Yehezkel Abrahamoff informed Catholic Church institutions that
his office was seizing their funds to pay for taxes he thought they
owed the State.
The decision appeared to be an attempt to stop the Holy See and
the State of Israel from reaching an agreement on, among other
things, the tax status of the Church and its educational and charitable
organizations in Israel.
The Pope’s recent visit to Israel and his warm welcome by Israeli
authorities seemed to indicate that the Fundamental Agreement
between the Holy See and the State of Israel would be reached
shortly.
By contrast, Abrahamoff’s action seemed to signal a change in
policy by the Netanyahu government.
Sources in Jerusalem told AsiaNews that the incident was a “mis-
understanding” according to the Foreign Ministry, which blamed the
action on an careless official who was “unaware of the list of Catholic
aimed at encouraging dioceses, parishes, associations and the
faithful to contribute to a solidarity fund to help unemployed
families.
According to the Fides news agency, the Japanese bishops’
Commission for Social Affairs has made an urgent appeal en-
titled “Save Lives,” in which they analyze the phenomenon and
institutions that are included in the talks Israel and the Holy See are its negative effects on the entire Japanese society.
holding” in order to reach a tax agreement. Fides reported that the fund, which has already reached
Informed by AsiaNews, the Delegate in Rome of the Custody of $33,000, is being used to help families with basic needs and
the Holy Land Fr. David Jaeger expressed great satisfaction in seeing extraordinary costs, such as medical expenses.
confirmed his own thesis that the seizure had been an individual Caritas has also created a job search office for those who are
initiative of a single official that the government was going to disown unemployed. The aid agency described its mission as “match-
and reverse once it heard about it. ing petitions with job offers as a means of mediation and, in
Now “I trust,” Fr. Jaeger said, “that the negotiations between the many cases, guarantee of security.” According to official data,
high parties, the Holy See and the State of Israel, will continue in the number of people without work stands at 670,000 people
a climate of serenity, in full accord with the shared commitment, more than last year, bringing the national total to 3.3 million.
often announced, of reaching the Agreement as soon as possible.” (CNA)
(AsiaNews)
 News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
A3

Pope: Priestly formation

a ‘Delicate Mission’
VATICAN CITY, June 7, 2009─The
formation of future priests, who will be
those whom Christ drew to himself at
so high a price.”
entrusted with souls for whom Christ The Pontiff pointed out that “the at-
gave his life, is a “delicate mission,” says titudes required of future priests are
Benedict XVI. many: human maturity, spiritual quali-
This formation, he explained, must ties, apostolic zeal, intellectual rigor.”
promote “human maturity, spiritual “To acquire these virtues,” Benedict
qualities, apostolic zeal and intellectual XVI explained, “the candidates for
rigor.” priesthood must not only see these
On Saturday the Pontiff outlined the qualities in their formators, but still
fundamental elements of seminary for- more they must be the first beneficiaries
mation when he received in audience of these qualities lived and dispensed
the community of the Pontifical French by those who have the task of making
Seminary in Rome. The audience coin- them grow.”
cided with the change of leadership of “It is a law of our humanity and of our
the seminary, which was founded and faith that, very often, we are only able to
run by the Congregation of the Holy give what we have received beforehand
Spirit since 1853. from God through the ecclesial and hu-
Due to a shortage of religious, the man mediation that he has instituted,”

Photo courtesy of Noli Yamsuan / RCAM

order is handing the seminary over to
the French episcopal conference. To-
day the priests and seminarians gave
thanks to the congregation at a Mass in
St. Peter’s Basilica, at which Cardinal
André Vingt-Trois, Archbishop of Paris
presided.
Since its founding 156 years ago, the
seminary has formed 4,800 students
from all the dioceses of France and from
various other countries. Some 60 French
bishops received training at the semi-
nary, including the Orthodox patriarch
of Constantinople, Bartholomew I.
Father Jean-Baptiste Edart, prefect of studies at
the seminary, explained to ZENIT that this center
welcomes seminarians and priests of various
nationalities, some being Orthodox or non-Latin
Rite Catholics.
“The work of forming priests is a delicate mis-
sion,” the Pope explained in the address to the
seminary community.
Many demands
“The formation proposed in the seminary is
demanding, since a portion of the people of God ─
he added. “Those who have the task
of discernment and formation must
remember that the hope that the have
for others they must, in the first place,
have for themselves.”
On the eve of the beginning of the
Year of the Priest, the Pope outlined the
profile of the priest, citing a description
of Cardinal Emmanuel Suhard (1874-
1949), archbishop of Paris during the
Second World War: “The eternal para-
dox of the priest: He has the contraries
within himself. He reconciles, at the
price of his life, fidelity to God and
that people whom Christ saved and for whom he fidelity to man. He has the air of poverty and
gave up his life ─ will be entrusted to the solicitude powerlessness. He does not have the political
of the future priests,” he added. means, financial resources, or weapons, which
According to the Bishop of Rome, seminarians others use to conquer the earth. His power is to
should know “that if the Church is demanding be disarmed and ‘to be able to do all things in him
with them, it is because they must take care of who gives him strength.’” (Zenit)

Priests urged to open their hearts wide IBON: Congress,

Clergy Dicastery prepares to celebrate the Priesthood Senate CARP bills
.VATICAN CITY, June 5, 2009─As the Year for
Priests is set to begin, the Congregation for Clergy
maybe worse than
original
is encouraging priests to enter the celebration with
a “wide open heart.”
Archbishop Mauro Piacenza, secretary of the
Congregation for Clergy, wrote this in a letter he MANILA, June 4, 2009—An independent think
sent to the priests of the world ahead of the June tank has come out against both Houses’ version
19 inauguration. of the extended Comprehensive Agrarian Reform
Benedict XVI will open the year with a celebra- Program (CARP), saying it would just worsen the
tion of vespers on the solemnity of the Sacred problem.
Heart of Jesus. The theme for the priestly year is IBON Foundation, in a statement, said agrarian
“Faithfulness of Christ, Faithfulness of Priests.” reform bills approved by the Congress and the Sen-
The year coincides with the 150th anniversary of ate could be “worse than the original CARP.”
the death of St. Jean Marie Vianney, the Curé of Ars, It said the House Bill 4077 approved Wednesday
and the inauguration event will be held in the pres- night will just strengthen the pro-landlord provi-
ence of the relic of the Curé of Ars, to be brought to sions of the failed CARP.
Rome by Bishop Guy Bagnard of Belley-Ars.
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

The group stressed that the measure further

The Year for Priests will conclude with an In-
ternational Convention in Rome, to be held June
9-11, 2010.
The archbishop said the Year for Priests prom-
ises to be “an intense moment of faith” for the
priests of the world, together with Benedict XVI.
He said priests are called every day—and much
more so during this year—
“to be ever more authentically that which we
already are, [to] conversion to our ecclesial identity
of which our ministry is a necessary consequence,
so that a renewed and joyous awareness of our
‘being’ will determine our ‘acting,’ or rather will
create the space allowing Christ the Good Shep-
herd to live in us and to act through us.”
“Our spirituality must be nothing other than the
spirituality of Christ himself,” the prelate added,
“the one and only supreme High Priest of the New
Testament.”
Archbishop Piacenza noted that the main work
of the Year for Priests will be to “concentrate on
the identity of Christ the Son of God [...] and on his
mission to reveal the Father and his wondrous plan
of salvation. This mission of Christ carries with it
the building up of the Church: Behold the Good
Shepherd who gives his life for the Church.”
The archbishop urged priests to take up the
challenge so that “Christ’s manner of life may be
the manner of life made ever more manifest in
each one of us.”
He continued: “We must exist for others, we
must undertake to live with the People in a
union of holy and divine love ─ which clearly
presupposes the richness of holy celibacy ─ which
obliges us to live in authentic solidarity with those
who suffer and who live in a great many types
of poverty.
“We must be laborers for the building up of
the one Church of Christ, for which we must live
purposefully and faithfully the communion of
love with the Pope, with the bishops, with our
brother priests and with the faithful. We must
live this communion with the unbroken pilgrim-
age of the Church within the very sinews of the
Mystical Body.”
“[R]un spiritually in this year with a ‘wide open
heart,’” the archbishop urged, “so as to inwardly
conform to our vocation the better to say, in truth ‘it is
no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me.’”
Archbishop Piacenza invited all Church faithful
to celebrate the opening of the Year for Priests,
which will take place June 19 at St. Peter’s Ba-
silica.
The basilica will open at 4 p.m., and the reliquary
of St. Jean Marie Vianney will arrive at 5:30 p.m.
Vespers will follow.
He asked those unable to attend to join them-
selves spiritually to the occasion. (Zenit)
promotes the creation of more agrarian reform
communities (ARCs), further increasing the inse-
curity of land tenure in the countryside.
“The House version, in fact, seems to target
the fine-tuning of the bankrupt ARC program to
continue restructuring local agriculture in order
to suit the needs of big land owners and agro-
corporations,” IBON said.
The Senate Bill 2666 approved last Monday will
concentrate land ownership to a few landowners
and agribusiness firms and represents a conces-
sion to big private landed interests, the research
group said.
“The bill, for instance, allows previous landown-
ers to reacquire and reconsolidate their landhold-
ings after the 10-year retention period, and/or the
reduction of the 10-year prohibition to three years
should the so-called farmer-beneficiaries decide to
sell the awarded land,” IBON said.
Also, it said, the bill retains the very provisions
that made the original law patently anti-farmer
and reduced the CARP into real estate transac-
tion such as non-land transfer schemes like the
infamous Stock Distribution Option (SDO) which

Groundwork for Taize int’l OFWs in New Zealand

substituted corporate stock sharing for land dis-
tribution to peasants.
The policy study group added that also retained

meeting for youth opens assail Congress’s Con-Ass

MANILA, June 5, 2009—Spiritual
preparations have started for the
upcoming Taize “Pilgrimage of
Trust”, an international meeting for
the youth organized by the Taize
Brothers set to happen early next
year in Manila.
Brothers from Taize are organiz-
ing prayers and meetings in various
dioceses to prepare young people
for the upcoming religious event
from February 3-7, 2010.
The spiritual preparation aims to
bring the youth to greater awareness
of the importance of the upcoming
event.
The worldwide assembly will
gather from various continents
young people who are in search of
God and want to commit themselves
to Church and society.
In the recent Pope John II Con-
ference for Catechists held at Don
Bosco, Makati, the Brothers, who
have been around since last month,
facilitated a workshop about the
community and prayers in Taize.
In Mary Help of Christians Parish
in Parañaque, a regular meeting for
contemplative prayer with songs
from Taize is being held. Such meet-
ings are characterized with intense
prayer atmosphere where partici-
pants had a candle in front of them
and gathered around the cross like
what is being done in Taize.
Taize / A7
is the provision for voluntary land transfers (VLTs)
which requires farm workers and small farmers to
pay spot cash to the landowners.
“The Senate version also only targets distribu-
QUEZON CITY, June 4, 2009—Even the overseas Filipino workers tion of lands to only 400,000 farmer-beneficiaries
(OFWs) in Aotearoa, New Zealand are very upset with the passage of even as there are still 1.6 million farmers awaiting
the House Resolution No. 1170 which transforms the House of Repre- land reform, excluding the millions still awaiting
sentative into a Constituent Assembly (Con-Ass) aiming to ratify major land awarded them and those whose lands have
economic and political provisions of the existing Charter. been sequestered lands due to indebtedness or
In a statement sent to CBCPNews, Migrante-Aotearoa national coor- whose awarded lands have been forcibly con-
dinator Dennis Maga said, Filipinos in Aotearoa join their kababayans verted for commercial use,” it said.
across the globe world in condemning the latest Malacañang-backed IBON added the Senate bill still spells no victory
scheme via Arroyo-controlled Congress for Senate-less Charter Change for farmers even as it retains compulsory land
which aim, not only to let Mrs. Arroyo stay in power beyond 2010— acquisition and distribution (LAD) component
supposedly the last year of her term as chief executive—but to sell the because it upholds the same provisions that allow
Philippines’ national patrimony. landowners to skirt around CARP coverage.
“Cha-Cha is a mockery of Philippine independence and democracy. “In fact, the six month-extension from Janu-
Nine years of Arroyo pushed more Filipinos to desperately seek jobs ary 2009 to June 2009 without the LAD even
abroad as she failed to address the people’s long-running demands for gave landowners lead time to get their lands
economic reforms. Why would OFWs support the Cha-Cha agenda that covered by the recently passed Tourism Act of
will effectively perpetuate Arroyo’s fraudulent stay in power? OFWs 2009 converting these to non-agricultural use,”
want regime change and meaningful socio-economic reforms that will the group said.
benefit jobless Filipinos at home. Arroyo’s allies in Congress again “The current agrarian reform extension bills
misrepresented the Filipino people and also deserve to be voted out in reinforce the pro-landlord orientation of the
office,” stated Maga. original CARP, which was why it failed to make
He said Arroyo’s record as a notorious human rights violator, and a dent in peasant landlessness in the first place,”
being one of the world’s most corrupt leaders have brought shame to IBON said.
Filipinos working in the Pacific and around the world. According to IBON, CARP extension is not about
“It’s time to end rather than further prolong her term. Cha-Cha is her free land distribution to the tiller, which is the
train to get away from being prosecuted from more than nine years of the core of a genuine land reform program, but about
most scandalous fraud, corruption, human rights violations and failure landlord compensation and requiring peasant
beneficiaries to pay for land that they have been
New Zealand / A6
tilling for generations. (CBCPNews)
A4
EDITORIAL
The lowering of the Lower House
TOO bad. But now it can be said. The Lower House of
Congress cannot be really so much lower in stature and
reputation before the People of the Philippines. House
Resolution 1109 stands not only as its big and clear formal
ignominy but shall also remain as its gross official disrepute
in the annals of its history.
Its much calculated yet obviously devious move in favor of
Charter Change via its solitary call as a Constituent Assembly,
only demonstrates its utter subservience to the Executive
Department—apparently for the right price. With such a
distinctly base and infamous resolve, the Upper House of
Congress en contra now appears standing way up there as
it possibly can.
For the record, it is just and proper to note that the
constituent members of the depressing talk-of-the town
portion of Philippine Congress are eminently known
and accordingly called as “Honorable representatives”,
viz., respected legislative delegates of the People of the
Philippines. However, during these particularly critical
times in the country it heightened, such distinct title and task
are legitimately questioned by definitely not few voices all
over the land. Needless to say, those whose integrity and
decency are suspect and shady are those who, as a downright
administration majority, surreptitiously approved the Con-
Ass resolution.
Questions: Are they really “Honorable” individuals for
precisely making a dishonorable self-serving Con-Ass
option? Are they truly “Representatives” of the people who
elected them into office, by representing instead the interest
of the ruling administration rather than that of their district
constituents? Are they genuine legislators by specifically
going against the Fundamental Law of the Land? These are
neither flippant questions nor impertinent observations. If
the truth has to be said, this in a nutshell is the living reality:
The Philippines has a corrupt administration and majority
dysfunctional legislators. But thank God for the Senate and
the Supreme Court!
These so called “Honorable Representatives” and legislators
better see and behold what they have done to the people and
their country with the notorious HR 1109: The people are
more divided. A good part of them are harboring disgust and
resentment towards the government. These socio-political
adversities explain the loud rallies, the angry marches
plus the embittered demonstrations. The country is being
watched by the world, having diminishing business, seeing
investments either on hold or in flight. Unrest is not only
in Mindanao nor is dissent merely in the armed left—but
possibly, too, in the armed right as well.
Constitutional Change
TODAY we are faced with a political crisis of great
magnitude. This is the attempt to change the 1987 Philippine
Constitution. As Bishops we have reflected lengthily on this
crisis, discussed its social, political, economic, and cultural
context, and its various implications. And we are one in our
stand against changing the Constitution now.
We are saddened that religious sects and well-intentioned
people as well as the principles of democracy have been
exploited to promote the efforts to revise the Constitution.
The end result has been disastrous: the worst of traditional
politics has brazenly flaunted itself, an economic crisis has
been aggravated, trust and credibility in government have
been broken, and people feel deceived and manipulated.
There is great and righteous anger among our people.
The attempts at constitutional change demonstrate the evils
of politics that we have been talking of here─deviousness,
double talk, deception, manipulation, lack of transparency,
the use of power to promote self-interests. All these are
values that are anti-Gospel and anti-Kingdom of God. We
cannot ignore these. We must move against them.
We believe that the way to unity is to unconditionally,
unequivocally and irrevocably terminate all attempts to
revise the Constitution at this time. When the time does
come, let it be done with widespread participation and a
unity of vision, with total transparency and serenity, with
reasons unarguably directed to the common good rather
than to the self-serving interests of politicians. All elected
officials looking for an extension of terms must categorically
state now that they will not under any circumstance accept
any further nominations for office.
The task now is to rebuild trust and confidence. It will be
a painstaking chore. But rebuilding trust and confidence as
well as transforming politics into what is pleasing to God
can surely be done—by us, the People of God.
– CBCP Pastoral Exhortation on Philippines Politics, 1997
www.cbcpmonitor.com
cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net
Pedro C. Quitorio
Editor-in-Chief
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos
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Roy Q. Lagarde Ernani M. Ramos
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Layout Artist and Online Editor Comptroller
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Com-
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ISSN 1908-2940
Opinion CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
Illustration by Bladimer Usi
Francisco F. Claver, SJ
Church people in
Afterthoughts politics II
IN last month’s Afterthoughts, I wrote about the lay ministers it strikes me that no reasons are given for the prohibition. Canon
(Alagads) of Bukidnon and their decision about the possibility of lawyers—and Church historians—should be able to enlighten us
their running for elective office in government even while serv- on how the prohibition came about. For it is a relatively recent
ing as BEC officers. This was a reversal of a previous policy of development if we consider how bishops and cardinals often held
not holding leadership roles in the Church concurrently with civil high government posts all through the Middle Ages in Europe.
ones. The change was made in view of the nation’s desperate need There wasn’t any problem where there was union of Church and
of principled politicians—a new breed of public servants who will State as in Spanish times in the Philippines, for instance, when
be truly men and women of unselfish service to their constituents, Archbishops of Manila sometimes held the post of Governor of
the exact opposite of the “trapos” who make a mockery of the name the islands. The change came about, it seems, as a result of the
“public servant” and are the cause of much of what is wrong with Enlightenment.
our nation today. Whatever reasons are advanced from civil or Church law against
In last month’s column, I failed to mention a deciding factor in the clerics holding elective posts in government, I wonder whether the
change of policy regarding the Alagads’ entry into politics. It was greatest reason is the verdict I once heard farmers in Bukidnon pro-
the realization that by taking on the role of Church ministers, they nounce over too much political activity on the part of priests: dili
didn’t lose their lay status, and therefore still had all the rights and
obligations of their lay state. Their vocation as laity remained intact
angay— it is not fitting, it is not the decent thing to do. As far as I
could see, they didn’t think it was right for a priest to wield influ-
for the sanctification primarily of family and the work place. ence in one sphere (the religious) and to use the same in another
In this month’s column, I’d like to look at another kind of Church (the civil or political).
people in politics, more specifically, at clerics running for elective I agree wholeheartedly. The reform of our political culture is
office in government. It is a development that seems to be on the primarily the task of the laity. Pope Benedict says as much in his
increase not only here in the Philippines but elsewhere too, in de- encyclical, Deus Caritas Est. Hence it seems for clerics to turn
veloping nations especially. politician is to usurp the role and responsibility of the laity. And if
The usual argument against priest-politicians is that the doc- they insist on doing so, it seems the proper thing for them is to be
trine of the separation of Church and State forbids clerics from laicized completely, re-assume all the rights and responsibilities of
government roles and Church law likewise forbids the same. The lay folk by becoming laicized. A priest who suffers the penalty of
first argument does not seem conclusive as priests do not lose suspension while holding a political job seems to me to be having
citizenship rights by becoming ordained ministers of the Church. his cake and eating it too, as the pithy saying goes, for even in sus-
The second argument is the more cogent one as it is a direct pro- pension a priest remains a priest and the possibility of returning to
hibition from the positive law of the Church. The law is there, but the clerical state is always open to him.
Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
Catechesis for life
Love Life
AN invitation to give a talk is always a chal- Life and Mind of the Church”, while Msgr. The grade school teachers said that they plan
lenge for me, especially if it is a topic that I Gerry Santos gave an update on the situation to get the parents more active in attending
do not usually give and I have to do some of the Catechetical Foundation. the moral formation of their children and
research and make a module for it. I was one of the facilitators in the concur- not leave it to the schools to teach these vital
I am not a teacher by profession, so it was rent sessions. And my topic, of course, was things to their kids. The high school and col-
indeed challenging for me to prepare and on the Catechesis on Life—or Pro-life. Be- lege teachers were very creative, using the
make a presentation to the catechists for sides my presentation on the moral, social, videos and power point presentations that I
their Congress held last May 20-22 at La Salle and scientific issues on human life, I had Mrs. shared with them.
University, Taft Ave, Manila. Filipina Rañada present to them her analysis Quoting the evaluation paper of those who
The Congress was attended by over one on the “Safe Sex Education Modules” from attended, “The VCD’s, handouts, and books
thousand catechists, Christian Living and DECS that public school teachers from Grade that I bought—will be a great help to me as
Theology teachers, BEC leaders and science 5 to Fourth year should be implementing. a teacher, as well as being a wife. I really
teachers. I wondered why the science teach- It was indeed a shock for them to hear how leaned a lot! I thought I knew enough. Now
ers were invited. I was told that Catholic these modules, which are being taught ever I realize I still have many things to learn.
schools have integrated Christian reflections since the 90’s, are the ones influencing our The issues you discussed are alarming and
in science classes and they were there to do people towards a contraceptive mentality, I have the task to inform others about them.
the integration. anti-natal, selfish and materialistic life styles. Although it is difficult to tell the teens the
Each morning, all the participants were in the The participants realized how important it “Do’s and Don’t’s” on sexuality, I will use
auditorium for the Eucharist and conferences. is for them to intensify their value forma- effective stories and media so that they will
In the afternoon, they went to their choice of tion and help the children to develop the make their own conclusion to follow the
a concurrent session. The celebrants for the virtues of honesty, chastity, purity, modesty, Church’s teachings and live a moral life.
Eucharist were no less than Cardinal Rosales generosity and justice. They also promised As my way of thanking you, Sister, I will
on the first day, then Bishop Pablo David the to get involved in the pro-life campaign to do my best to impart to my students and
next day, and for their closing Eucharist, they stop the passage of the Reproductive Health friends the valuable teachings you gave us on
had Bishop Chito Tagle. Conference speakers Bill in Congress. the dignity of life, sexuality, love and family
were Bishop Honesto Pacana on “Spirituality It was quite a consolation to listen to them planning. I will always check your website
of the Catechists”, Bishop Broderick Pabillo on present sample modules that they will use for updates and invitations to your pro-life
“Synod of Bishops—the Word of God n the when they go back to their schools in June. activities. Again, many thanks, Sr. Pilar!”
Fr. Melvin P. Castro
Of Angels and Demons
Speaking of Mary
WITH last year’s firestorm of criticism from things that are happening? And when is the wise judgment. We cannot afford to speak
the Vatican and many Church institutions to time to defend and speak out? out all the time, or else, we lose the essential
the film Da Vinci Code, it became an instant I believe, we are to defend always and all meaning of our prophetic mission.
box-office hit around the world. the time. The only question is the proper In the public arena, there is a time to be
With this year’s muted reaction, the sequel place, the appropriate time, and yes, the silent, a time to speak, a time to condemn, a
film, Angels and Demons, promises to be proper and fitting words. time to praise, a time to correct, and a time
way below the producer’s expectation. As Pope Leo XII aptly puts it, The first law to be corrected as well, a time to forgive, a
Hence, certainly there is wisdom in the of history is not to dare to utter falsehood; the time to ask forgiveness.
silent treatment of things. Yet, on the other second, not to fear to speak the truth. Human as we are, there will be times when
hand, our faithful needs guidance and firm Within the Church, we need to constantly we shall be confusing the moments of silence
teaching or otherwise, one would be misled form our faithful—clergy, religious, and and retreat and the moments of militancy
to think that it’s OK to watch and even pro- lay alike: to point out incorrect teachings, and defense. And we have to learn. At times,
mote films that are contrary to history and incoherent beliefs, and inconsistent lives. our pastors and leaders would not be able to
to the Church. Outside of the Church, the bigger society, for rise above the confusion and would confuse
When is the time, therefore, to endure example, we need to exercise prudence and Mary / A6
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD
Pastoral Companion
IT was a most unusual gathering. Participants
came in their native costumes—full of color
and ornaments. The assembly hall was also
filled with the sounds of local instruments.
The occasion was the First Indigenous Bare-
foot Doctors’ National Summit—a gathering
of volunteer primary health care workers
coming from 118 indigenous people commu-
nities all over the country. The summit was
held on May 20-21 at the SMX Convention
Center in Manila.
After the opening Mass, which I was invited
to celebrate with four other priests, the opening
ritual performed by native leaders displayed
three pieces of cloth with the primary colors
of white, green, and red—symbolizing three
key dimensions in the IP’s mode of existence:
water, plants, and life itself.
The summit was organized by the Foun-
dation of Our Lady of Peace Mission, Inc.
(FOLPMI), headed by Sr. Eva Maamo, SPC,
a medical surgeon herself and a Ramon
Magsaysay Awardee in 1997. It was in a
sense the culmination of a dream that began
in 1974 when Sr. Eva started her seven-year
immersion with the T’boli in Lake Sebu,
South Cotabato. There she trained community
health workers who attended to the needs of
their companions in remote areas not reached
by doctors or nurses. In 1986, the foundation
was created, based in Our Lady of Peace
Hospital that was erected in Metro Manila
to offer free services to indigent patients.
In 1991, FOLPMI initiated a comprehensive
Laiko’s breakthrough
Opinion
Barefoot Doctors’
summit
resettlement project for Aetas displaced by
the Mount Pinatubo eruption.
Then, over a period of four years in 2005-
2008, Sr. Eva and her team conducted a se-
ries of three-week trainings of Community
Health Workers. Seven batches, totaling 229
CHWs, have completed the training. When
I was based in Ipil Prelature, I remember
sending several of our Subanen community
leaders to these trainings. I did meet three
of them again at this summit.
The training content consists of eight
modules: (1) Preservation of indigenous
culture, knowledge, and health practices;
(2) Heath education and promotion; (3) Di-
agnosis and treatment of common illnesses
in Western medicine; (4) Complementary
medicine (herbal, reflexology, moxibustion,
etc.); (5) Botika ng Barangay, Philhealth; (6)
Responsible parenthood and natural fam-
ily planning; (7) Community organizing,
problem identification and planning; and
(8) Leadership and team-building.
Of particular interest to me was the
module on natural family planning which
offers information on all NFP methods,
including the simplified Standard Days
Method. According to reports from the
CHWs themselves, the All-NFP approach
has been much appreciated by the IP com-
munities because it includes the simplified
methods that are easy to learn.
The sharing by some CHWs at the summit
was instructive – e.g., one was able to help
Jose B. Lugay
put a temporary cast on the fractured arm of
a boy until he reached the hospital; another
meticulously kept periodic records on chil-
dren’s weight, maternity deaths, etc. which
provided an accurate health profile of her
community. From Sr. Eva’s own experience
in Lake Sebu, maternity deaths declined to 30
percent of the previous average, once CHWs
were fielded. One CWH worker recalled that
when she herself was sick and needed hos-
pital treatment, she was first asked whether
she had a Philhealth card. How could she,
she mused, when all her work as a CHW was
done for free?
Officials of the Department of Health and
the National Commission on Indigenous
People attended the summit to indicate
their appreciation for the unsung but solid
contribution of these barefoot doctors to their
communities. With the help of Misereor and
other benefactors, the training and mission of
these IP volunteer workers continue. It was
also fitting that the second day of the summit
climaxed with the 93rd birthday celebration
of Fr. James Reuter, S.J., Chairman of the
foundation.
As Fr. Francis Montero from Batanes men-
tioned in his homily, the word “indigenous”
in Pilipino is katutubo—with two parts: ka,
implying kasama or kapatid (comrade or
brother), and tutubo, meaning being rooted
in the earth. Perhaps, this also is an apt
description of what the barefoot doctors’
summit was all about.
A5
Bp. Guillermo V. Afable, DD
DADITAMA
On human rights and
other insights
HELLO everyone! Yes, it has been quite a while since I last turned
in my piece for this column. But I am glad to be back.
Human Rights
We are truly very grateful and edified by the seriousness and
determination of the Commission on Human Rights, headed
by Chairperson Atty. Leila De Lima in their investigation of the
summary killings or so-called extrajudicial killings in Davao City,
Tagum City, Digos City and elsewhere in Daditama, perpetrated
allegedly by vigilante groups. Such show of fidelity to its man-
dated duty is a refreshing and reassuring breath of fresh air in
the midst of a culture of hopelessness in the delivery of justice
in our nation. The series of past investigations by fact-finding
commissions, senate inquiries, congressional investigations,
council hearings, etc, etc. have not strengthened the rule of law
and order for the common good. These have mostly ended in
wasted time, talent and material resources. While there are crimes
committed, but there are no criminals found, prosecuted and
punished. Instead, criminals continue to commit crimes with
impunity. While the poor and neglected suspects, and most likely
innocent, languish in jail.
Our prayers (Oratio Imperata) are always with you, truly Hon-
orable Chairperson Leila M. De Lima, and with your staff, that
you may be granted good health, of mind, body and soul, that
you may accomplish what God has inspired in you, and with His
grace bring it to completion. May other people be emboldened
to emulate your passion for the truth, for justice and peace, and
your compassion for the victims.
Mindanao: 2020
I was a participant of the Kusog Mindanao Forum on the Global

