•B1 National

Renewing PCP-II
Pastoral •C1 Ugnayan
The News Supplement of
•d1 Millions of devotees
pay homage to
Plan Couples for Christ Nazarene icon

Bishops, activists lit CBCP tackles HIV/AIDS

candles for killed anti- CATHOLIC bishops are now hitting the HIV/
mining advocate AIDS issue in their respective pastoral jurisdic-
tion head-on.
On January 27, several prelates simultane-
CATHOLIC bishops, the religious and envi- ously wore red ribbon pins as they pledged a
ronment activists lit candles to commemorate proactive role in the fight against HIV/AIDS
the killing of an anti-mining advocate during and put a stop to discrimination against living
a simultaneous vigil in Quezon and Puerto with the disease.
Princesa cities. Steve Kraus, Director of the UNAIDS Re-
Church leaders, family and friends have been gional Support Team for Asia and the Pacific,
mourning the murder of Dr. Gerry Ortega amid met with the bishops and emphasized the role
pleas for justice. people of faith can play in the fight against
Candles / A6 January 31 - February 13, 2011 Vol. 15 No. 3 Php 20.00 HIV/AIDS / A6

Bishops call faithful to

act together vs RH Bill
By Roy Lagarde

WITH the looming passage of

a birth control measure, the
Catholic hierarchy called on
the people to once again “act
together”—an appeal they
made during the 1986 popular
nonviolent revolution.
Like EDSA 1, the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP)
said that “moral choices” today are at
the “crossroads” again which calls for
necessary action from the people.
“Today, we come to a new political
crossroads and we now have to make
a similar moral choice,” the CBCP said
in a new pastoral letter read by four
prelates led by its president, Bishop
Nereo Odchimar.
The statement was the result of the
CBCP’s three-day meeting at the Pius
XII Catholic Center in Manila on vari-
ous issues including the controversial
reproductive health (RH) bill.
In EDSA 1, the collegial body of the
bishops made a “prophetic moral judg-
ment” on political leadership.
With the declaration, the prelates
believe that they somehow signifi-
cantly “helped open [the] door for
EDSA 1 and a window of political

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

integrity.”
In echoing the challenge they ut-
tered 25 years ago, the bishops urged
the faithful to “pray together, reason
together, act together, always to the Cardinal Zenon Grocholewski is accompanied by Apostolic Nuncio in the Philippines Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams and Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales on a visit to the
end and that the truth prevail” over CBCP’s 102nd Plenary Assembly at the Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila, where he came to preside a Mass and deliver a speech, Jan. 29. The Prefect of the Vatican’s Congregation for Catholic
Education also represented Pope Benedict XVI during the University of Sto. Tomas’ Quadricentennial celebration on Jan. 28.
RH Bill / A7

Prelates back whistleblower in Garcia plunder case SEVERAL Catholic bishops are special prosecutor Dennis Villa- for relentlessly seeking informa- ates also called on President
supporting Heidi Mendoza, the Ignacio and retired Lt. Col. George tion regarding the case. Aquino and the Sandigan Bayan
former state auditor who claimed Rabusa for showing “lay leader- “This is an opportunity for us to pursue the truth behind the
to have been asked by a govern- ship” in renouncing corruption in to get our acts together inspired irregularities of the controversial
ment agency to go easy on Carlos pursuit of common good. by courageous men and women plea bargain agreement.
Garcia, a former military comp- “As bishops, we support and who stand up for the truth for “We implore his Excellency,
troller accused of plunder. encourage such people. We the good of our nation,” read the Benigno Aquino III, to criti-
In a manifesto, the 20 prelates are with Mendoza in speaking one-page manifesto. cally review the decision of the
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

said they are one with Mendoza out against abuse of office that Mendoza and the other whis- Ombudsman in the plunder
and other whistleblowers in op- impoverishes the people and tleblowers testified against Gar- chargers against Garcia,” said
posing the plea bargain agree- harm the common good,” the cia giving accounts on her expe- the bishops.
ment between the Office of the bishops said. riences as a member of the team “We likewise call on the San-
Ombudsman and Garcia. The church leaders said they that investigated the plunder digan Bayan to pursue the case
They also lauded former Om- also appreciate the efforts made case against the latter. in the interest of transparency
Odchimar, Aniceto and Pabillo
budsman Simeon Marcelo, former by the lawmakers and the media On the other hand, the prel- Whistleblower / A6

Bear witness to faith, Pope’s envoy tells bishops Anything

PHILIPPINE bishops began their meet- is death,” Grocholewski said. “Faith

but RH bill,
ing January 29 with a call from an envoy can live and grow only by working
of Pope Benedict XVI to courageously and by sharing the faith to others,”
bear witness to their faith. Grocholewski told his brothers in the

says bishop
Papal Legate Cardinal Zenon Gro- episcopate.
cholewski told the prelates who were The Vatican official made the state-
gathered at the Pius XII Center in ment in his homily during a Mass to
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

Manila that only by doing so could open the 102nd Plenary Assembly of
they become “credible and effective” the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the POLITICIANS can fool around with
evangelizers. Philippines (CBCP). the Catholic Church on other issues but
Such faith, he pointed out, can also While faith can grow through the never on the sanctity of life, a retired
inevitably be a source of Christian “dy- church leaders, he said, it can also archbishop warned.
namism” in the midst of secularism. weaken and even disappear “because For the church, Archbishop Oscar
“Faith of itself if it does not have work Envoy / A6 Cruz said, the protection of human life,
especially of the unborn children, is an

Calls for death penalty revival piss off CBCP official

important concern.
The Catholic hierarchy, he said, will
definitely react and will fight when the
sanctity of human life is under threat
AN anti-death penalty ad- criticized Senators Miguel
such as the possible passage of the
vocate said restoring the Zubiri, Tito Sotto and
reproductive health (RH) bill.
capital punishment would Ramon Bong Revilla Jr.,
“There’s nothing more precious for
be an insult to everyone who are among those who
the church other than life. The most
who had worked on a re- called for the reimposition
precious reality in the world is human
form agenda for the justice of death penalty.
life,” said Cruz, former president of
system. “We sent reform agenda to
the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
In an interview with the the executive and the legisla-
the Philippines.
media, Mr. Rodolfo Dia- tive (branches of the govern-
In the church, the prelate said, there
mante said he is already ment). It’s a beautiful docu-
are only two sins in which the penalty
“pissed off” with some sen- ment… we are hoping that
of excommunication is handed such
ators’ approach in prevent- they will study it,” he said.
those who are guilty of effective abor-
ing crimes in the country. “We did not elect them
Anything / A6
Illustration by Bladimer Usi Diamante particularly Death Penalty / A6

www.cbcponlineradio.com www.cbcphealthcare.org www.cbcpmedia.com

 World News
CBCP Monitor
A2 Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

Church leaders follow Egyptian

unrest with interest, concern
VATICAN City, Jan. 31, 2011—Church “We all see how in the Middle East,
leaders were watching the unfolding in the Holy Land and in Jerusalem, pas-
political drama in Egypt with a mix- sions can blind people. Instead, to have
ture of hope for reform and concern real freedom, we need a certain distance
over potential violence, said the head from things in order to see them more
of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy clearly,” he said.
Land. He said real freedom in the Middle
Father Pierbattista Pizzaballa told East needs to include religious free-
Vatican Radio Jan. 30 that the wide- dom, access to places of worship and
spread unrest that has weakened the holy places, and freedom of religious
30-year rule of President Hosni Muba- expression.
rak came as a surprise to Catholics in Francesco Zannini, who teaches at
the region. the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and
“We all sense that these are epochal Islamic Studies in Rome, said the situ-
changes. None of us would have imag- ation in Egypt reflected the weakening
ined these kinds of developments a few political power of Arab leaders who
months ago,” he said. have ruled as “monarchs” but who
“This means that there are currents, are threatened by changes brought by
especially in the Arab world, that now globalization.
have found visible expression. This is In Egypt, it was unclear whether the
certainly a positive sign, but it’s also momentum of the unrest was great
worrying because we don’t know how enough to bring lasting reforms, Zannini
all this will end—we hope with the told the Rome-based agency AsiaNews.
least possible amount of violence and One big question, he said, was whether
bloodshed,” he said. Mohamed ElBaradei, an opposition
Father Pizzaballa said he hoped that leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner,
“respect for religious minorities will had the capacity to govern Egypt.

www.photos.upi.com
be preserved” in Egypt. His concern Zannini said that although Islamic ex-
appeared to reflect the fact that Muba- tremists had begun to join the protests in
rak’s opponents include both radical Egypt, he doubted whether they would
and moderate Muslim groups, and it ever present a governing alternative
was unclear who might assume power there. He said he thought radical Islam
if the president resigns. was losing influence among the popula-
Father Pizzaballa spoke on a church- prayer to “lead minds and hearts to- The pope, joined by two Italian In his comments to Vatican Radio, Fa- tions of the Middle East, and had shown
sponsored day of prayer for peace in ward concrete projects of peace.” He youths, then released two doves from ther Pizzaballa said the search for peace itself too inflexible to have success
the Holy Land. At the Vatican, Pope did not specifically mention the unrest his apartment window as a sign of and freedom involves “not allowing on a political level, where consensus-
Benedict XVI marked the day with a in Egypt. peace. oneself to be dominated by passions.” building is needed. (CNS)

