CBCPMonitor Vol11-N14
CBCPMonitor Vol11-N14
CBCPMonitor Vol11-N14
Review Human
Security Act, calls CBCP lauds maturing
electorate, calls for
CBCP
THE CBCP has called for the review of Re-
public Act No. 9372, otherwise known as the
Human Security Act of 2007.
“Since we as pastors have to look more
Comelec reform
into the morality of this law and make a pro-
nouncement in that level, we feel that the
atmosphere created by this law and its im-
pending implementation calls on us to ap-
peal to those concerned to review this law so
that in consultation and dialogue we may
have a law that is truly relevant in promot-
ing the security of the nation and in the pur-
suit of authentic peace,” concludes the CBCP
Pastoral Statement released after its plenary
assembly over the weekend. By Melo M. Acuna
The bishops cited popular calls for bring-
ing the Human Security Act to the Supreme IN a Pastoral Statement issued after its 95th Plenary
Court for review and “for studying and dis- Assembly held July 7-8, the CBCP acknowledged
cussing further this law in its contents and notable signs of maturity among the electorate.
repercussions.” “There were signs of increased maturity among
Among others, “the definition of terror- the electorate as the election results demonstrated
ism in Section 3 is broad and dangerous” and that sheer popularity/celebrity status and huge
as such “may serve and create a condition of media expenditures, do not necessarily translate to
widespread panic.” election victory” said the statement which was read
CBCP President Archbishop Angel by CBCP President and Jaro (Iloilo) Archbishop
Lagdameo said Section 26 which “allows Angel N. Lagdameo at a press conference.
house arrest despite the posting of bail, pro- It was seen as partly the result of voters’ educa-
hibits the right to travel and to communicate tion done by citizens’ groups including church-
with others,” is definitely a cause of concern. based organizations.
Lawyers and other citizens “raised up eye-
brows” on the provision for seizure of assets Electoral reforms
in Section 39, surveillance or wiretapping of
suspects in Section 7 and investigation of bank The same statement, however, strongly called
deposits and other assets mentioned in Sec- for electoral reforms beginning with a full revamp
tion 28, Lagdameo said further. (Melo M. of the Commission on Elections “with the appoint-
Acuna) ment of a new chair and commissioners with un-
questioned integrity and competence, especially in
systems and management.”
Pointing out the need for “serious efforts to de-
politicize and professionalize the bureaucracy,”
RP goodbye
elections last May 2007.” CBCP Presi-
dent and Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo on the other hand, that “good career people in the
reads the CBCP Pastoral Statement on the
2007 National Elections at a press confer-
Comelec can be the catalyst for the renewal of the
ence after the 95th Bishops’ Plenary As- institution.”
sembly held July 7-8, 2007. © JP Acuña / CBCP Media CBCP / A6
“WE fully welcome with respect and appreciation In the same statement, Lagdameo said that the forbidden and abrogated but should be celebrated
the recent Apostolic Letter of Pope Benedict XVI on mass being practiced today by Catholics through- by priests of the Latin Rite only in private masses,
the “Tridentine” Mass. It clarifies for us the status out the world is the “new mass” which was intro- in conventual or community celebrations, or in
of the Tridentine Mass in the Latin language,” said duced after the Second Vatican Council and ap- parishes when requested by the faithful but under
CBCP President Archbishop Angel Lagdameo in a proved by Pope Paul VI in 1970, which has become the guidance of the local bishop.
statement released today. the ordinary form of the mass and more popular Lagdameo further said that permission by Pope
“I AM leaving but I will never abandon the Pope Benedict XVI issued Saturday a motu proprio among the people because it allows the use of some Benedict to celebrate the Tridentine mass is given
Philippines,” thus said outgoing Papal Nun- Pastoral Letter entitled “Summorum Pontificum ” say- approved adaptations, including the use of popu- on condition that it should follow the formula of
cio to the Philippines Archbishop Fernando ing that Tridentine Mass approved by Pope John lar languages and dialects. the Council of Trent.
Filoni as he said goodbye to Filipino prel- XXII in 1962 “continues to be permissible as an ex- Supporting the Pope’ Pastoral Letter, Lagdameo But new priests, he said, will require formation
ates on July 3—his 37th priesthood anniver- traordinary form” of celebrating the Mass. stressed that the Tridentine mass has never been before celebrating the Latin mass. (CBCPNews)
sary.
Filoni assured the bishops of his prayers
and support even if he’s already serving his
Pope
new post as the Vatican’s Undersecretary of
State for General Affairs.
“I will not forget and abandon the Philip- CBCP assures Italian MP
names new
pines, which I’m linked for a long time,” he
said in his farewell message at the start of the
bishops’ three-day retreat held at the Pope help in Bossi cause
Ipil bishop
Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila on July 3-
6, 2007.
He told the bishops that his stay in the coun- T H E Zamboanga, Sibugay province.
Msgr. Julius
Sullan Tonel
try was “meaningful” and will remain “un- Catholic “I assured the Italian lawmaker that
forgettable.” Bishops’ Davao Archbishop Fernando Capalla, a THE Holy Father, Pope has a licentiate degree in Litur-
Filoni holds the record as the papal repre- Confer- key-figure in the Bishops-Ulama Forum, Benedict XVI appointed Msgr. gical Theology at the Pontifical
sentative with the shortest time in service ence of is working with his Muslim counterparts Julius Sullan Tonel as the new Institute of Sacred Liturgy in
from among the ten Apostolic Nuncios to the the Phil- to help resolve the abduction.” Bishop-Prelate of Ipil. Rome.
Philippines appointed by the Vatican since ippines The first Italian missionary held hos- The Apostolic Nuncio to the He served the Archdiocese of
1899. (CBCP) tage by Muslim insurgents, 63-year old Philippines Archbishop Davao in various capacities,
At his short term, Filoni was able to pro- assured Fr. Lucianno Benedetti, PIME, said he ap- Fernando Filoni, in a statement from assistant parish priest to
duce at least seven bishops—practically one former preciates the Italian government’s efforts released to the CBCP Media Of- Director of the Archdiocese of
bishop every two months, since his appoint- Member to find out what’s happening in the fice said Msgr. Tonel’s appoint- Davao’s Family Apostolate,
ment in February 2006. of Italian southern Philippines. ment was published in Rome Prefect of Discipline and later
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Fr. Giancarlo Bossi Parlia- Benedetti, now assigned in the Diocese at 12:00 Noon or 6:00 P.M., Ma- on Rector of the College Semi-
Philippines (CBCP), meanwhile, considered m e n t of San Jose de Antique in Central Philip- nila time on July 1. nary and the Regional Major
the nuncio’s new assignment as both sad and Margherita Boniver of their help to pines but has been in Zamboanga City Msgr. Tonel, born on August Seminary both in Davao City,
a welcome development. find the missing 57-year old mission- for the past few days said “the Italian 31, 1956 to Filipino Sullan and and has been Vicar General
Sad, CBCP president Archbishop Angel ary Fr. Giancarlo Bossi. government has taken the Bossi kidnap- Primitivo E. Tonel in Davao since 2002.
Lagdameo said, because Filoni is leaving the The assurance came from the CBCP ping seriously.” City, was parish priest of San The newly appointed
country and good news because he will be head and Jaro Archbishop Angel Fr Benedetti said they are expecting MP Pablo Parish and Vicar General Bishop-Prelate of Ipil will have
the third man to govern the Secretariat of the Lagdameo in a telephone conversa- Boniver in Zamboanga over the week- of the Archdiocese of Davao Episcopal jurisdiction over 16
Vatican State. tion with Ms. Boniver recently. end. until his appointment. towns of Zamboanga-Sibugay
“We congratulate our Apostolic Nuncio for The foreign lawmaker also told “The political opposition in Italy had He was ordained to the and three other towns from
his promotion and at the same time we feel Lagdameo that she will call on other a well-attended demonstration and said priesthood on April 12, 1980 at Zamboanga del Sur.
sad that his stint here with us has been very officials to be appraised of the situa- the administration has not done enough Sta. Ana Parish, Davao City. No date has been set for his
short,” said Lagdameo. tion surrounding the Bossi’s mysteri- to help Fr. Giancarlo Bossi,” Benedetti He studied high school and ordination to the episcopate and
Filoni, who is leaving on Thursday, July 5, ous disappearance. said. Philosophy at the San Francis installation at the Prelature of
will formally assume his new post in the Ro- Speaking to reporters, Archbishop Asked if they at the Pontifical Institute Xavier Minor Seminary and Ipil where PIME missionary
man Curia within this month. Lagdameo said the former Italian MP for Foreign Mission (PIME) appreciates Theology at the Central Semi- Giancarlo Bossi was abducted
Pope Benedict XVI has yet to name a new is in town to do “research” on the ab- the gesture of MP Boniver, Benedetti nary of the University of Sto. by unidentified armed men last
Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines. duction which happened June 10 in the said, “we do express our thanks.” (Melo Tomas in Manila. June 10, Feast of the Corpus
(CBCPNews) town of Payao, Prelature of Ipil in Acuña) The newly appointed bishop Christi. (Melo Acuña)
CBCP Monitor
A2 World News Vol. 11 No. 14
July 9 - 22, 2007
© Alessandra Benedetti/Corbis
questions regarding some aspects with the approval of Pope John The Congregation for the
The Vatican spokesman said ued, “that a meeting—positive
of doctrine on the Church,” will Paul II and signed by then-Car- Doctrine of the Faith will re- that effects of the message will and disinterested—between the
appear on July 10. dinal Joseph Ratzinger. lease the document on July
be seen in time and that it “could Chinese culture and the procla-
The new document, to be re- The document to be released 10, reports indicate. The plan not have been more clear, nor mation of the Gospel has already
leased from the Congregation for on July 10 will repeat and rein- for release of the document
better expressed in the frame- taken place. …We strongly desire
the Doctrine of the Faith, will force the fundamental message has not yet been confirmed work of a profound presentation and hope that this will be re-
address questions about the of Dominus Iesus that the Church by the Vatican.
of the nature and mission of the peated.”
teaching of the Second Vatican founded by Jesus Christ exists (CWNews.com) Church.” Father Lombardi added that
“In his remarks to the Chinese “the Church trusts that it will find
authorities,” said the Jesuit priest, itself in China as fully Chinese
Pope encourages fight Pope prays daily for a good year, in fact, it has been
one of the best in the 60 years of
the history of our work,” said
the mass media of Christian in-
spiration (3.2%).
Specific initiatives focused on
Assembly
Flesch (born Margherita), Ger- religious of the Institute of
man founder of the Congrega- Sisters of the Sacred Heart
tion of the Franciscan Sisters (1917- 1968).
of Saint Mary of the Angels • Servant of God Emilia
(1826- 1906). Schneider (born Julia) German
• Servant of God Candelaria de professed sister of the Con-
San Jose (born Susana Paz gregation of Sisters of the MANILA, July 7, 2007—Pope Benedict X VI the Holy Spirit “to strengthen the Bishops Pontiff for a message for the Bishops’ con-
Castillo Ramirez), Venezuelan Holy Cross (1820-1859). has offered prayers for the bishops in the in their resolve to renew their mission and ference.
religious and founder of the • Servant of God Jerome Le just concluded plenary assembly of the responsibility as Pastors.” Held at Pope Pius XII last July 7-8, the
Congregation of the Carmelite Royer de la Dauversiere, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Phil- The Holy Father encourages the bishops 95th plenary assembly was preceded by a
Sisters of the Third Regular French layman and founder of ippines (CBCP), at the same time encour- to continue preaching the gospel “in a man- three-day retreat reflecting on the theme
Order of Venezuela (1863- the Institute of the Daughters aging them to remain relevant and respon- ner relevant to the needs of the times, teach- “The Word of God in the Life and Ministry of
1940). of St. Joseph of La Fleche, sive to the signs of the times. ing the faithful themselves to defend and the Bishop”. The topic was in line with the
• Servant of God Marta Maria now the Hospitaller Sisters of In a message relayed through the spread the saving message of our Lord Jesus theme of the XII General Assembly of the
Wiecka, Polish professed sister St. Joseph (1597-1659). Nunciature, Vatican Secretary of State Car- Christ.” Synod of Bishops to be held in the Vatican
of the Daughters of Charity of • Servant of God Hildegard dinal Tarcisio Bertone conveyed to CBCP Lagdameo, earlier sent a letter to the on October 5-26, 2008.
St. Vincent de Paul (1874-1904). Burjan, German laywoman and President Most Rev. Angel Lagdameo, the Holy Father thanking him for his prayers The Conference elected its delegates for
• Servant of God Giuseppina founder of the Sisters of So- pope’s best wishes and prayers for a fruitful and concern on the situation of the coun- the XII General Assembly of Synod of Bish-
Nicoli, Italian sister of the So- cial Charity (1883-1933). deliberations of the 95 th Plenary Assembly. try. Likewise, in view of the forthcoming ops during the plenary assembly. (Pinky
ciety of the Daughters of Char- (Zenit) Bertone said the Holy Father prays for plenary assembly, Lagdameo asked the Barrientos, FSP)
tents were in reality un- vidual cases of the 1962 Missal Your charity and pastoral
known. which would be would be limited prudence will be an incentive
“This document was most resolved, case by to the older gen- and guide for improving
directly opposed on account case, on the local eration which had these. For that matter, the two
of two fears, which I would level. Afterwards, grown up with it, Forms of the usage of the Ro-
like to address somewhat however, it soon but in the mean- man Rite can be mutually en-
more closely in this letter. became apparent time it has clearly riching: new Saints and some
“In the first place, there is that a good num- been demonstrated of the new Prefaces can and
the fear that the document ber of people re- that young persons should be inserted in the old
detracts from the authority of mained strongly too have discov- Missal. The ‘Ecclesia Dei’
the Second Vatican Council,
one of whose essential deci-
attached to this
usage of the Ro-
“I entrust these norms to the powerful intercession of ered this liturgical
form, felt its attrac-
Commission, in contact with
various bodies devoted to the
sions - the liturgical reform—
is being called into question.
man Rite, which
had been familiar Mary, Mother of the Church, and I cordially impart tion and found in it
a form of encoun-
‘usus antiquior,’ will study
the practical possibilities in
“This fear is unfounded. In
this regard, it must first be
to them from
childhood. This my apostolic blessing to you, dear Brothers, to the ter with the Mys-
tery of the Most
this regard. The celebration of
the Mass according to the
said that the Missal published
by Paul VI and then repub-
was especially the
case in countries parish priests of your dioceses, and to all the priests, Holy Eucharist,
particularly suited
Missal of Paul VI will be able
to demonstrate, more power-
lished in two subsequent edi-
tions by John Paul II, obvi-
where the liturgi-
cal movement your co-workers, as well as to all your faithful.” to them. Thus the
need has arisen for
fully than has been the case
hitherto, the sacrality which
ously is and continues to be had provided a clearer juridical attracts many people to the
the normal form—the ‘Forma many people with regulation which former usage. The most sure
ordinaria’—of the Eucharistic a notable liturgical formation not faithful to the prescriptions however, did not contain detailed had not been foreseen at the time guarantee that the Missal of
liturgy. The last version of the and a deep, personal familiarity of the new Missal, but the latter prescriptions but appealed in a of the 1988 Motu Proprio. The Paul VI can unite parish com-
‘Missale Romanum’ prior to with the earlier Form of the li- actually was understood as au- general way to the generous re- present norms are also meant to munities and be loved by
the Council, which was pub- turgical celebration. We all thorizing or even requiring cre- sponse of bishops towards the ‘le- free bishops from constantly hav- them consists in its being cel-
lished with the authority of know that, in the movement led ativity, which frequently led to gitimate aspirations’ of those ing to evaluate anew how they ebrated with great reverence
Pope John XXIII in 1962 and by Archbishop Lefebvre, fidel- deformations of the liturgy members of the faithful who re- are to respond to various situa- in harmony with the liturgi-
used during the Council, will ity to the old Missal became an which were hard to bear. I am quested this usage of the Roman tions. cal directives. This will bring
now be able to be used as a external mark of identity; the speaking from experience, since Rite. At the time, the Pope pri- “In the second place, the fear out the spiritual richness and
‘Forma extraordinaria’ of the reasons for the break which I too lived through that period marily wanted to assist the Soci- was expressed in discussions the theological depth of this
liturgical celebration. It is not arose over this, however, were with all its hopes and its confu- ety of St. Pius X to recover full about the awaited Motu Proprio, Missal.
appropriate to speak of these at a deeper level. Many people sion. And I have seen how arbi- unity with the Successor of Peter, that the possibility of a wider use Pope’s / A7
CBCP Monitor
A4 Opinion Vol. 11 No. 14
July 9 - 22, 2007
EDITORIAL
CBCP Monitor
P r o ta g o n i s t of Tr u t h , Promoter of Peace
ries of symposia, publication of books, en-
lightenment of the faithful during Sunday
mass sermons.
The Church is doing its part—spreading
businesses, they wonder about this di-
chotomy—our people’s belief in Catholic
moral teachings and our political way of life.