in Mindanao
CHURCH organizations and movements which existed before the
war were formally organized in 1950 as the Catholic Action of the
Philippines (CAP). This group consisting of mandated organizations
and Diocesan Councils of the Laity became the Council of the Laity
of the Philippines in 1973, reporting directly to the National Direc-
tor, the bishop in charge of the Episcopal Commission on the Lay
Apostolate of CBCP. Bishop Angel N. Lagdameo, now Archbishop
of Jaro served as the National Director during the convening of the
Second Plenary Council and extended his tenure until the start of
the third millennium. Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes took over in time for
the celebration of 50th anniversary of CAP. Both National Directors
gave all their best efforts to empower the laity in their apostolate
specifically the laity’s role in the world.
After the passage of the Acts and Decrees of the Second Plenary
Council, the Council of the Laity was tasked to disseminate its
implementing guidelines to all members of the Council of the La-
ity of the Philippines. CLP invited resource persons, among them
experts on the Basic Ecclesial Community, Fr. Sim Sumpayco, S.J.
to conduct the BILA (Bishop–Lay Apostolate) sessions in different
provinces of Luzon and the Visayas. Mindanao, already being ac-
tive in the formation of the Basic Ecclesial Communities was not
visited at all.
During the 3-year preparation for the Great Jubilee Year, all na-
tional events held in Manila were participated by the Luzon, Visayas,
Mindanao delegates. The Biennial Convention of LAIKO (CLP’s
name was changed to Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas in 1995) was
attended by Mindanao delegates and elected the Vice-President for
Mindanao of LAIKO. However, during the fuel crisis when airfare
became prohibitive, no representative from Mindanao attended two
succeeding biennial elections. Still, the LAIKO Board had to appoint
one of the elected officers even though not from Mindanao, as the
Vice-President representing Mindanao. This was the situation for
the past two election years ─ nobody represented Mindanao in all
LAIKO national programs.
The administration of the current President of LAIKO, Dr. Linda
Tacorda, after having successfully organized the Regional Laity
Week celebration in Jaro, Iloilo last October 2008, was not daunted
by the task to plan the second regional laity forum in Mindanao.
Thanks to the support of Bishop Honesto Ch. Pacana of Malaybalay,
a member-bishop of the ECLA, the LAIKO President succeeded in
involving the laity from all the regions in Mindanao to participate in
Nicolo F. Bernardo
Laiko Lampstand
this very first symposium held by LAIKO in Mindanao. They worked
on the theme, “The Laity—Servant Leaders of Renewal;” the critical
support of the undertaking may be measured by the attendance of the
following prelates: Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes of Antipolo, Archbishop
Antonio Ledesma of Cagayan do Oro, Bishop Guillermo Afable of
Digos, Bishop Romulo dela Cruz of Kidapawan, Bishop Honesto
Ch. Pacana of Malaybalay, Bishop Elenito R. Galido of Iligan, Msgr.
Juanito Figura, CBCP Secretary General; Msgr. Elmer Abacahin,
CBCP BEC Desk, Executive Secretary. There were more than 350
participants coming from all the dioceses of Mindanao regions as
well as guests from Luzon and Visayas.
Some highlights of the forum were the discussion of political ac-
tion – a catechism titled Talitha Kuom, a primer prepared by Politi-
cal Education Ad Hoc Committee chaired by Bishop Honesto Ch.
Pacana. The reader of the pamphlet is invited to answer the question,
ARE YOU CONVINCED?
• That the Church needs to get herself involved in politics!
• That the lay are the missionaries for political change!
• That the youth remains the hope for political change!
IF YOU ARE, CONVINCE OTHERS! TALITHA KUOM!
Quite a challenge to the laity—that the clergy is deeply involved
in political action for the 2010 election!
Environmentalists and Advocacy Groups attending the forum
were given a special treat—exposure trips to a choice of nine sites:
1) Impasug-ong – on Environmental Preservation
2) Lantapan – on Cultural Issue
3) Kibangay – on Multinational Issue
4) Sinayawan – on Sustainable Agriculture
5) Maramag (Napocor) - on Ecological Issue
6) Sumilao (Mapalad Farmers) – on Socio-Political Issue
7) BUSCO – on Industrial Issue
8) Camp Philips – on Socio-Ecological Issue.
What is amazing is the active involvement of the BEC’s in all these
issues. Mindanao, land of BEC’s has something to offer to the Luzon
and Visayas delegates. They want to know also what is the stand of
Luzon and Visayas LAIKO delegates regarding the 2010 elections.
The Regional Laity Forum held from May 26 – 29 can be consid-
ered a breakthrough in LAIKO’s relationship with the church in
Mindanao.
Financial Crisis and it effects on the country and Mindanao in
particular on May 21-22 in Davao City. After the usual national
and regional situationers were presented, several challenges
had surfaced for the stakeholders to consider for the peace and
development of Mindanao.
Dr. Dieter W. Benecke, a renowned German economist,
presented the Social Market Economy as a possible alternative
model system for the future of the Philippines. The model was
well received by participants. It clearly addresses the deep-seated
historical problems of marginalization, discrimination and unfair
sharing of the benefits of the region’s wealth which has resulted
in the destabilization of the region for so long. Order, peace and
development continue to be an elusive promise.
Speaking more pointedly on the Mindanao agenda on Islam,
Peace and Development, Ms. Amina Rasul, convenor of the
Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy, presented the
rediscovery of the moderation and pluralism that characterized
Islam in South East Asia. In contrast to the more current image of
Islam as intolerant and belligerent, she advocated for the forma-
tion of the new generation of Mindanaonons, more aware and
taking pride in the true and complete Mindanao history, cultures,
peoples and land, underlining the vital role that the academe
would need to play especially the State educational institutions
in Mindanao. Hopefully, this new consciousness and shared
vision for Mindanao could eventually be formed.
Congressman Rufus Rodriguez of Misamis Oriental strongly
and passionately advocated for the discrimination of Mindanao
by allocating a greater share of the Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) to be poured back to the Mindanao bringing it back to
its 30% share instead of the current 15-20%. He has also been
advocating (probably almost single-handedly) for the Mindanao
Legislators in both houses of Congress to assert more pressure
on the national government to pay more attention to the needs
of the much deprived regions of Mindanao. Finally, he put on
the Mindanao agenda the election of true Mindanaonons in the
Senate who will truly espouse the basic needs of Mindanao,
justice, peace, development and stability.
Mr. Cielito Habito, former Neda Director, gave us a very com-
prehensive yet easily digestible analysis of the global financial
crisis. But the most interesting part of his presentation, which
caught my attention, was his emphasis on the further develop-
ment of the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Mindanao
as the most appropriate and doable response of the vast majority
of the citizens to the global crisis assuring sustainable develop-
ment for all. Mr. Paul Dominguez, former Presidential Assistant
for Mindanao, underlined the need for additional investments
for world markets in order to create jobs and produce income

Star Trek Christianity for everyone.

Lifeguard
THE folly of proving God through science is
that the concept of God is beyond it. Science
is limited by its empirical theories, not unless
present science would transcend itself into
something else: a metascience.
Like the Cosmology and Metaphysics of
old, metascience stretches our understanding
of the laws of the universe into a physics of
the Infinite, which is where future physics
seems marching, thanks to the likes of Albert
Einstein and Stephen Hawking.
Many may wonder how Christianity fits
into a world of futuristic physics, the kind
you see from movies like Star Trek and Star
Wars. Frank J. Tipler, author of the Physics
of Christianity (Doubleday, 2007) shows just
how the Creation, the Trinity, Jesus’ miracles,
the Virgin Birth, and the Resurrection go
beyond science fiction to operate according
to the latest theories of physics. And he is
serious.
A professor of mathematical physics at Tu-
lane University in New Orleans, Tipler wrote
the book based on his paper on “The Omega
Point and the Quantum Gravity Theory of
Everything,” which attempts to unify all laws
in physics. The paper was cited among the
“Highlights of 2005” by the Reports on Prog-
ress in Physics, the leading journal of Britain’s
Institute of Physics. Oxford physics professor
David Deutsch, who pioneered quantum
computers, endorses Tipler’s Omega Point
Theory to be correct.
I would attempt to (over) simplify the mat-
ter for my readers—those excited to know
how Christianity makes sense to physics, or
at least, to physicists. The atheist author Vic
Stengler describes Tipler’s work as “a com-
plete scientific justification of (the Christian)
faith.” Tipler was himself an unbeliever in
the ‘90s when he wrote his best-seller The
Physics of Immortality, claiming that the
Trinity and the Resurrection were against
the laws of physics.
Tipler this time introduces the theory of
the “Omega Point,” which he identifies with
God—“the Alpha and the Omega”—follow-
ing the teaching of the Jesuit paleontologist
Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. He explains that
a Theory of Everything requires that the
universe began and will end in a singular-
ity, which is only consistent with the idea of
God, the Ultimate Being, existing.
“The latest observations of the cosmic
background radiation show that the uni-
verse began 13.7 billion years ago at the
Singularity,” Tipler argues. Theoretical
physicist Stephen Hawking proved math-
ematically that the Singularity is not in time
or space, but outside both. Meaning, the
Singularity transcends space and time. The
Cosmological Singularity, Tipler argues, can
be modern physics’ term for God.
In complex mathematical and scien-
tific equations, Tipler presents how our
multiverse (many universes) is triune in
structure: The Initial Singularity (the begin-
ning of the Big Bang) can be identified with
Christianity’s concept of God the Father;
the All-Presents Singularity with the Son;
and the Final Singularity (the end) with the
Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. The initial and fi-
nal singularities (the beginning and the end)
are outside present space and time, and our
present multiverse can be associated with
Christ “entering the World.”
Tipler also offers a Christian interpreta-
tion of the quantum mechanics to solve the
problem of evil. Quantum mechanics, fol-
lowing Einstein, tells us that every object is
simultaneously both as particle and wave.
This may be difficult to understand because
we only ordinarily perceive ourselves as
particles but not as waves (spreading out
in space) which can only be shown in an
experiment. As how waves multiply through
space, our very existence “make waves,”
i.e., we exist not only in this world but like
ripples, we have multiple recurrences in
others. Believe it or not.
If this is true, then it is possible that there
are worse or better worlds/ripples where we
could exist (was Tipler referring to heaven
and hell?). This recalls Jet Li’s movie The
One, where he has many copies in different
universes. The question “Why a perfect God
did not create a perfect world?” would no
longer make sense, because God precisely
made possible a better world, a perfect heav-
enly world.
Besides, God creates until all possible
creatures with different degrees of perfection
can exist, in what medievalists call the “Great
Chain of Being”—from matter to plants, to
animals, to humans, to angels. Much as a
parent loves his disabled child no less than
the other children despite the child’s dis-
ability, God loves the disabled, imperfect
universes like ours and He expects us to love
the imperfect just the same.
As to the Christian mysteries, the ultimate
proof of faith could be the Shroud of Turin,
said to be the burial cloth of Jesus. For Tipler,
the linen cloth was wrongfully dismissed
as a hoax because of its radiocarbon dating
distorted by the Shroud’s bioplastic coating
(bacteria built-up that add carbon of a later
date). Still, the three-dimensional photo-
perfect image in the cloth could not be the
Lifeguard / A6
MEDCO, we were told, was working along the lines articulated
above with its Mindanao 2020 project which is a collaborative ef-
fort of different stakeholders in Mindanao. I am sure the Church
sector can and will be a very favorable and positive contributor
to this endeavor.
Konsult Mindanaw
While the rest of the country was confronted with so many
other issues and concerns of local, national and international
importance, Konsult Mindanaw, the community based consulta-
tions under the auspices of the Bishops-Ulama Conference on the
peace process in Mindanao is slowly and quietly well on its way
in Daditama. After the four dioceses had finished their diocesan
consultations of 11 different sectors, the Daditama cluster is be-
ing convened for the another round of FGDs on May 28, 2009
in Davao City. Fr. Albert Alejo, S.J. and his team are very much
hands on with the process which hopefully will be concluded
sometime by December 2009.
Sangguniang Laiko – Mindanao Convention
The first Mindanao Convention of the Catholic Lay Organi-
zations and Movements in Mindanao was held last May 26-29
in Malaybalay, Bukidnon with the theme: Laygo: Alagad sa
Pagbag-o (The Laity: Servant Leader of Renewal). In this climate
of calls for change in society especially our political culture
and practices, the theme was a very relevant theme to reflect
on and hopefully move participants to concerted and unified
actions for change. The Catholic laity are being challenged to
take up its rightful mission in the world of politics in order to
transform it.
The churches in Mindanao, which is very much identified with
the integration of the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) into its
pastoral programs, after several attempts in the past, has finally
and successfully convened the Lay associations and movements
together with representatives of Parish Pastoral Councils. No small
thanks to the Sangguniang Laiko National officers headed by Ms.
Linda Tacorda of the Teresian Association. Not to be forgotten, of
course, is the good bishop of Malaybalay, Bishop Honesto Pacana,
SJ, of the host diocese; and to the Chairman of the Episcopal Com-
mission on the Laity, Bishop Gabriel Reyes of Antipolo who graced
the occasion with his presence. Thank you all for making this hap-
pen in Mindanao, for Mindanao, and with Mindanao.
 Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

Muslim, Christian youth camp

promotes dialogue
AT least 65 Muslim and Christian youth
gathered at Sinunuc, Zamboanga last month
for the Silsilah Dialogue Movement’s 10th
Solidarity Youth Camp.
Coming from at least 14 schools, commu-
nities and youth organizations around Min-
danao, the participants experienced outdoor
activities and formation at Harmony Village
in Pitogo from May 13 to 15.
Themed “Sharing the Gifts of Silsilah
Formation: A Decade of Dialogue Experi-
gan SDM is known to advocate.
According to Norbert Solina and Aldamir
Abdulakahal, camp coordinators, the youth
camp’s success proved that today’s youth
continues to engage themselves in activities
that promote peace and solidarity.
“We want to gather Christians, Muslims and
youth of other living faiths in one activity and
allow them to build friendship and relation-
ship focusing on the four pillars of dialogue
which Silsilah advocates,” Solina said.
added.
Con-ass may hamper
agrarian reform, says prelate
They added that the camp became an ave- THE constituent assembly
nue for the participants to develop discipline (Con-ass) move in Congress
and sense of responsibility in completing the could come as a threat to
tasks and following camp rules. the campaign for agrarian
“They really gave their best to do the reform, a church official
tasks and we saw that they were very eager said.
to share what they had to make the camp a Manila Auxiliary Bishop
success,” Merylhilda Jalani, one of the sub- Broderick Pabillo said it is
camp facilitators said . possible especially if the
Silsilah Solidarity Youth Camp started in

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

people will not be watch-
ence,” the three-day camp featured sessions, “We know that somehow, they will reecho 2000, with only around 28 participants. Also ful about the attempts to
sub-camps and team-building activities that and apply what they have learned in their in the same year was SilPeace Youth Pro- change the country’s Con-
focused on the “culture of dialogue,” a slo- respective communities and schools,” he gram formally established. (Kris Bayos) stitution.
Priests / A1 Pabillo said lawmakers
could do anything they
the pope said, that “the missionary dimension of the priesthood is that’s it, ROCK- renewal, offering, conversion for the kingdom,” want to weaken the agrar-
born from the priest’s sacramental configuration to Christ.” he explained. ian reform program once Bishop Broderick Pabillo
“The centrality of Christ brings with it the correct appreciation of they convene into a con-
the ministerial priesthood, without which there would be neither Multimedia homepage for priests stituent assembly.
the Eucharist, nor even the mission nor the Church herself,” said Meanwhile, CBCP Media Director Msgr. Pedro Quitorio said that “We are worried with what might possibly happen with the
the pontiff. a multimedia homepage at the CBCP main website dedicated solely agrarian reform if they amend the Constitution through Con-
for the Year of Priests will be created in time for the inauguration. ass,” he said.
Special year for priests “Because of the railroading that they did, we could say that
The special year for the clergy, which is “a year of prayer by priests, there’s a hidden plan behind all this,” Pabillo added.
with priests and for priests” is centered on the theme, “faithfulness The bishop said the approval of the Congress and Senate’s
in Christ, faithfulness of priests.” version of the expanded Comprehensive Agrarian Reform
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) head and Program (CARP) does not call much for celebration.
Jaro archbishop Angel Lagdameo hailed the special year dedicated Pabillo chairs the National Secretariat for Social Action-Justice
for priests saying that “the Holy Father has given us a special inten- and Peace of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philip-
tion to celebrate in this year, the primary intention of which is to pines (CBCP).
pray for the sanctification of the clergy.” He said that Con-ass move does call for “more vigilance” on
the part of the public and not just among farmers and agrarian
God’s faithfulness is certain reform advocates.
Lagdameo said God’s faithfulness is indisputable despite the The people, he said, should particularly be alert on killer
infidelity shown by some members of the clergy to their priestly amendments that might be inserted on the final version of the
calling. measure.
“Christ is always faithful whether we are faithful or not,” he The lower House extended for five years the CARP, giving
declared. it P100 billion in funding for its land acquisition and distribu-
The CBCP chief acknowledged that recent scandals involving the “It will be an online resource center that will provide a quick tion program.
clergy have been painful for the Church. access to information regarding events, programs and catechesis The move came a day after the Senate approved, too, its own
“It has been the embarrassment of the Church that some of her throughout the Year for Priests,” Quitorio said. version of the bill for CARP extension with reforms.
clergy have not been faithful,” Lagdameo said, adding that, “All the The homepage may be accessed at www.cbcponline.net/year- Both Houses are now set to reconcile the conflicting provisions
more, the priests are called to sanctification.” forpriests. in the bicameral conference committee prior to their ratification
He stressed that priests are called at the service of the Church and by both chambers. (Roy Lagarde)
should lead by example. Special Indulgences
“Some priests may not be preaching very well, but a good example The Vatican has released a decree granting a plenary indulgence
New Zealand / A3
can be a good and powerful preaching by itself,” he said. throughout the year to all “truly repentant” priests who fervently
“St. Jean Mary Vianney is presented to us by the Church as an ex- pray their breviary before the Blessed Sacrament or in imitation of to grant economic relief for the Filipino people,” Maga said.
ample for priests and parishioners to emulate,” added Lagdameo. St. Jean Mary Vianney make themselves available for the celebration In Manila, lay youth group Student Christian Movement of the
The year round celebration that will culminate on June 19, 2010 of the sacraments, especially Confession. The same indulgence can Philippines (SCMP) have warned the Arroyo government of massive
is in commemoration of the 150th death anniversary of St. Jean also be applied on behalf of priests who have already died, provided people’s protests to show their anger and shame over the railroading
Mary Vianney, the saintly Cure of Ars, and patron saint of diocesan all the required norms for acquiring one are observed; and a partial of the Con-Ass resolution for Cha-Cha last night.
priests. indulgence is granted to priests who may apply it. “The youth condemns this evil maneuver to the highest level. Cha-
Lagdameo said lay organizations can be organized to pray for A plenary or partial indulgence can also be granted to the faithful Cha was never for the people’s interests, but for the interests of the
priests, especially their parish priests, stressing that the spiritual who fulfilled the required practices of piety, such as devout partici- Arroyo clique,” says SCMP new chair, Cristina Guevarra.
aspect of the celebration should be emphasized. pation in the Holy Mass, sacramental confession, offering of prayers Guevarra said, SCMP and other youth groups never believe that
“The whole vision is the renewal or reform of life; offering of to Jesus, the eternal High Priest, prayer for priests, offering of one’s Cha-Cha was dead, neither have they believed “the string of lies Ar-
one’s life; suffering for the Church, to attain the kingdom. So, good works and prayer for the intentions of the Pope. royo’s cohorts in the House made just to pacify the people’s protests
against Cha-Cha.”
Mary / A4 “With what they did last night, they want to tell the Filipino people
the same. During those times, we need un- Old Testament, Lot became drunk and his These are passing thoughts that I have as that they can do anything, with their greed in power. This is close
derstanding and certain degree of courage daughters saw him naked? Were they simply we approach the day we mark the culminat- to putting up a tyrannical rule,” explained Guevarra.
but never losing hope. We remember St. scandalized and ran out? No, they covered ing stage of the birth of the Church: Pentecost On the other hand, the SCMP challenged the faithful, especially
Catherine of Siena. It took an uneducated his nakedness. day. With the coming of the Holy Spirit, the the Catholic Church, to lead in massive prayer rallies in calling to
woman, but a very holy woman, to put an When we see the fallen human nature of weakened and discouraged apostles became junk Charter Change and the maneuvers of the Arroyo government
end to the Avignon Papacy and bring back our leaders, we “cover” that weakness. No, empowered and strengthened. The Church to remain in power.
the Pope to Rome. not covering up the truth. But making up for “Let us come together in prayer and action to exorcise our land of
was born in the midst of human weakness
the greedy and tyrants in power,” the lay leader said.
Our Bishops are human beings like us; what is lacking. That is being Church, we fill- but supplemented by the grace of God.
SCMP stressed that Cha-Cha will not only lead to Arroyo’s term
they need sincere and truthful feedbacks up in what we see are lacking in others. We belong to this Church. We are both
extension, but will also open to 100 percent foreign ownership of
and inputs. That is our role in the Church. In the great spiritual warfare that we are humbled and proud to be in this Church. the country’s resources.
Not everyone can exercise the mission of in, that great fight between the forces of Light And the Church was born with Mary “With Charter Change, the greedy and the evils of our society,
governance in the Church; God has reserved and darkness, to unjustly judge and be dis- in their midst. She was there in the Upper those in Malacañang and its minions, will make a hell out of our
it to our bishops. We help them in the wise couraged is to give in to darkness. The more Room praying with the apostles. We stay country for their own vested interests. We call on our religious lead-
governance of the Church. When they do we see the human side of the Church, the very close to Her, Mater Ecclesiae, Mother ers to knock on the doors of the conscience of our people. There is
commit mistakes, we should be there to more we stay close to Her, the more we pray, of the Church, and that She fills up what is no time but to act now,” she said.
help and assist. Remember when in the the more we make-up for what is lacking. lacking in us. Ave Maria! SCMP said it will enjoin other religious youth organizations in
declaring weeks of June and July as weeks of prayer and action,
Lifeguard / A5 Amorsolo / A1 which will culminate in huge youth protests on July 10, Arroyo’s
work of an artisan. signed by Amorsolo and dated April 1949 depicts the baptism of SONA. (Noel Sales Barcelona)
The Shroud verifies that the Crucifixion happened as described Rajah Humabon of Cebu. Rajah Humabon, along with his wives,
in the New Testament. It also attests to the Resurrection where the relatives and the local people were baptized by Fr. Pedro Valderama Con-ass / A1
body of Jesus possibly “dematerialized,” with heat generating the on April 14, 1521. the Interfaith Justice and Peace Network. Backing them are groups
image. Tipler explains: The second painting titled “La Fe Ante Las Ruinas”, also signed from the militant sector and the civil society.
“Modern particle physics provide a mechanism for demateri- by Amorsolo and dated May 1949 depicts a religious procession in
alization: conversion of the matter of an object into ‘neutrinos,’ honor of our Lady of Antipolo before the ruins of a church. As noted Opportunity to unite
elementary particles that interact very weakly with normal matter on the bronze plaque attached on the lower frame of this painting, the Catholic priest Fr. Joe Dizon of the Solidarity Philippines said
and this would be invisible...The image of Jesus on the Turin Shroud procession scene happened after the liberation of Manila in 1945. the mass action was aimed at isolating Arroyo and her allies and
has certain features we would expect to arise in the neutrino dema- Both paintings have a frame size measuring 170 x 130 centimeters. repudiating their purported efforts to stay in power longer.
terialization process.” Compared to the paintings of the Italian masters in Rome like He said the issue of Con-ass was a rare opportunity for fragmented
Neutrinos, which result from nuclear reactions, have a miniscule Raphael, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Fra Angelico, etc., the two opposition forces, civil society and religious groups to band together
mass and are electrically neutral. They travel close to the speed of Amorsolo paintings at the Propaganda Fide are less accessible and against the Arroyo administration.
light, enabling it to pass through ordinary matter undisturbed. If therefore not well known to the public. Mananzan said photos of congressmen who voted or supported
a neutrino were to interact with an atom in a rock, it can leave the Even with this limitation, the Amorsolo paintings should be a House Resolution 1109 will be flashed on a wide screen during the
atom’s normally random tracks directed to the single energy source. source of honor and consolation to Filipinos. The theme of faith as mass action for induction in the “Hall of Shame.”
Now the calcite crystals near Jesus tomb in the Holy Sepulcher (and depicted by Amorsolo in his two paintings continues to be practiced
also Mary’s tomb as she is believed to have assumed into Heaven) today by our Filipino migrants who comprise around 50 religious Moral guidelines
have such single-source nuclear particle tracks! communities in Rome. UCCP Bishop Elmer Bolocon said their participation in the rally
The Shroud of Turin happens to suggest Jesus’ Virgin Birth too, Having the Amorsolo paintings at the Propaganda Fide also was to show their strong opposition against Charter change and to
says Tipler. Virgin birth can happen naturally and also artificially highlights the special missionary contribution of the Philippine give “moral guidelines” to the people.
(through cloning) by induced egg cell division. But the offspring Church in spreading the faith to other nations. (Fr. Jose V.C. Qui- JIL Bishop Leo Alconga said the Con-ass move is an insult to the
would have to be female since an XY-bearing male sperm—which longquilong, S.J.) Filipino people.
only a father can provide—is lacking. This is the reason why some “It signals a fountain of things to come that will give our nation
biologists dismiss the possibility of a virgin birth of a male child as Printer / A1 shame and pain because of what our lawmakers did,” he said.
a violation of physical laws. cias Iñiguez, Jr. appealed to the authorities to look “seriously” into UMC Bishop Lito Tangoran, for his part, said church people’s
But Tipler notes that 1 in 2,000 males have two X chromosomes the matter. participation in the demonstration was according to church’s social
(XX). Their maleness comes not from their fathers but from a key The issue, he said, has “pertinence to the concern that we should principles and teachings.
gene present but inactivated in their mothers. This means that one have for the children and the youth in a manner affecting their mind, “We do not favor Con-ass because there is no democratic participa-
can be conceived a male solely because of the mother and not of the formation and values.” tion of the people in this move,” said Tangoran. (Roy Lagarde)
father. Since a father is not really needed to produce a male child, a Iñiguez said obscenity in notebooks can bring havoc to those us-
virgin birth of a male child may be incredible but not impossible. ing them “especially due to tenderness of their age and their natural Youth / A1
Remarkably, the DNA analysis of the blood on the Shroud yields vulnerability.” members of Balik-aralan Para Sa Kinabukasan (BPSK), a group of
XX and not XY, and yet the image of the body belongs to a male! The bishop also urged the public “not to take this matter lightly out-of-school youth attending informal classes on Media education;
The Garza-Valdez experiment on the Shroud further confirms that and use all available resources to look into this matter objectively Friendly Youth Group in Pasay City, Youth for Christ (YFC) Manila,
all of the Y genes of the man in the image are present in one of its and apply the necessary measures within our present laws to right and Media Club Members of the Sto. Niño Formation School in
XX chromosomes. what is wrong.” Rosario, Batangas and St. Joseph College in Olongapo City.
With his unique nature, Jesus sent counter-quantum waves, a CBCP Ad-Hoc Committee against Child Pornography head Seminarians, Pre-postulants, Postulants and Novices of the Pauline
counter-flow, against the inherent tendencies of humanity. In that Henrietta de Villa also expressed dismay on the DOJ junking of the Family also joined the event.
sense, he is indeed the Savior of the World. charges filed by the former Radyo Veritas station manager, Melo The gathering ended with the sharing of personal experiences by
Although Tipler’s scientific appeal for Christian beliefs may seem Acuña, in 2006. the group representatives of each organization followed by a syn-
too good to be true, critics can’t figure the formula to trump his De Villa said Gonzales’ decision was a slap to various groups’ thesis of the day’s activity by Sr. Consolata Manding, FSP, Directress
Christian Cosmology. Tipler throws the gauntlet to the unbeliever intensive and extensive campaign to put an end to pornography. of the Paulines Institute of Communication in Asia (PICA).
and the unscientific. We are after all, just unraveling the laws of the Acuña claimed some of the notebooks they bought from the factory— The theme for this year’s WCD was “New Technologies, New
universe; and with it, the mysteries of its Lawmaker. In the name worth P57,000 for their Holy Week outreach program in 2006—had Relationships. Promoting a Culture of Respect, Dialogue and Friend-
of this Omega Point, nothing is impossible. lewd pictures of men and women on its cover. (CBCPNews) ship.” (Kate Laceda)
 Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
A7