French religious sister reveals details of John Paul II miracle

PARIS, France, Jan. 20, 2011— Sister Marie’s request to step “you can do it, you can do it,” an interior joy and great peace.
The French religious sister, down was gently declined. Her Sister Marie recalled.
Vatican Briefing
Later I was surprised at the ges-
Marie Simon Pierre, has revealed superior invited Sr. Marie to She wrote illegibly on the tures I was able to make with my
new details about the miracle instead ask John Paul II’s inter- paper but thought, “Perhaps body,” she said.
that paved the way for John Paul cession for a cure. a miracle will happen if I just At the same time, she expe-
II’s May 1 beatification. “We experienced a deep believe.” rienced “a great urge to pray. Members named for new Vatican financial agency
Sister Marie spoke Jan. 14 change in her office that lasted “I left and went about my It was not a time set aside for Benedict XVI appointed Cardinal Attilio Nicora, currently
with both the French television for several minutes. It was great duties. That night I followed prayer but I prayed anyway,” head of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Holy
network KTOtv and the Italian peace and serenity, and I felt at my normal routine, eating din- the French sister recalled. See, as president of the newly created Financial Information
network RAI. She recalled that peace and so did she,” Sister ner with the community and She prayed before the taberna- Authority. The Pope also appointed on Jan. 19, the members
the miracle took place June 2, Marie revealed. joining in night prayers in the cle in the maternity ward chapel of the executive council of this new entity: Claudio Bianchi,
2005. “That morning,” she said, Her superior then asked her chapel,” Sister Marie said. When “with deep joy,” meditating on former professor of accounting at Rome’s La Sapienza Univer-
“I was totally disabled and could to write John Paul II’s name on she returned to her room, she the luminous mysteries of Pope sity; Marcello Condemi, associate professor of economic law
no longer go on.” a piece of paper, but the Parkin- forced herself to write and was John Paul II. at Rome’s G. Marconi University; Giuseppe Dalla Torre del
The sister said that she thought son’s disease had progressed surprised to see that she could At 6 a.m. the community at- Tempio di Sanguinetto, rector of Rome’s LUMSA University;
about calling the superior of her such that she was experiencing do so. tended Mass. “I realized that my and Cesare Testa, former president of the Central Institute for
community “to resign from severe trembling in her left arm. She slept well that night, with- left arm no longer was immobile the Sustenance of the Clergy. (Zenit)
my job at the maternity ward,” Her superior then suggested she out suffering her usual insomnia when I walked, but swung back
where she managed a number of try writing with her right hand. due to pain from the disease. At and forth normally. During the Pope firmly condemns Moscow airport attack
staff members. “I felt so terrible “I told her I couldn’t because 4:30 a.m. on June 3, she awoke Mass I became convinced that I Benedict XVI strongly condemned the Jan. 24 terrorist attack
and said to myself: I need to stop my right hand also trembled.” with a very different feeling. “I was cured,” Sister Marie said. at a Moscow airport, which took the lives of 35 people. He
and resign from serving.” However her superior insisted, was no longer the same. I had (CNA) also sent his deep condolences to the families of the victims.
The Pope joined with the Russian people and others mourning
the loss of their loved ones by sending a telegram to Russian
President Dmitry Medvedev. The telegram, sent by Vatican
Peoria diocese restarts Archbishop Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone in the Pope’s
name, said that the attack has caused Pope Benedict “profound

Fulton Sheen’s beatification cause

suffering” and that he firmly condemns this “serious act of
violence.” (CNA)

Muslim-Christian dialogue will continue despite

PEORIA, Illinois, Jan. 27, 2011—The Diocese Bishop Jenky received encouragement from
setback, says cardinal
of Peoria has resumed its promotion of Arch- cardinals, bishops and the faithful from
The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue will still
bishop Fulton Sheen’s cause for beatification around the world, and especially from
move forward in its efforts to promote Christian-Muslim
despite its dispute with the Archdiocese of within his own diocese,” she said. Bishop
dialogue despite the fact that top Muslim academics in Egypt
New York over the final resting place of the Jenky has asked the Vatican congregation
suspended talks with the Vatican. The head of the council,
great evangelist’s remains. for saints to help resolve the question of the
Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, said he believed the boycott
In November 2010 the diocese said it was tomb, while also definitively deciding to
could be resolved and that he was still scheduled to meet in
no longer in a position to continue its nine continue the foundation’s work to advance
February with Muslim academics from Cairo. (CNS)
years of work on Archbishop Sheen’s beatifi- Archbishop Sheen’s cause.
cation and canonization. The Archdiocese of Msgr. Stanley Deptula, executive direc-
Pope to police: Immorality can lead to insecurity
New York’s failure to transfer Sheen’s body tor of the Sheen Foundation, said he was
to a cathedral tomb in his hometown of Peo- “so happy” to see the foundation’s work A sense of insecurity in society can be caused in part by a
ria had upset the diocese and stalled plans to continue in Peoria. decay in the moral values that form the basis for laws and law
create a national shrine for him there. “Sheen was born in Peoria. His cause for enforcement, says Benedict XVI upon receiving in audience the
Now Bishop Daniel R. Jenky of Peoria has sainthood was begun in Peoria. And I look directors and officers of the Police Headquarters in Rome on
announced that the Archbishop Fulton John forward to seeing this good work completed Jan. 21, during which he thanked the public servants for their
Sheen Foundation has resumed its efforts to in Peoria,” he commented. work to make Rome a safe city. “The time in which we live
advance Sheen’s cause. Sheen has a significant history in both is suffused with profound changes,” he began. “Even Rome,
“After further consultation, and having Peoria and New York City. He first served which is rightly called the ‘Eternal City,’ is very changed and
heard the desire of the faithful to see the as an altar boy in Peoria’s cathedral and was evolves; we experience this every day and you are its privi-
cause advance, Bishop Jenky, as president ordained a priest for the diocese in 1919. leged witnesses.” (Zenit)
of the Sheen Foundation, is happy to work After international studies, he briefly served
with the postulator in Rome and is hopeful as a pastor there in 1926. Pope says St. Joan of Arc is model for Christian
www.catholicchurchsupply.com

that the cause will advance quickly,” the He was ordained as an auxiliary bishop politicians
foundation said in a Jan. 27 statement. in New York City in 1951 and broadcast his With her deep prayer life and total devotion to serving God
The foundation added that the Archdio- famous television program “Life is Worth Liv- and the good of her fellow citizens, St. Joan of Arc is a wonder-
cese of New York’s failure to fulfill a verbal ing” from there. He was Bishop of Rochester ful model for Christian politicians, Pope Benedict XVI said.
promise to transfer Sheen’s remains caused from 1966 until his 1969 retirement and he was “Hers is a beautiful example of holiness for laypeople involved
“great upset and even scandal among those buried in the crypt of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in in politics, especially in difficult situations. Faith is the light
who had so long supported the cause.” The New York City after his death in 1979. that guided all her choices,” the pope said Jan. 26 during his
people and clergy of the Diocese of Peoria Sheen was one of the first national televi- weekly general audience. The pope’s remarks about St. Joan
were “particularly distressed,” it said. sion personalities and an author of bestsell- were part of an ongoing series of audience talks about influ-
Patricia Gibson, chancellor of the Dio- atification effort “in light of the months of ing works on Christianity and Jesus Christ. ential Catholic women of the Middle Ages. (CNS)
cese of Peoria and an officer of the Sheen unresolved questions regarding the transfer More information about his life is available
Foundation, explained that Bishop Jenky of the remains.” at the Sheen Foundation website: http:// Lodging in Rome snapped up for JP II’s beatification
felt compelled at the time to pause the be- “Even though this issue remains unsettled, www.ArchbishopSheenCause.org (CNA) Rome is already bracing for the impact of the many pilgrims
who will converge on St. Peter’s for the May 1 beatification
of Pope John Paul II. Sleeping space in religious communities
Indian bishops meet priests to sort grievances across the city - around 15,000 beds - was booked up within
a day of the Jan. 14 announcement. The Domus Aurelia hotel
BHOPAL, India, Feb. 1, 2011—A CDPI secretary Father John Tamil Nadu-based bishop told of their legitimate needs. run by the Emmanuel Community has been reserved “since
meeting of bishops and priests in Kulandai, a special invitee to ucanews.com. “A priest who has got any literally two minutes after the announcement,” said Lorenzo
a central Indian state has helped the meeting, said the two groups The bishops have agreed to problem can approach their re- Amico, who was working the hotel desk at the time. The hotel
the two groups to understand discussed priests’ suggestion provide all helps the priests re- spective bishop as we are all part is located a short way from St. Peter’s on foot. (CNA)
each other, claims an official to have a uniform policy for quire to discharge their mission of the same family,” the prelate
of the Conference of Diocesan transfer and remuneration for a work effectively. told ucanews.com. Vatican plans colloquia, party for nonbelievers
Priests of India (CDPI). decent sustenance among other Although the two groups had He also said bishops would As part of a new initiative to promote dialogue between be-
Archbishop Leo Cornelio of things. discussed the issues earlier, the “always be available to their lievers and nonbelievers, the Pontifical Council for Culture is
Bhopal, who heads the Catholic Father Kulandai recommend- priests were unhappy as they priest to resolve their problems. planning three colloquia and a youth party in Paris. A Vatican
Church in Madhya Pradesh, ed fixing common parameters did not produce satisfactory “No bishop wants their priests communiqué announced the launch of the “Courtyard of the
convened the meeting yes- for the working conditions of results. to suffer,” he added. Gentiles,” an initiative proposed by Benedict XVI in an address
terday to sort out grievances priests across the country. Archbishop Cornelio told the Father Dominic Thomas, lead- to the Roman Curia at the end of 2009. It explained that this is
among priests regarding their “The meeting helped the bish- meeting that every bishop is sen- er of the priest’s regional forum, “a new permanent Vatican structure to promote dialogue and
maintenance and working ops and the priests to under- sitive to their priests’ needs and said they are happy with the out- encounter between believers and nonbelievers.” (Zenit)
conditions. stand each other’s needs,” the would do everything to take care come of the meeting. (UCAN)
 News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
A3

Benedict XVI: Evangelization without

solidarity for oppressed is unacceptable
VATICAN City, Jan. 25, 2011—It have forgotten or abandoned
is “unacceptable” to evangelize the Christian faith and are now
without addressing the urgent “resistant to opening themselves
Pope calls problems of poverty, injustice
and oppression, Pope Benedict
XVI said.
up” to the dimension of religion
and belief, it said.
Globalization and relativism

for Christian To not be concerned with life’s

temporal problems would be to
forget the Gospel teaching to
have fueled the spread of a men-
tality and a lifestyle that “exalts
the search for well-being and
love one’s neighbor who is suf- easy money and having one’s

presence on social fering and in need and “it would

not be in harmony with Jesus’
life,” which combined proclaim-
career and success be the goals
of life, even at the expense of
moral values,” the papal mes-
ing the Good News and curing sage said.
networking sites people of disease and illness,
the pope said in his message for
World Mission Sunday 2011.
Bringing the Gospel to every-
one is “the most precious service
the church can give to humanity
The annual observance will and to every individual on a
be marked Oct. 23 at the Vatican quest for profound reasons to
www.blog.fusionunlimited.co.uk

and in most countries. live life to the full,” it said.