We should ask ourselves why are our
the just ordering of society, on the other
hand, is proper for the lay faithful. As citi-
zens of the state, the Pope say, ‘They are
called to take part in the public life in a per-
the moral teachings that analyzes the ills of country’s political, social and economic struc- sonal capacity... in the many different eco-
Pedro C. Quitorio society attributed by political structures that tures not serving the common good, the sanc- nomic, legislative, administration and cul-
Editor-in-Chief militate against the common good. How do tity of human life, nor educating every child tural areas ... for the common good.’”
nations and their citizens concerned go about adequately to get a job and become a good People of God, how do we start? It is clear
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos implementing these Church teachings and citizen of this country? Is the Philippine that the laity should continue to do its part
Associate Editor Feature Editor the correction of unjust structures? Church up to the challenge to transform so- in transforming society. It is not enough that
Here lies the root of the problem – dirty ciety towards achieving the correction of PPCRV, NAMFREL and NASSA has done a
Melo M. Acuña Rowena T. Dalanon politics. The structure of politics in this coun- unjust structures? Our bishops have not been wonderful job in voters’ education and moni-
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor
try is undeniably the cross that the Philip- remiss in reminding us periodically about toring the election process and the canvass-
Dennis B. Dayao pines carry heavily. Consider the buying of the social issues that confront us. ing of votes. We need the same volunteers
Ernani M. Ramos
On-Line Editor Circulation Manager votes, cheating by “dagdag-bawas” and the Exactly one year ago, during the Year of to monitor the elected politicians’ duty to
Maguindanao classic violation of Comelec Social Concerns, the President of CBCP, Arch- govern. The opportunities to improve gov-
Roy Q. Lagarde Marcelita Dominguez rules by Comelec officials themselves in the bishop Angel N. Lagdameo in his Indepen- ernance in government are endless, consid-
News Editor Comptroller canvassing of votes—this is worse than the dence Day message, “LIBERATING OUR ering the state of the nation’s governance
social cancer of Rizal’s time. In the COUNTRY FROM UNFREEDOMS” ex- today. We should have volunteers to moni-
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Maguidanao situation as in many other ar- pressed the same words that apply to the situ- tor the use of government funds in the fields
Communications Development Foundation, Inc., with
Layout by Denz Dayao
editorial and business of fices at 470 Gen. Luna St., eas ruled by a political dynasty, politicians ation today as follows: of education, health, social welfare. We
Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. run for office as a means to gain power and “Civil society is moving on with a grow- should have advocacy groups to support the
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. the pork barrel that accompanies it. This ing social consciousness for what is truly concerns of the rural worker, the farmers,
Email: cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net eventually results not only in non-transpar- good and just for the nation. We recall what fisherfolk, indigenous people, overseas
Website: www.cbcpworld.net/cbcpmonitor ent governance but outright corruption. In Benedict XVI in Deus Caritas Est wrote, ‘The workers and the families they leave behind,
other words these politicians are the assign- formation of just structures is not directly and the urban dwellers of the slum areas and
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 11 No. 14
July 9 - 22, 2007 Opinion A5
Bp. Guillermo V. Afable, DD Nicolo F. Bernardo
“Restoring Moral
DADITAMA Values through BECs” Lifeguard
THE forthcoming 13th Mindanao-Sulu Pasto- alive in spite of limited resources. ings, conclusions and recommendations of
ral Conference on October 22-26, 2007 in
Surigao City, has the theme “Restoring Moral
“Dirty politics” which is the power play
of the rich and powerful does not and cannot
MSPC XIII will surely be most relevant. In fact,
it seems to me, that the theme indicates to us Who’s In, Who’s
Values through the BECs.” The Clergy, Reli-
gious and mostly Laity of the 21 dioceses
and archdioceses of Mindano-Sulu will
happen without the participation of the
masses on the grass roots level. These hap-
pen on the community level, where the little
the approach that we need to take and the arena
in which we have to engage the people in fu-
ture political education programs. If we are to
Out
gather to listen together, discern together, people live and operate. And so, our BEC make any meaningful moral dent into the, oth-
decide together, and act together, around this members and leaders, being in the grass erwise, deeply entrenched debased and pros- EVERY generation comes up with its list of “wanted” and
theme. roots level, are also naturally being courted tituted political practices, we need to look into “unwanted” life forms, who’s in the hits and who’s not.
Daditama has been actively engaged in the and co-opted by politicians. Indeed, our BEC the potentials of the BECs for moral transfor- Whether you are in or out for a certain right, a certain liberty,
preparations for this Conference particularly members and leaders, at one time or another, mation, not only of individuals but also, of you must pass the certain taste of a “quality life.” The SWS
in the survey on morality through focused unwittingly or not, are involved in the mass entire communities, based on basic human and survey that says Filipinos are most resistant to UN probes on
group discussions (FGD) conducted among the base network of all sorts of politicians. Gospel values. human rights (46 % opposed) is perhaps due to a distrust of
BECs of every diocese and archdiocese. It is Such scenario will come into play most Can we expect, perhaps, that BECs in “might that makes right.” History is so full of it.
hoped that out of the 5,800 BECs in Daditama, at certainly in the upcoming Barangay and SK Daditama can play a significant moral influ- Here’s a rundown of whether you qualify for “humanity”
least 2,900 BECs are surveyed representing, elections in October. While purportedly non ence in encouraging more quality candidates or for human elimination, depending on the beat of the times:
50% of the BECs in the ecclesiastical province. political, everyone knows that politicians that will run for office and in the more or- Ancient Greece . In: Male Hellenic. Out: Slaves and women.
In the remote and recent past, our BEC’s take a very big hand in these elections to derly, peaceful, honest and true conduct of Ancient Rome . In: Roman citizen. Out: Barbarian.
have been the mass base for our political in- secure their control and influence in local their upcoming Barangay and SK elections? Medieval Ages. In: Believer. Out: Heretic.
volvement either in political education and/ governance. Patronage politics will come Can we expect that it will be less entangled Age of Exploration: In: Whites. Out: Blacks, Indians, sav-
or the mobilizations of election volunteers into play most definitely. with and dependent on outside politicians? ages.
for Nassa -Vote Care and Namfrel. In the light of the political education that (For your comments and queries, email Enlightenment: In: Rationalist. Out: Madman, the abnormal.
Volunteerism in our BECs is still very much Daditama wants to relentlessly pursue, the find- daditama_now@yahoo.com.ph) Romanticism: In: Bourgeoisie. Out: Commoners.
Modern Age. In: Arian. Out: Jews, “subhumans.”
Postmodern Age. In: Deviants, inhumans, quasi-human pets
and robots. Out: Human embryos, “Pre-embryos,” fetuses
Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS and “vegetables.”
Continuing Political Notice that the name-callings and human classifications—
Love Life
cool in one generation, strange to another—are themselves
Education
effects of discriminations (i.e. others are ‘more equal’ than
others) based on gender, citizenship, religion, money, race,
status, or life phase. The summit of rights and privileges goes
to the “favored life.”
THE sights and sounds of the last electoral as a whole has been, strangely, largely im- This is indeed the continuing call and the But we can never be happy as long as our humanity or
process in Daditama, I suppose, was no dif- pervious to the Gospel. Our political culture challenge. Much more creativity is required happiness hinges on a desired status, function, or identity
ferent from any other place in the entire coun- denies, to our shame, our proud claim to the and more collaborative work within the rather on the value (and marvel) of life itself. It is all right to
try, with a few exceptions where we saw a name Christian.” Church structures and without in order to have more of life, for as Aristotle said, “living is not enough,
radical break from traditional politics of pa- Whew! These were undeniably very strong make a difference in the political culture. one must live well.” Yet one cannot live well if one believes
tronage. prophetic denunciation of our political cul- Daditama is very thankful to NASSA for that life is always worth to be made well, whatever happens.
It was a typical Philippine election, with ture. And still very true today 10 years after. past political education modules provided A Manila Standard columnist had it saying, he’s “pro-qual-
the same typical politicians, supporters, cam- This is us. This is what we do. This is what to the dioceses including their latest Alay ity life” not “pro any life.” (Who is?) So I ask, can you have
paigners, operators, with the typical Filipino we have become. This is the inconvenient Kapwa 2007 handbook which was focused quality life without a life to qualify? Besides, pro-lifers value
electorate entangled with the wheeling and and shameful truth. on the Elections. We are also very grateful first and foremost human life, and certainly it’s not just any
dealing of the rich and powerful family dy- Catechesis and political education is num- to the very creative and effective voters’ edu- life. Our real worth flows from our human dignity and indi-
nasties , in partnership with corrupt and inef- ber one in the list of eight pastoral actions to cation kit “Pinoy Voters’ Academy” (PVA) viduality, from being not having. Common sense will tell
ficient public officials, punctured by the typi- transform politics in the country as recom- shared with us by the PPCRV/SLB. We look you that as a living organism you must have the right to live
cal election violence and killings, capped by mended by the CBCP in their pastoral ex- forward to further and long lasting collabo- from the first instance of your being, and other rights—health,
the typical delays in the proclamations of hortation, precisely to address the political ration on political education with these education, privacy, employment, etc.—equitably follow needs
the winners. This was Philippine political culture underlying all our past and present groups and other similarly interested groups. as you grow.
culture at its best. conduct of elections and governance. Along this line, we acknowledge the noble Do you want to know where your value lies? Ask yourself,
It was a “mad circus” as the CBCP Pastoral From the feedbacks of the different and persistent efforts of our own Catholic what is it that you would rather die for, or kill for, than lose?
Exhortation on Philippine Politics of 1997, Daditama members, especially the Forma- Media Network print and broadcast, in in- Is that thing really worth a life? Worth your life?
describes it. We cannot but agree, therefore, tion cluster and the BEC coordinators, as well forming and educating the electorate. Whatever your answer is, it tells of current views on hu-
with the Bishops when they said, “If we are as, the Bishops and Vicars General, political In the meantime, I suppose, Daditama man fulfillment and human rights. Many of our problems are
today—a country with a very great number education was given much attention and ap- ought to be gearing up already for the up- the dues of inverting the pyramid of needs. We go for certain
of poor and powerless people—one reason preciation. In fact, all the component groups coming and long postponed Barangay and rights and wishes over the most basic rights and needs of
is the way we have allowed politics to be recommended, among other things, that po- SK elections in October 29, 2007. others still unaddressed—right to security over right to life
debased and prostituted to the low level it is litical education be sustained relentlessly and (For your comments and queries email me (‘preemptive’ war), right to justice over right to life (death
now.” In conclusion they said, “yet politics in more effective and comprehensive ways. at daditama_now@yahoo.com.ph) penalty), right to self-determination over right to life (sui-
cide), right to property over right to life (slavery), religious
rights over right to life (terrorism), right to health over right
Melo M. Acuña to life (stem cell research), women’s rights over right to life
The Real World—A Closer (abortion), the value of wealth over the value of life (popula-
tion control). To the point that some would cook up new
Issues and Concerns Look at Pampanga
rights—”reproductive rights,” and perhaps soon, urinary
rights, skeletal rights, nervous rights, excretory rights, der-
matological rights, etc. to demand a want that weights heavy
on the most basic. The victim of this misappropriated ideol-
ogy is the person himself—exchanging an intrinsic worth
LAST week, elected local officials began their game called “jueteng.” He’s definitely up tax evasion as in the case of Al Capone. Even (life) for an extrinsic one. And every time we devalue a hu-
functions leading the traditional flag-raising against the windmills as these illegal gam- national officials have only rendered lip ser- man being, we also devalue ourselves.
ceremonies and delivering remarks before bling barons have become that powerful they vice to the often-publicized no-nonsense Or there they go again asking, is the “embryo” human in
employees and constituents. We’ve heard have somewhat influenced the election into campaign against illegal gambling in Metro the first place? That rings a bell to long-held queries for grant-
about more aggressive delivery of basic gov- office of some through their financial sup- Manila and neighboring provinces. ing humanity and personhood like, “is the slave really hu-
ernment services, infrastructures and strict port, in local and national positions. Even Governor Ed Panlilio was quoted man?” “Are Blacks savages or humans?” “Is the Jew subhu-
implementation of ordinances to bring or- Their “return-on-investment” would come saying “defeating jueteng lords remains cru- man?” “Is the woman second-class human?”
der to their respective areas of responsibil- from the local and national officials turning cial if we are to introduce good governance When we are to decide whether an entity is “human” based
ity. a blind eye to illegal business operations. in a province dominated by Mafia-like, pa- on changing biological, philosophical, social, religious, or
International wires and national dailies Illegal gambling activities in the country tronage politics.” political apprehensions, we better dispense with the ques-
featured Pampanga Governor Ed Panlilio, have been described “underground multi- This early, Governor Panlilio will find it tion and simply let that “life form” be unless it’s a real life
the former Social Action Director who at- million-dollar jueteng operations that pro- difficult to run the province as he lacks the threat to another. We do not determine human life. It deter-
tended to Pampangueños’ basic needs dur- vided revenues” for corrupt local and na- numbers in the council. A lot of them have mines itself with all its given human potentialities. Human
ing the Mt. Pinatubo onslaught and the se- tional officials. benefited from the “graces” of illegal gam- beings are both being and becoming. The embryo is itself self-
vere flooding the followed, sending thou- This would make one wonder how these bling moguls. He has to deal with congress- defining, self-determining. It lives its own life programmed
sands to evacuation centers. illegal gambling barons have gone scot-free men, city and municipal mayors and the en- to its human genes. The embryo is not a potential human
What caught this corner’s attention was his as nobody dared touch them with a ten-foot tire citizenry. being. It is what a human being is, and how a human being
decision to declare war on the operators of pole. Their very existence astounds foreign It’s worth trying. As they say it’s “suntok looks, at that stage. It would never be human if it never is.
the country’s most popular illegal numbers observers for they could be prosecuted for sa buwan.” Who knows? The material causes (parents) are not human if the effect (off-
spring) is not.
So again, human rights? These are not subject to who’s who
Rev. Euly B. Belizar, SThD choice. We don’t choose one life from another. Not even presi-
dents can choose to protect the unborn but to hell he/she
Simple—Are We? By the Roadside
cares for adults dying in wars or killings probably because
babies can’t make political stands as adults do. Pro-lifers them-
selves must learn this from history. One is supposed to save
the most vulnerable life but must never neglect another. Fol-
lowing Mahatma Gandhi, John Paul II and Mother Teresa, we
“SIMPLICITY is beauty,” so I’ve been hear- we part ways with her). that may be directly against the Gospel could have to be consistent right-to-life volunteers and work even
ing since I was a boy of six. But I often won- Fourth, simplicity is not making a virtue be the most fashionable, and they are fash- for the basic necessities of living.
der what people mean by simplicity. To para- out of a lack of it. For example, a farmer may ionable because they elicit approval and fol- Life is the first we gain, and the last we give. It’s a lesson to
phrase St. Thomas Aquinas, we know reality say, “I’m just a simple man. All I know is lowing from people. In many ways it’s fash- live about where to put our values as we eventually lose all
by first identifying what it’s not before iden- farming.” That doesn’t mean he can’t learn ionable, for instance, to view Christianity that we have (including our loved ones) and like the Greek
tifying what it is. We identify a leaf by first from the teacher, the fisherman or the car- and Christian symbols as relics of an irrel- Medea we say, “Everything has gone, except myself.” Tao ang
establishing that it’s not the trunk, the fruit penter or the lawyer etc.; otherwise, what he evant past or to treat morality as passé and s’yang tutuklas ng saysay ng kanyang buhay, at buhay n’ya mismo’y
or branch of a tree. In the first place, simplic- has isn’t simplicity but stubbornness and an Christian leaders with disdain. This exerts saysay. Man has to find meaning for his being, and his being is
ity can’t be being stingy. Someone may well unwillingness to remedy it. A Christian who a tremendous pressure especially on the itself the meaning.
be able to afford the right kind of food, medi- has no idea about matters of faith, such as young to set Jesus Christ and his teachings
cine, shelter or clothing for himself and for the Trinity, the Scriptures, the Church, mo- aside, at least publicly. But when a Pinoy
his family but shuns them for the sake, we rality, the Magisterium, the sacraments etc. Catholic loses focus on Jesus Christ because Four, simplicity is seeing crea- is duplicity. We say things we
are told, of simplicity. That’s not being and explains that it is because he/she is only he/she focuses on conforming to social tures and material goods as re- don’t mean and we don’t mean
simple; it’s being miserly. a ‘simple Christian’ is anything but simple. mores, simplicity is lost and discipleship velatory of God. I have no doubt the things we say. For Chris-
In the second place, simplicity isn’t being His/her ignorance, in fact, could be sinful, pretended. we, especially today, experience tians, especially for Pinoy Catho-
indolent. Someone healthy may refuse to especially if it originates from negligence. Three, simplicity means needs over goodness in so many material lics, to be of this mold is to deny
take a shower for days or clean up his room What makes simplicity? Let me share a wants. How come, we may ask, our prayers things. But if we were simple, we who they are. Young people con-
or house in the name of simplicity; and that few thoughts. and our lives could be ineffective procla- would take them for what they stantly challenge us: “Get real!”
is very telling—of laziness rather than sim- One, simplicity is preferring the Creator mations of the Gospel? Because, if I may really are, that is to say, sacra- And they do us a service when
plicity. Third, neither is simplicity renounc- to his creatures. St. Augustine’s awakening answer, we often confuse our needs with ments or signs of God’s good- they do that; we need to remind
ing what is good in the material world. is a classic case. In his Confessions he says to our wants. We certainly need food, cloth- ness and love. It moves me when ourselves that we must be who
Some people refuse to use (or learn how to God the very thing that keeps us from be- ing, medicine, shelter and education. Above in the barangays I hear farmers we really are—the people who
use) the computer, the cell phone, the photo ing simple: “Late have I loved you, O Beauty all, we need to be close to God and to do his and poor folk tell me, “The Lord embrace Jesus Christ before they
copier and other such ‘contemporary’ de- ever ancient, ever new, late have I loved will. But we want to be rich and famous is so good to us, Padre. He has even embrace anything (or any-
vices even when it’s necessary in their work; you. You were within me, but I was outside (which explains why so many want to win made us harvest more camote one, for that matter). Simplicity
they feel such things are against simplicity. and it was there that I searched for you. In the lotto so desperately sometimes), to have and rice this year.” The logical is another way of saying to our-
But recognizing goodness in man’s inven- my un-loveliness I plunged into the lovely power, comfort and pleasure—the basic outcome of this view is more at- selves: I must truly embrace
tions is recognizing his Creator, the source things which you created. You were with staple of the-you-know-what dream. And, tachment to God and detachment Jesus Christ to truly embrace the
of his ingenuity and other talents; using me but I was not with you. Created things very often, in so many different words we from creatures. world. To paraphrase John Paul
them to serve human needs is glorifying kept me from you; yet if they had not been ask them of God through prayer. When our Five, simplicity is embracing II, I must be possessed by the
God himself. Madonna had a point. We do in you they would not have been at all…” wants become our needs and our real needs the Master while in the world, mystery of Jesus Christ to be
live in a ‘material world’. But we don’t live Two, simplicity for a Christian means dis- take the back burner, we throw our inner not embracing the world while able to truly proclaim him to the
for it. We are indeed ‘material’ people; but cipleship over conformity. We live under world into turmoil; simplicity gives way to pretending to follow the Master. world. Or my message will be
we are ‘spiritual’ as well (which is where so much pressure in today’s world. Values inner chaos. A great problem of our society hollow.