News Briefs Farmers ask gov’t to craft

Priest says being alone is also a necessity
DAVAO CITY—A Redemptorist priest shared that being alone
in life does not necessarily mean one has to be lonely and today
with all the complexities in the world it is a necessity. Fr. Amado
Picardal said that being alone is needed in order for one to re-
energize and to commune with nature, with one’s self and more
importantly with God. (Mark Ventura)
Mindanao Cross appoints new editor
COTABATO CITY—The Mindanao Cross has an economist,
academician, social researcher, and development consultant
combined for its new chief editor, the second lady to hold the
post after Rufa Cagoco-Guiam. Already a writer-contributor
to this community paper, Eva Kimpo Tan formally signed her
contract with “The Little Paper with a Big Cause” lately in wel-
come rites witnessed by the management and organic members
of this paper. (R.M. Tendero, Jr.)
Prelate warns flock vs ‘scare tactics’ on overpopulation
OZAMIZ CITY— Archbishop Jesus Dosado, CM has warned
the faithful of Misamis Occidental on the “scare tactics” on
overpopulation stressing that population-control movement
was wrong as a matter of fact. He said for disaffected Catholics
the overpopulation scare was attractive for if overpopulation
were the problem, the solution was obvious: Tell the Church to
lift the ban on artificial birth control. (Wendell Talibong)
policy banning aerial spray
DAVAO CITY— On World Environment
Day (June 5), farming communities in the
region called on the government to formu-
late policy that will finally stop the use of
aerial spraying of pesticides among banana
plantations.
Farmers coming from Davao Del Sur,
Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley
expressed their statement of disgust on the
practice of aerial spraying in a communiqué
sent to CBCPNews even as they reminded
the government on the result of a medical
study pertaining to aerial spray.
Last month, a team of toxicologists headed
by Dr. Allan Dionisio presented their study
“Health and Environmental Assessment
of Sitio Camocaan in Hagonoy, Davao del
Sur” which clearly emphasized the impact
of prolonged exposure to aerial spraying to
people and the environment.
The DOH-commissioned study recom-

Prelate warns faithful on fallacy of anti-lifers
MATI CITY—Bishop Patricio Alo has warned Catholics to be
extra careful especially in listening to the arguments of anti-
lifers for they might be introducing fallacy in their statements.
He said the argument that “a tiny fetus is not a human being”
is a dangerous premise and it is being used only by pro-lifers in
order to justify the selfish act of murdering the innocent unborn
child. (Mark Ventura)
Vigan school graduates 48 catechists
VIGAN CITY—St. Benedict Institute, Northern Luzon’s Cat-
echetical Institute and Religious Education Department of the
Divine Word College of Vigan in Pantay Fatima, Vigan recently
graduated 48 new catechists. Of the 48 graduates, six have been
given missions in the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia including
three catechists from Ilocos Sur: Desiree Molina—San Juan;
Conchita Pasian—Sugpon; Rogielyn Saing—Sigay. (Fran C.
Quitoriano)
Prelate says country needs a new Pentecost
DAVAO CITY—Archbishop Fernando Capalla said the country
needs a new Pentecost so that through the power of the Holy
Spirit the system will be energized positively by the Spirit-filled
people in it. “The Church, the Mystical Body of Christ, was born
on Pentecost. The Holy Spirit, who is one with the Father and
Son, is responsible for the good, the true and the beautiful in
mended that “aerial spraying of pesticides
should be stopped and a shift to organic
farming techniques should be considered”.
Sitio Camoocan is located adjacent to the
Lapanday banana plantation which practices
the aerial spraying method for many years
now, according to the study.
The farmers also joined the Mamayan
Ayaw sa Aerial Spraying (MAAS) in a
caravan from the offices of the Department
of Agriculture, Fertilizers and Pesticides
Authority (FPA) and Department of Health
(DOH) to remind them of their responsibility
to protect the public through immediately
making their respective policies that sup-
ports the DOH study.
Danilo Taghoy, a kagawad from Brgy
Taba, Carmen Davao del Norte said, “June
5 which is World Environment Day be-
comes an opportunity to call the attention
of these government offices that it is time
they should formulate their own executive
orders or policies banning aerial spraying
in support to the study of their very own
experts.”
Taghoy, a member of the local government
unit observed that such executive policies
will guide the barangays in creating their
own ordinances banning aerial spraying
as banana plantations continue to spread
poison in their villages.
The study found out that 82 percent of
respondents from Sitio Camocaan were indi-
rectly exposed to aerially sprayed pesticides
and 52 percent of whom experienced eye
pain, eye tearing, headache, eye redness, eye
itchiness, dizziness and skin itchiness which
are consistent of acute effects of pesticides.
The study also found pesticide in the blood
samples of community residents, which
were not workers of the plantation. Pesticide
was also found in the soil and air samples
of Camocaan.
The study recommended to ban aerial
spraying on the “unusual neurologic and
dermatologic conditions observed among
the Camocaan group such as severe devel-
opmental delays, chloracne and cutaneous
© www.dirtybananas.org
lupus erythematosus, thyroid gland disor-
ders which are warning cases of long-term
exposures to pesticides”.
Bernardo Limikid, spokesperson of the
Pyag-Ubongan Tribal Association said, “a
national policy banning aerial spraying is
very important because people from Com-
postela Valley also suffer the same fate of
Sitio Camocaan.”
Carina Cardinas, president of the members
of the Digos City Working Women’s Guild
already received many complaints from her
members of symptoms and sickness caused
by heavy exposure to aerial spraying.
“The only way to remove our fear of poi-
soning and death due to exposure to aerial
spraying is banning the method. We cannot
wait for government to prolong this agony.
What we need now is a DOH executive order
banning aerial spray,” Cardinas said. (Mark
S. Ventura)

Bible seminars to highlight

the lives of human beings,” he said. (Mark Ventura)

Capalla says system of gov’t not totally corrupt

DAVAO CITY—Archbishop Fernando Capalla said that despite

centennial of Ilocano bible

the negative criticisms against the current administration which
have given the impression that the system of government is to-
tally corrupt, he thinks otherwise. “If our system of government
is totally corrupt, there would have been no government at all.
There would have been anarchy, a total breakdown of order and
peace in all areas of life,” said Capalla. (Mark Ventura)
Manila highlights RH Bill on Pentecost Sunday
MANILA—The Archdiocese of Manila celebrated Pentecost
Sunday 2009 highlighting the importance of life through confer-
ences on the controversial Reproductive Health Bill or Republic
Act 5043. Organized by the Archdiocesan Catholic Renewal
Ministry, the event cum conferences with the theme “Pentecost
2009… Yes to Life”, was held at the San Andres Sports Complex
in Malate Manila on May 31. (Kate Laceda)
Manila archdiocese celebrates Friendship Day
MANILA─ The Archdiocese of Manila hosted a “Friendship
Day” on May 29 at the Guadalupe Minor Seminary in Makati
City. Fr. Sanny De Claro, Director of the Human Resource
Development Department (HRDD), said the celebration was
organized to unite with the poor and those affected by the cur-
rent financial failure. (Kate Laceda)
BAGUIO CITY—On the occasion of the Centennial Celebration
of the Ilocano Bible, the Ilocano Bible Centennial Committee has
organized a series of Bible seminars on all Saturdays of Septem-
ber 2009.
Dubbed as the September Scripture Seminar Series or commonly
known as “S4,” the discussions will be held on September 5 at the
Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Evangelical Chapel in Baguio
City; September 12 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur; September 19 in Santiago
City in Isabela and September 26 at the Divine Word College in
Urdaneta, Pangasinan.
Comprising the committee are Lingayen-Dagupan Auxiliary Bish-
op Renato Mayugba, Bishop Rodolfo Juan of the Baguio Episcopal
United Methodist Church, and Bishop Ephraim Tendero, National
Director of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches.
Bishop Daniel Arichea, Jr. PHD, a Translation Consultant of the
Philippine Bible Society (PBS) will talk on “God loves Pinakbet Too:
The Bible in Ilocano.
The concept on Bibliodrama will be shared by the Executive Sec-
retary of CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Bible Apostolate (ECBA)
Fr. Oscar Alunday.
Ways on how to effectively read the Bible will be the scope of
the talk of Dr. Philip Flores of the Trainers of Pastors International
Coalition (TOPIC)-Philippines.
Dr. Anicia Del Cooro, Translation Consultant of the United Bible
Societies (UBS), will lecture on “Why So Many Versions.”
With the theme, “May They Be One: 100 Years of Cooperation for
the Word,” the centennial celebration will be held on October 17,
2009 at the St. Louis University Gym in Baguio City.
Named “Ilocano Ti Biblia,” the first institution of the Ilocano Bible
was in 1909. It was then revised in 1927, 1933 and 1954.
After the Second Vatican Council, the CBCP and PBS came up with
an inter-confessional translation of the Bible in major languages in
the Philippines.
“Naimbag a Damag Biblia” was said to be the popular version
of the Ilocano bible that was first translated in 1983 by Godofredo
Albano and Peter La Julian. (Kate Laceda)

SAMIN condemns AFP’s order of battle

Prelate urges Catholic educators

DAVAO CITY—The Sisters’ Association in Mindanao (SAMIN)
has again expressed strong condemnation on the order of battle
reportedly issued by the AFP’s 10th Infantry Division (ID). Sr.
Elsa Compuesto, MSM, executive secretary of SAMIN in a state-

to raise ‘new breed of leaders’

ment said, “the Sisters join the outrage over the reported AFP
10th Infantry Division’s Order of Battle which brands religious
and other sectors as enemies of the state in violation of our hu-
man rights.” (Mark Ventura)
Internalize the experiences and situations of the Rural Poor
of the Philippines as captured in this Book of Proceedings
of the 2nd National Rural Congress
OZAMIZ CITY—Ozamiz Archbishop
Jesus Dosado, CM urged Catholic educa-
tors to help students to raise new breed of
leaders who will stand against the culture
of corruption in the Philippines.
Dosado said the educational commu-
nity should become a genuine commu-
nity of faith, a community that is called
at this moment in history to overcome
the culture of death.
“A part of this culture of death specific
to the Philippines is the culture of cor-
ruption that is found in the holders of
leadership from the highest to the lowest.
We are all aware of this; it is time to raise
up a new breed of leaders,” he said.
Dosado added such will not take place
unless there is a sharing of the Christian
commitment among at least a portion of
each of the principal groups that make
up the educational community.
“There are some things I would like our
teachers and administrators to remember
as we start a new school year. I am taking
for granted that our school administrators,
teachers and staff are members of our Catho-
lic Faith,” he stressed.
The distinctive feature of the Catholic
school is to create for the community an
atmosphere enlivened by the Gospel spirit
which aims to help the adolescent contribute
to the growth of the new creation, he said.
Catholic educators are to manifest their
being Catholics by participating simply and
actively in the liturgical and sacramental life
of the school which is the only justification for
the Local Church to retain and maintain the
Catholic Educational System, said Dosado.
The prelate said Catholic schools must be
places where moral truths are taught without
variation and without ambiguity.
Dosado said as another year starts for
our Catholic School System, it is time to
verify the educational process under way
and to find new ways to help our young
people mature.
“The difficulty of forming authentic
Christians is almost indistinguishable
from the difficulty of helping men and
women become responsible and mature,”
he also said.
“The church needs authoritative edu-
cators whom the new generations can
look to with trust and who offer their
own lives as examples of what they are
trying to teach.”
“An important area where we have
to make progress is in promoting a
widespread mentality in favor of life in
every aspect and at every moment, with
particular attention to life marked by con-
ditions of great fragility and precarious-
ness.” Dosado said. (Wendell Talibong)

Taize / A3
An excellent resource material for Church, Youth Mass, a DVD presenta-
Government agencies, Academe, NGOs and POs tion on Taize and prayer with
who are interested to know the real situation songs from Taize are also held at
of the Rural Poor in the countryside. the Our lady of the Most Blessed
Sacrament Parish in Merville
Available at Subdivision, Parañaque.
CBCP-NASSA To be able to interact with
National Secretariat for Social Action-Justice and Peace more young people the Broth-
470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila ers attend a regular meeting
of youth at the Shrine of Mary,
Contact: Anne Bungalon & Carlito Santos Queen of Peace in EDSA after
Tels. 527-4147 / 527-4163 the 5:30 p.m. Mass on Mon-
Email: admin@nassa.org.ph days.
Price: Php 1,000 per copy The Brothers have also
met the leaders of Archdioc-
Purchase a copy and help uplift the situation of the rural poor. esan Youth Organizations and
Movements in Manila (AYOM),
and will be meeting the youth
ministers of all Vicariates of
Kalookan diocese for spiritual
activities.
Three Brothers visited the
country last year and have
facilitated retreats in different
dioceses. In view of the upcom-
ing worldwide event, more
Brothers of the community are
now staying in Manila until
March 2010 to prepare for the
meeting.
Taize website provides some
guidelines for those who want
to participate in the meeting.
Young Europeans wishing to
join are invited to spend a week “inner life and human solidar-
in Taize to familiarize them- ity”, the “pilgrimage of trust”
selves with the various phases meeting on February 2010 will
of the journey and program. be the fifth assembly to be held
The preparation will also help in Asia, following meetings in
Europeans get acquainted to a Chennai (Madras), India, in
culture totally different from 1985 and 1988, Manila, in 1991,
their own. and Kolkata, India in 2006.
With the over all theme of (Pinky Barrientos, FSP)
Manila / A1
consideration to the “safety” of the people around the depot.
Pabillo refused to give further comment on the issue, saying he
is still waiting for a consolidated statement among church leaders
of the Manila archdiocese.
Hundreds of people joined a church-organized protest rally on
May 27 at the Bonifacio Shrine to raise their objection to the Pandacan
oil depot’s continued operation. (CBCPNews)
 A8 People, Facts & Places CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

Baler and Casiguran mark

quadricentennial of
evangelization
THE 400 years of evangelization in this town was
celebrated on June 11, 2009 according to San Luis
Obispo Parish (SLOP) priest Fr. Nilvon Co Vil-
lanueva.
A pontifical mass was presided by Prelature
of Infanta Bishop Rolando Tria Tirona together
with 36 priests of the prelature at 3 o’clock in the
afternoon at SLOP in Baler.
Thousands of people from the Valley-Ding
and the prelature participated in the Eucharistic
celebration to commemorate the event.
Also on June 13, 2009, the northern town of Casig-
uran likewise commemorated the quadricentennial
of its evangelization in time for its town fiesta in
honor of its patron San Antonio de Padua.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared
2009 as Year of Baler in recognition of the town’s
significant contribution to Philippine history. This
town will mark its 400th founding anniversary on
August this year.
Under Proclamation 1696, the President also
created a National Organizing Committee (NOC)
which shall be headed by the National Commission
for Culture and Arts (NCAA).
The NOC which shall be composed of Depart-
ments of Education, Trade and Industry, Tourism,
Agriculture and the provincial government of Au-
rora is tasked to plan, coordinate and implement
the programs of the year-round celebration.
Two hundred thirty-five kilometers east of
Manila, Baler, which was created in 1609, was a
part of Distrito del Principe, now the province of
Nueva Ecija.
Historically, it was in Baler that Spanish soldiers
put up their last stand of defense during the libera-
tion of the Philippines from the Spaniards.
It was the historic ‘Siege of Baler’ in July 1898,
where 57 Spanish soldiers were holed-up inside the
Baler church until their surrender to the Filipino
soldiers in June 30, 1899. It was then that General
Emilio Aguinaldo issued a decree stating that
Baler defenders shall be treated ‘not as prisoners
but as friends’.
In recognition of this gallantry, heroism and
patriotism displayed by both the Spanish soldiers
and Filipino guerillas during that remarkable
episode of Philippine history, President Arroyo
signed the enactment of Republic Act 9187 in 2003
declaring every 30th of June as Philippine-Spanish
Friendship Day. (Jason de Asis)

CBCP holds nat’l convention for treasurers Cardinal, foreign

The talk on “Principles on Business Op-
portunities” was discussed by Ann Mayeen
Magno, Senior Director of Ernst and Young.
communities in Manila
Atty. Aileen Lizada from Mindanao up-
dated the participants on the legal status
of the financial administrators, while Atty.
celebrate Pentecost
Ma. Liza Rosario, Accountant of the Arch-
diocese of Manila, tackled the topic “Lay
Spirituality and Collaboration on Church
Administration.”
A business meeting was also conducted
on the second day of the convention headed
by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco, Chairman of
Pension Plan, and Fr. Junar de la Victoria,

Photo courtesy of RCAM

Photo courtesy of Pension Plan

Oeconomus of the Archdiocese of Davao.

The 11th National Convention of Financial Administrators held at Tagbilaran, Bohol last June 1-5 was attended
by 150 participants nationwide.
THE Catholic Bishops Conference of the
Philippines-Pension Plan Committee held its
11th National Convention for Arch/Diocesan
Financial Administrators of the Philippines
(ADFAP) on June 1-5, at the Retreat House
of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary
(IMHS) in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.
Centered on the theme “Opening Op-
portunities Towards Services,” the four-day
convention included, aside from lectures
The said meeting also tackled a discussion
on the possible short courses that can be
taken up during the semester break, the pos-
sibility of making ADFAP as an association,
creation of an Executive Committee or the so
called Permanent Council and the planned
venue for the next ADFAP convention.
More than 150 participants composed
of financial administrators, oeconomus,
on business plans, legal updates and other bishops, nuns and lay persons attended the
topics such as the concepts and designs on convention.
cemeteries and chapel viewing, a city tour Tagbilaran Bishop Leonardo Medroso pre-
and social gatherings. sided the opening Eucharistic celebration.
Fr. Ricado Torrefiel of the Diocese of The convention formally started with a
Kalookan shared his ideas on the concepts recollection led by Bro. Bo Sanchez, a Roman
and designs of cemeteries while the topic Catholic lay Evangelist in the Philippines.
on columbarium and viewing chapels was In a separate development, Fr. Ronaldo
facilitated by former ADFAP President Msgr. Amora has been recently announced as the
Daniel Sta. Maria. ADFAP President of 2009. (Kate Laceda)
MANILA Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales celebrated a
Mass on the eve of Pentecost, May 30, along with over 200 Chinese,
Burmese Korean and Filipino Catholics.
The event, held at the Arzobispado de Manila in Intramuros,
Manila, was organized by Msgr. Esteban Lo, vicar for Foreign Com-
munities Concern.
Lo said the gathering was a way to proclaim the “goodness of God
during the great feast of the Pentecost when God sent forth the Holy
Spirit, His love for humankind”.
The foreign communities were made up of religious and lay who
are in the Philippines either to study or to work.
Cardinal Rosales presided the evening Mass with 40 Chinese, Bur-
mese, Korean, Vietnamese and Filipino priests as concelebrants.
The songs at the liturgical activity were in different languages.
The Chinese sang entrance hymn’; the Burmese the offertory hymn;

Nat’l summit tackles indigenous education for IP

the Vietnamese the Communion hymn and the Koreans the final
hymn.
The prayers of the faithful were also in the languages of those
A NATIONAL convention of indigenous people (IP) focusing on the present. The Chinese led prayers for the Pope and the Church; the
community articulations of the definition of indigenous education Vietnamese for world peace; the Koreans for the culture of life and
was held at the Manresa Retreat Center in Cagayan de Oro City on love and the youth; and the Burmese for the poor, the sick and the
May 26-30. persecuted. (CBCPNews)

Markings
Organized by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines’
Episcopal Commission on Indigenous People (CBCP-ECIP), the 3rd
national meeting was attended by elders, community teachers, and
apostolate staffs from various dioceses and cultural communities.
The discussion centered on the different scopes of indigenous
education such as education program management, curriculum and
evaluation, education philosophy and instructional set-up.
Also tackled were the advocacy works and plans for the succeed-
RESIGNED. Bishop Zacharias Jimenez,
ing years on the implementation of the campaign spearheaded by the 61, as Auxiliary bishop of Butuan, May
Department of Education (DepEd), National Commission on Indig- 7, 2009. Citing “health reasons”, Bishop
enous Education (NCIP) and other related institutions for the constant Jimenez tendered his resignation to the
reinforcement and acknowledgement of the indigenous education. Vatican ahead of the mandatory retirement
age of 75. Pope Benedict XVI accepted
Speakers from various related organizations and dioceses shared The CBCP Episcopal Commission on Indigenous People led by ECIP chairman
Jimenez’s resignation in accordance with
their knowledge to the participants on the scopes of the education Bishop Sergio Utleg (seated, 5th from left) organized the 3rd national summit on
Canons 401 par 2 of the Code of Canon
indigenous education on May 26-30. (Photo courtesy of ECIP)
that is appropriate on their context and culture. Law, which states, “A diocesan bishop
ECIP Chairman Bishop Sergio Utleg and Department of Education an active participant. who, because of illness or some other
The participants presented a statement to Lapus at the end of the grave reason, has become unsuited for
(DepEd) Secretary Jesli Lapus also took part in the convention. the fulfillment of his office, is earnestly
Utleg reiterated ECIP’s pledge to sustain the efforts of partner convention, articulating their commitment to advance indigenous requested to offer his resignation from
communities in advocating the education for the IPs. education. office.” Jimenez was named bishop of
For his part, Lapus expressed the recent efforts of DepEd to re- This convention was established as a national concern of ECIP Pagadian December 2, 1994. He was
in 2000, whihc has been organizing consultations, workshops and appointed Auxiliary bishop of Butuan on June 11, 2003.
spond to the education needs of the IP communities.
He also committed to look into the possibility of the continuing trainings that aspires to assemble insights, viewpoints and articula- ELECTED. New General
development of policy formulation for these concerns with ECIP as tions on indigenous education. (CBCPNews) Government of the Oblates
of Notre Dame (OND), May