In his message, released in But evangelization is “a com-
Italian Jan. 25 at the Vatican, the plex process” that includes soli-
pope focused on the responsibil- darity with those in need, the
ity of every baptized Christian to papal message said.
announce the Gospel message Catholics are called to support
to all men and women in every foreign missions and to promote
corner of the world. the human person, it said.
“We cannot remain untrou- Pope Paul VI underlined that
bled by the fact that after 2,000 is was “unacceptable that evan-
years, there are still people who gelization would ignore ques-
don’t know Christ and still have tions concerning human devel-

www.ilnostrotempo.it
not heard his message of salva- opment, justice and liberation
tion,” the pope said. from every form of oppression,
Just as important is the cul- obviously with respect for au-
tural transformation of tradi- tonomy in the political sphere,”
tionally Christian countries that it said. (CNS)
VATICAN City, Jan. 24, 2011—Facebook, MySpace and
Twitter should be used by Christians looking to bring “truth,
proclamation and authenticity of life” to the web today, the
Pope said in his message for the 45th World Day of Social
Communications.
In his message released on Jan. 24, the Pope called for a
For ‘I’ and for ‘us,’ Pope urges responsibility
greater Christian presence online in the midst of the “vast VATICAN City, Jan. 24, 2011— the Pontiff stressed “our pro-
cultural transformation” caused by the digital age. New tech- In his message for today’s found personal responsibility,
nologies, he said, are “giving birth to a new way learning and World Communications Day, both in the building of our ‘I’
thinking, with unprecedented opportunities for establishing Benedict XVI links digital com- as well as in encounters with
relationships and building fellowship.” munication with self-image and others.”
If technologies are used with wisdom, he explained, “they coherence. Archbishop Celli cited the
can contribute to the satisfaction of the desire for meaning, This commentary was pro- Holy Father when he said:
truth and unity which remain the most profound aspirations vided by the president of the “[A] person is always involved
of each human being.” Pontifical Council for Social in what he or she communi-
Pope Benedict also warned about the dangers of falsifying Communications, Archbishop cates. When people exchange
one’s online profile and creating a “parallel existence.” Claudio Celli, when he pre- information, they are already
He instead urged people to be authentic and faithful when sented the papal message at a sharing themselves, their view
they share information or make “friends” online. press conference today. of the world, their hopes, their
The “Christian way” of being present in the digital world Three other officials from ideals.”
means being “honest and open, responsible and respectful the council joined Archbishop The prelate also noted the
of others,” he explained. It is a way of communicating that is Celli in presenting the message, message’s reference to a Chris-
consistent with the Gospel, supported by actions worthy of delivered on today’s feast of St. tian style of Internet presence.
the same witness in one’s daily life. Francis de Sales, patron of com- “This,” he said, “is what gives
“New and more complex intellectual and spiritual horizons municators. meaning to the title [...] in the
(and) new forms of shared awareness” are opened up by new According to the archbishop, sense that the witness of Catho-
technologies and Christians are also called to proclaim their the papal message, titled “Truth, lic users cannot be exhausted in
faith in God in these spaces, the Pope said. Proclamation and Authenticity the simple treatment of religious
“Believers who bear witness to their most profound con- of Life in the Digital Age,” links topics, but is called to manifest
victions greatly help prevent the internet from becoming an “three important human aspects itself on the plane of concrete
instrument which depersonalizes people, attempts to ma- of today’s life: digital commu- personal witness. Coherence of
nipulate them emotionally or allows those who are powerful nication, image of oneself and life with the Gospel is itself a
to monopolize the opinions of others,” he said. coherence of life.” form of proclamation; an explic-
Christ’s truth is not a question of online popularity, the Pope “The communicative dynam- it communication which makes
added, rather, it is “the full and authentic response to that hu- ics in the digital world trigger the proclamation credible.”
man desire for relationship, communion and meaning which new ways of building one’s “More than ever,” Archbish-
is reflected in the immense popularity of social networks.” identity, and it is here that the op Celli concluded, “the need
www.d.yimg.com

While noting that “direct human relations” are always Pope’s call comes for coherence, to make the Gospel known in
essential to sharing the faith, he invited Christians to “confi- for authenticity,” he explained. its integrity must be manifested
dently and with an informed and responsible creativity, join Archbishop Claudio Celli
Digital proclamation as a distinct ‘sign’ of the digital
the network of relationships which the digital era has made According to the archbishop, era.” (Zenit)
possible.”

Journalist and anti-mining advocate slain in Palawan

Having a Christian presence online is based not only on
a desire to be there, but “because this network is an integral
part of human life,” he said.
The Pope’s message was presented during a press confer-
ence at the Holy See’s Press Office on Jan. 24, the feast of St. MANILA, Jan. 26, 2011—An environmen- Aquino government. fight against mining and corruption in the
Francis de Sales, patron saint of communications workers. tal advocate and broadcast journalist who Human rights advocates denounced the government.”
Archbishop Claudio Celli, president of the Pontifical was very vocal against mining in Palawan killing, even as they vowed to continue to “Palawan is struggling against mining
Council for Social Communications, led the presentation. He was killed on January 24 after his morning fight against mining in Palawan. now and a lot of individuals and groups
announced that the Vatican hopes to have a new communica- radio broadcast. Artiso Mandawa, Chairman of Ancestral come together to openly expose the is-
tions portal online by Easter. Dr. Gerardo Ortega, also a veterinarian, Land Domain Watch Network of Palawan sues of mining there. Ortega may have
It will provide a single multimedia site for easy access to was gunned down while in a store along (ALDAW) said they are seeking justice for been killed to silence the struggle against
the major media communications agencies of the Holy See, national highway in Palawan City. Ortega’s death. mining, but the fight will not end as long
such as the press office, Vatican Radio, the Vatican Television The slain journalist has been receiving “Ortega is a human rights and envi- as mining companies are scattered in the
Center, L’Osservatore Romano and Fides news. death threats since his radio program “Ra- ronmental advocate. For the past eleven Last Frontier—we will relentlessly fight
Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi, who was also matak” went on air in 2009 over DWAR, months, he has been very vocal against and claim our right for land and a secure
among those present for the presentation, also announced that a local affiliate of Radyo Mo nationwide, mining; he also exposed bribery in the environment,” Garganera said.
during a Feb. 10 celebration for the 80-year anniversary of the Ortega’s daughter Mika claimed. government especially in the endorsement Meanwhile, a suspect named Marlon De
radio station, he will launch a feature called “VaticanTic” on Ortega is the 142nd journalist killed since of mining,” he said. Macata (a.k.a. Marvin Alcaraz) has been
the station’s website. The tool will allow users to view the 1986, according to the National Union Jaybee Garganera, Alyansa Tigil Mina arrested and is now under the custody
Pope’s schedule. (CNA/EWTN News) of Journalists of the Philippines. He was national coordinator also lamented Or- of the National Bureau of Investigation.
the third journalist murdered under the tega’s death, calling him “a comrade in the (CBCPNews)

Religious leaders call for mining ban in Romblon

MANILA, Jan. 22, 2011—Local church Southern Baptist Church, Jesus is Lord, destroys the environment, our morality,

Church strengthens NFP campaign

leaders are calling for mining ban in the United Methodist Church and Pente- [and] our relationships.”
province of Romblon claiming that the costals. “Lives and livelihoods of the people
industry destroys people’s lives and United Methodist Pastor Hermie Alle- are sacrificed for the benefit of the cho-
their relationship with one another, the ra, who is also REFAM vice-chairman sen few,” Runer, who is also adviser of
environment and God. said it is a moral obligation for everyone REFAM added. MANILA, Jan. 25, 2011—The Catholic them enough opportunity.
Msgr. Ernie Nonato V. Fetalino, HP, to be stewards of creation. “One life sacrificed is enough to Church is stepping up its campaign The seminar entitled “Appreciat-
chairman of Romblon Ecumenical Fo- “…[It] is a life-long commitment for awaken us. Every mineral in our prov- against contraception by increasing ing the Gift of NFP” is scheduled on
rum Against Mining (REFAM) said that all and God has given us the wisdom ince is now tainted with the blood of its efforts to promote natural family Feb. 8 and 22 at the San Carlos Semi-
human beings are called to be stewards and rational mind to weigh [its] advan- Councilor Armin Rios Marin, the first planning (NFP). nary Auditorium in Makati City.
of the earth, and as such, should not tages and disadvantages,” he said. Romblomanon martyr,” continued In Manila, priests and religious will It will be facilitated by the John
abuse it. Southern Baptist Church Pastor Edsel Fabriquer. undergo a reorientation seminar on Paul II Natural Family Planning
He stressed that their opposition to Falcunitin said mining cannot be done Ivanhoe Philippines Inc., a wholly- NFP for them to be more effective Center of the Commission on Fam-
mining is “in response to emerging in the island because it will destroy the owned unit of Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. of in convincing couples to practice the ily and Life of the Archdiocese of
issues such as global warming and island’s rich biodiversity. Canada, is applying for more 15,000 method. Manila.
climate change, further resulting to The whole island of Tablas has been hectares on Tablas Island for gold and The church is not only stressing “This is part of our pro-active re-
massive imbalance in nature.” designated as Conservation Priority copper exploration comprising areas that artificial contraception violates sponse to the challenge of fostering a
“Mining at this time, as observed and Area for amphibians, arthropods and in the municipalities of Odiongan, San Catholic teaching but that it harms genuine civilization of life and love,”
presently implemented, goes beyond reptiles, he said. Andres, Calatrava, San Agustin, Sta. women’s bodies and the environ- Rosales said.
environmental, economic and human “We are [also] vulnerable to disasters Maria, Alcantara and Looc. ment. The cardinal stressed the need for
rights issues, it now becomes a spiritual- such as typhoons and earthquakes be- A mining moratorium is currently in ef- In a circular dated Jan. 17, Manila the seminar on NFP as discussions
moral issue,” he explained. cause of Tablas fault,” he furthered. fect within the island. Romblon Governor Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal and debates on the controversial
REFAM is composed of the Roman For his part Aglipayan church Bishop Eduardo C. Firmalo, on January 10 signed Rosales called on his priests to attend Reproductive Health (RH) bill are
Catholic Church, Iglesia Filipiniana Runel Fabriquer called the mining an executive order declaring a mining mor- the seminar set on two dates to give heating up. (CBCPNews)
Independiente, Foursquare Church, industry as an “institutional evil for it atorium in the province. (CBCPNews)
 A4 Opinion CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