CBCP Monitor
A6 Local News Vol. 11 No. 14
July 9 - 22, 2007
bishop named
appointed Msgr. Francisco M. Carlos Seminaries. is sometimes worn)— a Roman at P. Burgos, Pasay City.
De Leon, currently Rector of the He pursued higher studies at Catholic order of monks. He spent a number of years as
“Divine Mercy Shrine” in De La Salle University, where He also took a course in Pas- Dean of Studies, Prefect of Disci-
Mandaluyong as Auxiliary he earned a Master’s Degree in toral Renewal in 1991 and 2004, pline at San Carlos Seminary be-
Bishop of Antipolo. Guidance and Counseling. He both in Vatican II for Clergy fore being appointed to various
The Apostolic Nuncio to the took up courses on Spiritual Formation, Menlo Park, in Cali- parishes in Mandaluyong,
Philippines Archbishop Renewal at the New Clairvaux fornia. He also had several non- Makati and Parañaque and as
HIS Holiness Pope Benedict XVI municipalities in Western
named the current coadjutor Pangasinan. Bishop Peralta was Fernando Filoni said the an- Abbey in Berkeley County, degree courses in California, Rector of the Archdiocesan
nouncement was made in Rome South Carolina in 1985 and in United States of America and at Shrine of Divine Mercy at
bishop of Alaminos, Most Rev. born on July 13, 1950 in San
Marlo M. Peralta as bishop or- Carlos City, Pangasinan and or- Wednesday at 12:00 Noon or Mepkhin Abbey, in Vina, Cali- the Manila-based Institute of Maysilo, Mandaluyong City.
6:00 P.M. Manila time, June 27. fornia in 2006. Social Order. With his appointment, Msgr.
dinary of Alaminos effective dained to the priesthood March
June 26, 2007. 31, 1975. Msgr. De Leon, 60, was or- Both Abbeys belong to the Or- After ordination to the priest- De Leon becomes the first aux-
dained to the Holy Priesthood der of Cistercians (OCist), oth- hood, he was appointed Chap- iliary bishop of the 24-year old
Bishop Peralta assumes the He was appointed Coadjutor
post of Bishop Jesus Cabrera Bishop of Alaminos on January at the Manila Cathedral on June erwise called White Monks lain of Araneta University in Diocese of Antipolo.
28, 1975 after his studies at Our (from the color of the habit, over Caloocan City and assistant pas- (CBCPNews)
whose resignation from pasto- 14, 2006, ordained co-adjutor
ral governance of Alaminos was bishop on March 31, 2006 and in-
accepted by the Pontiff. stalled last April 26, 2006. Peralta
The news of Peralta’s ap-
pointment was officially pub-
lished on July 1, 2007 at 6:00 PM,
was a member of the clergy of
the Diocese of Urdaneta before
he took the post of coadjutor
CEAP: Rise in HRM, Militants to CBCP:
local time.
The Diocese of Alaminos has
Episcopal jurisdiction over the
bishop of Alaminos.
In Urdaneta, he assumed sev-
eral parish assignments and di-
allied health sciences Reject Anti-terror law
noted
City of Alaminos and 14 other ocesan offices. (CBCPNews )
A MILITANT group has urged the satanic version of the Ro-
the Catholic Bishops’ Confer- man Catholic Church’s 10
ence of the Philippines (CBCP) Commandments, leaving all of
appeals fice.
In an interview with the CBCP
Monitor, CEAP Executive Direc-
They also noticed a marked in-
crease in allied health sciences
nationwide.
against the bill passed by Con-
gress months before the May 14
elections.
wholesale threat against hu-
man rights and civil liberties.
Leftwing activists, human
tor Mariano U. Piamonte, Jr. said Asked whether most college The appeal came a day before rights watchdogs and civil lib-
CBCP President and Jaro Arch- He added, “We will not be able state universities and colleges and students transferred to govern- the CBCP 95th plenary assem- ertarians expressed fears that
bishop Angel N. Lagdameo said to pinpoint those responsible some local government-funded ment-run institutions due to an bly— the highest decision- the new law would spark mas-
everyone has a role to play in without the cooperation of ev- colleges began offering Bachelor increase in tuition fees, Piamonte making body of the Catholic sive violation of human rights
order to end extrajudicial killings eryone.” of Science in Nursing, affecting said the Commission on Higher bishops’ hierarchy. and civil liberties of groups
in the country. He further said “we cannot Catholic educational institutions’ Education reported a third of the Pamalakaya national chair and individuals critical of the
Speaking before Church beat simply pass judgment on enrollment. total number of private institu- Fernando Hicap expressed op- Arroyo administration.
reporters at the launching of people.” He appealed to con- “State colleges and universities tions increased their tuition and timism the bishops will issue a “The CBCP’s divine interven-
CBCP News on July 5, Arch- cerned citizens to help, “come out charge minimal fees,” Piamonte other fees “just to cope with the “strong political message” con- tion in the fight against the US-
bishop Lagdameo said, “We in the open, and give relevant explained. current inflation rates.” demning the anti-terror law. Arroyo partnership of terror is
should identify the causes and information” that will help solve However, CEAP authorities “They (educational institutions) “The Anti-Terror Act is not necessary, politically correct
circumstances behind these extra- the recent spate of killings. noticed an increase in some simply kept their purchasing only a recipe for undeclared and morally upright,” Hicap
judicial killings.” (CBCPNews) courses such as Hotel and Restau- power,” he added. (CBCPNews) Martial Law,” Hicap said. “It is added. (Roy Lagarde)
CBCP / A1 Lagdameo / A1
The Pastoral Statement also ful.” He said “credit for the suc- implementing law against “po- Lagdameo, 66, a native of appointment Bishop of the Permanent Council. They are
called for a review of laws af- cess goes to the volunteers who litical dynasties.” Lucban, Quezon, is the 16th Dumaguete City. Archbishop Jose S. Palma of Palo
fecting the electoral system in- served in varying capacities” The Philippine Constitution president of the CBCP. Before he He was named Archbishop of (Leyte), Bishops Ramon B.
cluding possible reforms of the from the Church hierarchy in- bans family members or imme- became CBCP head in 2004, Jaro on March 11, 2000. Villena of Bayombong (Nueva
party system, party-list law, cluding the bishops, Social Ac- diate kin from succeeding each Lagdameo was the vice-presi- The CBCP membership Vizcaya), Pablo S. David of San
overseas absentee voting, politi- tion directors, parish priests and other in elective posts, but it has dent of the body and succeeded elected Tandag (Surigao del Sur) Fernando (Pampanga), Jesse E.
cal dynasties, the ‘legal’ entry the Basic Ecclesial Community proved toothless because of a Davao Archbishop Fernando Bishop Nereo P. Odchimar as the Mercado of Paranaque, Manolo
of nuisance candidates and the members, who as poll watchers, lack of an implementing law. Capalla. new vice-president, succeeding A. De Los Santos of Virac
formulation of an agenda for in- Election Return collectors and He was ordained priest in Cagayan de Oro Archbishop An- (Catanduanes), Buenaventura M.
stitutional reform. tabulators reached over 200,000 Poll watchdogs 1964. He was first assigned as tonio J. Ledesma, SJ. Famadico of Gumaca (Quezon),
The bishops called on con- volunteers from 65 archdioceses assistant pastor in Unisan, The 66-year old prelate was Jose F. Advincula, Jr. of San
cerned citizens to continue to de- and dioceses. But despite observation of Quezon in 1965 and became a ordained priest on October 16, Carlos (Negros Occidental),
velop mechanisms for deepen- “Priests, nuns, seminarians, “deep flaws”, the CBCP stressed professor and prefect of disci- 1964. He was appointed Bishop Antonieto D. Cabajog of Surigao
ing the political education, i.e. Catholic school students, law- that the May 14 election was still pline of the Mt. Carmel Semi- of Tandag diocese in Surigao del and Guillermo V. Afable of
Voters Academy and Gabay yers and IT professionals pooled a “qualified success”, saying the nary in Sariaya, Quezon. Sur on October 18, 2001. Digos (Davao del Sur).
Halalan and foster public ac- their efforts to make the count- result somehow “reflected the Lagdameo is Bachelor of Arts The CBCP meets in Plenary When the Plenary Assembly
countability of politicians to the ing a success,” a statement from popular will.” graduate of the San Jose Semi- Session twice each year and its is not in session, it is the Perma-
electorate and for a more sus- NASSA said. The considerably good out- nary in 1965 where he also took works are carried out by its com- nent Council that acts for and on
tained and coordinated politi- come, the bishops noted, is also up Theology and Philosophy. mittees and commissions. behalf of the entire organiza-
cal engagement, specifically Injustice because of the vigilance of vari- He was appointed bishop in The president and the vice- tion.
among the youth, citizens ous and courageous poll watch- 1980 and ordained to become president are elected for two- Lagdameo’s second term and
groups and Church-based orga- The Catholic bishops’ hierar- dogs. auxiliary bishop of Cebu. year terms and can serve for a other members of the perma-
nizations. chy deplored the “many evils” Since 1992, the bishops said, it Lagdameo was later desig- minimum of two terms. nent council will commence on
Archbishop Lagdameo said that plagued the country’s elec- was the first time PPCRV, nated as co-adjutor prior to his Also elected were members of December 2007. (Roy Lagarde)
there is a need for the cleansing toral process and the “injustice” NAMFREL and NASSA “worked
and publication of the contro- done to people, saying their closely together and were bet- PPCRV / A1
versial voters’ lists long before right to vote was ‘desecrated.” ter prepared and organized to
Election Day. It criticized cases of poll vio- make a qualitative impact on the PPCRV national chairperson their disappearance then, and said De Villa.
He added that the “flawed lence, unsolved “patronage poli- elections, even in Muslim Henrietta De Villa lamented the appearance now,” she said. De Villa said the “flagrant
party list law and its problem- tics”, fraud, buying and padding Mindanao.” poll body’s inability to take dras- Maguindanao province has flaunting” of anomalies con-
atic implementation is real of votes, adding that these have They credited the convenors tic efforts to restore public trust. delivered a 12-0 sweep for ad- strains them to make public their
cause of concern” as there were become “systemic and threaten of the Legal Network for Truth- She said Comelec failed to take ministration senatorial candi- discomfort and dismay “since we
also “signs of alienation from to become a cultural element of ful Elections (LENTE) ably sup- effective measures to prevent the dates. The PPCRV, the former owe it to our volunteers to do so.”
the electoral process among the our elections.” ported by One Voice and the In- recurrence of the widely per- Philippine ambassador to the The PPCRV appealed to the
citizenry—”a lower than usual “We are horrified by the vio- tegrated Bar of the Philippines ceived fraud that marred the 2004 Holy See said, is “appalled” at the Comelec to take drastic correc-
voter turn-out 60-65% of regis- lence inflicted on innocent which focused its attention “on elections. intertwined events in tive steps to solve the
tered voters and a “very lower people during the campaign and the weakest link in the electoral “How can the Filipino people Maguindanao. Maguindanao controversy and
level of participation from over- election periods,” the CBCP said process—the canvassing of feel good about our elections She also expressed outrage other pending election issues.
seas absentee voters (14 per- mentioning the problem of votes” at the towns and prov- when the gross mistakes of the over the “kid gloves” treatment “For the sake of the 439,693
cent).” “warlordism” in the Autono- inces. past continuously rear their ugly being given to Maguindanao volunteers of the PPCRV who
Outgoing CBCP Commission mous Region in Muslim “The doggedness of these heads in our electoral exercise provincial election supervisor risked lives and limbs to restore
on Social Action, Justice and Mindanao (ARMM). groups, despite the limited time which can only mean that no Atty. Lintang Bedol by the credibility to our elections, we
Peace Chairman and Marbel The Church officials called for to organize and coordinate, con- genuine effort is being made to Comelec, saying that it’s a repeat call on the Comelec to please put
(South Cotabato) Bishop an end to political dynasties in tributed to the deterring of regain the public trust?” she of the “Hello Garci” controversy. a stop to this running travesty of
Dinualdo D. Gutierrez said the country. large-scale fraud,” according to asked. The PPCRV criticized Bedol for the electoral process,” De Villa
NASSA’s Operation Quick Lagdameo said he would like the statement. (With reports De Villa also noted the his repeated defiance of sum- said.
Count was “generally success- to see Congress passing an from Roy Lagarde) Comelec’s failure to assuage se- mons from the National Board of The poll body assured the pub-
rious and legitimate concerns re- Canvassers and the en banc lic of the proclamation of win-
Tidbits / A4 garding fraud in Mindanao. Comelec resolutions, with the ning national candidates within
She singled out the controver- unexplained loss of poll docu- two weeks after the polls.
It is along this line that Cardi- The Code blandly expressed this has to observe in the fulfillment sial Maguindanao certificates of ments in his custody. Almost two months have
nal Ratzinger made this incisive obligation in Canon 386, Ҥ1. The of his task to promote and take
canvass that led to slow pace of “In an age of global media, passed since then, yet canvassing
remark: “The complete absence diocesan bishop is bound to care of the Churches and the the national canvassing process scenes and images of Mr Bedol of the votes for senatorial candi-
of images is incompatible with teach and to illustrate to the works of art has to be based on
and give rise to allegations of relaxingly skirting accusations of dates has not been fully com-
faith in the Incarnation of God. faithful the truths of faith which the restless hunger of man for cheating. electoral fraud before the Com- pleted with only 11 out 12 sena-
God has acted in history and en- are to be believed and applied God and the corresponding re-
“Election forms that have been mission en banc, appearing al- torial slots have been proclaimed.
tered into our sensible world, so to behavior. He is himself to sponse of the Gospel as con- missing since the purported can- most invincible with a gun tucked No winning party-list group
that it may become transparent preach frequently… §2. By what- tained in these signs and sym-
vassing (municipal and provin- under his waist in a major daily has also been proclaimed even if
to Him. Images of beauty, in ever means seem most appropri- bols. After all there is in every cial) that no poll watcher was al- constitute a flagrant mockery of at least 15 groups got more than
which the mystery of the invis- ate, he is firmly to defend the man, whether he is a tourist or a
lowed to witness suddenly have the electoral values we hope our the required two percent vote to
ible God becomes visible, are an integrity and unity of the faith native Christian, that space that begun to appear without suffi- citizens, especially our young guarantee a seat at the House of
essential part of Christian wor- to be believed…” The Second can only be filled up by a God
cient believable explanation as to ones will practice and uphold,” Representatives. (Roy Lagarde)
ship. There will always be ups Vatican Council is more explicit experience. The very structure of
and downs in the history of ico- on this matter when in bold lines the Church and works of art con-
nography, upsurge and decline, it enjoined them: “Ordinaries are vey the transcendental content
and therefore periods when im- to take care that in encouraging that the local community and the MACE offers all new comprehensive protection
ages are somewhat sparse. But and favoring truly sacred art, tourists could gaze on and con- program exclusively designed for KC members and
they can never be totally lack- they should seek for noble template. That these works of art family
ing. Iconoclasm is not a Chris- beauty rather than sumptuous may have become stale tools to Motor Car Insurance
tian option” (Copyright © 1999 display…. Bishops should be effectively reach the modern • Got side swiped,
- 2007 by Adoremus: Ratzinger, careful to ensure that works of soul may be a valid observation. Health and accident insurance accidentally bumped your
“Art, Image and Artists. Sacred art, art which are repugnant to faith, But as they reflect the great Mys- • Insuring yourself and your family car or be bumped by or got
inspired by faith, both reflects and morals, and Christian piety, and tery they have that innate power from imminent risks in your lives stocked in the middle of the
informs the culture Part II). which offend true religious sense of prodding tourists to reflect.
road, or got malicious damage,
It is because of this intimate either by depraved forms or Meantime the authority of the
our coverage will protect you from
connection of faith and artistic through lack of artistic merit or particular Church has to take up MACE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.
these unwanted incidents
works that it has devolved to the because of mediocrity or pre- the necessary adaptations in or- A subsidiary of the Knights of Columbus
Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc.
bishop the primary task to ma- tense, be removed from the der that these works of art could Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ Center Home Protection Insurance
terially conserve these treasures, house of God and from other sa- reach the soul of the tourist with- Gen. Luna cor. Sta. Potenciana Sts.,
Intramuros, Manila • Protecting your home and its contents
to protect them juridically, and cred places “ (SC, 124). out sacrificing the religious sen- Tel. Nos. 527-2222, 527-2223 loc 301
from fire and natural calamities.
to spread and deepen the faith. The norm then that the bishop sitivity of the local community. Fax No. 527-2256
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 11 No. 14
July 9 - 22, 2007 Features A7
Religious Superiors
meet, tackles
spiritual vitality in
mission
THE Association of Major Reli- and discerning the appropriate
gious Superiors in the Philip- response to the crisis.
pines (AMRSP) composed of 376 Different lecture series or fora
religious congregations of men were also organized in coopera-
and women in the country, met tion of the Mission Partners on
at the Carmelite Missionaries the theme women issues, ecol-
Center of Spirituality in ogy, charter change, poverty,
Tagaytay City last July 3-6, 2007 militarization and extra-judicial
on how to keep the fire going in killings.
their desire to be faithful to their Among the members who
At the opening mass of the 95th Bishops’ Plenary Assembly, Atty. Sabino R. Padilla, Jr., is honored as the first recipient of the Bishop Jorge Barlin Golden Cross Service
respective charisms in fulfilling gave the sharing during the eu- Award “in recognition of his outstanding and generous service to the Catholic Church in the Philippines thereby exemplifying the ideals of the First Filipino Bishop
the mission of the church to pro- charistic celebrations were Fr. Jorge Imperial Barlin”; July 7, 2007 at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center, Manila.
claim the Gospels. Edmundo Nantes of the Domini-
Sr. Mary John Mananzan, OSB, can Fathers, Fr. Daniel Huang of
Markings
the in-coming Co-chair of the As- the Society of Jesus, Mo. Ma. Luz
sociation, presented the theme Mijarez of the Agustinian Sisters,
“Renewing the Spiritual Vitality and Bro. Manuel V. de Leon, FMS
of our Religious Communities” of the Marist Brothers.