Filipino elected chair of world bible group

THE United Bible Societies (UBS) has
recently elected a Filipino, Nora Lucero,
as the new Chairman for the UBS Global
Board during a meeting at the UBS World
Service Center in Reading, England on
May 12, 2009.
Prior to the appointment, Lucero was the
Deputy General Secretary of the Philippine
Bible Society (PBS); member of the UBS
Asia-Pacific Area Board and Finance and
Audit Committee of UBS Global.
One of the significant responsibilities
24, 2009, during a General
Chapter held at the OND
Convention Hall in Tamon-
taka, DOS, Maguindanao.
of Lucero as the new Board Chairman is to Konstantinou is a board member of the Elected were: Sr. Rose Susan
P. Montejo as Superior Gen-
present the report of the Global Board to the Greek Bible Society and a lecturer of Old eral (re-elected), Sr. Estrella
UBS World Assembly on September 2010 in Testament at the Aristotle University of M. Corotan as 1st Councilor
South Korea. Thessaloniki in Greece. and Assistant General; Sr.
Meanwhile, other board members of the UBS is a society of various bible societies Teresa Rose S. Salazar, as
2nd Councilor; Sr. Carmelita Y. Olifernes, as 3rd Councilor (re-elected);
UBS Global were Christian Mégrelis who was operating in 200 countries worldwide that and Sr. Bernadette G. Baldemor as 4th Councilor. The superior general
elected as the Vice Chairman and Professor aids in the translation of Scriptures and of- is a native of Palo, Leyte, and has been a member of the congregation
Miltiadis Konstantinou as the new Chairman fers assistance to other national bible societ- for 40 years. She had been general councilor at various times in the past,
of the Committee on Translation Policy. ies while PBS is a non-profit, non-stock and and the directress of the OND Renewal Program. She was assigned as
catechetical and Alay Kapwa coordinator in the dioceses of Samar and
Megrelis is the French Bible Society Chair- inter-confessional Christian organization Leyte in her early years. Assistant Superior General Sr. Estrella Corotan
man since 2007 and has served the UBS that provides different translations of the was born in Saguing, Makilala, Cotabato. In her 36 years as a religious,
Europe Middle East Area Board. Word of God to people. (CBCPNews) she spent a good number of years in the OND Formation Program. She
was also assigned as directress of the Notre Dame Center for Catechesis

CFC missionaries hold first online get together

PHYSICAL proximity is no longer an impediment for prayer meet-
ings and spiritual get together as internet made the first online
international missionaries’ household meeting of the Couples For
Christ Global Mission Foundation, Inc. (CFC) a success.
At least 24 CFC missionaries from the United States, Trinidad &
Tobago, Seychelles, Kenya, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, St. Martin
and the Philippines simultaneously went online to participate in a
pioneering intercontinental sharing last May 28.
Through videoconferencing, the CFC missionaries met online
for three hours and shared their stories of victory, challenge, and
realization about being out of the country on mission.
According to one of the participants, Nirva’ana Ella Delacruz,
some of the missionaries had to stay up until dawn to join the online
meeting due to the time differences.
“The missionaries who took time out of their jam-packed schedules
to join us even sacrificed their much needed sleeping time. Those in
the US had to stay up till early morning,” Delacruz said.
Even Keith Janohan, a former missionary to Singapore who is set
to leave for Indonesia, has admitted that he once thought it would
be impossible to have an online household gathering.
But James Arela, a missionary for South Africa, said this break-
through destroyed concepts of how a normal household meeting
should be as it virtually broke down the barriers of distance and
space.
Among the topics discussed where the missionaries’ difficulty
adjusting to the culture and tradition of their host countries, the
challenge posed by language barriers in communication, and the
disappointments they face on missionary work. (Kris Bayos)
(NDCFC), and was elected general councilor for two terms prior to her
election as superior general in 2001-05. The OND 10th General Chapter
which began May 17 had the theme, “Living the OND Spirituality in Today’s
World.” A Gallery of the OND Ministry, Leadership and Formation was also
opened on the same day for viewing to the general public.
ORDAINED. Rev. Alexander Ramos Del Castillo, Rev. Mc Andro Recto
Fabiaña Landingin and Rev. Marco Aquino Soriano, to the Sacred Order of
Presbyters; and Seminarians Divino Espelita Martin and Casimir Erickson
Lasquite Totanes, to the Sacred Order of Deacons, May 30, 2009. Most
Rev. Marlo Peralta, Bishop of Alaminos presided the ordination ceremo-
nies at St. Joseph Cathedral in Alaminos City, Pangasinan. Thanksgiving
masses were held on May 30 at St. Joseph the Patriarch Parish in Aguilar,
Pangasinan by Rev. Marco Soriano; on May 31 at St. Isidore of Labrador
Parish, in Labrador, Pangasinan by Fr. Mc Andro Recto Landingin; also
on May 31 at St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish, Agno, Pangasinan by
Rev. Alexander del Castillo.
DIED. Sr. Ma. Radegunda S. Barreda, RVM, May 31, 2009 at the age of
75; Sr. Ma. Eufemia A. Ello, RVM, also on May 31 at the age of 83.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009 Pastoral Concerns B1
Clergy Congregation’s Letter on Year for Priests which begins with vespers on the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 19.

‘We Will Seek Together to Concentrate on the Identity of Christ the Son of God’
Dear Priests!
In only about two weeks’ time, on the
Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus,
Friday 19th June, we will experience an
intense moment of faith, closely united
with the Holy Father and amongst
ourselves, when we shall begin the Year
for Priests by celebrating First Vespers
of the Feast in the Basilica of St. Peter
at the Vatican.
Each day we are called to conversion,
but we are called to it in a very particular
way during this year, in union with
all those who have received the gift
of priestly ordination. Conversion to
what? It is conversion to be ever more
authentically that which we already
are, conversion to our ecclesial identity
of which our ministry is a necessary
consequence, so that a renewed and
joyous awareness of our “being” will
determine our “acting”, or rather will
create the space allowing Christ the
Good Shepherd to live in us and to act
through us.
Our spirituality must be nothing other
than the spirituality of Christ himself,
the one and only Supreme High Priest
of the New Testament.
In this year, which the Holy Father has
providentially announced, we will seek
together to concentrate on the identity
of Christ the Son of God, in communion
with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
who became man in the virginal womb
of Mary, and on his mission to reveal
the Father and His wondrous plan of
salvation. This mission of Christ carries
with it the building up of the Church:
behold the Good Shepherd (Cf. Jn. 19:1-
21) who gives his life for the Church (Cf.
Eph. 5: 25).
Yes, conversion every day of our lives
so that Christ’s manner of life may be the
manner of life made ever more manifest
in each one of us.
We must exist for others, we must
undertake to live with the People in a
union of holy and divine love (which
clearly presupposes the richness of
holy celibacy), which obliges us to live
in authentic solidarity with those who
suffer and who live in a great many
types of poverty.
We must be laborers for the building
up of the one Church of Christ, for
which we must live purposefully and
faithfully the communion of love with
the Pope, with the Bishops, with our
brother priests and with the Faithful.
We must live this communion with the
unbroken pilgrimage of the Church
within the very sinews of the Mystical
Body.
We should be able to run spiritually
in this Year with a “wide open heart” so
as to inwardly conform to our vocation
the better to say, in truth “it is no longer
I who live but Christ who lives in me”
(Gal. 2:20).
The holiness of priests redounds to the
benefit of the entire ecclesial Body. Thus
it would be most fitting for all of us, be
that the ordained Faithful, seminarians,
the male and female religious, and the
lay Faithful, to find ourselves all together
at the Vatican Basilica for the Vespers
presided over by the Holy Father, which
will be celebrated after welcoming the
Reliquary of the heart of that most
outstanding priestly model who is St.
John Mary Vianney.
Those who are unable to be in City of
Rome are encouraged to join themselves
spiritually to the occasion.
- Entrance to the Basilica from 16.00
The welcoming of the Reliquary at
17.30, followed by the celebration of
Vespers.
Entrance Tickets must be requested by
Fax (06-69885863) from the Prefecture
of the Papal Household and may be
collected the preceding day from the
Bronze Doors, under the Colonnade to
the side of the Basilica.
- Priests will wear their proper clerical
attire, and religious the habit of the
Institute to which they belong.
- The Year for Priests will conclude
with an International Convention in
Rome on the 9th, 10th and 11th of June
2010.
More detailed information concerning
that event will be made available by this
end of the current month of June.
All those who are interested in
taking part may refer to Opera Romana
Pellegrinaggi (Via della Pigna 13/a,
I-00186 Roma – tel. (0039)06-698961)
to answer all questions of a practical
nature.
Mauro Piacenz
Titular Archbishop of Vittoriana
Secretary

‘A Year of Prayer by Priests,

© Noli Yamsuan / RCAM

with Priests and for Priests’
Dear Priests,
The Year for Priests, announced by our beloved Pope Benedict XVI to celebrate the 150th
anniversary of the death of the saintly Curé of Ars, St. John Mary Vianney, is drawing near.
It will be inaugurated by the Holy Father on the 19th June, the feast of the Sacred Heart of
Jesus and the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests. The announcement of
the Year for Priests has been very warmly received, especially amongst priests themselves.
Everyone wants to commit themselves with determination, sincerity and fervor so that it
may be a year amply celebrated in the whole world—in the Dioceses, parishes and in every
local community—with the warm participation of our Catholic people who undoubtedly love
their priests and want to see them happy, holy and joyous in their daily apostolic labors.

It must be a year that is both positive
and forward looking in which the Church
says to her priests above all, but also to
all the Faithful and to wider society by
means of the mass media, that she is proud
of her priests, loves them, honors them,
admires them and that she recognizes
with gratitude their pastoral work and the
witness of the their life. Truthfully priests
are important not only for what they do but
also for who they are. Sadly, it is true that
at the present time some priest have been
shown to have been involved
in gravely problematic and
unfortunate situations. It
is necessary to investigate
these matters, pursue judicial
processes and impose penalties
accordingly. However, it is
also important to keep in mind
that these pertain to a very
small portion of the clergy.
The overwhelming majority
of priests are people of great
personal integrity, dedicated
to the sacred ministry; men
of prayer and of pastoral
charity, who invest their entire
existence in the fulfillment of
their vocation and mission,
often through great personal
sacrifice, but always with an
authentic love towards Jesus
Christ, the Church and the
people, in solidarity with the
poor and the suffering. It is for this reason
that the Church is proud of her priests
wherever they may be found.
May this year be an occasion for a period
of intense appreciation of the priestly
identity, of the theology of the Catholic
priesthood, and of the extraordinary
meaning of the vocation and mission
of priests within the Church and in
society. This will require opportunities
for study, days of recollection, spiritual
exercises reflecting on the Priesthood,
conferences and theological seminars
in our ecclesiastical faculties, scientific
research and respective publications.
The Holy Father, in announcing the
Year in his allocution on the 16th March
last to the Congregation for the Clergy
during its Plenary Assembly, said that
with this special year it is intended “to
encourage priests in this striving for
spiritual perfection on which, above
all, the effectiveness of their ministry
depends”. For this reason it must be, in
a very special way, a year of prayer by
priests, with priests and for priests, a
year for the renewal of the spirituality of
Big Events for
Year for Priests
International Priests’ Retreat
in Ars, France sponsored by the
Congregation for Clergy: September
27 to October 3, 2009.
International gathering of Priests,
with the Holy Father in St. Peter’s
Square, Vatican, on June 19, 2010.
the presbyterate and of each priest. The
Eucharist is, in this perspective, at the heart
of priestly spirituality. Thus Eucharistic
adoration for the sanctification of priests
and the spiritual motherhood of religious
women, consecrated and lay women
towards priests, as previously proposed
some time ago by the Congregation for
the Clergy, could be further developed
and would certainly bear the fruit of
sanctification.
May it also be a year in which the
concrete circumstances and the material
sustenance of the clergy will be considered,
since they live, at times, in situations of
great poverty and hardship in many parts
of the world.
May it be a year as well of religious and
of public celebration which will bring the
people—the local Catholic community—to
pray, to reflect, to celebrate, and justly to
give honor to their priests. In the ecclesial
community a celebration is a very cordial
event which expresses and nourishes
Christian joy, a joy which springs from
the certainty that God loves us and
celebrates with us. May it therefore be
an opportunity to develop the
communion and friendship
between priests and the
communities entrusted to
their care.
Christ the Great
Many other aspects and
initiatives could be mentioned
that could enrich the Year for
High Priest
Priests, but here the faithful
ingenuity of the local churches
is called for. Thus, it would
be good for every Dioceses
and each parish and local
community to establish, at
the earliest opportunity, an THIS icon (egg tempera and gold leaf on wood panel, 28”
effective program for this x 22”) is “based on a fifteenth century Greek prototype;
special year. Clearly it would here Christ is shown in Latin Rite vestments with a
be important to begin the Year
with some notable event. The gold pelican over His heart, the ancient symbol of self-
local Churches are invited on sacrifice. The borders contain a windig grapevine and
the 19th June next, the same altar prepared for the celebration of the liturgy of the
day on which the Holy Father Mass; in the borders are smaller icons of Melchizedek
will inaugurate the Year for
Priests in Rome, to participate in the and St. Jean-Baptiste Vianney.”
opening of the Year, ideally by some Incidentally, it is St. John Vianney whom Pope Benedict
particular liturgical act and festivity. Let XVI, with the announcement of this special year, has
those who are able most surely come to declared the Universal Patron of Priests.
Rome for the inauguration, to manifest
their own participation in this happy Marek Czarnecki of Mariden, Connecticut, who
initiative of the Pope. designed the icon and who has given the USCCB the
God will undoubtedly bless with great rights to use it during the Year of Priests, explains: “I
love this undertaking; and the Blessed wrote the icon about seven years ago [for seminarians
Virgin Mary, Queen of the Clergy, will
pray for each of you, dear priests.
and priests] to be able to see Christ in themselves, and
themselves in Christ. We often hear that the icon is
Cardinal Cláudio Hummes called a window; in this case, it’s also meant to be a
Archbishop Emeritus of São Paulo mirror.” The Good Shepherd reminds the priest that he
Prefect, Congregation for the Clergy
is to “lay down his life for his sheep.”
 B2 Updates CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, J.C.D.
IN the first part of this article, we defined
the problem we wish to address—i.e., the
pastoral care of the 5 million OFWs—and
made a brief historical background of the
ecclesial response to the phenomenon of
migrants in general. In the second part, we
focused on the principles for the adequate
pastoral care of migrants. In this third and
final part of this article, we shall focus on the
possible structures for the adequate pastoral
care of OFWs.
III. A Survey of Current Institutions
& Jurisdictional Structures for the
Pastoral Care of OFWs by the Philippine
Ecclesiastical Hierarchy.
After all the previous considerations,
we are ready to understand better the
actual provisions of Canon Law—most
recently resumed in Part II: Juridical
Pastoral Guidelines, of the Instruction
Erga migrantes of 2004—as regards the
pastoral care of migrants, applicable to
our present study as we delimited it—
bishop or to the bishops of the dioceses or
eparchies concerned, who will appoint
them chaplains/missionaries to the
migrants.
§3. As far as religious presbyters
who dedicate themselves to assisting
migrants are concerned, the specific
norms contained in Chapter III have to
be applied.
It must be pointed out that as far as the
Philippine Hierarchy is concerned, they
can only authorize individual priests
to go as chaplains/missionaries. The
specific missio canonica, by which the
juridic relationship of faithful-sacred
minister arises, will have to be expedited
by the host Church—which, in our
assumption, is either non-existent or
hardly able to attend to the OFWs.
Art. 18 [Selection of chaplains/
missionaries for migrants.]
§1. The diocesan or eparchial bishops
of the countries a quibus shall remind
parish priests of their serious duty to
provide for all the faithful a religious
formation such that, if the case may be,
with due respect for the customary
canonical norms, he will draw up a
written agreement with the superior of
that institute. If more than one diocese or
eparchy is involved, the agreement must
be signed by every diocesan or eparchial
bishop. The role of co-ordinating these
initiatives belongs to the competent
commission of the Episcopal Conference or
the corresponding hierarchical structures
of the Eastern Catholic Churches.
§2. If the pastoral care of migrants is
entrusted to an individual religious, it
is always necessary first to obtain the
consent of his superior and in this case
too to draw up the relative agreement
in writing; in other words, taking into
consideration due distinctions, the
procedure is the same as that laid down
in Art. 5 for diocesan presbyters.
Again we have to point out that
following this formula, the Philippine
Hierarchy can only authorize members
of institutes of consecrated life or
societies of apostolic life to go and
minister to the OFWs wherever they are
deployed. The specific missio canonica,
In effect, in what affects the OFWs,
it would not be difficult to envision the
collaboration of the Philippine Hierarchy
with these lay associations—especially
the covenanted communities—in order
to orient their members who are OFWs
to collaborate more effectively with the
chaplains/missionaries for migrants, all
in favor of the pastoral care of the OFWs in
their particular places of deployment.
E. Personal Prelature
At this point, it is timely to make
an important observation regarding
all the institutions we have surveyed,
relevant to the problem of setting up
an effective organization of the pastoral
care of OFWs. It is simply that all of
them, insofar as they are unilateral
initiatives by the Philippine Hierarchy,
are nevertheless all non-hierarchical in
nature. The reason is equally simple:
because in none of them has the
principle of personal jurisdiction been
invoked, such that in all of them, the
OFWs deployed in foreign lands are
neither hierarchically connected with a
territorial ecclesiastical circumscription
the secular clergy. Their purpose is to
promote an appropriate distribution of
priests, or to carry out special pastoral
or missionary enterprises in different
regions or for different social groups.
In the case of the OFWs, the Holy See—
upon consultation with the CBCP (which
could even initiate the whole process) and
the competent Episcopal Conferences
where the OFWs are deployed—can
erect a Personal Prelature for Filipino
OFWs. It can be composed of Filipino
clergy—initially from the different
Philippine dioceses, especially those from
which the OFWs concerned come from,
and even from religious orders—either by
incardination or by adscription.
Can. 295 §1 A personal prelature is
governed by statutes laid down by the
Apostolic See. It is presided over by a
Prelate as its proper Ordinary. He has
the right to establish a national or an
international seminary, and to incardinate
students and promote them to orders with
the title of service of the prelature.
Perhaps the most important element
of the Personal Prelature—as provider
of the peculiar pastoral care to the

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

A Survey of Current Institutions & Jurisdictional Structures for the Pastoral Care of Filipino Migrant Workers1

Shepherding an Itinerant Flock (Part III)

i.e., the pastoral care of Filipino OFWs
that can be carried out either unilaterally
by the Philippine Hierarchy (or at
most with the recognition of the Holy
See) or by the Apostolic See, with little
dependence on a host Church which may
either be non-existent or hardly capable
of collaborating in the pastoral care of
Filipino OFWs in those areas where they
are presently deployed.
A. Chaplains/Missionaries for
Migrants
The original figure to provide pastoral
attention to migrants were individual
priests, who were simply denominated
chaplains or missionaries for migrants.
They could either be secular or religious,
and are treated in Erga migrantes, Part
II as follows.
Art.4: [Notion of Chaplains/
Missionaries for Migrants]
§1. Presbyters who have been given the
mandate by the competent ecclesiastical
authority to provide spiritual assistance
in a stable way to migrants of the same
language or nation, or belonging to
the same Church sui iuris, are called
chaplains/missionaries for migrants; in
virtue of their office they are endowed
with the faculties described in c.566,§1
of the CIC.
§2. This office should be conferred on
a presbyter who has been well prepared
by a suitable period of formation and
who for reasons of virtue, culture and
knowledge of the language and other
moral and spiritual gifts, demonstrates
that he is a suitable person for this
particular and difficult task.
Art.5 [Missio canonica of chaplains/
missionaries for migrants.]
§1. To those presbyters who wish
to devote themselves to the spiritual
assistance of migrants, the diocesan
or eparchial bishop should give
authorization to do so if he considers
them suited to this mission, in accordance
with what is laid down in CIC, c.271 and
CCEO, cc.361-362 and in these present
juridical pastoral regulations.
§2. Presbyters, who have obtained due
permission as explained in the preceding
paragraph, should make themselves
available to the Episcopal Conference
ad quam, furnished with the relevant
document granted to them by their
own diocesan or eparchial bishop and
their own Episcopal Conference, or by
the competent hierarchical structures
of the Eastern Catholic Churches. The
Episcopal Conference ad quam will
then ensure that these presbyters are
entrusted to the diocesan or eparchial
they will be able to face the difficulties
connected with their departure for
emigration.
§2. The diocesan or eparchial bishops
of the places a quibus shall moreover
take it upon themselves to seek out
diocesan/eparchial presbyters who are
suited for pastoral care with emigrants,
and they shall not neglect to enter
into close relations with the Episcopal
Conference or the corresponding
hierarchical structure of the Eastern
Catholic Church of the nation ad quam
in order to help in pastoral work.
§3. Even in dioceses/eparchies or
regions where it is not immediately
necessary for seminarians to specialize
in the field of migration, the problems of
human mobility should be taken more
and more into account in the teaching of
theology, especially pastoral theology.
B. Institutes of Consecrated Life
Historically, the best capacitated
clerics to accompany emigrants were
precisely members of institutes of
consecrated life, given the existence of
their own organizational and spiritual
support structure to sustain them in
such arduous assignment. It is no
wonder then that Erga migrantes
positively appraised the role played by
the Institutes of Consecrated Life and
Societies of Apostolic Life in their specific
contribution towards the pastoral care
of migrants, regulating them in Part
II: Juridical Pastoral Guidelines as
follows:
Art. 12 [Positive appraisal of the work
done by religious.]
§1. All institutes, in which religious
of various nations are often present, can
make their contribution to assistance
for migrants. Ecclesiastical authorities
should therefore encourage in particular
the work done by those who, under
the seal of religious vows, have the
apostolate to migrants as their own
specific goal or who have acquired
appreciable experience in that field.
§2. The help offered by women’s
religious institutes to the apostolate
among migrants should also be
appreciated and valued. The diocesan or
eparchial bishop shall therefore ensure
that these institutes, with full respect
for their own rules and bearing in mind
their obligations and their charism, lack
neither the spiritual assistance nor the
material means necessary for them to
carry out their mission.
Art. 13 [Missio canonica of religious
chaplains/missionaries for migrants.]
§1. In general whenever a diocesan or
eparchial bishop intends to entrust the
care of migrants to a religious institute,
by which the juridic relationship of
OFW-sacred minister arises, will have
to be expedited by the host Church—
which, we should not forget, is either
non-existent or hardly able to attend to
the Filipino OFWs.
C. Role of the Episcopal Conference:
The Commission on Migration & the
Director for Migration
In order to foster and coordinate the
work of chaplains/missionaries, Erga
migrantes provided for the opportune
organisms under a given Episcopal
conference, in Part II, Chapter V as
follows:
Art. 19
§1. In countries to which migrants go,
or which they leave, in larger numbers,
the Episcopal Conferences and the
competent hierarchical structures of
the Eastern Catholic Churches shall
set up a special national commission
for migration. It will have its secretary,
who in general will take on the office
of national director for migration. It is
very opportune that religious should be
present on this commission as experts,
especially those working for the spiritual
assistance of migrants, as well as lay
faithful qualified in this matter.
D. Lay Associations
As previously pointed out, the
Philippines enjoys a particular
advantage in the reality of a vibrant
ecclesial involvement of the laity. This
affirmation is easily verified by the simple
observation of the proliferation of lay
associations and movements, including
so-called covenanted communities, in
which the members commit themselves
to varying degrees of dedication to
works of zeal and apostolate.
This fact can be made to dovetail with
the provision of Erga migrantes, Part II
as follows:
Art. 3
§1. The faithful who decide to live with
another people should strive to esteem
the cultural patrimony of the nation
that welcomes them, to contribute to its
common good and to spread the faith
especially by the example of Christian
life.
§2. While maintaining the right of
migrants to have their own associations,
at the same time everything should be
done to facilitate their participation in
local associations.
§3. The lay faithful who are culturally
better prepared and spiritually more
available should furthermore be urged
and trained to take on a specific service
as pastoral workers in close collaboration
with the chaplains/missionaries.
(either because such a host Church
doesn’t exist where they are, or the
language and cultural barrier prevents
their being integrated to such Church at
the moment), nor with their Church of
origin in the Philippines (simply because
they are not in Philippine territory at
the moment).
Now then, no matter how zealous the
chaplains/missionaries for migrants may
be, or how dedicated to the apostolate
with the OFWs the lay members of the
covenanted communities might be, it
would not suffice for the full delivery of
the Church’s spiritual wealth (the Word
of God and the sacraments) necessary
for the OFWs to fully actualize their
universal vocation to holiness. For that
to happen, the hierarchical relationship
sacred minister-faithful must be in place.
Another way of understanding this
is to remember that for the Church to
effectively exist, the interplay between
the ministerial priesthood of the clerics
(ultimately stemming from the sacra
potestas invested on the sacred Pastors
because of apostolic succession) and
the royal priesthood of the laity must
exist.
In other words, if the OFWs are
indeed to enjoy maximally the means of
salvation, in equal terms with the rest
of the Catholic faithful in the Philippine
Church, they must form part of an
ecclesiastical circumscription, in much
the same way as the other Filipino
Catholics back home do. The only way
they can do that, given the difficulty
of their forming part of a territorial
ecclesiastical circumscription where
they are (either because such does not
exist or cultural differences make such
inclusion impractical), is for them to
form part of a personal ecclesiastical
circumscription set up specifically for
them.
In this respect, special mention has
to be made of the personal prelature,
the paradigm of the personal (non-
territorial) jurisdiction, as pointed out by
the Instruction De pastorali migratorum
cura and by numerous authors.
Even a cursory reading of the canons
of Book II, Title IV: Personal Prelatures
of the Code of Canon Law—what may
be regarded as the Organic Law for
Personal Prelatures—cannot but reveal
the fittingness of this jurisdictional figure
to the phenomenon of which we are
presently concerned.
Can. 294. Personal prelatures may
be established by the Apostolic See
after consultation with the Episcopal
Conferences concerned. They are
composed of deacons and priests of
OFWs—is having its proper Prelate,
who with the sacra potestas given by
Law, will be able to adequately provide
the appropriate pastoral care needed by
the OFWs. As such, the pastoral care that
shall be given to the OFWs shall not be a
matter of personal or grassroots initiative
anymore—either by missionary clerics
or zealous laypersons—but shall be the
hierarchical exercise of the tria munera
Chrisit.
Even if initially the Personal Prelature
for OFWs would most probably have
to rely on volunteer clergy from the
different particular Churches from
which most of the OFWs come, there
is no reason why in time, with the
maturity of the personal prelature, it
cannot establish its own seminary, to
form its proper clergy imbued with the
priestly spirit fitted for the itinerant flock
to which they have to minister.
Can.295, §2 The Prelate must provide
both for the spiritual formation of those
who are ordained with this title, and for
their becoming support.
As Baura had pointed out in his
incisive article, one must not forget that
if the emigrants need pastoral care, the
chaplains/missionaries also need such
spiritual assistance2. In fact, the experience
has not been good as regards clerics, from
different particular Churches, who had
volunteered to work with OFWs. Bereft of
adequate pastoral care—either from their
original Church of origin or from their new
host Church, the former because they are
supposed to be on loan to the latter, and
the latter because of cultural differe nces
or simply because of lack of means—these
migrant chaplains oftentimes also fall
prey to the same dangers that the OFWs
themselves are subjected to.
Thus, by having a proper Prelate,
with responsibilities and rights clearly
defined, the chaplains for migrants
would be better provided for, spiritually
and materially.
Can. 296 Lay people can dedicate
themselves to the apostolic work
of a personal prelature by way of
agreements made with the prelature.
The manner of this organic cooperation
and the principal obligations and rights
associated with it, are to be duly defined
in the statutes.
Reading this canon, one cannot help
but think of the pastoral potentials of
those OFWs, members of covenanted
communities, presently trying to do
apostolate with their fellow OFWs.
One can only imagine how much more
they can do were they to be organically
incorporated to a personal prelature
specifically erected for them. Instead
Shepherding / B4