EDITORIAL

Dialogues

PRO-LIFERS in this part of the world have been watching

with keen interest, and some understandably with skepticism,
the dialogues between Malacañang and the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) which started on
November 19, 2010 and second-rounded on January 24,
2011.
Last January 31, however, when the CBCP released a pastoral
letter titled “Choosing Life, Rejecting the RH Bill” speculations
were on the run regarding the possibility of discontinuing such
dialogues. The pastoral letter stated: “Sadly our dialogue has
simply revealed how far apart our respective positions are.
Therefore, instead of building false hopes, we wish at the
present time to draw up clearly what we object to and what
we stand for.”
Admittedly, the public perception was that the dialogues
were heading towards softening the church’s position on
pro-life issues by coming up with “common grounds” that
delicately tread on the path of compromise and diplomacy.
This observation was cemented when the spokespersons of
both parties decided to face the press with the information
that henceforth they would “together” educate the public on
life issues. This one has sent shivers not only to a few pro-
lifers.

Illustration by Bladimer Usi

The supporters of the Reproductive Health Bill must have been
enthralled with such growing perception. In fact, the media
spin of late was already about Malacañang celebrating with
the happy developments and, seemingly, the coming up of a
“new” label such as “responsible parenthood” was to be proof
of a strategic concession.
But truth to tell, the church teachings are non-negotiable.
And, contrary to perceptions, the CBCP was not about to
do that. Neither was there any intent to proselytize the other
camp. Dialogue has always been the language of the Church Oscar V. Cruz, DD

Pro-poor yet pro-wrong

even in the midst of other religions, political groups or other
vital environments. In John Paul II’s missionary encyclical
Redemptor Hominis, for instance, the Church recognizes the
important role of dialogue in her ministry. In the history of
her dialogues with other religions such as Islam, the Church
Views and Points
has never compromised any of her magisterial treasures. It has
always been in view of mutual understanding and enrichment “The State recognizes the sanctity riage that however rests voidable be broken, how many families that can be readily staged and
that the Church would go into the thick of dialogue especially of family life and shall protect and through subsequent annulment can be abandoned by somebody even deliberately recorded for
in the spirit and impetus of the Second Vatican Council. strengthen the family as a basic au- by post factum reasons—such by getting annulments one after intentionally destroying family
Besides, the Church is both a mother and a teacher. And so tonomous social institution.” as infidelity, violence, aban- another. Finally, on the ground life, for getting rid of families
is the CBCP. (Phil. Constitution, Section 12). donment and psychological reality proves that anyone found and having new ones.
incapacity. There is the ease of guilty of infidelity, violence, And here comes a “Bill” filed
MARRIAGE is categorically not committing adultery, or the op- abandonment or considered supposedly with the noble inten-
a mere contract that can be done tion to stage spousal violence, or belabored by psychological tion and impressive purpose of
away with at the instance of the decision to abandon a marital incapacity, does not even meet helping the poor—a misused
either or both parties. Marriage partner, or the readiness to ad- the fundamental requirement and overused political mani-
is definitely not like using a car mit psychological incapacity— for institutional marriage intents festo. What is wrong cannot be
Corruption—the rejection of moral and that one can easily get rid of in specifically and conveniently to and purposes. made right just even in an in-
order to look for a better looking obtain marriage annulment for a There is something funda- stance where a measure is eco-
religious truths one. Marriage is definitely an cost or but a whistle. nomically cheap. Furthermore,
mentally wrong with this pic-
institution in the order of nature Furthermore, there is also the ture: Sanctity of family life plus most of those seeking “Marriage
AT the foundation of the moral society is a central religious and thus recognized accordingly key question of how many mar- protection and strengthening Annulment” are counted among
truth—our divine origin and our divinely-given identity as by the 1987 Philippine Constitu- riages can someone enter into of the family as an autonomous moneyed people. With the provi-
persons. God created our inmost self, our inmost being, and tion as nothing less than a State and subsequently annul—for basic social institution on one sions not only on marriage nul-
knit us in our mother’s womb. We come from God. We are Policy. any of the above cited grounds. hand, and possible marriage lity but also marriage annulment
created by God. Our capacity to understand truth and to love, Meantime, there is the provi- Then, there is furthermore the big annulments on the other hand, plus divorce (Family Code Art.
our capacity to have compassion for the weak and for the sion of an ab initio valid mar- concern of how many homes can on account of several reasons 26)—why get married at all?
feeble—these are divinely-endowed wonders of ourselves, of
the persons that we are, wonderfully created unto God’s image
and likeness. To respect God’s creative act and to be true to Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
God’s image are at the heart of being moral persons.
Youth speak against
Love Life
Real corruption is moral and spiritual corruption. The rejection
or disregard of morality and religious belief is at the core of
corruption. Moral and spiritual corruption breeds its kind in the RH Bill
other spheres of life—political, social, and economic.
Therefore, to get rid of corruption at all levels of life we as a ONE of the greatest consolations of a teacher I say this becuse I believe that you can sufferings that any wrong decision we make
people must acknowledge our origin from the creative power
of God and must be true to our identity as created unto God’s is to know that the students really did pick save our country from the menace of the now might bring. One example is the absence
image and likeness. This moral truth is at the very foundation up the teachings, values and commit to action RH Bill. I know that you come from a good of teaching values in the so-called “sex edu-
of a civilization of truth and love, a humane society, a moral what one has shared with them in the class- and God-fearing family. I know that as the cation.” Why give incomplete teaching and
society. To disregard moral and religious truths such as this is room. I received a batch of letters forwarded President, you would know how to solve knowledge about sex to elementary pupils?
to be defenseless to the onslaught of corruption. In brief, we to me by Jennifer Bermudez of Rosehill School major problems in the country without It talks only about sex being “safe from
have to restore and secure the moral heritage that governs us for Girls, one of the participants in the Pro-life resorting to immorality such as artificial pregnancy” by resorting to contraceptives
as persons, our social relationships, and our institutions. Training Seminar on Human Sexuality last birth-control and trampling on family rights and other unnatural means. I feel very bad
summer. I chose only a couple but each letter and discriminating children and poisoning about it; what more the parents? Children
All the faithful, clergy religious and laity, and all our religious was indeed proof how insightful the students their young minds with “sex information” and young people will just be more curious
institutions are called to proclaim these moral and religious were on the evil of the RH Bill. about contraceptives. about sex. It will only make them want to
truths. It is our divine mission. Our action or lack of action This first one was addressed to the Presi- Now that you have full control over the know more and do something prohibited
might sometimes, sadly, contradict our call and weaken our dent, and I was told that the students did nation, please Mr. President, stop the RH by moral standards.
credibility. But realizing this with the deepest sorrow we send out the letters to him, the media, and Bill, end all corruption and violence. That’s May I appeal to the lawmakers to think care-
nonetheless cannot abdicate our duty and mission. We have to congress. one thing I pray to God. Follow your heart, fully about the possible outcomes of RH Bill.
to vigorously proclaim truth and integrity, combat corruption,
“Good day, Mr. President! open your eyes, and make a good decision. Once they push it, it would be very hard to stop
and help build up a moral society.
I just want to comment on the RH Bill. Our Good luck, Mr. President and God bless it, like what’s happening in Japan, France, etc.
But the fight against moral and spiritual corruption in our country will be a lot better if you find another you always! where there are no more children and babies
society is not only the duty of the Church. It is also the duty solution. I believe that it is not the popula- HAZEL ANN HUGO (Facebook: ann_ but an ageing population. So please think care-
of the government. This is clear from the Constitution: “The tion that brings our country down, but the [email protected])” fully over and over again before making any
government is to support parents in rearing the youth in the corrupt people. Why? Because they steal And another one addressed to media. decision about the RH Bill – or it would anni-
development of moral character...,” (Art 2, sec. 12) “…in the taxpayers’ money for jueteng, gambling “As a student, why am I against the RH hilate our nation. Respectfully,CHRYSTELLE
the youth’s physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social and other illegal activities. Unfortunately, Bill? Do I have to care about this issue? JHOY BACILE, 16 years.”
well-being,” (sec. 13) “…in the school’s role in ethical and many of them are high-ranking officials. Does this have something to do with me? Can you imagine if each and every teacher
spiritual values, development of moral character and personal If they pass the RH Bill into law, the poor Of course, and a lot. We all know that the in every school in our country could just
discipline.” (Art. 14, sec. 3) people would have even more miserable decisions we make now will affect future influence our youth to imbibe these sacred
Securing our Moral Heritage: lives while the corrupt continue to be corrupt generations, the children who will be born values of respect for life and sexuality and
Towards a Moral Society, 2010 and richer, too. after us. We should not let them inherit the marriage?