by citing some studies on the The Association elected a new
signs and causes of loss or pres- set of officers. For the women
ence of vitality in religious com- congregations are: Sr. Mary John
munities. Mananzan, OSB, Chair; Sr. Teresa
Fr. Marlon A. Lacal, O’ Carm, Mueda, DC - Vice Chair; Sr. APPOINTED. MSGR. JULIUS SULLAN CELEBRATED. HOLY TRINITYACADEMY at Balic-
gave an input on the Role of Ma- Evelyn Aguilar, RVM; Sr. Ma. TONEL, as the new Bishop-prelate of Ipil, by Balic, Sampaloc, Manila; 60th anniversary of foun-
jor Superiors as Spiritual Anima- Josefina Matias, RA; Sr. Lourdes Pope Benedict XVI, June 30, 2007. A native of dation. Founded in June 1947 by the late Rev. Fr.
tors. Dizon, CM; Sr. Emelina Villegas, Davao City, Msgr. Tonel was born on August Bernardo Torres, HTA is the parochial school of
31, 1956. He studied Philosophy at Saint Most Holy Trinity Parish, and a member of the Ma-
The two-outgoing Co-chair- ICM and Sr. Carmelita Victoria, Francis Xavier Minor Seminary in Davao, and nila Archdiocesan and Parochial Schools Associa-
persons, Mo. Ma. Luz Mijares, SSpS. For the Men congregations Theology at the Central Seminary of the Uni- tion. The school started with a kindergarten class
OSA and Bro. Edmundo are: Fr. Jesus Malit, SSS - Chair; versity of Santo Tomas, in Manila. He was fully recognized by the government in 1948. In 1958, the late Rufino Cardinal
Fernandez, FSC reported on the Fr. Daniel Huang, SJ - Vice Chair; ordained to the priesthood in 1980 at the age Santos turned over the management of the school to the Daughters of Mary
of 23. He earned his Licentiate in Liturgical Help of Christians, the sister congregation of the Don Bosco Fathers. They
accomplishments of the associa- Fr. Edmundo Nantes OP; Fr. Rene Theology at the Saint Anselmo Pontifical Insti- set up the co-ed classes from Kinder to Grade Four and exclusive section
tion highlights of which are the Manubag CMF; Bro. Manuel V. tute of Liturgy in Rome. Msgr. Tonel has served for girls for Grades Five and Six. The boy pupils after finishing Grade Four
conduct of the different events de Leon, FMS; Bro. Edmundo as Director of Archdiocesan Family Apostolate transferred to other schools of the parent’s choice.
affecting the membership such as Fernandez, FSC; Fr. Brian Gore, in Davao, then as Rector of the Regional Ma-
jor Seminary. He also served as parish priest
the needs of the elderly religious MSSC. of Ascension of the Lord Parish in Matina,
and the implications of the new The new Board reaffirms its Davao and Chaplain of the Holy Infant of ORDAINED. REV. REDGIE G. ZASPA AND REV. ERYL AGUS of the Dio-
guidelines of the Bureau of Im- commitment to its vision state- Prague, also in Davao. He was the Vicar Gen- cese of Kabankalan on July 10, 2007. They finished their studies in theol-
migration which affect the status ment “We journey with each eral of the Archdiocese of Davao and parish priest of San Pablo Parish in ogy at the Saint Joseph Regional Seminary in Jaro, Iloilo. They were or-
Matina prior to his appointment as bishop-prelate of Ipil. dained by most Rev. Patricio Abella Buzon, SDB, DD at Saint Francis Xavier
of the religious missionaries in other and with the Filipino Cathedral, Kabankalan City. Rev. Redgie Zaspa came from Saint Paul’s
the country. people in our common aspira- Parish, Cauayan while Rev. Eryl Agus came from Saint Vincent Ferrer
It also proactively addresses tion to enjoy the fullness of life Chaplaincy, Binicuil, Kabankalan.
the volatile national situation as reflecting God’s Justice and CELEBRATED. MOST REV. RAMON B.
VILLENA, DD, JCD, SThL, PhL, of the Dio-
a result of the “Hello Garci Con- compassion.” (Bro. Manny de cese of Bayombong; 25th anniversary of
troversy” by coming together Leon) Episcopal ordination, July 2, 2007. Born on INSTALLED. MSGR. CRISOSTOMO A. CACHO, V.G.,
March 16, 1939 in Ilagan, Isabela, Bishop P.C., as new President of Columban College, Olongapo
Villena was ordained priest in 1963 at St. City; in a solemn investiture Mass at the Columban Church,
Peter’s Cathedral in Tuguegarao, Cagayan June 26, 2007. Bishop of Iba Most Rev. Florentino G.
after earning his bachelor’s degrees in Phi- Lavarias, DD, and Region 3 Director of the Commission
losophy and Sacred Theology from the Uni- on Higher Education Dr. Felizardo V. Francisco, spear-
versity of Santo Tomas, where he likewise headed the installation and oath taking. Previously the President of St. Jo-
on illegal
laude. In 1983, he was appointed Auxiliary
Bishop of the Diocese of Tagum. In 1985, he With a background in Philosophy, Educational Management, and specialized
was appointed Coadjutor bishop of the Diocese of Bayombong and was courses on Biblical Spirituality and Pastoral Counseling, Msgr. Cacho brought
installed in 1986. Finally, he succeeded the late Most Rev. Alberto Van to the College 30 years of meaningful practice and involvement. He takes
Overbeke, CICM as the second bishop of the Diocese in 1987. over the post from Rev. Fr. Roland M. Almo, PhD.
recruitment
THE Archdiocesan Commission
for Migrants and Mission
(LACMMI) of Lipa archdiocese
senting several cases of success-
ful persecution and convictions.
He likewise reported the various
Kabankalan holds DECREE FOR PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
held a forum on illegal recruit-
ment at the Archbishop’s Resi-
dence in Lipa, Batangas last June
modes and approaches being em-
ployed by illegal recruiters to in-
form the public. The Philippine 2nd Clergy Pastoral REGARDING “SMAHE” AND FATHER
21. Overseas and Employment Ad-
ALEJANDRE “ANLY” GALIAS
The forum attempted to revisit
the law governing the issue of
illegal recruitment and is imple-
ministration (POEA) has even de-
veloped the Ten Commandments
on illegal recruitment made into
Planning
mentation. Republic Act 8042, posters, specifically to help com- TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
also known as the Migrant Work- bat the unabated increase of cases THE diocese of Kabankalan re- the poor, witnessing a celibate
cently held its 2n d Clergy Pasto- life and seeking first the king-
ers and Overseas Filipino Act of of illegal recruitment. Let it be known that a group called Sons/Sisters of Mary, Adorers of
1995 which turns twelve this year, At the end of the forum, reac- ral Planning reflecting on the dom of God above else.
the Holy Eucharist (SMAHE) is not a religious institute or congregation,
theme “How good it is to see broth- Since many parishes failed to
tackles the issue on illegal recruit- tors from the local government not even a public association with canonical rights. Hence, it does not
ment. units (LGUs), civil society and the ers living in unity”. Most Rev. complete their survey due to the possess a juridical personality according to Canon Law.
Patricio Buzon, SDB, DD guided reshuffling of clergy and chang-
Seventy people from various Church expressed their renewed SMAHE is founded by Fr. Alejandre “Anly” Galias, native of Lavezares,
sectors in Batangas province had cooperation to work hard to com- the clergy as they discerned to- ing of key persons in the dio-
Northern Samar, Philippines, and a priest incardinated to the Diocese of
gether on how to make their lo- cese, all parishes were given ex-
participated in the forum. Among bat illegal recruitment. Sorsogon, Philippines. The address of the main house of the group is
them were representatives from The forum has once more con- cal Church respond more faith- tension of three months to com- “Domus Filiorum Mariae”, Rangas, Juban, 4703, Sorsogon, Philippine.
fully to the call of discipleship. plete their data for proper evalu-
the local government units such firmed the importance of a con- The public is warned that Fr. Alejandre Galias uses a religious name
as the Philippine Overseas Em- tinuous information drive to The clergy discussed three im- ation and pastoral plan.
“Fr. Franz Mariae Crucis”, as an alias. Being not a religious superior, he
portant points during the Pasto- The diocese issued financial
ployment Administration educate the people, especially is forbidden to recruit vocations (men and women) as well as to solicit
(POEA), the National Bureau of those who contemplate of mi- ral Planning: lifestyle check, di- guidelines to strategize the tith- funds for his group.
ocesan pastoral plan evaluation ing program and financial man-
Investigation (NBI), the Overseas grating and working overseas. I will disclaim any responsibility for the actions done by Fr. Alejandre
Workers Welfare Administration Migration has been so far too and diocesan financial guide- agement of the Catholic schools
Galias.
lines. in the diocese.
(OWWA), Department of Social attractive to a lot of Filipinos as
Welfare and Development the only approach to improve The priests shared their senti- At the end of the meeting, the Given this 20th day of April 2007, at the Diocesan Chancery, 4700
ments on various concerns, par- bishop and clergy agreed to have Sorsogon City, Philippines.
(DSW) and Philippine National their economic situation. With
Police (PNP). unabated joblessness and high ticularly celibacy, gambling and a yearly planning and schedul-
business enterprise. The lifestyle ing of regular diocesan events,
Non-government organiza- rate of unemployment despite
tions were represented by pro- government’s report of an im- check is expected to draw some pastoral units, confirmations + Most Rev. Arturo M. Bastes, SVD, DD
concrete actions from every vi- and other pastoral needs of the Bishop of Sorsogon
fessors and students from proving economy, many Filipi-
Canossa Academy, University of nos are still duped to the creative cariate especially in terms of be- parishes. (Fr. Jose Rembert
coming a genuine Church for Rivera)
Batangas, UP Los Baños, social approaches of opportunist re-
workers, priests and pastoral cruiters and swindlers. This is
leaders from other NGOs and likewise aggravated by the fact
various parishes of Lipa Archdio-
cese.
RA 8042 aims to establish a
that very few had lodged com-
plaints against their recruiters
while only a few were convicted
Vatican official: Church needs RP in evangelization
higher standard of protection and and punished afterwards. MANILA, July 11, 2007—A rank- cations and a great missionary PMS-United States national di- sionary.”
promotion of welfare of migrant The parishes in the diocese ing Vatican-based official from zeal. rector Msgr. John Kozar mean- The PMS are the official instru-
workers, their families and over- could be good avenues for the the Pontifical Mission Society “I will be praying for your role while, said that more than hav- ment of the Pope and of the
seas Filipino in distress and other Episcopal Commission on Mi- (PMS) said the late Pope John as missionaries not only to the ing a religious and Catholic whole Catholic Church in its
purposes. The law was hastily grants and Itinerant People’s Paul II rightly considered the Fili- Philippines and Asia but also to people, the Philippines is a “pro- mission works.
passed in 1995 in response to the (ECMI) information dissemina- pinos as potential “evangeliz- the whole world,” said Byrne foundly” missionary country. The four Pontifical Missionary
protest waged by the Filipino tion and campaign program to ers” in Asia. during the recently held 54th In every venue that they vis- Societies are the Society for the
people over the execution of Flor fight against illegal recruitment PMS Secretary-General Fr PMS-Philippines general assem- ited, he said, there lies a desire Propagation of the Faith, Holy
Contemplacion in Singapore. and trafficking of persons. Unfor- Patrick Byrne, SVD yesterday bly at the Pope Pius XII Catholic on part of everyone that the met Childhood Association, Society
Twelve years after, illegal re- tunately, this has never been thor- echoed the late Holy Father’s Center in Manila. to truly reach out and share the of St. Peter Apostle and Mission-
cruitment remains the biggest oughly employed because many prophetic words, adding that his During Pope John Paul II’s sec- Good News with other people. ary Union of Priest and Reli-
problem surrounding labor mi- parishes do not have yet a minis- trip to the Philippines is a “tre- ond visit to the Philippines in Kozar was particularly gious.
gration. In the forum, Philippine try for migrants. mendous” missionary experi- 1995 for the 10th World Youth amazed at seminaries to see the These societies carry our their
Migrant Rights Watch (PMRW) The forum ended with the ence. Day, he urged the bishops “to spirit of young men demonstrat- task by means of information
president Mel Nuqui presented launching of the PMRW’s book, “I can understand the mind of carry the Gospel beyond the ing “a real missionary thrust” as awareness of missionary activi-
the seemingly weak implemen- Migrants’ Stories, Migrants’ Voices, the late Pope John Paul II when shores of this beautiful archi- they are prepare for the priest- ties, such as the evangelization
tation of the law which resulted which is a compilation of ten sto- he saw the importance of the Phil- pelago to the other peoples of hood. and catechesis, fostering spiri-
to unabated trafficking of per- ries written mostly by the fam- ippines in the missionary evan- this vast continent.” He also lauded the country’s tual cooperation, promotion of
sons. ily members of migrants. gelization of Asia,” he said. “Asia needs your help if it is Catholic bishops for showing missionary vacation and bring-
Meanwhile, Deputy Adminis- The conference was a tripartite Now on his third visit to the to hear the Good News of Christ “beautiful pastoral way with a ing about efficient collection of
trator Hans Leo Cacdac defended initiative of ECMI, LACMMI and Philippines, the Irish missionary crucified and risen,” the late pastoral touch the whole full di- donations to fund the missions.
some of the issues raised by pre- PMRW. (Fr. Edwin D. Corros, CS) said the country has so many vo- Pope said. mension of what it is to be a mis- (Roy Lagarde)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 11 No. 14 • July 9 - 22, 2007
B1
B2 Updates
Marriage Annulment or
Pastoral Concerns
Declaration of Marriage
Nullity?
B3 Diocese
Archdiocese of Cagayan de
Oro
7Q UESTIONS
BEC Bigasang Pangkabuhayan:
How does the laity’s greater participation in the life of the Church
as envisioned by PCP II being implemented in your diocese?
The Acts and Decrees of our recent Second Diocesan Synod
have defined laity’s participation in the life of the diocese on the
level of formation, practice/experience and installation of new
structures. IN the past, merely looking for rice to cook the members will not only be assured of maintains a regular formation on integral
Ten years ago we had established the Diocesan Institute for every meal time seemed problematic for the staple supply of rice but will likewise be evangelization.
Marriage and Family to train and educate the lay for the Family parishioners of Holy Family Parish in San trained to save and prevent falling into Alma Biala, one of the BEC members who
Life Ministry in the parish/chaplaincy. To become a family life Andres Bukid. Since majority of them are debts. never failed to attend every evaluation and
minister one has to complete a 6-month course on the Theology unemployed, buying the most staple food “The rampant reliance to debts of the pa- formation organized by the Good Shepherd
and Canon Law on Marriage, Family Code, Counseling, etc. and for the family already proves to be a pain in rishioners is one of the vices we want them Sisters, said the cooperative’s successful system
other requirements and to be granted the faculty by the Bishop to their pockets. As such, they rely on debts to to eliminate through this cooperative. is due to the proper moral formation of the
do the following: to conduct counseling and catechism on marriage answer the call of their members prior to the operation.
and Christian discipleship; to ensure that the faith requirement stomach until they fi- “The rampant reliance to debts of the “We owe the success of this cooperative to
nally depend on debts the guidance and formation the parish and the
for marriage is met to the minimum by the contracting parties;
to conduct canonical investigation; to engage in marital or family just to eat. parishioners is one of the vices we want Good Shepherd Sisters had given us. Without
crisis interventions. Practically, all our parishes/chaplaincies have But after Pondo ng them to eliminate through this cooperative. them, we could have abused the financial
family life ministers who are appointed by the bishop. Thus, our Pinoy Community grant we obtained from Pondo ng Pinoy,”
marriage preparations for the contracting parties are conducted Foundation lent the Through weekly evaluation of the system, Biala said.
on a one-on-one basis. We do not have anymore the so-called Pre- parish a capital to start
a non-profit coopera-
they learned to develop discipline among A former gambling addict, Biala particularly
mentioned how values formation is integrated
Cana Seminar in groups.
We have instituted the Ministry of the Word. The candidate to the tive that would provide themselves since the rest of the system will in the cooperative’s operation.
rice supply among the “If not due to our facilitators, the system
Ministry has to undergo a 6-month training and studies on Theol-
ogy, Canon Law, Scriptures, etc. He or she is only empowered to parishioners, this vi- be affected once a member fails to attend to could have failed. If we were not taught to keep
become Minister of the Word after having completed/fulfilled all cious cycle ceased to
exist.
his dues,” said Abrigo. our noses clean on the business, we could have
abused the coopera-
the requirements imposed by the Diocesan Lay Formation Institute.
The Ministers of the Word are to attend to the needs of parishioners “We primarily initiated this program to tive,” she said.
especially the poor, like conducting wake services, prayer meetings make rice, a basic commodity, accessible Biala’s colleague, Bel-
for various groups, etc. when priests are not available. among the poor. The livelihood aspect comes en Felicidario, likewise
The number of extra-ordinary Ministers for Holy Communion as a compliment,” said Sr. Rose Mary Bacaltor, said the nuns behind
in the diocese has increased widely or greatly with expanded RGS, one of the Good Shepherd Sisters behind the cooperative served
functions such as visitation of the sick with viaticum in houses and the cooperative. as a unifying force for
hospitals, blessing of the dead, and presiding wake services. them to work.