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
By Marc Anthony M. Vaguchay
THE Prelature of Ipil was the last
ecclesiastical subdivision to be separated
from the Archdiocese of Zamboanga. It
was canonically erected by the Holy See
as an independent ecclesiastical territory
on December 24, 1979 after being
considered for many years as a Jesuit
Mission District. It covers 19 parishes;
16 of which belong to the newly created
province of Zamboanga Sibugay and the
other three to its former mother province
Zamboanga del Sur. These parishes were
further grouped into 4 vicariates.
On June 21, 1980, Most Rev. Federico
O. Escaler, S.J., D.D. who then served as
bishop of Kidapawan was transferred
to Ipil. He became the Prelature’s first
local ordinary. After sixteen years of
dedicated service he retired and was
replaced by another Jesuit, Most Rev.
Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., D.D. On March
3, 2006, Bishop Ledesma was appointed
Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro leaving
the Prelature of Ipil sede vacante for
more than a year. On June 30, 2007,
the Holy See appointed Msgr. Julius S.
Tonel, who was then the vicar general
of the Archdiocese of Davao, as the new
Bishop of the Prelature of Ipil. He was
ordained on August 20, 2007 at San Pedro
Cathedral, Davao and installed as the
third local ordinary of the Prelature of
Ipil on September 11, 2007.
* Pagpauswag sa kultura sa kinabuhi,
kalinaw ug pagkamainampoon ug
pagkapiniyalan sa kinaiyahan.
* Pagpalig-on sa BEC pinaagi sa pamilya
alang sa pagpakusog sa mithing moral ug
sa pagpangilabot sa katawhan padulong sa
malangkubong kalambuan.
* Pagpakighiusa og pakig-uban sa
nagkadaiyang kultura, relihiyon, sector ug
organisasyon, alang sa kalamboan sa atong
panglantaw.
* Pagpagahom sa mga lumilihok sa
Simbahan pinaagi sa malangkubong
programa sa pag-umol uban sa panabang
ni Birhen Maria.
* Pagpaambit sa kahibalo, katakos,
panahon ug bahandi alang sa kalamboan
sa Simbahan. church together with the lay faithful
Challenges
Liturgical Renewal is one of the
concerns of the Bishop since he started
his office in the Prelature of Ipil. This
thrust is geared towards helping the
faithful in terms of achieving proper
understanding and observance of the
common liturgical practices as one of the
precious teachings of the Church. One
of such is the Eucharistic Celebration.
This effort also stands on the premise
of strengthening the faithful especially
in their ways of expressing gratitude to
God for His goodness in their respective
parishes and chapels.
Secondly, as a newly installed
Bishop of the Prelature, he also longs
Diocese
B3
mining within the territorial jurisdiction
of the Prelature is also among the
concerns of the Bishop. This concern
paved the way for various efforts
centered on environmental advocacy.
Lastly, as pronounced by the Vatican
II, Empowerment and Strengthening of
the Laity remained part of the concerns of
the Bishop and a thrust of the Prelature
of Ipil.
Pastoral Response
The challenges pointed above were
responded according to the existing
organizational structure of the Prelature
of Ipil. That is, the Bishop, the clergy,
the religious, the ministries of the local
through collaborative efforts for the
integral development of the church and
the people. Such efforts were concretely
done through programs of the ministries
as well as linkages and partnerships with
other organizations local or foreign.
As a response to the challenge
for liturgical renewal, a Liturgical
Ministry was erected. This ministry
is headed by the Bishop himself. At
present, the ministry is conducting
Basic Liturgical Seminars (BLS) in every
parish as an initial step of this liturgical
formation activity. The BLS aims that
the faithful of the Prelature may learn
the “basics” of liturgy with the firm
acknowledgment of the reality of our
faith—the Eucharistic Celebration is

Prelature of Ipil
The people living within the territorial
jurisdiction of the Prelature of Ipil also
mirror the tri-people of Mindanao.
They are the Lumads who belong to
the Subanen tribe, the Muslims with
several ethnolinguistic groups, and the
Christians. This diversity is also very
much evident on the different dialects
spoken such as Subanen, Cebuano,
Ilonggo, Chavacano, Tagalog, Ilocano
and English.
The livelihood of the people
revolves around farming, fishing and
some commercial businesses. Major
crops produced include rice, corn,
coconuts, rubber, fruit trees, vegetables,
tobacco, coffee, cacao, and root crops.
Livestock and poultry productions are
predominantly small-scale backyard
operations. Aquaculture is also a source
of livelihood for the people. Coal mining
is also present in some areas of the
Prelature.
Prelature Vision and Mission
Panglantaw
Kitang katawhan sa Dios sa Prelatura
sa Ipil nagatuo nga ang Dios Amahan
naga-uban sa atong panaw ngadto
sa pagkabalaan. Siya ang nagtawag
sa tanang katawhan sa pag-amping
ug pagsaulog sa pagkabililhon sa
kinabuhi.
Gihagit usab kita aron mamahimong
tinuod nga Simbahan sa kabus ug
katilingban sa mga tinun-an ni Kristo,
sumala sa gitudlo sa Ebanghelyo ug sa
mga pagtulon-an sa Simbahan.
Kita usa ka katilingban nga
naghulagway sa Espiritu ug kamatuoran
uban ni Santa Maria alang sa gugma,
panaghiusa, kalinaw ug kinatibuk-
ang kalamboan, diha sa pagdayeg ug
pagsimba sa Dios nga maoy timaan sa
Iyang Gingharian.
Misyon
Tungod niini motahan kita sa atong
kaugalingon sa:
* Hiniusang lihok alang sa paglig-on sa
maayong relasyon sa tawo ngadto sa Dios,
isigkatawo ug kinaiyahan.
to strengthen the fraternal bond among
the clergy of the Prelature as his partners
in mission and collaborators in building
the Kingdom of God.
Thirdly, the geographical location
of the Prelature of Ipil also suggests
diversity of the people within the
territorial jurisdiction especially in the
context of the culture and religion. This
is further reinforced by the sectoral
groups and organizations that constitute
part and parcel of the reality of the
Prelature. Thus, a strong felt-need for
Inter-Religious Dialogue as well as
establishment of strong partnership
among various sectoral groups is pushed
as one of the thrust of the Prelature of
Ipil.
Fourthly, the present challenge of the
environment particularly the issue on
the source and summit of our Christian
Faith as stated in the Church Document,
Sacrosanctum Concillium, a Vatican
II document. Moreover, the Liturgical
Ministry also erected a Liturgical
Center. This center serves as a Service
Bureau for the liturgical materials
needed by the parishes and chapels.
This center supplements the immediate
implementation of the learning gathered
during the BLS.
On the other hand, regular meetings
and monthly Presbyterium served as
a great avenue for strengthening of
the clergy fraternal relationship. The
meetings became an opportunity for
the Bishop to know the concerns of
his priests and how he may be able to
respond to them.
The challenge for Inter-Religious
IMPORTANT FACTS
Bishop ……………………………………….. 1
Priest:
Diocesan ………………………….…… 26
Religious:
Filipino ……………………………………. 6
Foreign …………………………………… 7
Deacon ……………………………………… 1
Brother ……………………………………… 1
Sisters …..…………………………….. 39
Filipino ……………………….……….. 38
Foreign ….…………………………….. 1
Seminary .……………………………… 1
Seminarians:
Pre-Diaconate ……………………………... 2
Theology …………………………………… 4
Philosophy ………………………………… 9
Diocesan Divisions:
Vicariates ………………………………….. 4
Parishes ………………………………. 19
With resident pastors …...……………. 19
Entrusted to Diocesan Clergy ..........…. 11
Entrusted to religious clergy .........……… 8
Chapels ……………………...………... 639
Population (as of 2003 census) …… 598,768
Catholics (as of 2003) …………... 391,989
Area …………………………….. 4,850 sq. km.
LEFT: The Clergy of the Prelature of Ipil with Bishop Tonel. BE-
LOW: St. Joseph the Worker Cathedral
Dialogue was carried out as one of the This is a group created to help in the
programs of the Social Action Ministry. promotion of peace and development
Here the participation of the annual for the Prelature of Ipil and to the whole
celebration of the Mindanao Week of Mindanao.
of Peace is observed as well as the The alarming environmental situation
participation of the Prelature to the the of some parts of the Prelature especially
Konsult-Mindanaw as a recent initiative those who are directly affected by the
for peace and development of Mindanao. mining industries was also responded
The Konsult-Mindanaw initiative is through advocacy and education
carried out as one of the programs of the initiatives by the Social Action Ministry.
Bishops Ulama Conference (BUC) which Educating the people on the adverse
is geared towards a community-based effects of mining to the environment
consultation efforts hoping to come and organizing them for some livelihood
up with sustainable insights regarding programs were among the actual
the Mindanao problem on peace and programs implemented to respond to the
development. Moreover, a Forum that pressing situation of the environment.
convenes the Imams, the Priests and The thrust to empower the Laity
the Pastors within the Prelature was of the Prelature were responded
organized. The said group was called through the efforts of creating a strong
Imam, Priests, and Pastors Forum (IPPF). Ipil / B6

Tagbilaran / B6
 Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

Envisioning a country Comments on the Separation

united in the word of God of Gawad Kalinga from
By Lindsay Shaw

“Before, our priority was how to make a living and get security for ourselves. Now
our priority is to serve God. Every morning we read the Bible as a family, with our
Couples for Christ
three kids and their grandmother.”
Emmanuel and Anna Rosie Yap are describing the impact of the National Catholic By Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes,
Family Bible Quiz in the Philippines. Sitting outside the competition’s 2009 televised
final, this teacher and office worker recall how they placed third in the regional final D.D.
for Mindanao in 2006.
“Because of the competition we were forever studying the Bible. Now the habit
has stuck and our lives have really changed,” Emmanuel says. In the statement, “Moving Forward and
Couples like the Yaps represent the growing number of families (at least 1,000 last Letting Go,” of the CFC International
year) who take part in the quiz and find their spiritual and family lives strengthened Council, signed by Mr. Jose Tale, we
beyond their dreams. Another finalist couple, Godofredo and Simeona Tundag, for
example, now lead a weekly Bible sharing group in their deprived neighborhood read “Thus the CFC IC has decided to
in Cebu City. As a result, “There is now more collaboration and people are sharing let go of the governance and corporate
things.” structure of Gawad Kalinga Community
Development Foundation Inc….” In
An ambitious program another paragraph, the statement also
The Episcopal Commission for Biblical Apostolate (ECBA) and the Philippine says, “We believe that allowing GK to
Bible Society (PBS) have won the backing of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
the Philippines (CBCP) and other Christian Churches for an even more ambitious operate independently of the authority
program. May They Be One aims to provide low-cost Bibles to 5 million of the of the IC (CFC IC) is the right step to
Philippines’ poorest families over five years. take for CFC, GK and the poor.”
“We call ourselves the only Christian nation in Southeast Asia but we have not The Statutes of the Couples for Christ
really lived up to that,” explains Bible Society General Secretary, Nora Lucero. The that were approved by the Pontifical
vision for May they Be One is nothing short of bringing about the moral and social Council for the Laity, states in 6.63:
transformation the country longs for.
“We pray the Bible will be the transforming force,” Nora adds. “The CFC International Council is the
Christian leaders like Bishop Cesar Punzalan, Deputy National Director of the overall top governing body for the
Philippines Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC), and Bishop Pablo Virgilio international CFC Community. It is
the overall policy-making body that
determines major policies for the entire
body.” The Pontifical Council for the
Laity, in its letter, dated May 14, 2008
to Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, the
President of the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines, says:
“In fact, according to the Statutes, GK
should be an apostolate fully subjected
to the government of Couples for Christ
International Council.”
From the foregoing facts, it is clear
that GK is no more a part of CFC, is
Aldwin Leano and
separate from CFC. If it is still a part of
Ines Gonzales CFC, it should be under the authority
during the MTBO of the CFC IC. If it is still a part of CFC
Bible distribution
at Karangalan
but is not under
Village. the authority of the
CFC IC, then the
CFC IC and GK are
not following the
Statutes of the CFC,
approved by the
Pontifical Council
for the Laity.
It is unfortunate
Photos courtesy of Juliet Gimeno-Rivera
The reasons given for separating GK
sectors of society, even non-Catholics,
from CFC are not valid. provided we follow the Church’s rules
The main reason given by the on ecumenism and inter-religious
International Council for the separation
dialogue and do not go against Church
of the GK from CFC is the following:teachings. Christ, teaching us through
“The upscaling of GK, particularly in
the Church, has inspired us to work for
recent years, has highlighted some the poor. Let us not put aside Christ and
fundamental and deepening differences
the Church in our work for the poor. It is
in approach and implementation. CFC good to remind the Catholics in GK, who
is pursuing the fullness of the mission,
comprise most, if not all, of the members
as defined in our mission of Building
of GK, that it is wrong to sacrifice your
the Church of the Home (family life oneness with Christ and the Church in
renewal) and Building the Church of order to work for the poor.
the Poor (our work with the poor) in I find it hard to understand why GK,
oneness with the Catholic Church. GKmost members of which are Catholics,
is focused on nation building and ondecided to separate from CFC and be
poverty alleviation that will necessitate
a non-religious organization in order
to have the freedom to work not in
oneness with the Church, that is, not
in accordance with the teachings of the
Church.
The statement of the CFC IC implies
that GK is already a non-religious
organization. The reason given is that
GK is poised to enter non-Christian
countries. There are many religious
congregations of priests and nuns whose
members, while remaining religious
and still under the authority of their
religious congregations, enter and
work, incognito, in countries hostile to
Christianity. GK can do the same while
remaining with CFC.
To me, GK should remain with CFC,
provided it follows the CFC vision/
mission. If some leaders and members of
GK want to help the poor in a way that
goes against the CFC vision-mission, let
them put up another
organization. But
they should not take
GK out of CFC.
From the quotation
above, it is clear that
the CFC International
Council admits that
GK has veered from
the vision-mission

that GK has of CFC. That is why

separated from the the CFC IC allows
Couples for Christ. GK to separate from
CFC gave birth to CFC. So, Mr. Frank
GK and GK grew Padilla was right
within the CFC. GK should remain with CFC, provided it when in 2007 he was
saying that CFC was
Although Tony
Meloto directed GK,
follows the CFC vision/mission. If some veering away from
it could not have leaders and members of GK want to help its vision-mission
grown without the the poor in a way that goes against the because of GK.
labor and sacrifices CFC vision-mission, let them put up another Instead of allowing
David, former vice president of the Catholic Biblical Association of the Philippines, of CFC members. GK to continue
believe May They Be One will unite Christians in bringing change to their country. Even now most of organization. But they should not take GK veering away from
“We are about 7,000 islands, we have about 100 dialects, so this is a very dis-
united nation in many ways, in language, culture and faith,” Bishop Punzalan says. the workers in GK out of CFC. the vision/mission
But he adds, “I believe we who are called to be disciples of Christ have functional are CFC members. of CFC, the response
unity … The unity we are talking about is through the Word of God … If we read the Why should it now be separated from that it mainstreams and partners with should have been to make GK conform
Bible together and start to transform this nation, we can work together for national CFC? Most of the leaders of GK are CFC all sectors of society. It is poised to to the CFC vision-mission.
righteousness and public justice that is Bible based.” members. Why is it not good for GK to enter non-Christian countries (such as Finally, the situation now is that GK
Bishop David agrees. Having seen Baptists, Methodists, United Church of Christ be under the authority of CFC? India, Indonesia and the Middle East) is separate from CFC. It is already a
leaders join the Catholic Biblical Association; he has seen the potential unity that
exists around the Bible. Besides, GK is an important witnessing as a non-religious organization.” This non-religious organization. Therefore, it
“It is very evident that if there is anything that can reunite us as Christians it’s of CFC for Christ. GK, as part of CFC, statement implies that GK will not work does not anymore enjoy the recognition
really the Word of God,” he says. proclaims to the world that Christ “in oneness with the Catholic Church.” It given by the Vatican Pontifical Council
But can May they Be One really effect the change Bible Society hopes for on must be good because He has inspired also implies that GK will be able to work for the Laity to Couples for Christ as
Filipino society and everyday life? The top Roman Catholic Bishop responsible for his followers in the Couples for Christ better in nation building and poverty an international private association
biblical mission and formation in the Philippines believes so. Bishop Arturo Bastes, to work for the poor. Through GK, alleviation if it does not work “in oneness of the faithful. To my mind, this is
Chairman of ECBA (Episcopal Commission for the Biblical Apostolate) says: “We
are the most Christian country in the East because our population is 85 per cent CFC attracts people to Christ. Now with the Church.” This is far from the an unfortunate development. Gawad
Christian, but 60 per cent of our people do not own a Bible. Because of that they are that Gawad Kalinga is a non-religious truth. First of all, the Church teaches Kalinga should not have veered away
deprived of the Word of God. I am convinced that when Filipinos get to read, study organization, its witnessing for Christ that all of us Catholics should help in from the vision/mission of the Couples
and live by the Word of God, there will be a transformation of our country.” is lost and CFC has lost an important nation building. But, for us Catholics for Christ and should have stayed with
witnessing for Christ. the best way to work for building the CFC.
‘May They Be One’campaign gets under way GK should stay in the CFC, provided nation and helping the poor is to do so
Ines Gonzalez
By 14-hour day Ines is a National Housing Authority Project Manager responsible for it is faithful to the vision and mission “in oneness with the Church,” that is, in (Most Rev. Gabriel V. Reyes, D.D. is
resettling 15,000 low income people in five areas of Metro Manila. In her spare time, of the CFC. I find it hard to understand accordance with her social teachings. In the bishop of Antipolo and Chairman of
she is the driving force of the ‘Biblical Apostolate’ (BA) and ‘Basic Ecclesial Community’ why the vision-mission and policies of fact, we Catholics are obliged to work Episcopal Commission for the Laity of
(BEC) among a poor community in Immaculate Concepcion Parish, Pasig City. CFC are a hindrance to “the upscaling “in oneness with the Catholic Church.” the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the
The BEC began last year and is already changing lives. “In one of our sessions of GK.” We may work in partnership with all Philippines.)
we asked what changes have you experienced because of our sharing the Word of
God in the last three months. One woman said she found a solution to her problem,
living with a married man. She broke off the relationship and her present struggle is Shepherding / B2
how to live when she can see him every day in the same community.”
Because of the BEC “They are able to get to know God better and think of better of just being a grassroots phenomenon, assimilation of the OFWs into the local The former can have a choice of being
ways to resolve their problems. We feel God is really present here,” she adds. these zealous laymen and laywomen Churches. In the latter, however, the role incardinated to the new prelature or just
Last year, the launch of the national May They Be One Bible campaign inspired would in fact be sharing in the mandate of the personal prelature would really being adscripted to it, while the latter can
Ines to write a strategy to reach the 5,000 people in her parish with the Bible. and the corresponding means that the be to provide the full range of ordinary simply work in it through the opportune
Her program of lay leader training, Bible distribution and multiplying Bible sharing personal prelature would enjoy. pastoral care for the OFWs. agreements between the Prelate for
groups is a model the Philippine Bible Society – spearheading the campaign with
the Catholic Church – is using to involve others. As part of the campaign, individuals Can. 297 The statutes are likewise to The very nature of the personal OFWs and their religious Superiors.
can buy three Bibles for the usual price of a single copy and donate two to poorer define the relationships of the prelature prelature—as defined by the Code of Of course, for the long-term
members of the community. with the local Ordinaries in whose Canon Law—permits a great range of maintenance of the presbyterium, this
“We have told other churches and one has already ordered 1,000 Bibles from particular Churches the prelature, flexibility in this regard. Prelature will have to set up its own
PBS,” Ines says. with the prior consent of the diocesan seminary, according to the tenor of
Bishop, exercises or wishes to exercise Conclusion: Towards a Personal c.295, §1.
Aldwin Leano
There were no banners or trumpet fanfares. But the box Aldwin carried from the its pastoral or missionary activity. Prelature for Filipino OFWs 1. The laypersons, who hitherto
Bible Society van to his community of ramshackle owner-built homes was a first A noteworthy quality of this hierarchical After all the foregoing discussion, my may have formed part of covenanted
for a nationwide Bible campaign. circumscription is its capacity to be conclusion is that the best way to answer communities or lay associations
The 48 families in Aldwin’s part of Karangalan Village (Creekside), Pasig City adapted to the pastoral needs of the the challenge of adequately providing dedicated to the apostolate with the
certainly qualify as poor. When Aldwin’s three-month-old baby was ill at Christmas OFWs, since the specific characteristics pastoral care to the 5 million OFWs all OFWs, may be invited to form an organic
only grants from the church and an NGO enabled her to get hospital treatment. and the sphere of activity of a personal over the world is through the erection of part of the Prelature, according to the
Since September 2008 some 36 people have been meeting at the Basic Eccle-
sial Community (BEC), organized by Ines. Timed with the National Bible Week last prelature (whether within the territory a Personal Prelature for Filipino Migrant tenor of c.296.
January, Ines and the other BA and BEC leaders distributed copies of the May they of an Episcopal conference or in a larger Workers. 2. The Statutes of the Prelature will
Be One Bible in Tagalog to the members of Aldwin’s BEC. geographical extension) are fixed in the I agree with Baura that such erection of have to be drawn up, according to c.297,
“Every Saturday, I gather people together and am one of the leaders,” Aldwin specific act of its erection and the its a personal prelature by the Holy See can taking into account all the peculiarities
says. “I like coming for the blessings I get from reading the Word with others.” statutes given by the Holy See (c.295, in fact arise as a logical development of of the pastoral work that it will do with
May They Be One is a five-year program led by the Episcopal Commission for §1). existing structures and the re-orientation the OFWs.
the Biblical Apostolate (ECBA) of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the Philip-
pine Bible Society (PBS). Launched in September 2008, its goal is to distribute 5 For example, a distinction might be of other structures3. In broad strokes,
million Bibles (in 8 languages) to the poorest communities in five years. The hope made between the kind of work the one could envision the following: Endnotes
is to transform communities and eventually the country. Since the program was prelature for OFWs might do in those 1. The Chairman of the Episcopal
launched, 12,726 May They Be One Bibles have been distributed in partnership
1
Based on a lecture given at the 17th National
areas where a stable and mature territorial Commission on Migrants and Itinerant Convention of the Canon Law Society of the Phil-
with over 60 parishes and Catholic organizations, which also provided Bible forma- ecclesiastical circumscription already People (what Erga migrantes refers to ippines, on the theme The Filipino Migrant Worker:
tion and training. exists, capable of adequately providing as the National Director for Migration) A Canonico-Pastoral Challenge to the Philippine
ECBA and PBS need prayer and financial support to print and distribute the P50 Church, in Vigan City, 20-23 April 2009.
May They Be One Bible. To know how you can become part of the Campaign and the pastoral care for the OFWs; and can be appointed as the Prelate of the
obtain appeal envelopes and resource materials, you may get in touch with the in those areas where such territorial Personal Prelature. 2
Cf. Eduardo Baura, Movimientos migratorios y
Directors of Regional Biblical Centers in your Diocese or Campaign Coordinators: ecclesiastical circumscription either does 2. The existing chaplains/missionaries derechos de los fieles en la Iglesia, in Ius Canoni-
cum, XLIII, 85 (2003) p.84.
ECBA – Fr. Oscar A. Alunday, SVD – 5279386, 5274157; PBS – Mrs. Perry Cartera/ not exist or is hardly capable of adequately for OFWs can form the presbyterium of
Mrs. Juliet J. Rivera – 524 6359 loc. 153-257, or visit their websites: ECBA (http:// taking care of the OFWs. In the former this Personal Prelature. Note that there 3
Cf. E.Baura, op.cit., Footnote n.93.
ecba-cbcp.webs.com), PBS (www.bible.org.ph). (e.g., U.S., Canada, Australia and most indeed are a number of such priests— 4
The Mission Society of the Philippines (MSP), a
(Mr. Lindsay Shaw is the Creative Resources Officer of British and Foreign Bible countries of western Europe), perhaps the both belonging to the secular clergy missionary Society of Apostolic Life of Pontifical
right erected last 6.I.2009, has among its ends
Society.) role of the personal prelature for OFWs (from different Philippine dioceses) and to instill the missionary spirit among Filipino
would be purely one of facilitating the of late even a society of apostolic life4. migrants.
 Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
B5

Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI

Announcing the Year for Priests
St. John Mary Vianney

Isabela Ecumenical Conference (IEC)