Fr. James H. Kroeger, MM

Becoming “Ordinary”
Living Mission Saints
www.cbcpmonitor.com
[email protected]

ORDINARY time has begun. Yes, life—yes, into the ordinary. Taking on human flesh and And yet, we realize that our
each year, usually during the Yet, there is a profound con- blood (our ordinary humanity) lives—life itself—are filled with
middle of January, the Church’s nection between the major feasts was God’s design in Jesus, so routine, repetitive, monotonous,
“liturgical season” moves to of the Christmas season and that “he should in this way be- ordinary activities. Herein lies
“ordinary time” or the “period ordinary, daily life. Because come completely like his broth- our vocation and mission, our
Pedro C. Quitorio Kris Bayos throughout the year.” This series of Christ’s coming, no time is ers and sisters, so that he could spirituality; we are called to be
Features Editor of 34 weeks, two-thirds of the 52- ordinary; all time takes on new be a compassionate and faithful “saints of the ordinary.” We are
Editor-in-Chief
week calendar year, is devoted meaning and significance. Seem- high priest…. Because he himself called to walk the unspectacular
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Gloria Fernando to reflection on the mystery of ingly ordinary, daily life and was tested by what he suffered, path to sanctity.
Christ and our mission of daily everyday existence have been he is able to help those who are Mother Teresa of Calcutta
PUBLICATION LAYOUT BY KRIS BAYOS

Associate Editor Marketing Supervisor

living our faith. profoundly transformed; they being tested” (Heb. 2:17-18). has said: “We cannot do great
Melo M. Acuña Ernani M. Ramos “Ordinary Time” appears so have become Christic, renewed Profound and fantastic! Over- things; we can only do ordinary
Managing Editor Circulation Manager common, humdrum, routine, and transformed in Christ. In- whelming and humbling! Beau- things with great love.” Thérèse
prosaic; it implies the unevent- deed, for perceptive, reflective tiful and meaningful! Human of Lisieux, the saint of the “little
Roy Q. Lagarde Marcelita Dominguez ful, the “nothing special” season Christians, no time is simply language can only stammer and way,” developed a spirituality
News Editor Comptroller
of the year. And, it begins so ordinary. God makes all things stutter; it fails to capture the of ordinariness in which one
abruptly, after about three full new in Christ. depth and significance of the offers each moment to God. Her
weeks of major liturgical feasts The first scripture reading for Incarnation, God’s being for us, famous title, “the Little Flower,”
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Communica- (Christmas, Holy Family, Mary: the initial weeks of “ordinary with us, one of us. No longer is derives from her self-image
tions Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and business offices Mother of God, Epiphany, Santo time” in 2011 is from the Letter life “ordinary,” in the sense of as only one among millions of
at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. Niño, etc.). “Ordinary Time” ar- to the Hebrews; it repeatedly lacking profound importance; ordinary, little flowers on the
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612.; ISSN 1908-2940 every day is a day of mission, a
rives; it seems so anticlimactic. emphasizes that Jesus has totally hillside, each giving its all in joy
We settle into regular, daily shared our ordinary existence. day of living in Christ’s life. Living Mission / A5
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
Opinion A5
Fr. Roy Cimagala
Technology Commentary
Candidly Speaking revolutionizes piety Mary Hasson

LAST Christmas, someone gave capture ideas more quickly and ally be a sweet poison to us. factors that also mark our life.
me an MP4 player. It’s a small
electronic gadget that stores a
to explore them more deeply
and widely.
This is because things depend
on how our mind works, what
We might simply follow the
requirements of practicality, Tiger Mother and her
critics: both wrong
tremendous load of material for All of a sudden, my time for motivations move us, what ob- profitability and popularity, and
listening. To the young, it has driving, commuting, waiting jectives we want to pursue. If we forget about morality that tries to
become an irresistible apparatus, in terminals for my boat or are not properly grounded, we conform our life to God´s will.
a must-have. It’s where they can plane rides has acquired a more can appear to do a lot of things For example, politicians may AMY Chua, the now infamous “Tiger Mother,“ delivered her
have their fill of music in the substantial and meaningful di- and yet end up with nothing. We just think about what will get parenting manifesto two weeks ago in a Wall Street Journal
most convenient way. mension. Instead of just trying can think we are gaining, when them more votes, at the expense article headlined “Why Chinese Mothers are Superior.” The
I know there are many other to pass the time, snoozing or in fact we are losing. of what is objectively good article, excerpted from her book, “The Battle Hymn of the
more powerful and sophisti- struggling to read and stay away We have to understand that for the people. We have to be Tiger Mother,” outraged American moms.
cated gadgets like the Ipod, from distractions, I now have a the reality that governs us is warned about this predicament Circling about, sometimes snarling, American mommy-
Iphone, etc., but they are still good way of keeping my mind, not simply a physical, mate- that can likely fall on us if we are cats pounced on the Tiger’s arguments, shredding them
beyond my reach. heart and soul in focus. I can rial reality. Neither is it only not careful. with sharpened claws. Bewildered and a bit scratched up,
When you see a teener wired now say goodbye to these idle intellectual which already gives That´s why, the tremendous Chua has been in defensive mode ever since, appealing for
with earphones, looking hypno- time-fillers. us infinite possibilities of sce- practical advantages offered to parents to see her book as a “personal memoir about her
tized but with sudden twitches In fact, even in my time meant narios, always malleable and us now by our growing technol- own struggles with child-rearing” not as “judgment on any-
on his face or jerks in his shoul- for serious study and prayer, ever morphing. ogy, like the MP4 player, should body else.” Chua’s daughter even came to her beleaguered
ders or legs, you can be sure he I sometimes use it, since it fa- Our ultimate reality lies on always be related to God. We mother’s defense, publishing a warm letter thanking her
is in his own world, enjoying cilitates things. Yes, it´s truly how we develop our relation just cannot get stuck at the level mom for parenting her, Tiger style.
music. He is either singing or a blessing as long as one has with God our Creator and Fa- of fascination because of the One thing’s for sure. Chua’s book has sparked an Ameri-
dancing in his mind or simply mastered the appropriate dis- ther. That´s because our spiritual novelty it offers, the convenience can conversation about children, their parents, and the
dreaming. cipline and has a clear sense of faculties of intelligence and will and practicality it gives. We elusive notion of “success.” What have we learned?
But I have discovered that it is purpose. Otherwise, I know it that put us into a subjective should relate them to God. First, that we are utterly confused, as a society, about what
a good instrument to help me in will dominate me and can lead world in the end have a begin- At the very least, we can thank “good parenting” means. And second, following from the
my prayer. There I download the me to unknown and dangerous ning and an end, and these can God for them. After all, the hu- first, we don’t really know what defines “success.” What do
gospel, the Holy Rosary, homi- destinations. only be God. man ingenuity that produced we really want for our children?
lies of famous saints, the psalms, This discovery has also made I just hope that we can be more them comes from God. These
etc. I’m still in the process of me realize that though we can be aware of this truth about us. new things should bring us The Tiger method
gathering more materials. swimming in an ocean of images, Very often, we get stuck in the closer to God and to one another, For Amy Chua, a law professor at Yale University, her
Instead of reading them, I just data and information, thanks physical and material dimen- instead of distancing us from children’s success is all about high academic and musical
listen to them. It’s a more relax- again to the high tech we have sion of our life, and then in the Him and putting us in self- achievement. Her “Tiger” method produces nothing less
ing way of learning, thinking now, the media and publicity purely biological, emotional and absorption. than perfection, in classroom and concert hall.
and praying, since it frees me work that has gone ballistic, we psychological level. From here, let´s try to discern What ignited the firestorm surrounding Chua’s book
from some eye and intellectual can manage to get nothing, or Or we just play the game of what God´s purpose is for these is her thesis: she asserts that, unlike “Western” mothers,
strain, and allows my mind to worse, something that can actu- the social, political and economic new powerful things. “Chinese” mothers produce successful kids—perfect stu-
dents and musical prodigies—because their parents expect
perfection and force the habits that produce it. She scorns
Teresa R. Tunay, OCDS the permissive parenting model where children make their
own decisions and quit when things get tough (like when

Is truth red or white? …and that’s the truth

they need to practice or study more).
In fact, Chua sneers at how Americans’ preoccupation
with a child’s “self-esteem” prevents parents from cor-
recting the child or insisting on better results. In contrast,
the Chinese “solution to substandard performance” is “to
WHEN I was about to finish high school, begins at fertilization. Congressmen and truth? Just for the record, I engaged my 10- excoriate, punish, and shame the child. The Chinese parent
one of the courses I wanted to take up at col- senators are supposedly learned, right? year old grandniece, a Grade 5 pupil, what believes that their child will be strong enough to take the
lege was Law. Being young, I wanted to be So why would a number of them—now she thinks of this issue. Her verdict: human shaming and to improve from it.”
many things—doctor, nurse, painter, ballet that the controversy over the RH Bill is life begins at fertilization. How could she be Chua also argues that parents must firmly control their
dancer, writer, and lawyer. To all of those I seething hot—prolong the controversy by so sure it’s human? “Because it is humans child’s upbringing: require hours of music practice and
felt I wanted to become, my father had objec- clinging to this silly argument that human that produced the embryo.” And how could rote drills, limit leisure and friendships, and reject interest-
tions, but the strongest was against Law. He life begins only when the fertilized egg she say the embryo has life? “Because if it’s driven extracurriculars to ensure more time for music or
would say, “Yang mga abugado, magaling latches on to the uterine wall? Doesn’t our dead it will stop growing.” Bravo! She read- studies.
magsinungaling ang mga iyan! Ang puti, Constitution say that the life of the unborn ily agreed that if “that thing” were dead, it The bottom line: rules and more rules, work and more
ginagawang pula, at ang pula, ginagawang begins at the moment of conception—that cannot move anymore, much less travel to work, breed success. In the end, the thinking goes, Chinese
puti!” (Lawyers are good at telling lies. They is, when the sperm and the ova meet and attach itself to the uterine wall. Smart girl. children will be forever grateful to their parents.
make red, white, and white, red!) Naïve as produce a new entity? I cannot believe that Over a “high five”, we declared the embryo
I was, I didn’t get what he meant, nor did I lawmakers are ignorant of the Constitu- is human and not canine or feline or anything The Western pushback
bother to understand what it implied. I was tion. Having done some sleuthing into this else, and it definitely possesses life because What do Western parents want? Happy kids. Kids who
barely 15 then. issue I’m more inclined to suspect there it is growing. Ergo, human life begins at feel good about themselves and who achieve their full po-
Now, 50 years later, the controversy is another reason they espouse a strange fertilization. tential. It’s a model that has its own problems.
over when human life begins reminds me point of view. See how simple it is? The truth, unadorned Not surprisingly, Chua’s critics reject her methods as bru-
of my father’s words about lawyers then. Even a grade schooler who’s been through and undistorted by human manipulation, tal and off-base. Business executives deride her approach,
I beg your pardon, but for the life of me, biology class knows the truth about the seen without the help of a microscope. Or saying its emphasis on individual achievement and solitary
I cannot understand why supposedly beginning of human life, so how could so- of people who make red, white, and white, pursuit of perfection stunts leadership abilities and fails to
learned men now deny that human life phisticated adults be blind to such glaring red. And that’s the truth. instill teamwork. The Tiger Method, they argue, also stifles
initiative, independence, and creativity—qualities highly
valued by Americans. As workers, then, her children’s
potential may be limited.
Atty. Aurora A. Santiago Chua’s socio-economic assumptions drew fire as well.