We have upgraded the role of lay leaders (Kapilyan) of all our Where livelihood meets values “Should we not have
Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC), a new way of being church; by In the cooperative system, members of the them as our mentors
requiring them to undergo training and studies on Basic Theology, parish’s basic ecclesial communities (BEC) and advisers, we could
Canon Law, Scriptures, Social Action concerns, etc. for six months. can ask for a week’s supply of rice for their have not lasted even for
This is done again by the Diocesan Lay Formation Institute. In due family’s consumption through an official rice a year. Without their
time, we will strictly enforce the Directory that no one is appointed dealer commissioned by the parish. constant advices, we
KAPILYAN unless he/she has fulfilled the requirements, forma- Each kilo of rice will be priced with a P1 could have abused the
tive, curricular and/or practicum. mark-up surplus, which is distributed to the cooperative’s resources
There are 16 active Commissions in the diocese which have members’ saving (70 percent) and to the co- for our selfish inter-
counterparts as Committees in the parish/chaplaincies under the operative (30 percent¬). Aside from a weekly ests,” Felicidario said.
umbrella management of the Pastoral Council. With the member- supply of rice, a P7 savings is what a member Meanwhile, Sr. Ame-
ship of the Finance Committee both in the diocesan and parish/ saves for himself every week. lia David, RGS, said
chaplaincy level we are able to increase the number of responsible But before requesting for the next week’s the members of the
lay in various apostolate, offices and pastoral centers. supply, the member should pay his out- BEC involved in the
standing balance first to prevent debts to TOPMOST: Neriegen Comora with the BEC’s official rice retailer. cooperative became as
We have also required our lay leaders and members of lay asso-
ciations to undergo formation as provided by the Diocesan Pastoral accumulate. ABOVE: Comora (third from left, first row) with other BEC leaders responsive as expected.
Center thus ensuring wider and closer participation in various “Since the rice supply is to be paid on a and the Good Shepherd sisters supporting them. Although they slowly
pastoral programs of the diocese, and likewise in the discharge of weekly basis, the member should then be integrated values for-
the administrative duties of the bishop or parish priests. able to save during the week to pay for it. If Through weekly evaluation of the system, mation in the evaluation and maintenance
We have instituted an Administrative Board in every parish/ he cannot pay for his previous supply, we they learned to develop discipline among of the cooperative, the members had shown
chaplaincy whereby the lay presidents of the Pastoral Council and would not lend him his supply for the next themselves since the rest of the system will positive response to their formation.
Finance Committee and the Kapilyan representative participate/ week,” said Angie Sanchez, one of the lead be affected once a member fails to attend “Through this cooperative, we let them see
cooperate with the priests in the day to day management of the persons of the BEC and the acting auditor of to his dues,” said Abrigo. how God works in their lives—from each grain
affairs of the parish/chaplaincy. the cooperative. Abrigo likewise said that aside from the of rice they eat up to the cents they save and
In this setup, Sr. Julieta Abrigo, RGS, said weekly evaluation, the cooperative also earn every day of their lives,” David said.
Up to what degree should the laity’s participation be in terms of
“Summorum Pontificum”
decision making in the local Church?
It is clear in the foregoing considerations that our experiences
in the diocese with regard to layman’s participation in the affairs
of the Church have been very encouraging. Having been given
the right to exercise certain offices and ministries in the diocese
or parish, a layman can well serve the diocese both in the level of
administration and pastoral leadership. Ours is the conviction that
Apostolic Letter In the form “motu proprio”
given proper training and education, right orientation to empower- UP to our own times, it has been received both the Catholic faith Many other Roman pontiffs, clarified. From the beginning of
ment and proper application of the principle of subsidiarity within the constant concern of Supreme and the treasures of worship and in the course of the centuries, this century they undertook a
the parameters of Canon Law and administrative discretion of the Pontiffs to ensure that the Church culture that had been accumu- showed particular solicitude in more general reform.”[2] Thus
bishop the lay can demonstrate effective decision making in the of Christ offers a worthy ritual lated by the Romans in preceding ensuring that the sacred liturgy our predecessors Clement VIII,
affairs of the Church. to the Divine Majesty, “to the centuries. He commanded that accomplished this task more ef- Urban VIII, St. Pius X,[3] Benedict
praise and glory of His name,” the form of the sacred liturgy as fectively. Outstanding among XV, Pius XII and Blessed John
How is the agenda of social concern being implemented in your and “to the benefit of all His Holy celebrated in Rome (concerning them is St. Pius V who, sustained XXIII all played a part.
diocese? Church.” both the Sacrifice of Mass and by great pastoral zeal and fol- In more recent times, the Sec-
We have a continuing agenda for social concerns in the diocese. Since time immemorial it has the Divine Office) be conserved. lowing the exhortations of the ond Vatican Council expressed
These are being implemented through the following programs: been necessary—as it is also for He took great concern to ensure Council of Trent, renewed the a desire that the respectful rev-
peace promotion agenda via Church-Military liaison whereby the future—to maintain the prin- the dissemination of monks and entire liturgy of the Church, over- erence due to divine worship
dialogue is made possible on sensitive issues like human rights ciple according to which “each nuns who, following the Rule of saw the publication of liturgical should be renewed and adapted
affecting the lives of people especially the poor; good governance particular Church must concur St. Benedict, together with the books amended and “renewed in to the needs of our time. Moved
via graft watch which makes the Social Action Office a network of with the universal Church, not announcement of the Gospel, accordance with the norms of the by this desire our predecessor,
the Ombudsman Office to push for the investigation, prosecution only as regards the doctrine of the illustrated with their lives the fathers,” and provided them for the Supreme Pontiff Paul VI, ap-
and punishment of LGUs and other government agencies if found faith and the sacramental signs, wise provision of their rule that the use of the Latin Church. proved, in 1970, reformed and
guilty; community health project promoting cheap generic drugs but also as regards the usages “nothing should be placed before One of the liturgical books of partly renewed liturgical books
in parishes as well as oriental/traditional healing by training local universally accepted by uninter- the work of God.” In this way the the Roman rite is the Roman Mis- for the Latin Church. These, trans-
health workers in parish areas; Bigasang Bayan in tandem with rupted apostolic Tradition, which sacred liturgy, celebrated accord- sal, which developed in the city of lated into the various languages
NFA selling cheap rice in parishes; affordable or low cost housing must be observed not only to ing to the Roman use, enriched Rome and, with the passing of the of the world, were willingly ac-
project facilitated by the Church for the benefit of its eligible work- avoid errors but also to transmit not only the faith and piety but centuries, little by little took forms cepted by bishops, priests and
ers based on a defined tenure of service; other advocacies such as the integrity of the faith, because also the culture of many peoples. very similar to that it has had in faithful. John Paul II amended the
promotion of ecology and sustainable agriculture; and plans and the Church’s law of prayer corre- It is known, in fact, that the Latin recent times. third typical edition of the Roman
initiatives to establish CARITAS-BACOLOD. sponds to her law of faith.”[1] liturgy of the Church in its vari- “It was towards this same goal Missal. Thus Roman Pontiffs have
Among the Pontiffs who ous forms, in each century of the that succeeding Roman Pontiffs operated to ensure that “this kind
What is your take on the perceived threat of materialism influenc- showed that requisite concern, Christian era, has been a spur to directed their energies during of liturgical edifice ... should again
ing our lifestyle due to globalization? particularly outstanding is the the spiritual life of many saints, the subsequent centuries in or- appear resplendent for its dignity
Globalization characterized especially by cyber-media shrinking name of St. Gregory the Great, has reinforced many peoples in der to ensure that the rites and and harmony.”[4]
7 Questions /B7 who made every effort to ensure the virtue of religion and fecun- liturgical books were brought But in some regions, no small
that the new peoples of Europe dated their piety. up to date and when necessary Summorum /B5
Marriage Annulment
or Declaration of
Marriage Nullity?
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, J.C.D.
WE now have to clarify the meaning of the considered as a valid marriage. and women. Thus, if a man can prove that
so-called declaration of marriage nullity in The evidence to be adduced in the ju- he was only 17 years and 11 months old
the Catholic Church—which is not a Cath- dicial process should be those that prove when he got married in Church, he can
olic Church-style marriage annulment. We the non-existence of any one of the above- contest the validity of that marriage.
start by understanding the juridic (canoni- mentioned constitutive elements of a valid 2) Impotence (c.1084): Inability to have
cal) constitution of marriage. How does a marriage at the time of the said marriage. marital intercourse—whether on the
Catholic Church (or canonical) marriage Whatever facts arise after the wedding part of the woman or on the part of the
come about? For brevity, we shall simply only has validity to the marriage nullity man—which is antecedent to the marriage
write marriage when we really mean process insofar as they prove the non- (present even before the marriage) and
Catholic or canonical marriage. existence of any of the above-mentioned perpetual in nature (i.e., not just transitory),
elements at the time of the wedding. Let whether relative (just with this partner)
Marriage stands on 3 Pillars us discuss the first of the three constitutive or absolute (with any partner) of its very
Three elements are necessary for mar- elements, leaving the last two in another nature invalidates a marriage. Sterility
riage to come about: (1) the capacity to two-part article in the near future. (the inability to cause conception) neither
marry in both contracting parties, (2) the The Capacity to Contract Marriage prohibits nor invalidates marriage, unless
mutual consent of the contracting par- All human persons are—by nature—ca- such fact was concealed fraudulently to ob-
© Ken Seet/Corbis
ties to enter into marriage, and (3) the pable of contracting marriage. Hence, the tain consent (c.1098). Thus, if a woman can
observance of the canonical form of mar- right to contract marriage—technically prove that her husband had not been able
riage. If any of these to consummate their
three elements is A valid and consummated marriage cannot be dissolved marriage from their
lacking—even if this marriage night and
fact is proven only (annulled) by any human power or for any reason other thereafter, she can
The CBCPWorld Network afterwards, precisely
through a judicial
than death. Strictly speaking—except in the case of a sue for nullity based
on impotence of her
non-consummated marriage, which the Roman Pontiff
www.cbcpworld.com | training@cbcpworld.net | +632 4041612, 4042182
A network of Dioceses, Parishes, Catholic Schools process—then a com- husband; but not if
petent Church tribu- such impotence only
and religious groups. Today, over a hundred of nal can declare that may dissolve for a just cause—there is no such thing as arose afterwards.
them nationwide. Pursuing one mission, linked a hitherto accepted marriage annulment in the Catholic Church. This impediment
under one nationwide satellite system. Connected marriage (technically cannot be dispensed,
called a putative marriage, from the Latin called the ius connubi—is a fundamental since the marital union belongs to the very
together with the same passion for the Gospel. putare = to think) was void from the very right of all the Catholic faithful, protected nature of marriage.
beginning. In short, there is nothing to an- by Canon Law (c.1058). Only the Supreme 3) Bond of prior marriage (c.1085): A per-
Our Broadband Connectivity is delivered to our net- nul, but rather the nullity of the marriage Legislator can establish limitations to this son who is held to the bond of a prior mar-
is declared. right—technically called diriments im- riage, even if it has not been consummated,
work members through a VSAT system on a C-band or A valid and consummated marriage pediments—in accord with Natural Law cannot validly contract another marriage.
through a wireless IP system on a microwave platform, cannot be dissolved (annulled) by any and in order to protect the common good Furthermore, even if a prior marriage were
originating from our network operations center in Clark human power or for any reason other than of the Church (c.1075). As in all limitation to be deemed invalid, it is not licit for a
death (c.1141). Strictly speaking—except in of rights, such impediments are necessar- person to contract another marriage until
Special Economic Zone in Angeles City. the case of a non-consummated marriage, ily very few, and unless explicitly stated the nullity of the prior marriage has been
which the Roman Pontiff may dissolve for or reserved to the Holy See, can be dis- legitimately declared. This impediment
Our Content Department aims at saturating the cyber- a just cause—there is no such thing as mar- pensed by the Local Ordinary for his own cannot be dispensed, since that would
riage annulment in the Catholic Church. subjects wherever they may be and for all violate one of the essential properties of
space with wholesome contents that are faith-related, other persons actually present in his own marriage which is monogamy.
educational and social-advocacy oriented. Its services Declaration of Marriage Nullity territory (c.1078, §1). Very briefly, these 4) Disparity of cult (c.1086): A Catholic,
are: web designing, web maintenance, web hosting, What happens in a declaration of impediments are: who has not left the Church by means of
nullity is that after a marriage has been 1) Age (c.1083): The Code established a formal act, cannot validly marry a non-
content sourcing and editing, and video production. celebrated—sometimes even many years that a man cannot validly contract mar- baptized person. This impediment can be
afterwards—it is shown before a compe- riage before he has completed his 16th dispensed by the local Ordinary if there is
Our Traning Department conducts the following tent Church tribunal that one or more of year, and likewise a woman before her reasonable cause, provided the following
the three constitutive elements of marriage 14th year. However, it is within the power conditions are fulfilled: (c.1125)
trainings: EdTech, IT Awareness, WebArt, SysAd was either not present or gravely defective of individual bishops’ conferences to 1° the Catholic party declares that he/
Training. such that the marriage in question was not establish a higher minimum age. In the she is prepared to remove any danger of
constituted after all. Hence, the tribunal de- Philippines, the CBCP has established 18 falling away from the faith and makes a
clares (juridically) the nullity of a hitherto years as the minimum age for both men Marriage / B7
Extraordinary Ministers of
Holy Communion at Mass
General Principles the Lord. In all matters such priest has received Communion.
In every celebration of the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy After the priest has concluded
Eucharist, there should be a Communion should follow the his own Communion, he dis-
sufficient number of ministers guidance of the diocesan bishop tributes Communion to the ex-
of Holy Communion so that it (IBID). traordinary ministers, assisted
may be distributed in a reverent All ministers of Holy Com- by the deacon, and then hands
and orderly manner. Bishops, munion should show the great- the sacred vessels to them for
priests and deacons distribute est reverence for the Most Holy distribution of Holy Commu-
Holy Communion in virtue of Eucharist by their demeanor, nion to the people.
their office as ordinary minis- their attire, and the manner in • All receive Holy Commu-
ters of the Body and Blood of which they handle the conse- nion in the manner described
the Lord. crated bread or wine. Should by the General Instruction to
When the size of the congrega- there be any mishap—as when, the Roman Missal, whether
tion or the incapacity of the bish- for example, the consecrated priest concelebrants (cf. GIRM,
op, priest, or deacon requires it, wine is spilled from the chal- nos. 159, 242, 243, 246), deacons
the celebrant may be assisted ice—then the affected “area . (cf. GIRM, nos. 182, 244, 246),
by other bishops, priests, or . . should be washed and the or Extraordinary Ministers of
deacons. If such ordinary min- water poured into the sacrarium Holy Communion (cf. GIRM,
isters of Holy Communion are [GIRM, 280].” no. 284). Neither deacons nor lay
not present, “the priest may call ministers may ever receive Holy
upon extraordinary ministers to Liturgy of the Eucharist: Communion in the manner of a
assist him, i.e., duly instituted • As the Agnus Dei or Lamb concelebrating priest. The prac-
acolytes or even other faithful of God is begun, the bishop or tice of Extraordinary Ministers
who have been deputed for this priest alone, or with the assis- of Holy Communion waiting to
purpose. In case of necessity, the tance of the deacon, and if nec- receive Holy Communion until
priest may also depute suitable essary of concelebrating priests, after the distribution of Holy
faithful for this single occasion breaks the eucharistic bread. Communion is not in accord
(GIRM 162).” • As the Agnus Dei or Lamb with liturgical law. (NDRHC,
Extraordinary Ministers of of God is begun, the Bishop or 39; GIRM, 160).
Holy Communion should re- priest alone, or with the assis- • After all Extraordinary Min-
© CBCP Media
ceive sufficient spiritual, theo- tance of the deacon, and if nec- isters of Holy Communion have
logical, and practical prepara- essary of concelebrating priests, received the Eucharist, the bish-
tion to fulfill their role with breaks the eucharistic bread. op or priest celebrant reverently
knowledge and reverence. In Other empty ciboria or patens hands vessels containing the ing, “The Blood of Christ.” No sacrarium. is strictly forbidden to pour the
all matters they should follow are then brought to the altar is Body or the Blood of the Lord other words or names should be • In those instances when Precious Blood into the ground
the guidance of the diocesan this is necessary. The deacon to the deacons or extraordinary added; and the formula should there remains more consecrated or into the sacrarium. (NDRHC,
bishop (Norms for the Distri- or priest places the consecrated ministers who will assist with not be edited in any way. (Cf. wine than was necessary, if 51-55).
bution and Reception of Holy bread in several ciboria or pat- the distribution of Holy Com- GIRM, 161; 284-287). needs dictate, Extraordinary • Similarly, “consecrated
Communion Under Both Kinds ens, if necessary, as required for munion. The deacon may assist • If the Eucharistic bread or Ministers of Holy Communion hosts are to be reserved in a
for the Dioceses of the United the distribution of Holy Com- the priest in handing the vessels some particle of it falls, it should may consume what remains ciborium or vessel in sufficient
States of America, NDRHC, no. munion. If it is not possible to containing the Body and Blood be picked up reverently by the of the Precious Blood from quantity for the needs of the
28). When recourse is had to accomplish this distribution in of the Lord to the Extraordinary minister. The consecrated bread their cup of distribution with faithful; they are to be frequent-
Extraordinary Minister of Holy a reasonable time, the celebrant Ministers of Holy Communion. may be consumed or completely the permission of the diocesan ly renewed and the old hosts
Communion, especially in the may call upon the assistance of (NDRHC, 40). dissolved in water before being bishop. The sacred vessels are properly consumed” (Code of
distribution of Holy Commu- other deacons or concelebrating • The proper and only per- poured down the sacrarium. to be purified by the priest, the Canon Law, no. 939). Burying
nion under both kinds, their priests. missible form for distributing • Should there be any mishap, deacon or an instituted acolyte. hosts or consecrated Eucharistic
number should not be increased • If extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion is to offer the for example, if the consecrated The amount of wine to be conse- bread is strictly forbidden.
beyond what is required for the Holy Communion are required consecrated bread by saying, wine is spilled from the chalice, crated should be carefully mea-
orderly and reverent distribu- by pastoral need, they should “The Body of Christ” and to of- the area should be washed sured before the celebration so (Source: Committee on the Lit-
tion of the Body and Blood of not approach the altar before the fer the consecrated wine by say- and the water poured into the that none remains afterward. It urgy, USCCB)
T
HE Archdiocese of Cagay- Cagayan de Oro was elevated into full-pledged parishes. Definitely cal collaboration with the DOH and parishes. These cells are tapped for
an de Oro comprises the an archdiocese on June 29, 1951 by more parishes will have to be opened POPCOM of the government. Political and Voters Education when
civil Province of Misamis the Apostolic Constitution “Quo in the future especially in the city The Catechetical Apostolate there are elections and for
Oriental and the Province Philippina Respublica”, making it the because of its rapid economic growth takes care mainly of the good governance after
of Camiguin. The town of first archdiocese in Mindanao. It com- and development attracting many catechism of students in elections.