Pastoral Message to the

Your Eminences,
Venerable Brothers in the Episcopate and
in the Priesthood,
I am glad to be able to welcome you at a
special Audience on the eve of my departure
for Africa, where I am going to present the
Instrumentum Laboris of the Second Special
Assembly of the Synod for Africa that will
be held here in Rome next October. I thank
Cardinal Cláudio Hummes for the kind
words with which he has interpreted the
sentiments you share and I thank you for
the beautiful letter you wrote to me. With
him, I greet you all, Superiors, Officials and
Members of the Congregation, with gratitude
for all the work you do at the service of such
an important sector of the Church’s life.
The theme you have chosen for this
Plenary Assembly “The missionary identity
of the priest in the Church as an intrinsic
dimension of the exercise of the tria munera”
suggests some reflections on the work of
these days and the abundant fruit that it
will certainly yield. If the whole Church is
missionary and if every Christian, by virtue
of Baptism and Confirmation quasi ex officio
(cf. Catechism of the Catholic Church, n.
1305), receives the mandate to profess the
faith publicly, the ministerial priesthood,
also from this viewpoint, is ontologically
distinct, and not only by rank, from the
baptismal priesthood that is also known
as the “common priesthood”. In fact, the
apostolic mandate “Go into all the world and
preach the Gospel to the whole of creation”
(Mk 16: 15) is constitutive of the ministerial
priesthood. This mandate is not, as we know,
a mere duty entrusted to collaborators; its
roots are deeper and must be sought further
back in time.
The missionary dimension of the priesthood
is born from the priest’s sacramental
configuration to Christ. As a consequence it
brings with it a heartfelt and total adherence
to what the ecclesial tradition has identified
as apostolica vivendi forma. This consists
in participation in a “new life”, spiritually
speaking, in that “new way of life” which
the Lord Jesus inaugurated and which the
Apostles made their own. Through the
imposition of the Bishop’s hands and the
consecratory prayer of the Church, the
candidates become new men, they become
“presbyters”. In this light it is clear that the tria
munera are first a gift and only consequently
an office, first a participation in a life, and
hence a potestas. Of course, the great ecclesial
tradition has rightly separated sacramental
efficacy from the concrete existential
situation of the individual priest and so the
legitimate expectations of the faithful are
appropriately safeguarded. However, this
correct doctrinal explanation takes nothing
from the necessary, indeed indispensable,
aspiration to moral perfection that must dwell
in every authentically priestly heart.
Precisely to encourage priests in this striving
for spiritual perfection on which, above all,
the effectiveness of their ministry depends,
I have decided to establish a special “Year
for Priests” that will begin on 19 June and
last until 19 June 2010. In fact, it is the 150th
anniversary of the death of the Holy Curé
d’Ars, John Mary Vianney, a true example of a
pastor at the service of Christ’s flock. It will be
the task of your Congregation, in agreement
with the diocesan Ordinaries and with the
superiors of religious institutes to promote
and to coordinate the various spiritual and
pastoral initiatives that seem useful for making
the importance of the priest’s role and mission
in the Church and in contemporary society
ever more clearly perceived.
The priest’s mission, as the theme of the
Plenary Assembly emphasizes, is carried out
“in the Church”. This ecclesial communal,
hierarchical and doctrinal dimension is
absolutely indispensable to every authentic
mission and, alone guarantees its spiritual
effectiveness. The four aspects mentioned
must always be recognized as intimately
connected: the mission is “ecclesial” because
no one proclaims himself in the first person,
but within and through his own humanity
every priest must be well aware that he
© Noli Yamsuan / RCAM
is bringing to the world Another, God
himself. God is the only treasure which
ultimately people desire to find in a priest.
The mission is “communional” because it is
carried out in a unity and communion that
only secondly has also important aspects
of social visibility. Moreover, these derive
essentially from that divine intimacy in
which the priest is called to be expert,
so that he may be able to lead the souls
entrusted to him humbly and trustingly to
the same encounter with the Lord. Lastly, the
“hierarchical” and “doctrinal” dimensions
suggest reaffirming the importance of the
ecclesiastical discipline (the term has a
connection with “disciple”) and doctrinal
training and not only theological, initial and
continuing formation.
Awareness of the radical social changes
that have occurred in recent decades
must motivate the best ecclesial forces to
supervise the formation of candidates for
the ministry. In particular, it must foster
the constant concern of Pastors for their
principal collaborators, both by cultivating
truly fatherly human relations and by taking
an interest in their continuing formation,
especially from the doctrinal and spiritual
viewpoints. The mission is rooted in a
special way in a good formation, developed
in communion with uninterrupted ecclesial
Tradition, without breaks or temptations of
irregularity. In this sense, it is important to
encourage in priests, especially in the young
generations, a correct reception of the texts
of the Second Ecumenical Vatican Council,
interpreted in the light of the Church’s
entire fund of doctrine. It seems urgent to
recover that awareness that has always been
at the heart of the Church’s mission, which
impels priests to be present, identifiable
and recognizable both for their judgment
of faith, for their personal virtues as well as
for the habit, in the contexts of culture and
of charity.
As Church and as priests, we proclaim
Jesus of Nazareth Lord and Christ, Crucified
Address / B7
Nation on the Occasion of
Philippine Independence
Day; June 12, 2009
THE words of the great nationalist Claro M. Recto in
1960 ring true today: “To this day the colonial rule in the
Philippines is not over. Many of our countrymen, deluded
by a flag, the name Republic, a foreign office at home and
embassies abroad, a seat in the United Nations, and other
visible symbols of sovereignty, consider themselves free
and independent, unaware that we are in many ways
tied ands fettered politically, militarily, economically and
culturally. This self-delusion is one of the greatest stumbling
blocks to the full realization of Filipino nationalism and the
ultimate attainment of complete and real sovereignty.”
And so today we celebrate not full Philippine
independence ─ not yet ─ but rather the Filipino people’s
continuing struggle for “complete and real sovereignty” ─
that is, a just and ethical, militant and painstaking, personal
and collective struggle for authentic national freedom from
foreign superpower exploitation and oppression, and for
democracy as greater participation of toiling people in
political decision making, respect for human rights, and
an end to feudalism and bondage to the soil.
We celebrate the people’s struggle and its victories
through the years from the crushing of Spanish colonial
rule to the erosion of elitist power in this era of monopoly
capitalist globalization. Recto and our martyrs for freedom
would be happy to see as we do that today more and
more democratic nationalist businessmen, professionals,
peasants and workers, women and young people are no
longer trapped in illusions of freedom and democracy
foisted on them by powers that be. Long and wide, deep
and high is social awareness and praxis attained by our
people today. The gates of hell shall not prevail, and the
Kingdom of God shall be established, step by step, here
in our piece of earth
We celebrate the Lord of History who continues to empower
his people with gifts of the Spirit for self-renewal and
social transformation for the enjoyment of freedom of the
children of God in their economic and political, social and
cultural, ecological and spiritual life. We remind all that
the people’s struggle for sovereignty and international
solidarity, democracy and prosperity is a story not only of
people’s love for each other but, above all, God’s concrete
historical love for all. “I will be with you always until the
end of the world,” Jesus said. (Matt. 28:20b)
We should not miss an essential personal aspect of the
struggle for full independence: freedom of mind and heart
and spirit from colonial mentality that makes us disregard
our individuality as a people taking pride in our heritage
and history. And accompanying this must be inner freedom
to choose and commit oneself daily to what makes us all
truly happy ─ the common good. We celebrate this freedom
already present and active in many of goodwill. It is here
that victory begins.
We join you, our people, in celebrating Philippine
Independence Day that is now and not yet. We urge all to
continue the struggle as we bless you, In the name of the
Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
For the Isabela Ecumenical Conference
(With representatives from the Roman Catholic Church,
Episcopal Church in the Philippines, the Salvation Army,
the United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ
in the Philippines)
Most Rev. Joseph A. Nacua, OFMCap, D.D.
Bishop, RC Diocese of Ilagan
Rt. Rev. Alexander Wandag
Bishop, ECP Diocese of Santiago

Apostolic Penitentiary
Special Indulgence for the Year for Priests
As has been announced, the Holy Father
Benedict XVI has decided to establish a
special Year for Priests on the occasion
of the 150th anniversary of the death of
St. John Mary Vianney, the holy Curé
d’Ars, a shining model of a Pastor
totally dedicated to the service of the
people of God.
During the Year for Priests which will
begin on 19 June 2009 and will end on 19
June 2010, the gift of special Indulgences
is granted as described in the Decree of
the Apostolic Penitentiary, published
on 12 May.
Shortly the day will come on which
will be commemorated the 150th
anniversary of the pious departure to
Heaven of St. John Mary Vianney, the
Curé d’Ars. This Saint was a wonderful
model here on earth of a true Pastor at
the service of Christ’s flock.
Since his example is used to encourage
the faithful, and especially priests, to
imitate his virtues, the Supreme Pontiff
Benedict XVI has established that for
this occasion a special Year for Priests
will be celebrated, from 19 June 2009 to
19 June 2010, in which all priests may
be increasingly strengthened in fidelity
to Christ with devout meditation,
spiritual exercises and other appropriate
actions.
This holy period will begin with
the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of
Jesus, a day of priestly sanctification
on which the Supreme Pontiff will
celebrate Vespers in the presence of the
holy relics of St. John Mary Vianney,
brought to Rome by the Bishop of
Belley-Ars, France.
The Most Holy Father will likewise
preside at the conclusion of the Year
for Priests in St Peter’s Square, in the
presence of priests from across the world
who will renew their fidelity to Christ
and the bond of brotherhood.
May priests commit themselves, with
prayer and good works, to obtaining
from Christ the Eternal High Priest, the
grace to shine with Faith, Hope, Charity
and the other virtues, and show by their
way of life, but also with their external
conduct, that they are dedicated without
reserve to the spiritual good of the people
something that the Church has always
had at heart.
The gift of Sacred Indulgences which
the Apostolic Penitentiary, with this
Decree issued in conformity with the
wishes of the August Pontiff, graciously
DECREE
grants during the Year for Priests will
be of great help in achieving the desired
purpose in the best possible way.
A. Truly repentant priests who,
on any day, devoutly recite at least
morning Lauds or Vespers before the
Blessed Sacrament, exposed for public
adoration or replaced in the tabernacle,
and who, after the example of St.
John Mary Vianney, offer themselves
with a ready and generous heart for
the celebration of the sacraments,
especially Confession, are mercifully
granted in God the Plenary Indulgence
which they may also apply to their
deceased brethren in suffrage, if, in
conformity with the current norms, they
receive sacramental confession and the
Eucharistic banquet and pray for the
Supreme Pontiff’s intentions.
Furthermore the Partial Indulgence
is granted to priests who may apply it
to their deceased confreres every time
that they devoutly recite the prayers
duly approved to lead a holy life and
to carry out in a holy manner the offices
entrusted to them.
B. The Plenary Indulgence is granted
to all the faithful who are truly repentant
who, in church or in chapel, devoutly
attend the divine Sacrifice of Mass
and offer prayers to Jesus Christ the
Eternal High Priest, for the priests of the
Church, and any other good work which
they have done on that day, so that he
may sanctify them and form them in
accordance with His Heart, as long as
they have made expiation for their sins
through sacramental confession and
prayed in accordance with the Supreme
Pontiff’s intentions: on the days in which
the Year for Priests begins and ends,
on the day of the 150th anniversary
of the pious passing of St John Mary
Vianney, on the first Thursday of the
month or on any other day established
by the local Ordinaries for the benefit
of the faithful.
It will be most appropriate, in
cathedral and parish churches, for
the same priests who are in charge of
pastoral care to publicly direct these
exercises of devotion, to celebrate Holy
Mass and to hear the confession of the
faithful.
The Plenary Indulgence will likewise
be granted to the elderly, the sick
and all those who for any legitimate
reason are confined to their homes
who, with a mind detached from any
sin and with the intention of fulfilling
as soon as possible the three usual
conditions, at home or wherever their
impediment detains them, provided that
on the above-mentioned days they recite
prayers for the sanctification of priests
and confidently offer the illnesses and
hardships of their lives to God through
Mary Queen of Apostles.
Lastly, the Partial Indulgence is
granted to all the faithful every time
they devoutly recite five Our Fathers,
Hail Marys and Glorias, or another
expressly approved prayer, in honour
of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, to obtain
that priests be preserved in purity and
holiness of life.
This Decree is valid for the entire
duration of the Year for Priests. Anything
to the contrary notwithstanding.
Given in Rome, at the Offices of the
Apostolic Penitentiary on 25 April, the
Feast of St Mark the Evangelist, in the
year of the Incarnation of our Lord
2009.
Cardinal James Francis Stafford
Major Penitentiary
+ Gianfranco Girotti, O.F.M. Conv.
Titular Bishop of Meta, Regent
 Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

Broken bread and the shared cup

Corpus Christi of Year - B (Mark 14:12-16. 22-26); June 14, 2009
By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo multiplication of the bread. disciples to imitate the Lord who
Mark portrays Jesus as using the shared the bread and the cup in
same words and actions. And it is their practical life.
YEARS of controversy with Protestantism has most likely that the correspondence Thus understood, the Eucharist
is intentional. The multiplication has implications for daily living. If
honed the emphasis on the real presence of Christ of the bread has links with the we limited ourselves to these by
in the Catholic understanding of the Eucharist. Eucharist in terms of the meaning no means exhaustive meanings
This is because, for centuries, most Protestant of the action. In the miracle of of the Eucharist, it is obvious that
the loaves, Mark says that the the Eucharist implies the sharing
Churches, in one way or the other, followed disciples did not understand the of bread with the thousands
Luther in his denial of real presence. It is thus meaning (Mark 6:52). But in the who suffer from hunger and
understandable that pre-Vatican II Catechism institution narratives, Mark no poverty. Greed and monopoly
longer so affirms of the disciples, have no place in Christian life.
almost exclusively focused on the real presence obviously because the Eucharist If to be Christian is to partake of
and the sacramental character of the Eucharist. The uncovers for them the meaning the Eucharist, one cannot be a
Catholic had to be well-prepared to respond to the of the miracle. Christian without having to share
Second, whatever the meaning with the brothers and sisters in the
Protestant heretical doctrines. The consequence of the account of the institution in community. Indeed, he must see
of this understanding, among others, made the its original setting, the evangelist to it that the miracle of sharing is
Eucharist an icon of adoration. would have us understand that repeated daily in the community.
for the Markan community, their But the meaning of sharing is not
eucharistic celebration looks back to be confined to the sharing of
Unfortunately, however, by Mark. “And when they were on the death of Jesus in the same goods that the Christian possesses.
many people have limited their eating, he took bread, and blessed, way that the Jews look back on the Even more important is the sharing
understanding to the Eucharist in and broke it, and gave it to them, Exodus event: it is God’s saving of oneself with others. This is the
terms of real presence and sacrifice and said, ‘Take, this is my body.’ activity. The death of Jesus is the act implication of the words over
that they failed to appreciate its And he took a cup, and when he of redemption. Just as this bread is the bread and the cup. It is not
meaning for the daily life of the had given thanks he gave it to broken, so his body will be broken; enough to give money; one must
Christian. It is not too far-fetched them, and they all drunk of it. And just as this cup is shared, so his share himself for the redemption
to say that, if some Catholics have he said to them, ‘This is my blood blood is to be spelt for the salvation of the community. This is seen,
much devotion to the real presence of the covenant, which is poured of the many. And those who share for example, in one’s death to
of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, out for many’ (Mark 14:22-23). in the fellowship, partaking of the selfishness, personal honor and

and yet hardly exhibit a life that
is Eucharistic, it is partly because
they failed to see the connection
between the real presence and
their daily action.
Onewayofseeingtheconnection
between the Eucharist and our life
is to look at it in terms of words
of the institution as recounted
www.mikemilton.files.wordpress.com
Jesus’ action, of course, fully meal, share in the body and blood glory. The command to repeat
corresponds with the way the of Jesus, and of course, in the fruit the ritual is fulfilled not simply at
meal was ordinarily held. The of redemption, as well as in the the ritual level—in the celebration
head of the household offered action. One then easily understands of the mass—but at the practical
thanksgiving to God in this why Luke’s account ends with the level: in the sharing of goods in
manner. Nevertheless, two things saying: “Do this in remembrance the community, and in the death
may be noted here. First, the four of me” (Luke 22:19b). More than of every member for the sake of the
verbs used echo those in Mark a command to repeat the ritual, the community’s salvation. For it is in
6:41 and 8:6-7 in the story of the saying obviously commands his dying that we are saved.

Advice to Legislators
Fr. Roy Cimagala

Making immoral laws is tantamount to

misleading our people
By Bishop Patricio H. Alo
AMONG the sins crying to heaven for
vengeance is willful murder (including
abortion). Now contraceptives’ use and
abortion have been clearly forbidden by
the Catholic Church publicly since these
militate against life, clearly a right of the
innocent unborn, and most contraceptives
are abortifacient and fatal to life. And those
who impugn the known truth are sinning
against the Holy Spirit. These types of sins
are unforgivable, here and even in the next
(cf. Mt. 12:32).
Pope John Paul II in an address to the
bishops of the US said: “Exalting the beauty
of marriage, you have rightly taken a position
against both the theory of contraception and
contraceptive practice, as did the encyclical
letter Humanae vitae. I myself, today, with the
same conviction as Paul VI, ratify the teaching
of that encyclical issued by my Predecessor ‘in
virtue of the mandate confided us by Christ’.
Describing the sexual union between husband
and wife as a special expression of their
covenant of love, you have correctly said: ‘The
sexual relationship is a human and moral good
only within the sphere of marriage: outside of
marriage it is immoral’. As men who speak
with ‘words of truth and the power of God’
(2 Cor. 6-7), as authentic teachers of the law
of God and as compassionate pastors, you
have correctly said: ‘Homosexual practice
(which is to be distinguished from homosexual
orientation) is morally deceitful’.”
The Prophet Ezekiel wrote thus: “Son, of
man, I made you a watchman for the House
of Israel. With the word you hear from my
mouth you will warn them in my name.
When I say to the wicked, ‘You will surely
die,’ if you do not speak to warn the wicked
man to give up his evil ways and so live,
he shall die for his sin, and I will hold you
responsible for his death. But if you have
warned the wicked man and he has not given
up his wickedness and evil ways, he shall die
for his sin but you will save yourself. When
Year for
the righteous man turns from what is good
priests
to do evil I shall put an obstacle in his path;
he shall die. Since you did not warn him, he POPE Benedict XVI has just declared a Year for Priests last
will die for his sin. His good deeds will not be March 16. It will start on June 19, both the Solemnity of the
remembered and I shall hold you responsible Sacred Heart of Jesus and the World Day of Prayer for the
for his death. But when you have warned Sanctification of Priests.
the righteous man to keep him from sinning It is meant to celebrate also the 150th anniversary of the
and he has not sinned, he will live for sure death of the patron for priests, the saintly Cure of Ars, St. John
for he was warned and you will save your Mary Vianney.
life.” (Ezek. 3:17-20). In that announcement, the Pope said the year-long event
We cannot keep on resisting the ways of is meant “to encourage priests in this striving for spiritual per-
the Lord Almighty because God is a God fection on which, above all, the effectiveness of their ministry
depends.”
of justice. He metes out punishment to the I think it’s good for everyone to get involved in this Church
unrepentant. “It is a dreadful thing to fall happening. Everyone should have an abiding concern for us,
into the hands of the living God” (Heb. priests, since we need to be nothing less than true ministers
10:31). Open your eyes to the reality. Do we of Christ, and the only way to do that is for us to be really holy
not see what is happening to the nations that and competent.
violate God’s laws that concern respect for Already the head of Vatican’s Congregation for the Clergy sug-
life, which is the very first of all human rights. gested that the year be spent in “prayer by priests, with priests,
People heedless of God’s voice or that of His and for priests.” Let’s pray also for more priestly vocations and
legitimate representatives are reminded of for the sanctity of priests all over the world.
the Scriptural passage above, which I repeat: We have to rediscover the great power of prayer. This simple
“It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands conversation with God, that should spring from faith and love em-
of the living God”(Heb.10:31). bedded in one’s heart, cannot fail to move God’s heart too.
Prayer is the language proper and indispensable in one’s
relationship with God. With it one gets united with God. With it

Time to become accountable

By Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo
WHEN I, together with some other bishops
and members of the urban poor, joined
the farmers who went on hunger strike in
December 2008, I prayed fervently not so
much for strength of body but for elasticity
of patience and continuous belief in good
faith. It was heart-rending for me to see how
everyday the farmers would fight against
weakness and call on the congresspersons
to give them their due, in so few but sincere
words. I fought hard as well, trying not to
hate the men and women legislators who
would continue to disregard the farmers
and pass by them in a hurry to get to their
Christmas parties…to enjoy their bounty.
Every time I felt discouraged I would close
my eyes and assure myself that justice would
come, maybe during the six-month period the
legislators afforded themselves to study and
introduce “perfecting amendments” to the
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
Ipil / B3
organizational structure. Much as the lay
associations and movements were greatly
acknowledged, still a felt need to coordinate
and organize them on the Prelature level is
stressed out. Most of the efforts to strengthen
existing lay associations and movements
were geared towards the said felt need.
Despite this on-going reality, still the very
potent effect of empowerment of the laity is
the Stewardship Program of the Prelature
through the establishment of the Gasa Balik
Sa Dios (GBSD) program. This stewardship
program is aimed to foster understanding
that the faithful is the Church, to encourage
the faithful to support the Church, to be able
to respond to the different needs for the three
forms of service—Worship, Service, and
Teaching, and to be able to share the spiritual
gift of intelligence and material welfare that
will lead towards a self-sustaining, self-
It has been more than five months since
that day Congress issued that Joint Resolution
which to me was a promise made by them
to do their job, albeit a little belatedly. But
my experience in sessions at the House of
Representatives tells me that the people’s
representatives have no intention of enacting
the CARPER bill. There are but seven session
days left and yet they have discussed the bill
only once, with several members obviously
delaying the bill’s passage and proposing
amendments that will water down the
program. The House leadership claims that
they are merely waiting for the Senate to pass
their own version but there is no such luxury
of waiting, no luxury of being political lazy
and insincerity. Sadly, not only those who
are known to be landowners are opposing
the bill, even some of those who claim to
fight for human rights seem to go out of their
way to block this essential social legislative
measure.
Time is running out on us, not just on
Congress but on all of us who fail to help
nourishing, and self-governing church of
the Prelature of Ipil. Lastly, the established
Directorship from the clergy for the Ministries
and Lay Associations and Movements
helped a lot to keep the ministries and lay
organizations guided by their respective
visions and missions as well as to keep the
organizational structure of the respective
ministries including the lay associations and
movements strengthened.
Aside from the five pastoral responses
cited above, the Ministry on Catechetics
(CAT), the Prelature Youth Ministry, the
Kristohanong Kasilinganan (KRISKA)
Ministry, and the Family and Life Apostolate
together with the program on Responsible
Parenthood through Natural Family
Planning (RP-NFP), continued on with their
thrust for the integral strengthening of faith
formation of the Roman Catholic Church.
one not only enjoys God’s presence but also takes part in his
potencies and activity.
Especially if coursed through the intercession of Our Lady
and other saints, our prayers acquire such power that God could
hardly refuse what we would ask from him. Prayer should be
protect the farmers’ right to be emancipated like the beating of our heart. It should be like the breath that
from their bondage to the soil. We should we make.
all work hard and fast towards ensuring It cannot be denied that in spite of our priestly limitations and
that the widespread hopelessness of our shortcomings, our mistakes and failures, not to mention the oc-
farmers will be arrested and will no longer casional scandals that we cause, we priests do an irreplaceable
be aggravated. Then, disregard of the work in the Church and society.
Conformed to Christ as head of the Church, we bring to the
farmers’ welfare was met with tranquil
present the very redeeming sacrifice of our Lord on the Cross
and non-violent means of protest. Then every time we celebrate Mass. The celebration of the Holy
and now, our legislators continuously Eucharist is the summit of our priesthood. Every other priestly
show arrogance and greed which shall later ministry flows from it and leads to it.
on be met no longer with impunity but It is for everyone’s benefit that the priestly conformation to
justice. Meanwhile, our farmers are back Christ, while objectively effected through the sacrament of order,
again, united for one purpose: to ask this be corresponded to with a progressive subjective conformation
government for redress, to ask our leaders by the priests themselves, supported by all others.
to treat them reasonably and fairly so they We priests need to be experts in prayer, to be truly men of
would respond responsibly and soberly as God, so identified with him we could easily discern his will for
well. Our farmers are telling us NOW is us, for the Church, for the world.
the time to act with definite steps toward This will require nothing less than continuing formation that
should always be provided and equipped with adequate plans
social justice. They are telling us that the
and programs, personal and collective. Every priest, like every
government’s maybes will no longer suffice Christian faithful, is expected to have a personal plan of life that
in answering their calls. Because all of us, nourishes his spiritual life everyday.
especially those who wield power, will be For this purpose, the head of the Vatican’s congregation for
made accountable for both the wrongdoings the clergy precisely suggested that the event be an occasion
we commit and the duties we omit to do. for “intense appreciation of the priestly identity, of the theology
of the Catholic priesthood, and of the extraordinary meaning
of the vocation and mission of priests within the Church and
in society.”
“This will require,” he said, “opportunities for study, days of
On the other hand, the Community Based recollection, spiritual exercises reflecting on the priesthood,
Health Program, the Indigenous People’s conferences and theological seminars in our ecclesiastical
Apostolate, and the Social Action Ministry faculties, scientific research and respective publications.”
also concentrate their effort to respond to I wish that the Year for Priests be an occasion also to review
the challenge for social development and every aspect of priestly life and ministry, as contained in the
integrity of creation. Directory for the Life and Ministry of Priests, published by the
Recollecting these grace moments of the life Vatican years ago.
of the Prelature of Ipil, the local church of Ipil The sad fact is that there’s still a big gap between the factual
still looks forward towards a hopeful view of a and the juridical, the real and the ideal, in spite of the rich ex-
more consolidated pro-active efforts from the perience through the centuries within the Church with regard
Bishop, the clergy, the ministries, and the lay to priestly life and ministry.
We are already in the 21st century, enjoying so many techno-
faithful in terms of responding to the different
logical advances, of course with some accompanying problems
challenges that the people of God faces daily that are more complicated and subtle. It would be an anomaly
in their lives. Such response then is viewed in if these achievements are not taken advantage of for the good
the context of the Kristohanong Kasilinganan of the priesthood.
(KRISKA) or the Basic Ecclesial Community While its essence has to be kept and strengthened, the priest-
(BEC), the Mission and Vision of the Prelature hood too has to get updated, making use of the good things
of Ipil, and above all the witness of faith in progress has achieved and quick to identify and tackle the subtler
Jesus Christ by living a life of worship to the problems and more complicated challenges of the times.
Father in Spirit and Truth.
 Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
B7