The gift of life

Parents note the costs of lessons and tutoring—options
unaffordable for many families. Similarly, the time commit-
Duc in Altum ment is an impossible luxury for single parents or parents
of large families.
Back in the mommy world, Chua earns scathing criticism
for the harsh rebukes and insults she hurled at her two
THE greatest and most precious The Proclamation acknowl- all people that there is a need UN Avenue Ermita, Manila. daughters. She rejected their gifts—homemade birthday
blessing is the gift of life. Are we edged that “available statistics to become proactive in this war Registration Fee: 300.00. For cards—because they represented less than the girls’ best
not glad that every time we wake detail the frightening losses of against this death-dealing no- details, please contact Pro-life efforts. Appalled, her critics wonder how can Chua’s daugh-
up, we find ourselves living innocent human lives by abor- tions and anti-life schemes.” Secretariat: Lhot Perez 733-7027, ters possibly feel good about themselves?
in this world and appreciating tion”. Telefax 734-9425, 0919-233-7783 The Tiger mindset also minimizes legitimate human
the rewards that the Lord has Thus, the promulgation pur- *** or email [email protected] needs—like friendship. Chua adamantly refuses to let her
given us? ports “to instill the value and Several Pro-Life Month’s Ac- girls have playdates and sleepovers. Fatigue and frustration
Acknowledging this God-giv- sacredness of human life, in tivities are lined up: Feb. 01 *** are simply obstacles on the way to perfection, whether that’s
en gift, the late President Cora- the minds and hearts of the – 12:15 p.m., Eucharistic Cel- We condemn the perpetrators a perfect test score or a flawless performance. The Western
zon C. Aquino issued Proclama- Filipino people and thereby ebration at the North Wing of of the tragic EDSA Buendia Bus mind worries, however, that she’s creating robots.
tion No. 214 on February 03, 1988 help reverse the above statisti- the House of Representatives, Blast last Tuesday. Their das- Finally, on the lighter side, Chua’s demand for three hours
which declares the 2nd week of cal trend; it becomes imperative Most Rev. Paciano Aniceto, pre- tardly act disregards the value of music practice brought laughs from one mom I know, who
February 1988, and every year to set aside a period of time sider. Feb. 06 – 9:30 a.m., Pro-Life of human lives and its effect on shook her head knowingly, “Chinese kids clearly don’t play
thereafter, as “Respect and Care for them to ponder; and focus Sunday Eucharistic Celebration the family of the victims. They the trumpet. Mine do. Three hours? I’d go mad.”
for Life Week”. The Department attention on their moral and at EDSA Shrine, Rev. Fr. Le- are out to spread fear and ter-
of Social Welfare and Develop- constitutional obligations to onilo Mangusad, presider. Feb. ror to the general public. The Flawed assumptions
ment and Pro-Life Philippines, protect human life or one’s 10 – 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. onwards, improvised explosive device, Is the measure of successful parenting whether our child
and other involved entities or inherent right to life.” Healing Mass, Rev. Fr. George an 81mm mortar, which they achieves her full potential? If so, then both Chua and her
organizations are enjoined to In this connection, the Chair- Moreno, OP and Rev. Fr. Vi- planted inside the bus, intends critics have something to teach us.
lead the celebration. man of CBCP Episcopal Com- cente Cajilig, OP at Sto. Domingo to kill and cause serious physical Western parents often fail to set high expectations. Or they
The late President based the mission on Family and Life, Church, Quezon Ave., Q.C. Feb. injuries to the passengers. The may deliver a steady diet of unearned praise and instant
Proclamation on the United Most Rev. Paciano B. Aniceto, 13 – 2 p.m., Subic Marian Regatta citizenry must be observant of gratification, undercutting the child’s ability to persevere
Nations’ Declaration on Rights D.D., declared February as a Prayer Rally at Boardwalk, Subic people and things in their sur- through tedious or difficult work. And parents who abdicate
of the Child which provides Pro-Life Month, with this year’s Bay, Olongapo City. Feb. 25 – 8 roundings. Suspicious people their authority create underachieving kids. Chua is right on
that “the child by reason of his theme “Filipinos, Fight for a.m. to 4 p.m., Pro-Life Confer- and unattended baggages must those points.
physical and mental immaturity, Life”. The Archbishop stated ence for the Laity at Insular Life be reported to the authorities. At the same time, my heart cringes at Chua’s reported
needs special safeguards and that “we tend to forget to ap- Auditorium, Insular Life Drive The government, on the other harshness. Berating and belittling injure relationships.
care, including appropriate legal preciate the opportunity of Filinvest Corporate City, 1781 hand, must exercise its police Encouragement spurs achievement more powerfully than
protection, before as well as after living among God’s beloved Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Feb. power and implement police criticism does, in my book. So too do good friends. And
death.” creations when countless of 26 – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pro-Life visibility to protect the life and allowing a child to follow her interests may ignite her stron-
She likewise based the Proc- babies succumb to abortion, Symposia for the Youth and limbs of the people. We condole gest passion yet, leading to her greatest achievements. On
lamation on Section 12, Art. II when a number of people are Church Leaders, Ynares Sta- with the families of those who these issues, the critics are right and Chua is wrong.
of the Constitution of the Phil- doomed to be handicapped, dium, Shaw Boulevard, Pasig unfortunately lost their lives. But the real flaw in Chua’s manifesto—and in her critics’
ippines, which provides that and when lives perish due to City, Registration Fee: P200.00 We hope that this treacherous responses—is how they define parenting success. Achieve-
“it is the policy of the State to sickness, hunger, and war… (exclusive of meals). Feb. 27 – 8 act will not destabilize the peace ment is great, but it’s not the end game. It’s an inadequate
protect the life of the mother now more than ever is the time a.m. to 12 p.m., Pro-Life Phils. and order situation and will not measure of human success or flourishing.
and the life of the unborn from to unite and fight… in order to National Convention, at Pope badly affect the economic devel- I remember a few years back when an Olympic swimmer
conception.” send a strong message among Pius XII Catholic Center, 1175 opment of the country. graced the front of my Wheaties box. The back of the box
listed interview questions and her responses.
One stood out: Q: “Who’s your hero?” A: “I am.”
Living Mission / A5 Here was a champion swimmer who had pushed herself
to reach her full potential, winning an Olympic medal in
and praise to God. The Holy Family itself tinderas, teachers). If only we had open eyes God’s presence in the commonplace, routine
the process. Admirable, certainly. But she could think of no
lived thirty years, mostly in Nazareth, in and sensitive hearts, seeing God’s presence events of our daily life.
greater hero in her life, in history, than herself?
simplicity, hiddenness, and obscurity. in the daily, the ordinary! We are ordinary people. Your life, my life,
In my book, her arrogant self-absorption represented a
Closer to home, we recall our own moth- Many Christians follow that beautiful tra- is very ordinary; it will most probably re-
huge parenting failure, no matter how great her Olympic
ers and fathers; they are truly “saints of dition of praying the morning offering when main very ordinary and commonplace. Yet,
achievement. Great achievement, without an underlying
the ordinary.” Mothers prepare meals, do they awake each day: “O Jesus, through the we are invited to fill the ordinary with God’s
vision for character development and deeper human pur-
laundry, care for children, say their prayers Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you all my transforming presence. It is our path of holi-
pose, can be the product of narcissistic drives, greed, or
over and over and over again. Fathers labor prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this ness, our way of “living mission.” Honestly,
self-absorption. And there’s nothing good about that.
daily as clerks, security guards, farmers, of- day…, in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the I like feasts and celebrations; I also appreciate
fice workers (often even in times of sickness); Mass throughout the world….” In a word, “ordinary time” very much; that is where I
The ultimate goal
their care of the family is a constant concern. all the ordinary activities of the day (prayers, feel comfortable. It is precisely through the
Missing from Chua’s work—and the comments of her
We are all served by people doing ordinary works, joys, and sufferings) are offered and ordinary that I hope to reach that sublime
Commentary / A7
jobs (drivers, gardeners, postal workers, intended to become avenues of experiencing goal: being an “ordinary” saint!
 Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

Cardinal seeks speedy justice for bus blast victims

A RANKING Catholic prelate always denounce such acts as it
has demanded speedy justice
Thursday for the victims of
Tuesday’s bomb attack on a pas-
violates one of the fundamental
laws of God, which is “thou shall
not kill”.
Bishops vary
senger bus in Makati City.
Manila Archbishop Gauden-
cio Cardinal Rosales called on
“Their language is different.
Their way is wrong… inhuman!”
said Rosales said. “It’s useless.”
opinion on
the government to do everything
to bring the perpetrators before
Last January 25, an 81-mm mor-
tar round with a cellular phone as
Charter change
the bar of justice. triggering device ripped through CATHOLIC bishops have differ-
“It is the duty of the authority a bus traversing the corner of Edsa ing persuasion over the revived
and the government officials to and Gil Puyat Avenue killing five talks on amending the 1987
get the perpetrators and help and injuring 13 others. Constitution.
the victims,” Rosales said over Authorities have begun nar- While they are united in faith
church-run Radyo Veritas. rowing in on angles of terrorism and moral issues, the bishops
The cardinal also called on the and extortion as the possible mo- interviewed over church-run
faithful to join families, relatives tives of the bombing attacks. Radyo Veritas have different
and friends of the victims of the For Rosales, the perpetrators opinions on the proposed Char-