Malitbog in Bukidnon is also part of prised all the existing dioceses and people from all over the country and public schools. The Pon-
the archdiocese. Majority of the popu- prelatures of Mindanao (Surigao, Co- from other places. tifical Mission Societies Opus Solidaritatis Pax
lation reside close to the seashore of tabato, Sulu, Davao, Ozamiz) includ- The Chinese Catholics especially in With the emphasis of
both provinces. Some indigenous ing Zamboanga, its Mother diocese, the city proper also have their own Archbishop Ledes-
Filipinos known popularly as lumad which became an archdiocese only in personal parish, the San Lorenzo ma on dialogue and
The Archdiocese of
Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, and the St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral of Cagayan de Oro City
Cagayan de Oro
IMPORTANT FACTS
Archbishop 1
Priests:
Filipino 95
Foreign 1
Religious:
Filipino 21
Foreign 16
Brothers:
Filipino 4
Sisters: By Msgr. Rey Manuel S. Monsanto, HP, JCD
Filipino 180
Foreign 14
Seminarians:
23 1958. Thus, at that time, Cagayan de Ruiz Catholic Community, under the (PMS) help instill missionary con- development towards the attainment
Pre-College
Philosophy 27 Oro became one of the six Ecclesiasti- pastoral care of one of our diocesan sciousness among the faithful. The of peace and harmony among all, as
Theology 31 cal Provinces in the Philippines and priests. archdiocese played host to the first shown in his episcopal motto, there has
Diocesan Divisions: the only one in Mindanao. His Excel- National Holy Childhood Congress. been much effort in reaching out to all
Vicariates/Districts 5 lency Most Rev. James T.G. Hayes, Priests and Religious There is also the Bible Apostolate sectors, like the academe, the many and
Parishes 45 S.J., was appointed archbishop until There are now 105 diocesan priests (BA) which conducts bible study varied NGO’s, the different Christian
Chaplaincies 9 incardinated to the archdiocese. seminars and scripture lessons faiths, and the Muslims. These sectors
his retirement in 1970.
With Resident Pastor 44
With the creation of the Archdio- Most of them are in the parishes but for the traditional Catholic Faith have begun to come together, to talk
Without Resident Pastor 1
Entrusted to Diocesan Clergy 43 ceses of Zamboanga in 1958, Davao in there are also others who are either in Defenders (CFD). It also actively and to share with each other about the
Entrusted to Religious Clergy 2 1970, Cotabato in 1979 and Ozamiz in the seminary or are having full-time participates in the annual Family social, economic, and political questions
Educational Centers: 1983, the present suffragan dioceses diocesan tasks or apostolates. Some Bible Quiz. The Archdiocesan Media in the community and the country. That
University 1 of Cagayan de Oro include Butuan are outside the archdiocese either on Apostolate has just been re-named is why this aggrupation has called itself
Colleges 4 (Provinces of Agusan Norte and study-leave, on mission, working in Social Communications Ministry. CONVERSATION. This is the group
High Schools: Sur), Surigao (Province of Surigao other dioceses, or just on leave from The Archdiocesan Liturgical Com- that talked about and gave information
Diocesan/Parochial 5 the ministry, while three are now in mission (ALC) educates the faithful
Norte), Tandag (Province of Surigao on the Charter Change before, and dis-
Directed by Religious 16
Sur), and Malaybalay (Province of retirement. in liturgical matters and supervises cussed issues on the recently concluded
Elementary Schools:
5 Bukidnon)—or what is known as Most of the diocesan priests have the ministry of the Extraordinary May elections.
Directed by Religious
Kindergarten: CABUSTAM. become members of a society of Ministers for Holy Communion and
Directed by Religious 6 The Patron Saint of the Archdio- diocesan priests founded by Arch- of the Lectors. Challenges
Institutions: cese is St. Augustine of Hippo whose bishop Camomot: the Society of The Archdiocesan Youth Apos- The City of Cagayan de Oro and
Orphanage/Asylum 1 feast falls on August 28. The choice St. John Vianney or SSJV. All the tolate (AYA) hosted the Vigil of the Provinces of Misamis Oriental and
Homes and Dormitories 3 of St. Augustine as Patron Saint founding fathers, except a diocesan the World Youth Day Cross which Camiguin, as well as the cities and
Retreat Houses 7 can perhaps be explained by the Chinese priest, Fr. Peter Wang, are visited the archdiocese last March 3, provinces of the suffragan dioceses are
Hospitals 1
fact that the Augustinian Recollects now dead. 2007, on its way to Sydney, Australia, experiencing an economic boom. Many
Population 1,200,447
Catholics 1,020,380 came to Cagayan de Oro in 1624 and At present, only the Columban for the World Youth Day in 2008. of the towns are being “urbanized” or
Area 3,799 sq.kms. worked in earnest for the spread of Fathers and the Priests of the Sacred The Archdiocesan Apostolate for the “westernized”—and have recently been
Christianity. Heart of Jesus (SCJ) help in admin- Indigenous People (IP) is also active made into cities. The influx of people
The Jesuit Fathers were among the istering the parishes and chaplain- in promoting the rights of the indig- from different places with varied back-
live in the mountains of Misamis first to spread Christianity in Cagay- cies. enous people. The apostolate has its grounds, outlooks and persuasions
Oriental. Among the Christian popu- an de Oro and many other places in Meanwhile, the religious sisters are own full-time priest-director. consequently led to the rise of socio-
lation, especially in the business Mindanao establishing parishes and in various fields of apostolates (like The Social Action Office, which economic-political-spiritual problems.
centers are some Muslims many of schools. The Columban Fathers came running or administering schools, oversees also Alay Kapwa, and Jus- These problems coupled with the thirst
whose children have already been in soon after the creation of Cagayan de campus ministry, parish work, cat- tice and Peace issues, is in the process of people for God and His saving Word,
Cagayan de Oro and studying even in Oro into a diocese. echetics, family life, hospital work, of being re-vitalized and re-orga- present a big challenge in terms of
Catholic Institutions. There are many running orphanages, homes for nized through the help of a group of continuing evangelization, the promo-
Chinese who are mostly Buddhists, Archbishops and Bishops the mentally handicapped and the lay people with development skills tion of peace, solidarity, harmony and
though lots of them, especially those The Archdiocese of Cagayan de aged, taking care of young ladies, called ACCESS (Archdiocesan Cen- dialogue both religious and cultural,
of the younger generation, are Catho- Oro has been served up to the pres- and others). ter for Concerns and Social Services). and the maintenance of Catholic moral
lics. A lot of the young Chinese are ent by four Archbishops, namely, Present also in the archdiocese, as values and spiritual life of the faithful in
studying in a Chinese school (Kong Most Rev. James T.G. Hayes, SJ, who Lay Organizations/Movements/Cov- in many ecclesiastical jurisdictions the midst of changing values, priorities
Hua) administered by members of retired in 1970; Most Rev. Patrick enant Communities in Mindanao, is the SILSILAH FO- and lifestyles.
the Hijas de Jesus, a female religious H. Cronin, SSC, an Irish Columban, While there are many and varied RUM, a group of alumni (Christian We pray fervently that the Archdio-
institute. who retired in 1988; Most Rev. Jesus traditional lay organizations, like and Muslim) of the Silsilah Dialogue cese will rise up to the challenges as she
B. Tuquib, the first Filipino diocesan the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Center in Zamboanga, which helps in journeys with the whole Church deeper
The Diocese of Cagayan de Oro Archbishop; and presently by Most Women’s League, Legion of Mary, the Christian-Muslim dialogue and into the Third Millennium, bearing in
The Diocese of Cagayan de Oro Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, a Filipino Apostleship of Prayer, Cursillos de Inter-Faith Forum, and serves as the mind the challenge of the late Pope John
was created on January 20, 1933 Jesuit, who was installed in May Cristianidad, and many others, the secretariat for the annual Mindanao Paul II, in his post-Jubilee Exhortation,
by the Apostolic Constitution “Ad 2006. archdiocese has also experienced Week of Peace. And, like all the eccle- “Novo Millennio Ineunte”: “DUC IN
maius religionis”, and canonically Archbishop Tuquib was a Boholano the blossoming of many lay groups siastical jurisdictions in Mindanao, ALTUM” that also became the theme
erected on July 4, 1933. It was the diocesan priest who became the first which are now called covenant com- there are many BEC (Basic Ecclesial of the celebration of the Golden Jubilee
second diocese to be established in Bishop of Pagadian, and later came to munities. Thus, we have, for exam- Communities) cells in most of the of the Archdiocese in 2001.
Mindanao after Zamboanga. Cagayan the archdiocese as a Co-Adjutor with ple, the Charismatic Movement (in
de Oro became a suffragan of the the right of succession in 1984. The all its many expressions and forms),
Archdiocese of Cebu when it was Archdiocese also had a number of ei- the Neo-Catechumenate, the many
made into an Archdiocese in 1934. It ther Co-adjutor or Auxiliary Bishops, so-called covenant communities, like
comprised the provinces of Surigao, namely, Most Rev. Teofilo Camomot, the Couples for Christ and its many
the Misamis Provinces, the present a Cebuano diocesan priest, who was outreaches, the Kahayag sa Dios (also
Agusans, Bukidnon and Lanao: that Co-adjutor Archbishop with the right with its many outreaches), the Bukas
is, the northern part of Mindanao. of succession but resigned before he Loob sa Dios, and many others. This
His Excellency, Most Rev. James could succeed Archbishop Hayes; emergence started after Vatican II.
T. G. Hayes, SJ, was appointed first Most Rev. Ireneo Amantillo, CSsR, an
Bishop of the diocese. He was an Ilonggo Redemptorist who became Diocesan Ministries
Irish-American who loved to be ad- the first Bishop of Tandag; Most The Family and Life Apostolate CBCPNews is online
dressed by his Cebuano (actually
Spanish) name “Santiago”. In fact,
Rev. Jesus Dosado, CM, a Cebuano
Vincentian priest, who was installed
(CFLA) takes care of the pre-Cana
and post-Cana needs of the couples www.cbcpnews.com
it was even with this name that he first Archbishop of Ozamiz; and and helps them in being responsible
signed the official documents. People Most Rev. Christian Noel, a Cebuano parents. Individuals, movements and
then used to address him as “Kama- diocesan priest, who became the first organizations with a family orienta- CBCPNews is an independent news organization
halan” instead of “His Excellency”. Bishop of Talibon. tion have come together to lend a staffed by Catholic journalists dedicated to pro-
He would go down in history as the helping hand to the apostolate in viding accurate news written from a distinctively
first and only bishop of the Diocese Parishes and Chaplaincies terms of respect-for-life advocacy. Catholic perspective.
of Cagayan de Oro. The Archdiocese of Cagayan de Archbishop Ledesma introduced the
Oro is at present made up of 46 All-NFP approach which encourages
Elevation of Cagayan de Oro into an parishes and 11 chaplaincies, com- the use all natural family planning Subscribe to CBCPNews. Email to: cbcpnews@cbcpworld.net
Archdiocese munities on the way of becoming methods, venturing even into criti-
ALMOST half-a-century of my life 5. One way to bring back dignity is boundaries, we will stem the tide of
and two decades of my priesthood to restore the capacity to choose and violence and physical, emotional or
have taught me valuable lessons for examine the consequences of one’s sexual abuse. With a renewed sense
family ministry. What lessons have decisions. From being like helpless of limits, we can restore the dignity of
I gathered? What principles would I victims, people become “empowered” people. Without proper boundaries,
humbly go back to as the foundations to redesign their lives. To discern is to people cross lines and trample upon
of my ministry; basic truths to remind see what really matters, to distinguish the sanctuary.
me of family values and spirituality? I the wheat from the chaff, the charcoal 9. Compassion will make us listen
offer here twelve (12) lessons for your from the diamond. It is important to to the cries of our people. It will make
consideration or reflection. make a general examination of life (a us feel with—and be one with—the
1. Life is difficult. Bad things hap- sense of history for imagination), an longings of the heart, the heartbeat of
pen to good people. People experience imperative to take an inventory and the universe. To have empathy means
abuse and violence. People experience see the ambivalent choices we make to enter the world of the other, to see
passion and death. We get confused, and its corresponding fruits. Serenity from the other’s point of view. Despite
become distracted, and get lost along is learning to accept the things we can- the crisis, one can sense opportunities
the way. We become scarred. And not change (surrendering to a Higher to make a significant difference in the
when scarred, we get scared. We are Power what is unmanageable in our lives of so many—teach new skills to
traumatized by people and events. life) and having the courage to change former prostitutes; educate people on
Crisis can spell danger or may usher the things we can, and the wisdom to how to borrow and invest wisely; share
in opportunity. We may be scarred know the difference. new ways to improve rice farming;
and scared but, the good news is, God 6. In the Philippine setting, I have encourage people to read, build homes
promises that we can recover the sacred learned from married couples the for the poor; accompany someone to
(sanctuary, dignity, true self). Name word tapat. It means to honor the truth die in grace.
the pain but claim the dignity of the (which is the basis of communication 10. From the domestic Church, the
person. The Cross is the very wisdom and openness), uphold the good of family, communities, are born because
of God, St. Paul says. Jesus in the Agony the other, and commit to be faithful they believe in the Kingdom values of
in the Garden searched for the will of anywhere and everywhere based from equality, freedom, love, and peace. Our
the Father. the eternal love of God to us, the way companionship is based on following
2. Crisis is like riding on the crest of Christ loves His Church. time-tested Gospel values of surren-
change. Crisis can render us helpless 7. What is the purpose and founda- der, simplicity and service. We are
but can also make us rise to a prudent tion of our life? The alpha and the not meant to be chronically, compul-
judgment and re-de- sively divisive. We
sign our lives to meet I wonder why “Jewel in the Palace” has become are meant to be One
the challenges of de- bread, One body,
velopment. We talk of very popular in Asia—Korea, China, Japan, One people. Not only
intelligence quotient
and emotional intel-
Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines and perhaps, does the family that
prays together stay
ligence, but people in other countries. Why? I guess in a climate of together, the fam-
now learn how to face greed, ignorance, poverty, corruption and blind ily that receives the
© Ken Seet/Corbis
or rise above adver- Lord in the Eucharist
sity; how to become family interest, Chang-Geum, Madame Park, Lady stays together. They
resilient. Crisis may
hide the face of God,
Han represent not only the best of what it is to be become what they
receive, Augustine 12. What can the family do to reach lage? Families.
but beneath the cross Korean, but what it is to be a family, human and says. In a period of their dreams? My metaphor for this is Who must respect the poor and teach
awaits the dawn of
the resurrection and
Asian: loyal, honest, industrious, always searching divisiveness due to
abortion, divorce, mi-
reaching for the STAR. Remember how
the wise men were searching for the
the child to read? Families.
Who can bind the wounds and work
salvation of all. There- for excellence and for the good of God and the gration, we offer the Messiah. What was their guide? They for peace? Families.
fore, treat trouble with
care. Discover the
country, which makes a real difference in the lives Eucharist. This is the
basis of our commu-
followed the star, whose light led them
to the messiah, in the company of Mary
Who can sustain and breath life to
the sea, the sky and mother earth?
new needs emerging of the poor, the sick and the Palace. nion and covenant; and Joseph. The light led to a family. Families.
out of the situation. the basis of family What is the way of the STAR? S stands Who can bring back joy and restore
3. To rediscover the sanctuary (the omega of our life is Christ—the Way, and spirituality. for sanctuary. Again, it reminds us of bonding within the family? Families.
sacred, the holy ground), we need to the Truth and the Life. He who believes 11. How do we move from darkness the sacred ground of our lives and the Who can bring back the refugee and
remove our sandals (fasting, unleav- in Him has life eternal, John says. Any to light? What do we look for in the fam- need to figuratively remove our sandals the migrants? Families.
ened bread). Alcoholics and drug de- branch connected to Christ bears fruit, ily? I will use the acronym PAROL, the and tread gently so that we do not tres- Who can restore the respect and the
pendents in recovery need to detoxify fruit that will last. When we are con- Filipino word for lantern, of which my pass or abuse the sacred in our lives. T esteem of being a person, a woman, a
before therapy begins. Purify. Blessed nected with Christ, and are living in home province is known for. P stands means to treat trouble with care. There friend? Families.
are the pure of heart for they will see love, God dwells in us. The word we for prayer or our connection with God. are times when we need to embrace Therefore, who will raise dignity of
God. In therapy, one needs to empty use in the Philippines is tahanan… This is our ultimate peace, namely, “in the pain and the burden in our lives. the person and the sanctuary of the
oneself to empathize. Simplify so that home. It means the rain has stopped, Him, we live we move and have our A means allowing the pain to teach family? Families.
others may simply live. Be aware¬—of the child has ceased to cry, and the being.” The family is solid in its foun- us the wisdom of God, the emerging Who can restore the integrity of
what we think, or see, or do. Beware. restless soul has found his rest in God. dation if it is rooted and grounded in challenge or need of the time. R means creation and the meaning of a home?