The Anti-Child Pornography

Law must be passed
By Fr. Shay Cullen
PORNOGRAPHY and especially images
depicting children being sexually
abused and exploited are available on
DVD’s under the tables of most street-
side vendors in the Philippines and
other Asian countries. The absence of a
strong specific law that makes it illegal
to make, copy, distribute or possess such
materials damages the lives of thousands
of children. Such images are evidence of
horrific crime against children and that’s
why in all civilized countries where the
rule of law prevails, child pornography
is anathema and violators get lengthy
prison sentences. But not yet in the
Philippines.
Not only are the children abused in
the making of the videos but thousands
more innocent children are corrupted
and led into perverted sexual acts
with small children after viewing such
materials. What 12 year-old Jopin did
to a six year old, who can’t be named,
is extremely shocking. He learned what
sex acts to do from a pornographic video
that was left in the video machine by a
visiting relative. Jopin secretly viewed
the pornographic video and soon after
he tried out the perverse acts on a six
year old. It had tragic consequences for
the child victim and Jopin.
Child pornography has spread across
the world through the internet and so
as the advertising and promotion of
child trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Every time children and minors are used
in the making of the perverse videos,
they are violated and damaged.
The revelation on YouTube and copied
to DVD’s and cell phones of a sexually
explicit video of an actress and a doctor
performing before the camera with
mutual consent caused public debate
in the Philippines these past weeks
and was subject to a Senate Hearing.
Children participated in an anti-child pornography exhibit held at the North Wing Lobby of the House of Representatives last April 20, 2009, urging mem-
bers of Congress to pass the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009. (Photo courtesy of www.prolife.org.ph)
Many Congress people and civic leaders
expressed disgust, shock and even
outrage. Much of it is pure hypocrisy
considering that there is a thriving
child sex-trade in the Philippines with
alleged official approval. However
with child pornography, things could
change soon.
In the Senate, Senate Bill No. 2317
titled “An Act Prohibiting Child
Pornography, Imposing Penalties
for the Commission Thereof and for
Other Purposes” passed the Third
and Final Reading last November 24,
2008. All Senators unanimously voted
for the approval. Two days after, the
Bill was forwarded to the lower house
requesting for concurrence. In the House
of Representatives, House Bill No.684
titled “An Act Defining the Crime of
Child Pornography, Imposing Penalties
Thereof, and for Other Purposes” has
passed First Reading and has been
forwarded to the Committee on Justice,
Committee on the Welfare of Children
and Committee on Appropriations for
review and amendment. Once the lower
house version has passed Second and
Third Reading, a bi-cameral session will
be held to come-up with a consolidated
version of the Senate Bill and House
Bill.
That’s why it is of utmost importance
for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
to certify as urgent this important bill.
The protection of vulnerable children is
of the highest national importance and
the presidential certification of the bill as
urgent will guarantee its swift passing.
That will be a crowning achievement.
So readers of this column are asked to
write to the president at Malacañang
Palace, Manila and encourage her to
make it so.
The internet is the international
channel for the proliferation of child
pornography. Thousands have been
arrested worldwide for downloading the
illegal images but the server corporations
make billions of dollars out of facilitating
the evil trade, that’s the one reason
they do not want to install anti-child
porn filters and set-up an independent
monitoring group that finds the source
and either blocks the offending website
or helps police identify the offenders. If
all the server corporations agree to do it
then no one would have advantage over
the other. But they can’t agree. The new
law must make blocking mandatory for
all, voluntary self-regulation should
never be a substitute for the law. So let’s
write letters and send e-mails, WE NEED
THAT LAW CERTIFIED AS URGENT!
It will save children from abuse and will
help us rescue and give them a new
start in life.
(CBCPWorld, an internet service
provider owned and managed by CBCP
Communications Development Foundation,
Inc., provides internet access that is filtered of
pornographic and other harmful sites. Visit
www.cbcpworld.com or call (02) 4042182
for details)

Letter to the Editor

Going bananas
THIS is in reaction to the many news stories and columns that come
out in the media including in Davao City hitting the Department
of Health (DOH) study that investigated the effects of pesticides on
the health and environment of Camocaan village in Davao del Sur
and that recommended the banning of aerial spraying.
I have read the DOH study and have had the privilege of hearing
straight from the government doctors the results of their investigation
in a recent presentation of the study.
The study was quoted to mention—“statistically negligible” levels
of fungicide in Camocaan. If one were to search the report, one would
not find the words “statistically negligible” in any part of it. In fact,
the report states the opposite—that in one of the soil samples in
Camocaan, the levels of ethylene thiourea, a potentially carcinogenic
fungicide byproduct, have exceeded the allowable levels of the US
Environmental Protection Agency. The study also found that among
the randomly selected patients living outside the plantation, there
were levels of this potentially carcinogenic chemical in their blood.
These are data that was not significantly mentioned.
The above statements could only have come from someone who
(1) read the study but did not understand it; (2) did not read the
study but was misinformed by his sources.
As for the second possibility, we note that when the writers said
that the study found “statistically negligible” levels of fungicide,
it appeared that they were quoting from the study when in
fact, they were quoting someone else’s words. The exact same
misquotation—and the exact same arguments have been used by
several columnists these past weeks. These columnists are similarly
people of intelligence who could not have misunderstood the study
had they actually read it. We cannot help but think, therefore, that
there are politically-connected parties behind all these, who hired
the services of a former newspaper man-turned PR practitioner to
undermine the valid results of the study by misinforming opinion
makers and even journalists who therefore end up misinforming
the public. We would caution the writers to please verify with the
authors of the study first in order to get their side of the story before
they allow themselves to be used for misinformation.
The writers also undermine the study because it was “conducted
on just 38 patients”. It appears that they may not clearly understand and thrive in Bukidnon and North Cotabato despite the ban, which
the methods of statistical randomization, which have been used again exposes the lie peddled by banana companies that banning
by researchers since time immemorial to ensure that their smaller aerial spraying will destroy the banana industry.
samples are, indeed, representative of the larger population. When The Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA),
professional polling groups make statements in the papers about the likely source of the misinformation campaign against the DOH
poverty or about the popularity of a potential presidential candidate, study is going bananas on the issue of aerial spraying. PBGEA
they get a randomly selected sample from the entire country of 90 continues to defy public and government clamor to stop aerial
million. Their actual sample size can be as low as 1200 subjects—if we spraying despite clear, viable and less dangerous alternatives to
assume a population of 90,000,000, that is like choosing only 1 person the practice. It is a pity that some writers let themselves be used by
out of every group of 75,000. But their conclusions are believable corporations whose sole focus is their endless quest for profit.
because the process of randomization makes sure that the sample is Vain attempts to discredit the DOH study cannot hold ground
not biased but rather is truly representative of the entire nation. against the study investigators whose expertise are poisons and
The study had 38 subjects out of a total Camocaan population their impact on peoples health and whose only bias is protecting
of 1057; in other words, 1 out of every 28 residents was randomly public health. PBGEA can deny the effects of aerial spraying all
selected, far better than the 1 out of 75,000 in the polling data in the they want, but it will not make the problem of aerial spraying go
newspapers that we routinely believe to be reliable. The sample of away. Instead, their arrogance would only fuel the anger and resolve
38 is clearly representative of the population of Camocaan. If we of affected communities and the public at large to put a stop to the
were to extrapolate from the sample and extend its conclusions aerial spraying menace.
to the entire population, since 80% of the sample was exposed to
aerial pesticides, that means that 80% of all people in Camocaan Truly yours,
are similarly exposed to the aerial pesticides drifting beyond the
boundaries of the plantation, and to think that Camocaan is just Rene D. Pineda, Jr.
one of thousands of communities living within and around banana Head, National Task Force Against Aerial Spray
plantations all over Mindanao. renepinedajr@yahoo.com
Complaints against aerial spraying are
not new. In fact, in response to public
clamor, and absent the appropriate
intervention of concerned national
government agencies, the provincial
government of Bukidnon banned
aerial spraying way back year 2001.
The province of North Cotabato also
banned the practice in 2004, and the
Davao City government likewise passed
an ordinance in 2007 disallowing aerial
spraying as an agricultural practice. It is
also a fact that banana plantations exist

Address / B5

and Risen, Sovereign of time and of history, in the glad certainty that
this truth coincides with the deepest expectations of the human heart.

CBCPMonitor Name _________________________________________________

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(Middle Name)
In the mystery of the Incarnation of the Word, that is, of the fact that
God became man like us, lies both the content and the method of
Christian proclamation. The true dynamic centre of the mission is
here: in Jesus Christ, precisely. The centrality of Christ brings with it
the correct appreciation of the ministerial priesthood, without which
there would be neither the Eucharist, nor even the mission nor the
Church herself. In this regard it is necessary to be alert to ensure that
the “new structures” or pastoral organizations are not planned on the
basis of an erroneous interpretation of the proper promotion of the
laity for a time in which one would have “to do without” the ordained
ministry, because in that case the presuppositions for a further dilution
of the ministerial priesthood would be laid and possible presumed
“solutions” might come dramatically to coincide with the real causes
of contemporary problems linked to the ministry.
I am certain that in these days the work of the Plenary Assembly,
under the protection of the Mater Ecclesiae, will be able to examine
these brief ideas that I permit myself to submit to the attention of the
Cardinals, Archbishops and Bishops, while I invoke upon you all an
abundance of heavenly gifts, as a pledge of which I impart a special,
affectionate Apostolic Blessing to you and to all your loved ones.
Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI to the Members of the
Congregation for the Clergy on the Occasion of their Plenary
Assembly
Monday, 16 March 2009
 B8
The display figures at the
Museum of Natural History
which magically sprang to life
at midnight and befriended
the night guard Larry (Ben
Stiller) are being packed off to
the archives of the Smithsonian
Institution in Washington to give
way to state-of-the-art museum
features. Now a businessman in
his own right, Larry decides to
travel to Washington to rescue
his museum friends from a
future of perpetual storage.
While trying to free from
their packing crates Theodore
Roosevelt (Robin Williams),
the miniature cowboy Jedediah
(Owen Wilson) and Octavius
the Roman general (Steve
Coogan, Larry inadvertently
resurrects the Egyptian pharaoh
Kahmunrah (Hank Azaria).
With ambitions of conquering
the world Kahmunrah enlists
the help of some of history’s
meanest characters Al Capone
(Jon Bernthal), Napoleon
Bonaparte (Alain Chabat),
Ivan the Terrible (Christopher
Guest), and of court his own
bodyguards to wangle from
Larry the giant gold keypad that
would unleash the pharaoh’s
ancient army. So now it’s
Kahmunrah and the baddies
versus Larry, a reanimated duo,
General Custer (Bill Hader) and
aviatrix Amelia Earhart.
Night at the Museum 2:
Battle of the Smithsonian is be
to enjoyed as an entertaining
high-tech ouvre that delights
the child in the viewer. Talk
about a dinosaur’s skeleton
jerking back to life, or figures
Buhay Parokya
Look for the images of Pope John Paul II, chalice, and dove. (Illustration by Bladimer Usi)
Entertainment
Moral Assessment
 Abhorrent
 Disturbing
 Acceptable
 Wholesome
 Exemplary
in iconic paintings stepping out
the frame and into the real world
to interact with Larry and the
museum figures—that’s neat.
As a rule, credit must be given
generously to those working
with the computers to bring
about these special effects—not
only in this movie but for all
movies utilizing computer
generated images (CGI), which
happen to be a dime a dozen
nowadays. When it comes to
the predictable story, forget
about authenticity or historical
accuracy; don’t question
character development, time
boundaries or inconsistencies
with what you’ve learned in
History Class. Likewise, there’s
no point in asking if the pharaoh
acted like a pharaoh would in
real life, or if Al Capone would
have agreed to being recruited
by an Egyptian ruler if he had
had a chance to.
What is the message of this
movie? Or at least the lesson it’s
trying to teach the viewer? Well,
the viewer can glean the old tale
of good versus evil, naughty
versus nice, in the plot, but it’s
doubtful if director Shawn Levy
had aimed to achieve anything
more than box-office success
for this work. Like any piece
of historical fiction (like the
Dan Brown potboilers Da Vinci
Code and Angels and Demons),
Night… 2 is merely a product
of a hyperactive imagination.
Thus, while the story may
be spiced with the names or
presence of historical figures—
people who lived on earth once
upon a time—their personalities
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
Technical Assessment
 Poor
 Below average
 Average
 Above average
 E
xcellent
Title: Night at the Museum 2
Running Time: 108 min.
Cast: Ben Stiller, Amy Adams,
Owen Wilson, Hank Azaria,
Robin Williams, Christopher
Guest, Alain Chabat
Director: Shawn Levy
Producers: Michael Barnathan,
Chris Columbus, Shawn
Levy, Mark Radcliffe
Screenwriters: Robert Ben
Garant, Thomas Lennon
Music: Alan Silvestri
Editor: Dean Zimmerman, Don
Zimmerman
Genre: Action/ Adventure Com-
edy
Cinematography: John
Schwartzman
Distributor: Twentieth Century-
Fox Film Corporation
Location: Canada
Technical Assessment:½
Moral Assessment: 
CINEMA Rating: For viewers of
all ages
in this work of fiction remain
fictitious, created by the
authors, directors, producers,
marketers, with their own
probably commercial agenda.
Watching this movie may give
you a feeling that you’re acting
MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi
like a den mother to a bunch of
gung ho kindergarten kids let
loose in the park. One thing good
about Night…2 is—its humor
remains clean from beginning
to end. But as a tip for parents:
don’t forget to point out to your
young children that Larry stole
a guard’s badge and uniform to
gain entry into the Smithsonian
archives. Even with the noblest
of intentions, stealing is stealing
in any language.
Title: Dalaw
Running Time: 90 min.
Cast: Katrina Halili, Tonton Gutierrez, Glydel Mercado, Kristel
Fulgar, Matet de Leon, Mon Confiado, Anita Linda, Dexter
Doria
Director: Joven Tan
Screenwriter: Joven Tan
Genre: Horror
Distributor: Pixel8 Entertainment Productions
Location: Cavite
Technical Assessment: ½
Moral Assessment:  ½
CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14 and above
Dahil desperado nang makakuha ng magandang istoryang
kakaiba, pupunta si Laarni (Katrina Halili) sa isang bayan
sa Cavite upang magsaliksik ukol sa kumakalat na balitang
nagmumulto sa lugar na nagngangalang Estela (Kristel Fulgar).
Si Estela diumano ay dumadalaw sa mga dalagita na unang
beses pa lamang dinaratnan ng regla. Sa pagsasaliksik ni
Laarni, malalaman niya ang kuwento ni Estela: Hindi naging
masaya ang pagsasama ng mga magulang ni Estela. Laging
nag-aaway sina Erning (Tonton Gutierrez) at Cleo (Glydel
Mercado) ukol sa isang lalaking kalaguyo ni Cleo na si Amado
(Mon Confiado). Sa isang mainitang pagtatalo, mapapatay ni
Erning si Cleo sa harapan ni Estela. Labis na maaapektuhan si
Estela ng pangyayari. Ito na rin ang simula ng pagmamalupit
ni Erning kay Estela. Ngunit mayroon pa palang mas malalim
na dahilan kung bakit malupit si Erning kay Estela at ito ang
kanyang sinisisi sa pagkakapatay niya kay Cleo. Habang
nadidiskubre ni Laarni ang lahat ay pinagmumultuhan na rin
siya ni Estela. Mabigyang linaw kaya ni Laarni ang kuwento ni
Estela o maging isa rin siyang biktima ng pagdalaw nito?
Nagsubok ang pelikulang Dalaw na makabuo ng isang
kakaibang kuwento katakutan mula sa isang karaniwang sabi-
sabing Pilipino ukol sa buwanang dalaw ng mga kababaihan.
Kaiga-igaya sana ang konsepto pero hindi ito napanindigan
sa kabuuan ng pelikula. Pinakamalaking pagkakamali nito
ang hindi pagbibigay ng bigat sa kuwento ng bida. Pawang
mas malalim pa ang kuwento ng mga pangalawang tauhan
kaysa sa bida. Tuloy ay hindi malaman ng manonood kung
kanino ba talaga ang kuwento. Maraming inihaing isyu ang
kuwento ngunit wala ni isa sa mga ito ang tunay na nagalugad
at nabigyang halaga. Maganda naman ang tunog at mga kuha
ng kamera na talagang madarama na isang katakutan ang
pelikula ngunit pawang hindi naging epektibo ang mga ito
dahil hindi maramdaman ang tunay na kuwento. May mga
tauhang hindi malaman ang tunay na kinalaman sa istorya
tulad ng manghuhula at isang matandang may-ari ng bahay-
tuluyan na hindi malinaw ang papel na ginagampanan sa
kuwento ni Estela. Sa bandang huli’y pawang nasayang ang
mga mahuhusay na pagganap ng karamihan sa mga tauhan
sa dami ng butas ng kuwento.
Karaniwan na sa kulturang Pilipino ang pagiging
mapagpaniwala sa mga sabi-sabi. Isa na rito ang ukol sa
buwanang dalaw ng mga kababaihan. Halos wala namang
bago sa sinabi ng pelikula at pinalala pa nito ang pananakot sa
mga dalagita. Sa halip na bigyang linaw ang sabi-sabi ay lalo
pa itong naging malabo. Nakakabahala ang kuwento ni Estela.
Hindi isang karaniwang relasyong mag-ama ang tinukoy sa
pelikula. Pero higit na nakababahala na hindi ito naresolba at
nabigyang paliwanag. Pawang ang lahat ay mga reaksiyon
na lamang sa pangyayari. Pawang puro kasamaan ang
namamayani sa kuwento at wala man lang bahid ng kaunting
kabutihan o kadalisayan. Maging ang intensiyon ni Laarni ay
hindi dalisay na nagnanais lamang gamitin at pagkakitaan
ang kuwento ni Estela. Hindi malinaw ang tunay na ugat ng
problemang pampamilya ni Estela. Halos kundenahin pa nito
ang insesto at pagpapakamatay bilang pagtakas sa problema.
Isang malaking pagkakamali at kasalanan ang pang-aaping
ginawa kay Estela ngunit wala naman talagang naparusahan sa
kuwento. Ang kanyang pagpapakita at pagdalaw ay pawang
walang sinisino at walang mensaheng nais iparating bukod
sa pananakot. Kinonsinte rin ng pelikula ang pakikiapid sa
konteksto ng pagmamahal kung kaya’t lalo itong naging
kabaha-bahala. Sa dami ng maseselang paksang tinalakay sa
pelikula at mga eksena nitong katakutan, nararapat lamang
ang Dalaw sa mga manonood na 14 gulang pataas.
 CBCP Monitor
Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
5
March8 2- 21,
June - 15,2009
2009
C1

The Cross
A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI
and the Order of the Knights of
Columbus
KCFAPI athletes during awarding of medals on the 5th Annual Family day and Mini Olympics 2009 held last May 31 at Philsports Complex, Pasig City.

KCFAPI joins KC Luzon’s

5th Annual Family Day
and Mini Olympics
By April Basilio
KNIGHTS of Columbus Fra-
ternal Association of the Philip-
pines, Incorporated and various
Knights of Columbus councils
across Luzon joined the KC Lu- The opening of games commenced

KCFAPI holds FB Convention

zon Jurisdiction’s 5th Fr. George with a line up of activities ranging from
J. Willmann, S.J. Family Day and individual to team events in which ev-
ery KCFAPI athlete joined in.
Mini-Olympics 2009 held last At the proclamation of winners and

for WV Fraternal Counselors

May 31 at the PSC Philsports
Complex (ULTRA) in Pasig
City.
KCFAPI delegation, led by Executive
Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia
welcomed KC Luzon’s invitation, as its
employees and families actively partici-
pated at the beginning of the event.
EVP Tess Curia delivered an in-
spirational message at the opening
ceremonies.
Jose A. Lakas, Jr., Athletics Events
Chairman and an employee of KCFAPI
recited the Oath of Sportsmanship.
awarding of trophies and medals, KC-
FAPI bagged awards and collected a
total of 21 medals.
Awardees for the individual events
were Pia G. Curia, gold medal for Free
Throw (Female: age 14-18) and silver
medal for 50-Meter Dash (Female) and
Monique G. Curia, gold medal for Free
Throw (Female: age 16-17), both are
daughters of KCFAPI EVP Tess Curia.
Additional medals won by KCFAPI
for the team events were bronze medals
for Obstacle Course and Tug-of-War.
At the end of the event, Arsenio Isidro
G. Yap conveyed the closing remarks.

KC Philippines Foundation
renews partnership with
Gawad Kalinga
KC PHILIPPINES Foundation, Inc. teamed up again with Gawad Kalinga
Community Development Foundation, Inc. for the construction of seven houses
and a provisional chapel at Bagong Pangarap, GK Site Tungkong Mangga, San
Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
Last year, the Foundation also sponsored 10 houses at the same site which
was later turned over upon its completion to ten beneficiary-families from
Pangarap Village in Kalookan City.
The Foundation is inviting everyone to participate and help build the houses
and chapel for our less-fortunate brothers. Qualified FCs from Western Visayas with KCFAPI Chaiman Patrocinio R. Bacay, KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo and KCFAPI Executive
Workloads are consisted of hollow-blocks and gravels relay, clearing, excava- Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia at the WV Fraternal Benefits Convention D.R.I.V.E. 110 held last May 15 and 16 at the Eon Centennial Plaza
Hotel, Iloilo City.
tion and leveling of site, concrete mixing and concrete hollow blocks laying,
cement pre-casting and painting. THE KCFAPI Fraternal Benefits up to motivate the aspiring fraternal updates on KCFAPI’s financial stability
Blessing of the lot where the provisional chapel will be erected is on the 27th Convention was held in Western counselors. amidst the prevailing economic crisis.
of June while the target schedule of turnover is on October 17. Visayas last May 15-16 at the Iloilo KCFAPI Executive Vice President, The program formally ended with
For those who want to volunteer, schedules of Bayanihan Build are on June Centennial Plaza Hotel. Participated Ms. Ma. Theresa G. Curia, gave an inspiring messages from KCFAPI
20 and 27, July 11 and 25, August 8 and 22, and September 5. by the dynamic Fraternal Counsel- encouraging message to the fraternal President, Mr. Antonio B. Borromeo
Please call 527-2223 local 230 for further information. (Denise Solina) ors of Western Visayas, the entire counselors on the following day. She and KCFAPI Chairman, Mr. Patrocinio
program dealt with topics on Selling likewise discussed a positive economic R. Bacay. (April Vasquez)
Process, T.O.K.C.A, review of FCs
Underwriting Services Dept Incentives and Benefits, Significance
of Computer Technology as Market-

extends CMBP Window Offering

THE Underwriting Services Depart-
ment announced the extension of the
Council Mortuary Benefit Plan (CMBP)
window offering for new and renewal
applications effective May 1 to June
30, 2009.
Joselito E. Mañalac, Assistant Vice
President of the Actuarial and Customer
Relations Group, said in a memoran-
dum that the extension of the said plan
was due to the ongoing study on the
continued offering of the CMBP product
and to the enhancement of the plan.
He added that the plan is being re-
vised to reach a thorough and in-depth
product viability and development.
The initial findings of the mortality
experience study conducted in the past
two years resulted to a need for an ex-
tensive study on the term plan which
involves the expense experience of the
CMBP products.
The eligibility requirements has also
been said to relax to 25-16 under the
CMBP window promo, particularly;
councils may submit at least 25 appli-
cants with 16 KC members.
CMBP is the only term plan offered by
the Knights of Columbus Fraternal As-
sociation of the Philippines, Inc., which
responds to the mortuary requirements
of an enrolled member and his family
should he or any of his family members
pass away.
The term plan also presented coverage
on a yearly basis at a very minimal cost.
This term plan is being offered to all
the KC councils, KC members and their
wives as well as their children aged 20
and below. (Kate Laceda)
ing Tool, and Underwriting Process
and Updates.
The event endeavored to uplift the
morale and enhance the capabilities of
the marketing force.
Bro. Gari M. San Sebastian, FB Ser-
vices Manager, facilitated the program
and handled the subject on D.R.I.V.E.
110, Sales Techniques and Processes,
TOKCA and review of FC’s Incen-
tives and Benefits. Bro. Ronulfo G.
Infante, Senior IT Manager, conferred
the development and importance of
technology as a marketing means. The
underwriting process and updates
were discussed by Bro. Rudolph Ge-
rard M. Elizaga, WV Fraternal Benefits
Associate.
For the night’s affair, the participants
were treated to a sumptuous din-
ner and jovial team building. A film WV Fraternal Benefits Convention participants with KCFAPI Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay, KCFAPI
showing of the Palawan Teaser for President Antonio B. Borromeo, Vice Supreme Master Bro. Panfilo O. Pacubas, Sr. and KCFAPI
2009 Annual Awards was also toted Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia.

KCFAPI hosts ‘Kiddie Santa Cruzan’ for employees and families

EMPLOYEES and family members of the
Knights of Columbus Fraternal Associa-
tion of the Philippines, Inc., Knights of
Columbus Luzon Jurisdiction, MACE In-
surance Agency and Keys Realty partici-
pated in the “Kiddie Santa Cruzan” held
last May 22 at Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J.
Center in Intramuros, Manila.
As part of the yearly Family Day
activity, the event aimed to enliven
the Catholic tradition in the country,
Participants and organizers of the Kiddie Santa Cruzan with KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo,
KCFAPI Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia and KCFAPI Spiritual Director Msgr. organizers said.
Pedro C. Quitorio during the Kiddie Santa Cruzan held at Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J. Center in The event started with a Catechesis
Intramuros, Manila last May 22. on the history of Santa Cruzan as a
Catholic tradition in the country which
was facilitated by State Chaplain Msgr.
Pedro C. Quitorio III.
Organizers added that instead of the
traditional Santa Cruzan, which cannot
be held within the office premises, altar
stations were put up and decorated
where attendees can pray the Holy
Rosary.
A Eucharistic celebration presided by
Msgr. Quitorio ended the Santa Cruzan
procession, followed by a “Mini Fiesta
Salu-Salo”.
Games and talent portions were
also organized for the benefits of the
children.
The activity culminated with an
awarding ceremony for the “Best
dressed” and “Best altar design” win-
ners.
The event provided a chance for
employees’ children to take part in the
activities of the Order.
KCFAPI officials led by President
Antonio B. Borromeo, Executive Vice
President Ma. Theresa G. Curia and
Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo also attended
the activity. (CBCPNews)
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
C2 Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

Chairman’s
Message
Patrocinio R. Bacay
A NEW Columbian Year is upon us again. Defi-
nitely there will be numerous challenges to be
encountered. A very important event would be
the election of council officers. As in any election,
the expression of getting the officer you desire will
always be true. Therefore, I admonish each council
member to think deeply about the qualities of of-
ficers they wanted as their leaders; leaders, who
can motivate and inspire members and who will
ultimately turn as best asset of the council. These
councils will surely bring the Order to greater
heights. Quality leaders always produce quality
members who will work to the realization of the
Order’s principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity
President’s
Message
Antonio B. Borromeo
CONGRATULATIONS to the new set of council officers
and Patriotism. who have been chosen to their respective positions for
KC Fraternal will rely very much on the outcome the incoming Columbian Year 2009-2010. Your election
of the new set of council officers. With the council indicates the trust and confidence that you are capable
members thinking seriously in choosing their lead- of leading your councils to the level of excellence
ers, KC Fraternal will have a wider crop of inspired expected by the Supreme Council and the Territorial
and dedicated Fraternal Counselors and Area Jurisdiction.
Managers who can once again provide optimum We hope that your balanced council programming
protection to its members and their families who will include active promotion of the fraternal insurance
will be forever grateful. plans which the members and your families should
Once again vote prudently and intelligently for enjoy.
your council officers. Again, in behalf of KCFAPI Management Officers,
May the new Columbian Year be full of blessings staff and field sales representatives we pray and wish
for each Brother Knight and KC Fraternal. you success in all your forthcoming activities.
VIVAT JESUS!