© Roy Lagarde / CBCPMedia

bomb attack in their moments should have used other avenues ter change.
of grief. if they want to send any message Cubao Bishop Honesto Ong-
He said the archdiocese would instead of using violence. tioco said it would be better
also lead in praying for the casu- “We want a country with if Cha-cha would be set aside
alties of the incident which he responsible citizens and against first and focus on other urgent
described as “inhumane.” violence… who don’t kill peo- issues first.
The church, Rosales said, will ple,” he said. (CBCPNews) Rosales
“Maybe we should think first
how corruption, poverty, po-

6 Lebanon-bound
litical dynasties and land reform

Gov’t urged to reveal ‘real’ state of rice industry

issues should be addressed,”

fake nuns nabbed

Ongtioco said.
A prelate from Mindanao also
echoed Ongtioco’s concern say-
THE Aquino administration has been urged to disclose real One way to do it, he said, is for the government to ing there are more issues that
IMMIGRATION agents arrested on January state of the country’s rice industry. implement effectively the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform needs immediate attention than
27 six Filipino women in nun’s habits who Fr. Anton Pascual, executive director of Caritas Manila, Program Extension with Reforms in the next five years and Charter change.
attempted to leave for Lebanon where they said it’s ironic that an agricultural country like the Philip- identify areas that will champion in rice production like the “Not now. Government should
planned to work as domestic helpers. pines is experiencing rice shortage. Nueva Ecija province. eliminate first the widespread
The women were reportedly about to “For the government, let’s be transparent about the situa- President Aquino on January 19, bared an alleged irregu- poverty and environment deg-
board a Cebu Pacific flight to Hong Kong tion of our rice industry why we are running out of supply,” larities and overpricing in the National Food Authority’s radation,” said Marbel Bishop
when they were stopped at the departure Pascual said over church-run Radio Veritas. (NFA) private sector-financed rice imports under the Ar- Dinualdo Gutierrez.
of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s “The bottomline is that ours is an agricultural country royo administration. Baguio Bishop Carlito Cenzon,
terminal 3. so we should be self-sufficient on basic products especially It appears, the President also said, that only one person however, said talking about
Bureau of Immigration (BI) officer-in- in rice.” or a group of people may have benefited from it. Constitutional amendments is
charge Ronaldo Ledesma said those nabbed Pascual called on the government to make known to Malacañang officials said the culprit will be identified and a ‘good’ start under a new ad-
were about to take a connecting flight to the public the irregularities that is happening in the rice prosecuted after the NFA is done with its audit. ministration.
Beirut despite a government ban on the de- industry. Pascual said the government must get to the bottom of the “It’s good… and what will
ployment of Filipino workers there. “This is the challenge to the present administration, the issue right away through an “objective investigation”. be amended must be carefully
Ledesma said the women disguised as problem of the people is rice,” he said. “The bottomline, for me, is because rice is a political studied,” said Cenzon.
nuns, carrying crosses, are victims of illegal “Let’s help each other and the government should work product… staple food crops of the Filipinos especially the Caloocan Bishop Deogracias
recruiters “who will not stop using all tricks hard for us to become self-sufficient in rice and not just by poor so it’s important that it should be affordable for them,” Iñiguez has no problem with
and employ every scheme to circumvent relying on importation.” he said. (CBCPNews) amending the Charter as long as
our ban on the departure of undocumented its real intention is clear.
Overseas Filipino Workers. “The public must be informed
According to lawyer Maria Antonette on what provisions of the Consti-
Candles / A1
Mangrobang, BI airport operations division tution will be changed,” he said.
acting chief, the six were caught after one A national campaign promoted by led by Taytay Bishop Edgardo Juanich critic of mining operators and min- (CBCPNews)
of them approached the BI counter and was various groups encouraged Filipinos and Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick ing supporters in his radio program,
referred by the immigration officer on-duty to light “Candles for Doc Gerry and Pabillo. “Ramatak”. Envoy / A1
to his superiors for secondary inspection. for a Peaceful and mining-free Pala- The bishops strongly condemned the Prior to his killing, Ortega was co-
While she was being questioned members wan” on February 2, the feast of the slaying of Ortega as they demanded a ordinating a project with the “Save of our negligence.”
of the BI travel control enforcement unit Lord’s Presentation which is locally speedy resolution of his murder. Palawan Movement” which gathers at “Faith can grow in us but it
(TCEU) noticed the presence of five other referred to as “candelaria”. In a letter addressed to President Beni- least ten million signatures to call for a can also diminish. Each of us is
women dressed as nuns who were loitering In Puerto Princesa, 10,000 candles gno Aquino III, Arigo and Juanich stated total mining ban in Palawan. responsible for the growth or
outside the immigration area premises, “as were lit before a Mass presided by that their sadness over Ortega’s death is Arigo and Juanich described Ortega’s the diminishing of this faith,”
if waiting for a cue.” Bishop Pedro Arigo at the city’s sports overpowered only by the anger they feel murder as a great loss to the Palaweños. said Grocholewski who heads
“They were thus also invited for question- complex. towards those who have little respect for He was “a man who has dedicated his the Vatican’s Congregation for
ing and it turned out that they did not know In Metro Manila, a procession of the life of an innocent man. life to making Palawan a better place to Catholic Education.
each other, although they had similar docu- 2, 000 candles was held from NBN Ortega was shot in the head last Jan. live in,” the bishops said. “Do not spare any effort to
ments in their possession,” Bucasas said. Ground to DENR gate in Quezon City 24 inside a used-clothing shop in Puerto Other signatories of the letter were grow constantly in the faith.
BI officer Joel Valencia, TCEU-NAIA with running priest Robert Reyes, Princesa. The gunman was arrested at once Palawan Rep. Dennis Socrates and Have the courage to think, to
3 team leader, reported that the women members of the religious, nuns and by nearby firefighters who responded after Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hage- judge and act entirely within the
claimed to be missionaries from the St. seminarians. hearing the gunshots. dorn, who himself is a staunch oppo- logic of the faith.”
Joseph Laud Sta. Maria congregation in It was also followed with a Mass Ortega was a known hard-hitting nent of mining. (CBCPNews) “Let us never forget that the
Baguio City. faith is both a great treasure and
Baguio Bishop Carlito Cenzon, however, Anything / A1 well as a delicate plant which
said that there is no such congregation exist- everyday must be nurtured with
ing in his diocese. tion and those who physically hurt the pope. “RH is already a done deal… it’s already a fact,” the bishop said. care,” he said.
Nowhere in the 2010 edition of the Phil- “That’s it. So you see that among other things, the church Cruz made the statement during the weekly forum, following To date, the CBCP has a total
ippine Catholic Directory can a religious is a protector of human life because without human life what a CBCP statement that rejected the reproductive health bills of 132 members—97 of them are
congregation named St. Joseph Laud Sta. is there to talk about,” said Cruz. that were consolidated on the same day by the House Com- active and 35 are retired.
Maria be found. It is also in that line that the church is so against the mea- mittee on Population and Family Relations. CBCP Secretary General Msgr.
The women claimed that they will attend sure because all the issues surrounding it—from sex educa- In a strongly-worded pastoral letter, the bishops’ collegial Juanito Figura said about 101
a three-day seminar in Hong Kong and pre- tion, condoms, to abortion—will only lead to one finality: body also called on the people to “act together” again to block bishops were present in the
sented a certification purportedly issued by contraception. the passage of the measure. three-day meeting including the
their parish priest. Another problem, he said, is that RH bill has provisions that “I admire the CBCP for declaring, so to speak, that enough 3 diocesan administrators and 6
“But their personal appearance aroused also promote the use of known abortifacients. is enough… and we remember our role in EDSA 1 and we are retired prelates to discuss and
our suspicion especially after we noticed “Abortion is abhorrent. You will kill a baby that is innocent calling upon those Catholics to also signify their role,” Cruz come up with a common stand
that one of them had red shoes, a colorful and defenseless. The truth is that the parents are supposed to said. on current issues.
handbag and wore her nun’s costume im- protect them, and not the other way around,” he said. “And it’s not a mere threat. It’s an open declaration that Among those in attendance are
properly,” Valencia said. Cruz claimed that the campaign for RH bill has become more okay you maintain your position and that we will also do Archbishops Gaudencio Rosales
The women, she said, finally confessed aggressive in the county because of the lobby funds that the ours,” he added. of Manila, Jose Palma of Cebu
that they are actually bound for Lebanon, advocates and even some politicians have been receiving. The senior prelate also said that the church might start and current CBCP President
adding that a certain recruiter identified as The funds, he said, mostly come from the multinational mobilizing its followers if the debate in Congress is “leaning Bishop Nereo Odchimar.
Philip brought them to the airport aboard pharmaceutical firms manufacturing contraceptives, inject- towards the pro-RH bill because once it will be passed, Aquino Cardinal Grocholewski only
two vehicles. (CBCPNews) ables, etc. will sign it.”(CBCPNews) attended the morning session to-
gether with Papal nuncio Arch-
HIV/AIDS / A1 Whistleblower / A1 bishop Edward Joseph Adams
who also delivered a message
HIV/AIDS. of HIV/AIDS and caring for the use of condoms in combating the infection.” and restoration of public trust,” to the CBCP.
“The church has made re- victims. spread of the disease. “Conflict doesn’t bring about they added. The papal envoy arrived in
markable things in all parts of By promoting community While the church, he said, con- results. It will just make the Signatories of the manifesto Manila January 24 to grace the
the world and these include the solidarity, the UNAIDS official siders that condom use would virus win the game. The gov- include Cagayan de Oro Arch- formal opening of the Univer-
years of prevention, treatment, said, the church can prevent new be morally justifiable in “certain ernment, church and the civil bishop Antonio Ledesma, Aux- sity of Sto. Tomas’ 400th year
support and care for the people HIV infections and ensure that cases”, it is not the main solution society… we all have to work iliary Bishops Broderick Pabillo anniversary celebration held
living with HIV,” Kraus said. those infected are treated with to the “behavioral problem.” together and there’s so much and Bernardino Cortez of Manila, last January 28. Cardinal Groc-
“Here in the Philippines, it’s dignity and respect. “Our support is selective that unites us and the challenges Gerardo Alminaza of Jaro, Jose holewski returned to Rome on
crucial and logical that you “We have to welcome people which means to say we’ll help are enormous so we all have to Colin Bagaforo of Cotabato, and January 30. (CBCPNews)
work closely with the church… living with HIV into our homes in raising awareness to the stand together,” Kraus said. Bishops Romulo dela Cruz of Kida-
this is a good sign that we will and into our parishes so that people, and address stigma The meeting was facilitated pawan, Edgardo Juanich of Taytay, Death Penalty / A1
intensify our collaboration and we can better understand their and discrimination,” said Lag- by the CBCP’s National Secre- Emmanuel Trance of Catarman,
work even close together.” world and for them to under- dameo, former president of the tariat for Social Action (Nassa) Artemio Rillera of La Union. to legalize state murder… the
Kraus said the four-hour stand our world,” Kraus said. Catholic Bishops’ Conference of which is at the forefront of the San Fernando Auxiliary Bishop death penalty,” he stressed.
meeting at the Pope Pius XII “We can work together to- the Philippines. church’s campaign against the Roberto Mallari, Bishops Joseph Diamante is also serving as ex-
Center in Manila this morn- wards a supportive commitment “We will not join in the pro- HIV/AIDS. Nacua of Ilagan, Bishop Rolando ecutive secretary to the Episcopal
ing “was significant” and no towards life, dignity of human motion of condom use; it will Nassa chairman and Manila Tirona of Infanta, Marlo Peralta Commission on Prison Pastoral
debate on controversial issue being and compassion to those just worsen the problem. It we Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pa- of Alaminos, Crispin Varquez Care of the Catholic Bishops’ Con-
such as condom use. “It is more who are living with HIV.” want to address it, it should be billo said they worked to iden- of Borongan, Martin Jumoad of ference of the Philippines (CBCP).
about acceptance of people a long term solution which is tify best practices to strengthen Basilan, Joel Baylon of Legazpi, According to him, the senators,
infected or living with HIV,” ‘Selective’ behavioral change.” the voice and action of the Deogracias Iñiguez of Caloocan, whom he accused of “grand-
Kraus said. The church response to HIV/ church and bring collaboration Antonio Tobias of Novaliches, Ar- standing”, should forget death
“They reviewed the church’s AIDS has sometimes been hin- Set aside conflict with other sectors involved in turo Bastes of Sorsogon, and Ro- penalty and “conduct more re-
teachings and the work that is dered by issues such as preven- Kraus said they respect the response to problem. dolfo Beltran of Bontoc-Lagawe search” instead on improving the
already ongoing and looked for tion methods, including condom position of the bishops and Members of the CBCP were in also signified their support for criminal justice system. “It’s just
ways to strengthen and intensify use in a country where AIDS refuted claims that the church Manila last week for their two- the whistleblowers. sad that we keep on electing peo-
their work on HIV prevention, cases are on the rise. is a hindrance to the campaign day plenary assembly that began In a pastoral exhortation is- ple who can’t think better (and)
treatment, care and support,” “In Asia and the Pacific there against HIV/AIDS. Saturday, where they discussed sued in 2009 titled Year of the who can’t be smarter than the
he said. are 2 countries where we’ve “The church’s method is and came up with a common Two Hearts for Peace-building individual criminal,” he said.
Kraus said it’s high time to seen 25 percent increase in HIV clear… it is important to treat stand on current issues. and Lay Participation in Social He also noted that the Philip-
“speak on” about the epidemic new infections and one of those people with dignity and re- The bishops’ plenary assem- Change, the CBCP challenged pines are among the signatories
because what drives the disease countries is the Philippines,” spect,” he said. “It is important blies are bi-annual meetings tra- the faithful “to renounce cor- in the Second Optional Protocol
at present is “stigma and dis- Kraus said. to honor the conscience of ditionally held in the months of ruption and bond together in to the International Covenant on
crimination.” Jaro Archbishop Angel Lag- every individual. Deep down, January and July. Both are pre- the task of evangelizing politics Civil and Political Rights which
He said “conflict” should dameo said their coordination each person needs to review ceded with a three-day seminar for effective governance and the implicitly prohibits the reintro-
be set aside and focus must be with the UNAIDS does not mean their own behavior and what (January) and an annual retreat pursuit of the common good.” duction of the death penalty.
given on preventing the spread the church also encourages the can be done to prevent the (July). (CBCPNews) (CBCPNews) (CBCPNews)
 Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
A7