We are vulnerable—when we are tired, Fr. Arrupe says: the love of God. The family gets into to reach for something strategic and Families.
inebriated, or caught in the maelstrom “Nothing is more practical than find- trouble if the spirituality is gone. A small. In the family, sometimes what Who will work together and dialogue
of powerful emotions—beware. We can ing God, that is, than falling in love in stands for accountability. The parents makes a difference is time. Time for for the cause of peace and compas-
lose our way. a quite absolute and final way. What or guardians are the stewards of the meals together. Time to pray together. sion—beyond ethnic divisions, gender
4. To protect the sanctuary, recover we are in love with, what seizes your family, held answerable for what hap- Time to just relax and enjoy each other’s bias or narrow religious fundamental-
the integrity of creation. Restore the imagination will decide everything. It pens. The children become delinquents company. Time to appreciate each ism? Families.
dignity of the person. A dignity that will decide what will get you out of bed or escape to the streets if the parents other when things are down. Time to I wonder why “Jewel in the Palace”
rests on the consoling presence of God in the morning, how you will spend contribute to the abuse in the family. be truthful and kind. Time to lead and has become very popular in Asia—Ko-
in our life… the very heart of our Ca- your evenings, your weekends. What R means responsibility for the others make a difference. rea, China, Japan, Singapore, Indone-
tholicism. Embrace the movements of you read, what breaks your heart. What and a willingness to cooperate for the Therefore, who suffer poverty and sia, Philippines and perhaps, in other
our life. Clarify our thoughts. Walk the amazes you with joy and gratitude. Fall common good. Couples talk about ignorance due to corruption and self- countries. Why? I guess in a climate of
talk. Plumb the depths of the uncon- in love, stay in love and that will decide couple power. O means occasions to ishness? Families. greed, ignorance, poverty, corruption
scious. Learn the necessary life skills. everything.” communicate (openness to listen and to Who feel the wounds and the wrath and blind family interest, Chang-Geum,
Teach the street kids how to pray, or What should our response be to reveal oneself). L stands for long-last- of war and violence? Families. Madame Park, Lady Han represent not
how to role-play on stage. Send them split, fragmented lives? To include ing investments for building character Who are flooded by environmental only the best of what it is to be Korean,
back to school. Teach them to read. God in our daily decisions. This is the and excellence in the family, for the neglect and devastation? Families. but what it is to be a family, human
Inspire and expose them to leadership beginning of our discipline... and our service of other people. In the Philip- Who feel the loneliness and loss of and Asian: loyal, honest, industrious,
skills so they rediscover their dignity discipleship in Christ. In the Philip- pines, building homes for the poor self-esteem due to separation and di- always searching for excellence and for
and worth and they become advocates pines, we say: “Nasa Diyos ang awa, under the Gawad Kalinga Project has vorce? Families. the good of God and the country, which
for others. Give the prostitute an alter- nasa tao ang gawa. Kung ano ang dasal become a family-building exercise for Who feel the restlessness and lack of makes a real difference in the lives of
native life and she will recover her old, iyon ang magiging asal.” We become many families. Unassailable proof that roots due to migration and displace- the poor, the sick and the Palace.
true, dignified, worthy self. A recover- what we pray. you receive in abundance when you ment? Families. (This article was presented to the FED-
ing drug addict said: “If I can only stop 8. Boundaries set our limits and give to the lost, the least, and the last. Who are outcast by ethnic class divi- ERATION OF ASIAN BISHOPS, BISH-
using and pushing drugs, the shame of identity. It tells us what is appropriate The survivors of Mt. Pinatubo joined a sion, religion, gender? Families. OPS’ INSTITUTE ON LAY APOSTO-
being called a pest will be erased. This and what needs to be respected. With caravan to reach out to the victims of Therefore, who will be part of the LATE I [Redemptorist Retreat House
is my contribution to society.” a renewed recovery of appropriate Mt. Mayon. solution and who will restore the vil- Pattaya, Thailand] last June 14, 2007).
© JP Acuña/CBCP Media
Poverty, both urban and rural, continues to worsen and degrade the dignity approved to arrest the spread
of the human person. of this malaise.
Human rights violations on a scale comparable to martial law ravage the Likewise we protest against Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, D.D.
sanctity of life. Extra-judicial killings of human rights defenders, workers, farm- the injustice done to people
ers, fisherfolk, indigenous peoples, journalists, church people and lawyers are
alarming and are reinforced and abetted by a culture of impunity.
Summorum / B1
Our environment is desecrated by extractive industries such as large-scale
mining, the propagation of genetically-modified organisms and by disasters. numbers of faithful adhered and contin- Art. 3. Communities of institutes of Art. 8. A bishop who, desirous of satis-
Our women experience further dehumanization by the phenomena of femi- ue to adhere with great love and affection consecrated life and of societies of apos- fying such requests, but who for various
nization of labor and human trafficking. to the earlier liturgical forms. These had tolic life, of either pontifical or diocesan reasons is unable to do so, may refer the
Within the Church, as institution and among its members, we observe and so deeply marked their culture and their right, wishing to celebrate Mass in ac- problem to the Commission Ecclesia Dei
experience a growing conservatism. spirit that in 1984 the Supreme Pontiff cordance with the edition of the Roman to obtain counsel and assistance.
There is a tendency to prefer the comfort zones of traditional works and non- John Paul II, moved by a concern for the Missal promulgated in 1962, for conven- Art. 9. §1 The pastor, having attentively
committal silence to the experiences of injustice and oppression. pastoral care of these faithful, with the tual or “community” celebration in their examined all aspects, may also grant
The wave of ambivalence that globalization brings is washing over the special indult “Quattuor Abhinc Anno,” oratories, may do so. If an individual permission to use the earlier ritual for
consciousness toward social transformative praxis, turning away from the issued by the Congregation for Divine community or an entire institute or soci- the administration of the sacraments
challenge of aggiornamento that Vatican II and PCP II promote. Worship, granted permission to use the ety wishes to undertake such celebrations of baptism, marriage, penance, and the
Roman Missal published by Blessed John often, habitually or permanently, the anointing of the sick, if the good of souls
The Challenges We Face XXIII in the year 1962. Later, in the year decision must be taken by the superiors would seem to require it.
Indeed, we are in troubled times but our coming together proves we are also 1988, John Paul II with the apostolic letter major, in accordance with the law and § 2 Ordinaries are given the right to
in miraculous times. given as “motu proprio, “Ecclesia Dei,” following their own specific decrees and celebrate the sacrament of confirmation
We realize our weaknesses and rejoice in our strengths. exhorted bishops to make generous use statues. using the earlier Roman Pontifical, if the
Our diverse persuasions have prevented us from genuinely coming together of this power in favor of all the faithful Art. 4. Celebrations of Mass as men- good of souls would seem to require it.
and working together in the spirit that we are all one in Christ our Savior. who so desired. tioned above in art. 2 may -- observing § 2 Clerics ordained “in sacris consti-
We recognize that as Mission Partners, together with the AMRSP, we need Following the insistent prayers of these all the norms of law—also be attended tutis” may use the Roman Breviary pro-
to remember the rich tradition of service to the people and of prophetic witness faithful, long deliberated upon by our by faithful who, of their own free will, mulgated by Blessed John XXIII in 1962.
to the struggles of the poor. predecessor John Paul II, and after hav- ask to be admitted. Art. 10. The ordinary of a particular
The greater demands of the worsening situation impel us to respond despite ing listened to the views of the cardinal Art. 5. §1 In parishes, where there is place, if he feels it appropriate, may erect
lack of personnel and funds. fathers of the consistory of 22 March 2006, a stable group of faithful who adhere to a personal parish in accordance with
We are saddened by the inadequate support from the congregations to the having reflected deeply upon all aspects the earlier liturgical tradition, the pastor Canon 518 for celebrations following
work of the mission partners. of the question, invoked the Holy Spirit should willingly accept their requests to the ancient form of the Roman rite, or
We see there is a need for a sustained mechanism for exchange of ideas and and trusting in the help of God, with celebrate the Mass according to the rite of appoint a chaplain, while observing all
coordination among mission partners. these apostolic letters we establish the the Roman Missal published in 1962, and the norms of law.
In spite of this entire challenging situation, we affirm our passion and commit- following: ensure that the welfare of these faithful Art. 11. The Pontifical Commission
ment as Mission Partners of the AMRSP. There is reason for joy and hope. Art 1. The Roman Missal promulgated harmonizes with the ordinary pastoral Ecclesia Dei, erected by John Paul II in
We find ourselves growing in our openness, acceptance, and appreciation by Paul VI is the ordinary expression of care of the parish, under the guidance of 1988[5], continues to exercise its function.
of our diversity and more than willing to transcend our limitations towards a the “Lex orandi” (Law of prayer) of the the bishop in accordance with Canon 392, Said commission will have the form, du-
more effective and sustained service of the poor. Catholic Church of the Latin rite. None- avoiding discord and favoring the unity ties and norms that the Roman Pontiff
For the next two years, we commit ourselves to pursue the twin thrusts of theless, the Roman Missal promulgated of the whole Church. wishes to assign it.
expansion and consolidation. by St. Pius V and reissued by Blessed §2 Celebration in accordance with the Art. 12. This commission, apart from
John XXIII is to be considered as an ex- Missal of Blessed John XXIII may take the powers it enjoys, will exercise the
Our common Agenda traordinary expression of that same “Lex place on working days; while on Sundays authority of the Holy See, supervising
We commit ourselves to joint advocacy on pressing issues – Globalization, orandi,” and must be given due honor for and feast days one such celebration may the observance and application of these
Human Security Act, Charter Change, Mining, Global Warming and Extraju- its venerable and ancient usage. These also be held. dispositions.
dicial Killings. two expressions of the Church’s “Lex §3 For faithful and priests who request We order that everything we have
We shall undertake common study, formation and capacity building to orandi” will in no any way lead to a divi- it, the pastor should also allow celebra- established with these apostolic letters
creatively respond to the present situation. sion in the Church’s “Lex credendi” (Law tions in this extraordinary form for spe- issued as “motu proprio” be consid-
We shall maximize opportunities for networking and advocacy among of belief). They are, in fact two usages of cial circumstances such as marriages, ered as “established and decreed,”
ourselves to stimulate and synergize our ministries. the one Roman rite. funerals or occasional celebrations, i.e., and to be observed from Sept. 14 of
We shall revitalize the dynamism of the Coordinating Council as a venue to It is, therefore, permissible to celebrate pilgrimages. this year, feast of the Exaltation of the
create support and mutual cooperation. the Sacrifice of the Mass following the §4 Priests who use the Missal of Blessed Cross, whatever there may be to the
We shall promote the Mission Partners to the different congregations in more typical edition of the Roman Missal pro- John XXIII must be qualified to do so and contrary.
creative and life-giving ways. mulgated by Blessed John XXIII in 1962 not juridically impeded. From Rome, at St. Peter’s, July 7,
We shall re-assert our prophetic role and work hand in hand with the AMRSP and never abrogated, as an extraordinary §5 In churches that are not parish or 2007, third year of Our Pontificate.
for the realization of its Vision-Mission. form of the liturgy of the Church. The conventual churches, it is the duty of the Pope Benedict XVI
With renewed vigor and vitality, with joy and hope, with perseverance and conditions for the use of this Missal as rector of the church to grant the above
sacrifice, we commit ourselves to these noble tasks, a sacred duty. In these laid down by earlier documents “Quat- permission. [1] General Instruction of the Roman
times there are indeed no limits to what we can do when we work hand in tuor Abhinc Annis” and “Ecclesia Dei,” Art. 6. In Masses celebrated in the pres- Missal, 3rd ed., 2002, No. 397.
hand. Parables and miracles continue to spring forth from the people’s historic are substituted as follows: ence of the people in accordance with the [2] John Paul II, apostolic letter “Vic-
struggle for total liberation. Art. 2. In Masses celebrated without the Missal of Blessed John XXIII, the readings esimus Quintus Annus,” Dec. 4, 1988, 3:
“Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice…we have told the glad news people, each Catholic priest of the Latin may be given in the vernacular, using edi- AAS 81 (1989), 899.
of deliverance in the great congregation.” (Ps. 96:11 and 40:9) rite, whether secular or regular, may use tions recognized by the Apostolic See. [3] Ibid.
the Roman Missal published by Blessed Art. 7. If a group of lay faithful, as [4] St. Pius X, apostolic letter issued
Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP) Pope John XXIII in 1962, or the Roman mentioned in art. 5 §1, has not obtained “motu propio data,” “Abhinc Duos
Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) Missal promulgated by Pope Paul VI in satisfaction to their requests from the Annos,” Oct. 23, 1913: AAS 5 (1913),
Urban Missionaries (UM) 1970, and may do so on any day with pastor, they should inform the diocesan 449-450; cf John Paul II, apostolic letter
Task Force Urban Conscientization (TFUC) the exception of the Easter Triduum. For bishop. The bishop is strongly requested “Vicesimus Quintus Annus,” No. 3: AAS
Task Force Orientation of Church Personnel (TFOCP) such celebrations, with either one Missal to satisfy their wishes. If he cannot ar- 81 (1989), 899.
Justice and Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission (JPICC) or the other, the priest has no need for range for such celebration to take place, [5] Cf John Paul II, apostolic letter issued
Women and Gender Commission (WGC) permission from the Apostolic See or the matter should be referred to the Pon- “motu proprio data,” “Ecclesia Dei,” July
from his ordinary. tifical Commission Ecclesia Dei. 2, 1988, 6: AAS 80 (1988), 1498.
Bo Sanchez
Hardwork
Magic Works
I smiled at the lovely woman beside me.
She smiled back, her large round eyes singing.
Hard as I tried, I couldn’t recall gazing at a more ravishing
sight in my life. And it wasn’t just physical, mind you. It was her
peaceful presence, her gentle nature, her bearing both feminine
and strong at the same time.
“Good day, isn’t it?” I intoned, attempting to hide my ner-
vousness.
“Yes, though it’s a teeny bit warm,” her soft voice whis-
pered.
In truth, the day was hot and the air quite still. But I was
oblivious of it, caught up in the vision of the angel before me,
as though the very air I breathed was part of this apparition
of loveliness.
“Are you… uh, doing anything tonight?”
The princess chuckled. “Why do you ask?”
“Well, I was wondering if you’d like to spend it with me.
Alone, if possible.” My voice trembled and my chest felt like it
wanted to explode.
“Aren’t you going a little too fast?”
© Tomasz Gzell/epa/Corbis
Her naughty grin gave me confidence, so I shook my head.
“Nope. In fact, I think the timing is more than perfect.”
She squinted. “We’ll see. If you do the right things and say
the right words....”
Suddenly, the Bishop—who was in front of us—announced,
GIVEN Manila’s high cost of living, rent- What an offer! initially lent to the informal settlers by an amount for a unit at the parish.
ing a bed space around the University If condominium units anywhere in the San Fernando de Dilao Parish, we “Immediately after my husband got
Belt area can already be a pain in the Manila would usually cost P10,000 to decided to prioritize them in the sweat his retirement benefit, we did not hesi-
pocket, more so leasing a residential P40,000 a month, a studio-type Domus equity plan to help them find a decent tate to deposit it for a unit because we
dwelling that can house a four-man III unit at 22.50 square meter floor place to reside,” she said. might as well invest it for a house
family in the suburbs of the city. But area, would only costs each occupant The other 50 units with the same floor we can own rather than spend
how about a condominium at the heart a monthly amortization of P1,407.11 area will be regularly priced while the it on irrelevant purchases,”
of the metropolis where most metropoli- through Pag-ibig loan provided a fam- four remaining units at 28.85 sq. m. will Del Rosario said in
tan establishments are within reach in a ily representative will cooperate in the cost P328,078.93 or P2,318.76 monthly. Filipino.
short walk? construction of the housing project A typical unit can accommodate T r u e
Investing in a condominium could through a sweat equity plan. enough space for a bedroom, a living enough,
have been an impractical attempt for According to Hernan Manangan, room, a dining area and a restroom. Del
budget-tight urban dwellers but for project engineer of Domus III, an ap- Since water and electric connection is
Priscilla Erquiza, one of the residents plicant of this plan is expected to render part of the package, Manangan said
from Ducepec Street in Paco, Manila 1,040 hours in the project site to help in the occupant only has to purchase
who survived the fire that razed their the construction operation. a meter based for his consump-
neighborhood last year, it is their most “In exchange for the service, the ap- tion.
convenient way to relocate themselves plicant can avail a unit for P218,394.24, With this offer, Er-
to a decent dwelling. Thanks to the from the regular amount of P255,867.45, quiza immediately
Domus Mariae Foundation, Inc. that within 25 years,” Manangan said in availed of the
recently commenced the construction Filipino. deal and
of the Domus Mariae Condominium However, Maribel Sebello, crediting depos-
III (Domus III), tagged as the “Condo and collection officer of Domus Mariae ited
Para sa Mahihirap,” a part of the hous- Foundation, said only 30 out of the 84
ing projects under the Archdiocese of units of Domus III are open for the
Manila. sweat equity plan and the victims
of last year’s fire incident are pri-
oritized to avail of this setup.