KCFAPI Zamboanga Gari M. San Sebastian

Service Office
ALTHOUGH Mindanao is not predominantly composed of Catho- Manager of Fraternal Benefits Services Department
lic Filipinos, the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the MR. Gari M. San Sebastian is a Fourth Degree joined KCFAPI as a Human Resource Assistant. He
Philippines, Inc. has extended its unswerving fraternal service to Knight of Mary Help of Christian Council 8256 transferred to Fraternal Benefits Group (FBG) the fol-
our KC members and their families particularly in Southwestern since 1997. Bro. Gari, as he is fondly called in lowing year as a Training Assistant and eventually
Mindanao. the Order of the Knights of Columbus and in worked his way to becoming a Training Specialist in
Through the efforts of Mr. Pedro M. Rodriguez, Jr., who was then KCFAPI, is a graduate of San Beda College with 2001. He was later promoted as Assistant Manager of
the President of KCFAPI, the Service office was established in the a degree in Human Resource Management and the Fraternal Benefits Services (FBS) Department in 2002.
so-called ‘Asia’s Latin City’ on September 1997. The first Zamboanga Communication. He displayed admirable balance Proving his skills and ability to handle and motivate
Service Office was located at the 2nd Floor of GL-II Bldg., Veterans with his studies and extra-curricular activities people, Bro. Gari was promoted as FBS Department
Avenue with its first service office administrator, Mr. Marvin Igna- as he remained a consistent dean’s lister while Manager in 2006.
tius G. Ruste. Later, to better serve our KC brothers in SWM, the actively heading various organizations during Bro. Gari’s current role in KCFAPI involves sales train-
service office was relocated at the 2nd Floor of the Park Pavilion his college years. He later passed with higher ing and incentive programs for sales force. He is also in
Bldg., La Purisima St., fronting Ateneo de Zamboanga University. honor the two-year certificate course in Training charge of FC’s accreditation, manpower development,
The location itself is just a hundred meters away from the vener- and Development under Philippine Society for and the promotions of group insurance or CMBP.
ated Metropolitan Immaculate Conception Church of Zamboanga Training and Development (PSTD). Empowering the Fraternal Counselors through his trainings and
City. Presently running the Zamboanga Service Office are Fraternal Prior to joining KCFAPI, he worked as a Training Specialist in a seminars, Gari is responsible in carrying out the Association’s thrust
Benefits Associate Jeffrey Vincent M. Galea and Service Office Staff holding company of a telecommunications corporation and joined to spread fraternal service among the brother knights and their im-
Blenda Porillo. other commercial companies from various industries. In 1998, he mediate families. (Jan Michael Dayrit)
For more than eleven years of its operation, the Zamboanga
Service Office is continuously determined to support KCFAPI’s
Mission and Vision. Though
rough times may be inimita-
ble in its journey, the KCFA-
PI board members, officers,
area managers, dedicated
fraternal counselors and per-
sonnel zealously work hand
in hand to enliven the spirit
and purpose of KCFAPI in
the hearts of our KC brothers
in Mindanao mainly in the
areas of Zamboanga Sibugay
Province, Basilan Province,
Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
To KCFAPI and our Brother
Knights and their families, mu-
chas gracias for keeping with
Fraternal Benefits Associate Jeffrey Vincent M.
Galea and Service Office Staff Blenda Porillo us through the years. Dios KCFAPI Internal Quality Auditors with Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia, Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay and President Antonio B. Borromeo, Vice
of KCFAPI Zamboanga Service Office. Bendiga! (Blenda Porillo) President and Quality Management Representative Magdalene G. Flores, Lead Auditor Pedro P. Lubenia and Department Heads during Internal Quality Audit Meeting

PTTC-DTI Awards
held May 19, 2009.

Cruise to Corregidor
Certificates to KCFAPI IQA’s
KNIGHTS of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. The practice of internal quality audit had been very instrumental
(KCFAPI) Internal Quality Auditors (IQA) received their certificates in the continued ISO certification of the Association for two years.
issued by the Philippine Trade Training Center – Department of Trade KCFAPI recently renewed it ISO certification last January 2009 after
and Industry (PTTC-DTI) during Internal Quality Audit Opening successfully passing the 4th surveillance audit conducted by the
Meeting held last May 19, 2009. KCFAPI Chairman Patrocinio R. Certification International. (Ira Tee)
Bacay, President Antonio B. Borro-
meo, Executive Vice President Ma.
Theresa G. Curia and Quality Man-
Participants to the Cruise to Corregidor enjoyed their reward as winners in the recently
concluded membership recruitment blitz offered by the Luzon Jurisdiction
agement Representative Magdalene
G. Flores awarded the certificates
THE PAGASA had just announced the end of summer and the begin- to employees who participated and
ning of the rainy season. In fact, Mother Nature has just given some completed the seminar workshop on
initial rain showers several days before. However, May 20 was spared Internal Quality Audit held April 4
from the downpours providing the 31 participants to the Cruise to and 18, 2009. IQA is a group tasked
Corregidor to enjoy their reward as winners in the recently concluded to ensure that KCFAPI maintains its
membership recruitment blitz offered by the Luzon Jurisdiction. strong commitment to standards of
Luzon Deputy Alonso Tan was beaming with pride as he narrated performance guided by the Interna-
to KCFAPI officers the success of the project. Bro. Tan together with tional Organization for Standardiza-
some of the Luzon officers joined the Corregidor cruise to provide tion (ISO) 9001.
inspiration to the participants. Ms. Emmaline C. Vitug, a Regis-
District Deputy Salvador Aspuria was too happy to experience tered Lead Assessor and BPS Qual-
the lights and sounds of the Malinta Tunnel. The two councils in ity Manager and representative of
Baguio enjoyed the trip and even considered bringing their families PTTC-DTI, was invited to conduct
and fellow members to Corregidor in the near future. the said training at the 3rd floor
Corregidor is part of the province of Cavite. It is ironical to note that Social Hall of KCFAPI Head Of-
for some of those from Ligtong, Rosario, and Cavite, the occasion was fice at Intramuros, Manila. PTTC
their first encounter with Corregidor. Ask Area Manager Noni Ayon. is the training arm of DTI and is a
But he would rather keep secret the names of the other first timers. registered Center of Excellence by
DD Fernando Labita led the new members to claim the first recog- the ASEAN Economic Minister-
nition as a newly initiated KC council. AM Jun Dator was on hand Ministry of Economy, Trade and
to show them around a day before. Industry, Economic and Industrial
DD Alberto Ulibas and AM Valencia led the winners from Abra. Cooperation Committee (AMEICC)
It was the second trip for Bro. Valencia but remarked that this time and Working Group on Human
was better since he was with his province mates. Resource Development.
The group was back at the KCFAPI office before sundown. A mere The primary objective of the
glance at their eyes and lips would indicate that they would share seminar-workshop is to provide
their happy moments in Corregidor with their council members as KCFAPI IQAs with the required
soon as they reach back home. (Joseph Teodoro) knowledge and techniques in the
conduct of internal quality audit.
Lead by Ms. Magdalene G. Flores
(KCFAPI Vice President for Fi-
nance and Quality Management
Representative) and Mr. Pedro P.
Lubenia (KCFAPI Senior Manager
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES

for Corporate Audit and QMS Lead

Auditor), the IQAs composed of
selected employees will undergo a
series of exercises during the two-
day seminar-workshop to equip
them in the effective implementa-
tion of internal audit program
within the organization. According
to Ms. Vitug, “Auditing is not fault-
finding…but discovering rooms for
Participants to the Cruise to Corregidor during their walk at the infamous Malinta Tunnel improvement”.
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009
C3

The Catholic Response

By Carl A. Anderson, Supreme
Knight
As modern secularism leads to self-destruc-
tion, Catholics must work to build a new
culture of life
CHRISTOPHER Dawson, who served
as the first Chauncey Stillman Chair
of Roman Catholic Studies at Harvard
University more than 50 years ago, ob-
served, “Human nature always retains
its spiritual character…. If it were to
lose this, it must lose itself and become
the servant of lower powers, so that a
secular civilization…inevitably leads
to nihilism and to self-destruction.”
He continued, “If we look at the world
today in isolation from the past and the
future, the forces of secularism may
seem triumphant. This, however, is but
a moment in the life of humanity, and it
does not possess the promise of stability
and permanence” (Dawson, The Forma-
tion of Christendom, 37).
These words were written at the
height of the Cold War, when the forces
of militant atheism appeared in many
ways to be gaining the upper hand.
They are worth recalling today, as we
seem to be entering a new period of
secularism.
In an April 13 cover story titled “The
End of Christian America,” Newsweek
magazine made much of a recent
survey that found the percentage of
self-identified Christians has fallen 10
points in the past two decades. Also
notable, according to Newsweek, is that
evangelical leaders who now refer to a
post-Christian America.
To say that Catholics historically
have never felt entirely comfortable
with the evangelical idea of a Christian
America would be an understatement.
But if Dawson is correct that secular-
ism cannot provide a stable foundation
for society, and American society ap-
pears to be rejecting Protestantism as a
foundation, what now is to be done? Is
secularism or evangelical Christianity
the only alternatives for the future? Can
Catholics make a unique contribution to
the common good?
For me, the words of Pope John Paul II
from his great encyclical on life, Evange-
lium Vitae, remain as relevant today as
when they were written in 1995: “To all
the members of the Church, the people
of life and for life, I make this most ur-
gent appeal, that together we may offer
this world of ours new signs of hope,
and work to ensure that justice and
solidarity will increase and that a new
culture of human life will be affirmed,
for the building of an authentic civiliza-
tion of truth and love” (6, emphasis in
original).
Catholics are called to work continu-
ally to build up society, to provide new
hope and to establish a new culture of
life. The key to this, John Paul knew,
was for Catholics to form a strong
identity and to accept “the inescap-
able responsibility of choosing to be
unconditionally pro-life” (28, emphasis
in original).
The present situation provides Catho-

Fraternal Benefits Group Calendar of Events

“fewer people now think of the United
States as a ‘Christian nation’ than did
so when George W. Bush was president
(62 percent in 2009 versus 69 percent
in 2008).”
The Newsweek article focused mainly
on the concerns of evangelical Chris-
tians, which it said “have long believed
that the United States should be a na-
tion whose political life is based upon
and governed by their interpretation
of biblical and theological principles.”
The magazine also quoted several
lics with an unprecedented opportunity
to help shape the future of our country.
John Adams once said that the U.S. con-
stitution “was made only for a moral and
religious people. It is wholly inadequate
to the government of any other.” If this
remains true, then we must ask ourselves
how Catholics can contribute to the
building up of “a moral and religious
people.”
That answer, John Paul II reminded
us, begins with a question that still
echoes to us from the very beginning
of human society: “Am I my brother’s
keeper?” (Gen 4:9).
The future of society depends on
how we answer this primordial ques-
tion. I believe there are no men better For the Month of June 2009
prepared to do this than those who
live the principles of charity, unity and June 12 and 13 Mindanao FB Convention CDO City
fraternity; who by their works witness (By invitation only)
to this truth expressed in Evangelium
Vitae: “Yes, every man is his ‘brother’s June 17 and 18 Fraternal Service Training Home Office
keeper,’ because God entrusts us to one (New FC Recruits - Luzon)
another”
Vivat Jesus!

For Brother Knights by Brother Knights

Retire Plus: Choice Plan
of Young Professionals
THERE is now a growing desire among young professionals to fully prepare themselves to comfort-
able retirement years. It is for this reason that they are looking today for the safest place where they
can put their hard-earned money to fund their golden years in addition to the present retirement
program available to them.
KCFAPI has developed the RETIRE PLUS for members and their families to answer this need. A
good number of young professionals within the Knights of Columbus families have already enrolled
themselves to the RETIRE PLUS to augment their present retirement programs.
Take the case of a 35-year old son of a Knights of Columbus member who has just subscribed to
the RETIRE PLUS with a face value of P1 Million. In accordance with the provisions of the plan he
will be receiving P500,000 upon reaching the age of 60 and another P500,000 at age 65. In consid-
eration of these benefits he will be making premium payments to KCFAPI amounting to P58,300
annually for 10 years (based on standard rates.) Let us take a look at these figures.
Total Living Benefits
a) Age 60 P 500, 000
b) Age 65 500, 000 Exam is no easy feat for it involves a lot of prayers, Victoria Bataclan.
TOTAL P 1, 000, 000
Total Premium Payments
Annual P 58, 300
No. of Years x 10 583, 000
Excess Benefits
Over Premium P 417, 000
The annual premium of P58, 300 may appear large enough to manage. On second thought, how-
ever, the cost of enrolling to the RETIRE PLUS becomes an easy one with about P162.00 per day
(the daily basis is for the illustration purposes only.)
In addition to the living benefits, RETIRE PLUS will provide for the family benefits in the event
the insured dies on any of the following dates while the benefit certificate is in forced.
From To Amount of Family Benefit
1. Date of Effectivity a) Age 60 P 2, 000, 000
2. Age 61 b) Age 65 P 1, 500, 000
3. Age 65 c) Age 100 P 500, 000
Avail now of this unique KC Fraternal insurance plan designed by brother knights for brother
knights.
For further details please contact your fraternal counselor or KCFAPI home office at telephone
number (02) 527-2243 or any of its branches. (Joseph Teodoro)
KC Scholar passes
FSO examination
RIA E. Gorospe, a former scholar of the KC Philip-
pines Foundation has recently passed the Depart-
ment of Foreign Affairs – Foreign Service Officer
Examination (FSO).
Gorospe got her appointment from President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as an FSO IV and DFA
Secretary Alberto G. Romulo administered her
Oath.
Currently, Gorospe is undergoing her cadetship
course under the Foreign Service Institute in prepa-
ration for her job as Foreign Service Officer. Prior
to joining the cadetship, she has been working as
a desk assistant for European Union matters under
the Office of European Affairs of the Department Ria Gorospe and parents Rodrigo and Angelita Gorospe
of Foreign Affairs. with Foreign Service Institute Director Minerva Jean Falcon,
The FSO Exam recruits candidate for the position DFA Secretary Alberto G. Romulo, Undersecretary for Policy
of Foreign Service Officer Class IV. Passing the FSO Enrique A. Manalo and European Affairs Assistant Secretary
hard work, and patience. The FSO exam is composed of four parts. First part is the day-long qualifying
exam, administered by the Civil Service Commission. The second part is a three-day written exam
which tests one’s grasp of international affairs, current events, world history, English, Filipino and
foreign languages, among others. The third stage is the nerve-wracking three-day oral exams involving
panel discussions, group dynamics and delivering of impromptu speeches during a formal diplomatic
dinner. And the last stage is a psychological exam.
The duties of a Foreign Service Officer include gathering information, analyzing and reporting politi-
cal, economic, technological, cultural events and developments. FSOs also draft diplomatic notes and
other forms of diplomatic correspondence, prepare briefing papers and other foreign policy papers for
the Official of the Philippine Government.
Gorospe is the daughter of Sir Knight Rodrigo B. Gorospe and Angelita E. Gorospe of San Lorenzo
Council 10971 Bacoor, Cavite. She was a scholar of the KC Philippines Foundation under the Supreme
Council Scholarship Program from the year 2000 to 2004. She earned her AB Political Science degree
and graduated Cum Laude at the University of the Philippines-Manila. She is also a member of presti-
gious academic organizations such as the International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (UP Chapter)
and Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society in Social Science.
She is currently taking up her post-graduate degree in Political Science at the University of the
Philippines-Diliman. (Denise Solina)
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
C4 Vol. 13 No. 12
June 8 - 21, 2009

K of C holds 9th Western

Visayas Regional Convention

KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo delivering his speech during the 9th Western Visayas Regional Convention held
last May 15 and 16 at the Saint Joseph the Worker Parish in Jaro, Iloilo City. Also in photo are KCFAPI EVP Ma. Theresa G. Visayas State Deputy Bro. Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. awards the plaque to KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo, one of the
Curia, Visayas State Deputy Bro. Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. and Director of Philippine Affairs Bro. Eduardo G. Laczi. speakers during the 9th WV Regional Convention.
“FOLLOW me, help us build the Church,” thus KCFAPI as a mutual benefit association with the officers and members from all over the prov- Order as one of the guest speakers. SK Dionisio
said Pope Benedict the XVI. main objective of rendering pecuniary aid to its inces of Iloilo, Capiz, Antique, Aklan, Guimaras R. Esteban, Jr., Visayas State Deputy was also
The same theme was the heart of the 9th KC members, their families and beneficiaries. and Negros Occidental joined the event. present to commend the occasion; and the Di-
Western Visayas Regional Convention of the Also highlighted in the President’s message Various guests came over to honor the af- rector for the Philippine Affairs, SK Eduardo
Knights of Columbus that took place last May is the unwavering financial standing of KCFAPI fair. Hon. Jerry P. Treñas, Iloilo City Mayor, G. Laczi conveyed the message in behalf of the
15 and 16 at the locally renowned St. Joseph in the life insurance industry amidst the present welcomed the delegates of the convention. KC Supreme Office.
the Worker Parish Community Center in Jaro, global economic crisis. Also, Hon. Niel D. Tupas, Governor of the Awards, entertainment, and the most awaited
Iloilo City. The presence of KCFAPI Executive Vice Province of Iloilo gave his greetings in behalf Convention Raffle Draw followed as part of the
In support of the 9th Western Visayas Re- President, Ma. Theresa G. Curia, together with of the Province of Iloilo. SK Pepito J. Guyos, the fellowship night for all the eager delegates.
gional Convention, the President of the Knights the other officers and personnel also confirmed Western Visayas Regional Deputy and one of The remarkable occasion ended with a mes-
of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Phil- the unrelenting support of KCFAPI to the en- the persons in charge of the entire affair saluted sage of appreciation from Provincial Deputy
ippines, Incorporated, Antonio B. Borromeo deavors of the K of C. the unanticipated number of delegates. Senator of Iloilo South Bro. Nicanor D. Sarmiento, Jr.
shared a very comprehensive information on More than five hundred Knights of Columbus Mar A. Roxas gave an inspiring message to the (April Vasquez)

June 9 marks 34th

KCFAPI Benefit Certificate:
A perfect wedding gift
KCFAPI Benefit Certificate, the perfect wedding gift for a very pre-
cious wife.
Isn’t it a very unique idea of a fiancé like Bro. Julius D. Dolor of
Pontevedra Council No. 5122 when he thought of giving his fiancée
a KCFAPI Benefit Certificate as his wedding gift?
On 18th of April, Bro. Julius D. Dolor gave his newly wedded
wife, Sis. Sharon B. Dolor, a KCFAPI Gold Series Plan 092 (Retire
Plus) issued under her name, right after a very solemn ceremony at
the Parish of St. Isidore solemnized by Rev. Msgr. Alden Bolivar,
the Council Chaplain. The momentous event of the turn over of the
benefit certificate was witnessed by Fraternal Counselor and WVC
Team Leader, Bro. Raymund S. Depol and Grand Knight of Co. 5122,
Bro. Lorenzo Davila. The fourth degree honor guards were also on
hand to bring colors to the ceremony.
This month of June, every brother Knight may have the oppor-
tunity to make his June Bride even happier with this extra-special
wedding present. Express your love and commitment by availing
a variety of plans offered by KCFAPI. Give your loved ones a very
special and inimitable gift, not only on a single event but on every
special occasion. (April Vasquez)
Newly wedded Couple Bro. Julius D. Dolor and Sis. Sharon B. Dolor of Council5122
Pontevedra, Capiz during their wedding last April 18. Also in photo are Bro.
Raymund S. Depol, FC, WVC and Bro. Lorenzo Daliva, GK of Co. 5122.
death anniversary of
KCFAPI Pillar
THE 34th death anniversary of Brother Basilio King, Former
General Manager of Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association
of the Philippines, Inc (KCFAPI) was solemnly commemorated
on June 9.
King, who died in June 9, 1975, was also the Former Founding
Member of the KCFAPI and the person behind the scholarship
grants to non-members of the Knights of Columbus (KC) of the
KC Philippines Foundation.
KC Foundation, which was an educational assistance, was es-
tablished in 1976 that was named “Basilio King Scholarship Pro-
gram” as an honor to King in his effort to fortify the Filipinos.
King was responsible for the constant and protected condition
of the insurance organization that upholds the economic security
of the families of the countless Brother Knights.
He was remembered for his version of apostolate to the KC
for he constantly rejected all offers to allow compensation for
his services to KCFAPI.
King joined the Order through the Manila Council 1000 and
has received the Fourth Degree on December 2, 1949.
The KC insurance scheme has greatly succeeded because of
King’s immense business experiences and connections.
Meanwhile, King had also been an official of various commer-
cial companies. Some of the positions that he attained were Senior

Hundreds join KC Family Day

Vice President of Insular Bank of Asia, Treasurer of International
Securities Corporation, Vice-President of Commercial Credit
Corporation and Director of Carlsound Electronics Corporation.
(Kate Laceda)

Sports Events Chairman Jose A. Lakas, Jr., Chairman-Secretariat Joseph P. Teodoro, State Advocate
Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., Ex-Officio Co-Chairman Arsenio Isidro G. Yap, Ex-Officio Chairman
Alonso L.Tan, Pasig Congressman Hon. Roman T. Romulo and State Warden Pascual C. Carbero
during the 5th Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J. Family Day and Mini Olympics 2009.
HUNDREDS of Knights of Columbus
(KC) Luzon Jurisdiction members to-
gether with their families attended the
Family Day at the Philippine Sports
Commission (PSC) ULTRA Sports Com-
plex in Meralco Avenue, Pasig City.
Dubbed as the 5th Fr. George J.
Willmann, S.J. Family Day and Mini
Olympics 2009, the event that was held
last May 31 and was joined by various
Councils from Metro Manila and nearby
provinces.
Organizers said the event aimed to
give tribute to Fr. George J. Willmann,
SJ, the father of KC in the Philippines.
The activity also aspired to promote
camaraderie among KC members,
Squires and their families.
A Eucharistic celebration presided by
KC Priest-Scholar Fr. Rene Sapungan
kicked off the event.
Congressman Roman Romulo of
the Lone District of Pasig delivered an
inspiring message as he welcomed the
lege (Cavite) Council 14359 for the Gold the Valenzuela Council 10695 in the San Sebastian College Recoletos Cav-
Medal; Palanan (Makati City) Council 50-Meter Sack Relay. ite City of Council 14359 was declared
6677 for the Silver Medal; and Balut, The Gold Medalist on the Volleyball as the Over-all Champion for the Family
Tondo (Manila) Council 5124 for the Competition was the San Sebastian Day which was followed by Council
Bronze Medal. College in Cavite City under Council 11847 of Parañaque on second place and
The Gold Medal was awarded to 14359 while Bulacan Council 10582 got the Binondo Council 8210 on the third.
Tondo Council 5124 for engaging in the Silver and Council 8210 of Binondo got Winners for the special categories
Threading Relay. The Silver Medal went the Bronze Medal. were also acknowledged and received
to Parañaque Council 11847, and Bronze Meanwhile, the individual winners trophies and cash prizes.
Medal to Intramuros Council 1000. for the 50-Meter Dash for Female, 100 Awarded categories include the
The Obstacle Course awardees were Meter Dash for Male, Free Throw and farthest delegation given to Calumpit,
Council 14359 for Gold; Council 8210 for 3-Point Shootout were also rewarded. Bulacan Council 10582 while the big-
Silver and KCFAPI for Bronze. Winners for the Marathon were Pia gest delegation award was received by
Quezon City Council 6080 got the First Curia from KCFAPI for the female and Council 1000 of Intramuros, Manila.
Prize, Council 1000 of Intramuros got the Nico Asyao of Parañaque Council for The Best in Uniform award was given
Second Prize and KCFAPI got the third male, while Mark Anthony Martinez of to Council 7844 of Cainta, Rizal while
prize on the Tug-of-War event. the Binondo Council got the First Prize Lea Manipis from the San Sebastian Col-
Makati Council 6677 obtained the for the 3-Point Shootout. lege Recoletos in Cavite under Council
principal award which was followed The over-all winners were then award- 14359 was recognized as the Best Muse.
events’ participants. by the Parañaque Council 11847 and ed with trophies and cash prizes. (CBCPNews)
KCFAPI Officials led by Executive
Vice-President Ma. Theresa Curia and
Treasurer Antonio Yulo also took part
in the gathering while State Program
Director Bonifacio Martinez facilitated
the occasion.
Winners from the various individual
and team activities were awarded with
medals at the culmination of the mini
olympics.
The winners of the 50-Meter 3-Legged
Relay were Cavite Council 14359 who
bagged the Gold Medal, Parañaque
Council 11847, Silver Medal; and Tondo
Council 5124, Bronze Medal.
Badminton/Mixed Doubles winners
were the Pateros MM Council 4640,
Gold Medal; Our Lady of Fatima Coun-
cil 5579, Silver Medal; and the Filinvest KCFAPI President, SK Antonio B. Borromeo was sent to the Knights of Columbus Office in New Haven, CT, USA and met with some of the officers
Homes (Quezon City) Council11990, regarding the Board of Trustees’ forthcoming meeting with the Supreme Knight and his Officers. He was warmly received by the Deputy Supreme Knight
Bronze Medal. – Dennis Savoie, Administrative Assistant to the Supreme Knight – Stephen Feiller and the Director for Philippine Affairs – Eddie G. Laczi. His visit
Winners of the Egg Throwing/Catch- was capped with a tour at the Knights of Columbus Museum (housing the arts, artifacts and memorabilia about the Order of the Knights of Columbus)
and a visit to St. Mary’s Church, where the remains of Venerable Fr. Michael J. McGivney are entombed. (Photo taken on June 8, 2009)
ing team event were St. Sebastian Col-