“Since the land of the project site is
7 Questions / B1
Marriage / B2
the world into a global village influences people’s tastes and pref- in the Parish. For abused family members especially women &
sincere promise to do all in his/her contract marriage, as follows: -- All de- erences according to western standards, predisposing them to children we have put up a Crisis center through our Women
power to have all the children bap- grees in the direct line—i.e., between all extreme materialism eroding morality, sacrificing humans over & Children’s Desk & Mission Makabuhay. We have a daily
tized and brought up in the Catholic ancestors and descendants—whether profit. Such negative value is all pervasive, invading stealthily family catechesis through our Distance Learning & Program
Church; they be related legitimately or only the life and practices of the Christian faithful in all strata of on Air over Radio Veritas DYAF. Lately we have put up an
2° the non-baptized party should be naturally; — Up to the 4th degree in the society in the diocese. IT (Information Technology) Learning Center to empower,
informed at an appropriate time of the collateral line—i.e., a marriage would This is a significant factor in making the Church flawed, yet through computer skills, victims of trafficking and out-of-
promises which the Catholic party has be invalid between 1st cousins, and also still a potent resource. Hence, secular media finds Church scan- school youth.
to make, and is not opposed to them; between nephew and aunt or between dals the juiciest of issues and tend to over-magnify and feast on
3° both parties should be instructed niece and uncle, but valid between 2nd them. Yet, they also still give serious attention to the Church’s How is the quality and quantity of vocations entering the
on the essential ends and properties cousins. This can be dispensed up to views and opinions especially on moral and social issues. This seminary today?
of marriage, which both parties must the 3rd degree (thus 1st cousins, or aunt third wave (communication/information era as Toffler terms it) I would say that in the diocese quality of family life nowadays
agree to. and nephew or uncle and niece), but is a time of virtual realities advanced by sophisticated computer do affect the quality and quantity of priestly vocations. It is not
5) Bond of Holy Orders (c.1087): A never the 2nd degree (never between technologies and perishable (fast changing) knowledge due to just the fact that one or both parents are not around. Even if both
person who is in Holy Orders cannot siblings) (c.1078, §3). highly pluralistic global sources of opinions and findings. So parents are around still their parenting style, their standard of
validly contract marriage. Such a bond 10) Affinity (c.1092): This refers to the that secular media will not view the Church’s issues as just a living, the quality of their faith life and that of the parish com-
ceases when a priest is reduced to the relationship between a person and the virtual reality or to take its Gospel message as a mere perishable munity as a whole matter a lot.
lay state and dispensed from the prom- blood relatives of his/her spouse—i.e., item, this is an era calling for greater witnessing. Just as Pope The quality of vocations entering the seminary today is gen-
ise of celibacy—and such dispensation his in-laws. A person is impeded from Paul VI said, “Modern people no longer listen to teachers but erally not so good. They lack the necessary maturity and faith
is reserved to the Holy See. contracting a valid marriage with the they do listen to witnesses. And if they ever listen to teachers, formation to engage seriously in seminary formation. It might be
6) Bond of Religion (c.1088): A person blood relatives in the direct line—i.e., it is because they are witnesses.” a reflection of the quality of both their family and parish life.
who is bound by a public perpetual parents and children (from a previous
vow of chastity in a religious institute union) of his/her deceased spouse. How is the family and life program in your diocese? How is the ongoing formation program of your clergy?
cannot validly contract marriage. This There is no impediment regarding The Family and Life Program under the Commission on Fam- The on-going formation program for our clergy in the diocese
impediment can be dispensed by the relatives in the collateral line (siblings, ily and Life has reached a stage where most of its programs and needs still to be strengthened. The residency program for the
Local Ordinary, unless the religious in- cousins, etc.) of one’s deceased spouse, services have been regularized and institutionalized. The Mar- young clergy has to be revived. There have been many efforts
stitute in question is of pontifical right, the reason being many times they riage Preparation Course is a must in all parishes to ensure that and attempts to offer priests the retooling that we need but
in which case it can only be dispensed constitute the best candidate to take all marriages in church are valid, licit, meaningful and fruitful. the response has not been encouraging. They were even held
by the Holy See (c.1078, §2). over the role of one’s deceased spouse, This is done on a one on one basis, conducted by a trained and in better venues like Balay Kalinungan in La Salle, Business
7) Kidnap (c.1089): A woman who especially as regards the orphaned commissioned Family Life Minister. The Commission has put Inn and L’ Fisher Hotel. But attendance in our annual retreat
has been abducted or detained for children. up a Diocesan Institute on Marriage and Family. To date, the In- had been very good in the last two years. We need to have the
the purpose of contracting marriage 11) Public Propriety (c.1093): This stitute has trained and commissioned 319 Family Life Ministers sustaining program to follow up the retreat experience other
with her cannot validly contract mar- impediment invalidates a marriage in 65, out of 68 Parishes and Chaplaincies of the Diocese. than the monthly recollection.
riage, unless the woman—after she between a person and the blood rela- Marriage and Family Enrichment, Natural Family Planning To date, our ongoing formation consists mainly of seminars,
has been separated from her abductor tives in the 1st degree of the direct line & Responsible Parenthood programs are facilitated by Family lectures, and talks scheduled from time to time but not on a
and established in a place where she is (parent or child) of his/her common- Life Ministers with other Family Movements and Associations regular basis.
safe and free—of her own accord still law partner or publicly-known live-in
2007 Elections / B5
chooses to contract marriage. Even if partner.
the woman were to freely give marital 12) Adoption (c.1094): Marriage is in- Agenda for Electoral Reforms and Con- be the catalyst for the renewal of the agenda for institutional reform.
consent in a situation of abduction or valid between persons who are related tinuing Political Involvement institution. 6. The development of mechanisms for
detention perpetrated to obtain such in any degree in the direct line (parents Both the positive and negative experi- 3. Modernization of the electoral system deepening the political education of voters
consent (e.g., she really fell in love with and children) or in the 2nd degree of ences of the last elections point to a num- in time for the 2010 presidential election. (e.g. Pinoy Voter’s Academy and Gabay
her abductor), the Law itself invalidates the collateral line (step-brothers and ber of important electoral reforms that There should be broad-based and trans- Halalan), fostering public accountability
her consent. This provision only applies step-sisters) by legal adoption. needed to be pursued: parent discussions on what type of poll of politicians to the electorate (e.g. Bantay
to women. 1. A full revamp of the Comelec, begin- automation is appropriate and how it is Pangako) and sustaining coordinated
8) Crime (c.1090): A person who for Conclusions ning with the appointment of a new chair to be piloted and implemented. political engagement especially among the
the purpose of contracting marriage Concubinage per se does not prove and commissioners with unquestioned 4. Particular attention should be given youth, the citizens’ groups, and Church-
with another person has brought the existence of any of the impediments integrity and competence, especially in to ARMM and the problem of warlordism, based organizations (e.g. VforCE).
about the death of that person’s spouse that invalidate marriage, unless that systems and management. These ap- because it is of the scale that can affect the 7. Cleansing and publication of the vot-
or one’s own spouse cannot validly behavior were to prove the existence pointments are going to be in the hands national elections. We also owe it to the ers’ list long before the day of election.
contract marriage. Likewise, two per- of one of the factors that can under- of the President and the Commission on voters in those areas who are effectively As we appreciate and thank the men
sons—who have brought about the mine consent (more about this in the Appointments of the Philippine Congress, disenfranchised when elections are not and women of good will and courage
death of the spouse of one of them last installment of this exposition on and it is our collective responsibility to meaningful, truthful and free. Historically, who influenced our last election, so do we
through mutual physical or moral Canonical Matrimonial Law). From monitor closely the process of selection, those in power have found it useful to rely thank the Lord for continuing to guide the
cooperation—cannot validly contract what we know of the case, there seems appointment and confirmation. There on the brazen exercise of power through journey of the Filipino people.
marriage with each other. This im- to be no reason to think that the prior should also be serious efforts to de-po- intimidation, violence and fraud. For the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
pediment can only be dispensed by the marriage was invalid. liticize and professionalize the bureau- 5. A review of laws affecting the elec- the Philippines:
Apostolic See (c.1078, §2). Thus, the man cannot validly con- cracy. toral system. Among the most urgent are
9) Consanguinity (c.1091): Two per- tract canonical marriage with his 2. Holding those responsible for anoma- the reform of the party system, party-list +ANGEL N. LAGDAMEO, D.D.
sons related by blood within a certain concubine, for as long as his prior lies in past elections and the recently law, overseas absentee voting, political Archbishop of Jaro
degree of proximity cannot validly marriage stands. concluded ones accountable to the people. dynasties, the “legal” entry of nuisance President, CBCP
Good career people in the Comelec can candidates, and the formulation of an July 8, 2007
Title: TRANSFORMERS
Running Time: 144 min. Moral Assessment Technical Assessment
Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Mergan Fox, Dosh Du-
hamel, Tyrese Gibson, Rachael Taylor
Director: Michael Bay Abhorrent Poor
Producers: Ian Bryce, Ton De Santo, Don Disturbing Below average
Murphy Acceptable
Screenwriters: Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman Average
Music: Steve Jablonsky Wholesome Above average
Editor: Tom Muldoon Exemplary Excellent
Genre: Sci-fi/Action
Cinematography: Mitchell Amundesn
Distributor: Paramount Pictures cepticons do because with it, the rest of the cast is multiracial.
Location: U.S. Decepticons intent to destroy all, Voices are also well chosen.
Technical Assessment: ● ● ● including human life, and rule the Peter Cullen does the narration
Moral Assessment: ½ universe. Sam and the Autobots for good robot Optimus Primus
CINEMA Rating: For viewers of all ages pledge to help each other. and Hugo Weaving is heard as
Though the cartoon Trans- the evil robot Megatron. Some
IN Qatar, U.S. soldiers are attacked by a robot formers – the Movie in 1986 had lines are quotable like “Freedom
that has transformed from a helicopter in the fascinated a lot of young fans, it is the right of all sentient human
sky and then destroys everything in its wake. is Transformers (2007) that is the beings” and “it takes sacrifice to
Informed of this attack, the Pentagon calls an showcase of the latest and most bring peace to humanity.”
emergency meeting to figure out who the attacker advanced of CGI technology. The Can one mine any values from
is. Meanwhile, elsewhere in the U.S. an 11th grade spectacular chases and stunts as sci-fi action movies? Usually
student Sam Witwicky (Shia Labeouf) excitedly well as the awesome animated such movies have not much
buys his first car, a beat up yellow Camaro. One transformation sequences (from depth and neither does Trans-
night, Sam’s car is stolen and Sam follows it on his bike cars and helicopters to robots) are formers but happily there are
but he is overpowered by a police car that transforms blended into live action so seam- some things worth noting in this
into a frightening 20-foot robot that sends signals lessly that they seem believable. movie. Robots are machines,
to a UFO. As the robot menacingly tries Putting these animated transfor- mechanical objects with no heart
to question Sam, his friend Mikaela mations in real spaces and mak- but in this movie, the good robots
(Megan Fox) appears, and together ing them interact with real objects are imbued with certain laudable
they run from the attacker. At make them realistic. The movie human qualities like gratitude,
this point, Sam’s Camaro, though is loud, fast and packed with friendship, loyalty, love, even
driverless, comes to rescue them. adrenaline – pumping action and selflessness. Towards the end, a
Soon the Camaro transforms into probably these are what mostly robot decides to sacrifice himself
another giant robot who turns attracts the young male viewers so as to destroy the “cube” to
out to be friendly “Bumblebee”. who comprise most of the audi- make sure it does not fall into
From him Sam learns the good ence. But the movie can be con- the enemy’s hands and to assure
robots called autobots are at fusing because of several army the survival of the human race.
war with the evil robots called groups competing for attention Though the movie is all fantasy,
Decepticons, all from the planet and wanting a piece of the action the good qualities mentioned
Cyberton. Sam’s great great as the two groups of adversarial have some resonances among
grandfather’s (who was an Arctic robots (who confusingly look children and young adults and
explorer) eyeglasses hold the key similar) fight to the death. The inspire as well as encourage some
to the location of the “cube” that casting is fine. Sam (Shia Labeuf) emulation among them. Though
had fallen to the Arctic ages ago. is right for his role as the likeable, there is war and a lot of fights,
It is important for the Autobots to ordinary 11-year-old sympathetic there are no gory or gruesome
recover the “cube” before the De- to the aliens (shades of E.T.). The death scenes.
NICK Powell (Justin Chatwin) a rather
Title: THE INVISIBLE
withdrawn nerdy young man decides Running Time: 90 min.
to cut the last few days of his fourth year Cast: Justin Chatwin, Mar-
high school classes. He has been hav- garita Levieva, Chris
ing problems communicating with his Marquette, Marcia Gay
mother (Marcia Gay Harden) who with- Harden, Alex O’ Loughlin
drew into herself when her husband/his Director: David S. Goyer
father died. Besides, Nick does not have Producers: Gary Barber,
real friends at school, he is too serious, Jonathan Clickman, Roger
sober and more interested in his studies Brinbaum
Screenwriters: Mick Davis,
and writing poetry. Not telling anyone, Christine Roun
not even his mother, Nick applies to a Music: Marco Beltrami
London academy for a writer’s course. Editor: Conrad Smart
On the day he is expected to leave for Genre: Supernatural/Sus-
England, a sudden series of events and pense
miscommunications takes place—Nick Cinematography: Gabriel
is mauled to death, led by a schoolmate Beriestai
Annie Newton (Margarita Chatwin) Distributor: Buena Vista
who believes he had betrayed her. Then International/Columbia
Pictures
to his surprise, he finds himself awake
Location: Seattle, USA
next morning; doing the usual, he goes to Technical Assessment:● ● ½
school. But he finds out that no one sees
Moral Assessment:
or hears him on the street, ditto his teacher CINEMA Rating: For viewers
and classmates. He concludes that he 14 and above
must be already dead, and is a spirit,
ghost or something else. He watches the
local police and volunteers, out searching their family members and friends. There to give him a share of what she robbed,
for his body and there is no way he could could also be the feeling of suspense over he called the police who collared her with
help them. what is going to happen to Nick. the evidence. Pete attempted suicide for a
The Invisible is based on a novel, “Den Nick could not talk with his mom Hel- lie. In dealing with dysfunctional relation-
Osynlige” by Mats Whal and a Swedish en (Marcia Gray Harden) because after ships, especially with young people – and
movie of the same title. It is a somber but months she was still withdrawn from her how these happen as shown in the two
touching story depicting dysfunctional surroundings, grieving for her husband. families – the movie appears to indicate
lives and relationships and the conse- It took Nick as a “spirit” entity to realize that it happens so clearly among the liv-
quences that ensue. The intended narra- she loved and cared about him, espe- ing. So something ought to be done to
tive is interrupted by distracting details, cially when he had gone missing. Annie, reverse the situation like: Families should
like the role of Annie’s father as a retired very angry with her father for marrying be more attentive to each other, see, listen,
policeman, presently a cabdriver and another woman, after her mother/his interrelate, and appreciate one another.
certain repetitious acts of Nick and An- wife’s abandonment of the family, was Communication lines should be always
nie. The unfamiliar young actors: Justin very disrespectful and rude to her step- open to avoid misunderstanding and to
Chatwin, Margarita Leveiva, and Chris mother. She even threatened to kill her correct misimpression. The film has so
Marquette as Peter who looks up to Nick, father. With her boyfriend Marcus (Alex much bad imitative behavior and nega-
need more opportunities to improve their O’ Loughlin) they formed a robbery team. tive outlook in life involving teenagers ANSWER TO THE LAST ISSUE: QUOTES IN QUIZ BOOKLETS
AVAILABLE AT BOOKSALE STORES
acting ability. Still, the story could touch The older Marcus was on the police file for which might be misinterpreted without MEN OF GENIUS ARE OFTEN DULL AND INERT IN SOCIETY; IN SM, ROBINSONS AND SELECTED
viewers who are sensitive to what is hap- several cases, but was on parole at the mo- proper guidance or explanation from a AS THE BLAZING METEOR, WHEN IT DESCENDS TO EARTH, MALLS IN MANILA. FOR MAIL ORDER
IT IS ONLY A STONE. LONGFELLOW TEXT 0919 2803036.
pening to Nick and Annie in relation to ment. In one “job” where Annie refused mature viewer.
Title: NEXT from his own future, Cris has tension, though with the sci-fi
Running Time: 97 min. been seeing visions of the future elements, the movie is watchable.
Cast: Nicolas Cages, Julianne of a girl Liz (Jessica Biel) whom There are no strong performances.
Moore, Jessica Biel he does not know: When his Moore is very intense in her acting
Director: Lee Tamahori quest for her ends, he has found but lacks dimension. Cage may
Producers: Nicolas Cage, Todd a friend, eventually a sweetheart be adequate but does not have
Garner and a lift to Arizona away from
Screenwriter: Gary Goldman the aura of a superhero. Biel is
Author: Philip K. Dick the pursuing FBI. Not only the FBI pretty and appealing but she does
Music: Mark Isham is after Cris. The terrorists would not seem to have much chemistry
Editor: Christian Wagner like to eliminate him to make sure with Cage.
Genre: Action/Thriller/Sci-fi he does not interfere with their In this film Next, FBI Agent
Cinematography: David Tat- plans. Will Cris be able to use his Callie recalls Spiderman’s fa-
tersall gift to help others? mous rationale when she says
Distributor: Paramount Pic- In a recent role as “superhero” “with great powers come great
tures (Ghost Riders), Nicolas Cage responsibilities,” And Cris John-
Location: USA gets his inspiration from Mar-
Technical Assessment: ● ● ●
son (Cage) has to be reminded
vel Comics. This time, the film about this because instead of
Moral Assessment: Next (an adaptation from The
CINEMA Rating: For viewers
appreciating the gift, he wanted
14 and above
Golden Man, an original story by it kept to prevent people from
legendary science fiction writer pestering him. But this should not
Philip K. Dick), provides Cage be the attitude when one is given
CRIS Johnson (Nicolas Cage) another vehicle to play the role of an extraordinary talent or any
has a unique ability – he can see a hero with extra ordinary gifts. talent for that matter. Come to
two minutes into his future. This But this action thriller turns out think of it, one is chosen in some
helps not only in his shows as to be inconsistent especially in mysterious, wonderful way to be
a Las Vegas magician. It also the depiction of Cage’s powers. blessed, although often one has
makes him invulnerable for short Sometimes, he seems indestruc- not done anything to deserve it.
periods of time and very effective tible. Other times, like the twist And this should make the gifted
in fighting crime. Though Cris in the end, he is not infallible. But ones perhaps ponder for a while,
keeps his talent under wraps, it the movie’s engaging first part “Why me?” and perhaps ask “Just
becomes evident when he pre- catches the viewer by the throat. what have I done with this talent
vents a shooting in a casino and It shows Director Lee Tamahori’s entrusted to me?” and “How shall
stages a stunning escape from the masterful execution of action I use this?” Hopefully, the an-
Vegas police who mistakingly scenes starting from the casino swers to these questions will help
think he is the culprit. The FBI where, using his extrasensory remind some concerned of that
led by the aggressive Agent Callie powers, Cris tries to make money, saying that when much is given,
Ferris (Julianne Moore) gets wind prevents a shooting, evades a much is also expected in return.
of this uncanny ability and wants dragnet, exits the hotel, steals a The movie has other values worth
Cris to help prevent an imminent car and leads the police in a wild commenting on. Biel’s character
disaster. A terrorist in the Los chase. But the film is unable to Liz shows her generosity and con-
Angeles area is set to detonate a sustain this momentum and ten- cern for the children who are oth-
nuclear bomb, about which the sion as it flags down in the middle erwise neglected and isolated. On
FBI has no clear idea. But Cris when the leads go on a run to the the negative side, there is much
feels his ability is inadequate to Grand Canyon. The action scenes violence and objectionable sexual
help the FBI. However, aside that follow towards the end lack situations (pre-marital sex).