San Pablo Bishop calls for province-wide

march in defense of life SAN PABLO City—The Church and parents, among others to join congregations, heads of schools the Communion Prayer read as
leader of San Pablo Diocese in the Walk for Life slated on March and leaders of Catholic organi- follows: “God, our Loving Father,
the Laguna province is calling 26 which would coincide with the zations said, “Your participation Creator and Lover of all life, You
constituents and citizens to join nationwide activity to support and will certainly strengthen the pro- fashioned in your image and like-
a province-wide march in this uphold the value of human life. life stand to which the Diocese’s ness every human person. Give
city to dramatize their stance According to the 2009 Catholic Family and Life Commission has us the strength and courage to
towards defending the sanctity Directory of the Philippines there been designated to promote and defend and protect human life
and dignity of human life. are 73 Catholic elementary, sec- make a stand.” from conception to natural death.
San Pablo Bishop Leo Drona has ondary (high school) and tertiary It was recalled that Drona had We pray for your divine healing,
endorsed the province-wide march (college) institutions in Laguna recently directed all Catholics in comfort and peace for all affected
dubbed as “Walk for Life 2011” ini- and the total number of students the diocese through the parish by past abortions. Help us serve
tiated by the Knights of Columbus is 38,856. The same source also priests of more than 80 Catholic actively in alleviating the suffer-
(KC) Philippines, Laguna Chapter showed that there are more than parish churches in Laguna to pray ings and troubles of all women
and the San Pablo Diocesan Family 2.6 million Catholic constituents daily the “Oratio Imperata (im- with pregnancy problems. We
Life Commission. in the Diocese of San Pablo. perative prayer) for the respect of pray that all our leaders and
Drona approved the plan of the The invitation letter signed all human life” starting Christmas legislators may be guided by the
organizers to invite students and and endorsed by the prelate on Day 2010 until January 16, 2011. grace of the Holy Spirit to act re-
teachers in all Catholic schools in January 20, 2011 and addressed The prayer which was prefer- sponsibly on this critical present
Laguna, Catholic organizations to the parish priests, Religious ably said while kneeling after issue.” (Fr. Romulo O. Ponte)

Debts force archdiocesan paper to halt publication

OZAMIZ City—The Archdiocese of ocesan Personnel Board. Fr. Sandy Cometa, Malindang Herald edi-
Ozamiz has decided to halt the publica- The Malindang Herald News, a weekly tor in-chief, broke the news to the staff last
tion of its 11 year old weekly newspaper publication of the Church in Misamis Oc- week ending nearly three months of specula-
due to financial problems. cidental came out with its last issue on tion over the archdiocesan paper’s future.
The decision of temporary closure came January 30. Cometa said the Couple’s for Christ (CFC)
FILE PHOTO

after Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus Dosado Low income and rising publication costs Ozamiz chapter will take over the operation
met with his vicar, delegates of some of the have left the diocesan paper on the brink of and publication of the weekly diocesan news
Bishop Leo Drona Archdiocesan commissions, and the Archdi- financial collapse. paper. (Wendell P. Talibong)

Cebu prelate Briefing

encourages MILF consultations fortify Moro nation’s Islamic
foundation

Catholic charis-
CAGAYAN DE ORO City—A member of the peace negotiat-
ing panel of the MILF said that the ongoing MILF consulta-
tions “allow the masses of our people to take part in the
decision-making mechanisms that propels the struggle for

matic renewal
self-determination and freedom.” Therefore, such consulta-
tions “fortify the Islamic foundations of the Moro Nation,” said
Robert Maulana Marohombsar Alonto. (Bong D. Fabe)

GRP-MILF peace talks on track

CAGAYAN DE ORO City—An organization working for
CEBU City— Newly-installed Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma wished peace in Mindanao hailed as “breakthrough” the outcome of
members of the charismatic renewal a revitalized closeness with the Jan. 13’s informal talks in Malaysia between peace panels of
crucified and risen Christ. the government and the MILF. “It’s a breakthrough in so far
Palma said this during a Mass marking the 35th anniversary of the as the facilitation issue is concerned,” said lawyer Mary Ann
Catholic Charismatic Communities of Cebu (CCCC) on Jan. 23. Arnado, secretary-general of the non-government organiza-
More than one million members of different Charismatic com- tion Mindanao Peoples Caucus. “Our hope lies on the Aquino
munities attended the celebration, according to the group’s spiritual administration’s commitment to deliver a negotiated political
adviser in Cebu, Monsignor Frederick Krickenbeck. settlement with the MILF.” (Bong D. Fabe)
The archbishop expressed his hopes for strengthened unity
among the members of the local charismatic communities, which Labor group assails new water price hike
he described as “little God’s blessing to Cebu.” ANTIPOLO City—The Kilusang Mayo Uno, assailed the Met-
“The church needs one another through unity and diversity,” ropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System’s approval of the
Palma said. 12 per cent hike on the water services by the Metro Pacific In-
According to him, the unity maintained by the group has inspired vestments Corp., Maynilad Water Services, Inc. and the Ayala-
more lay people to be active in the archdiocese. controlled, Manila Water Company, Inc. The MWSS recently
The group also awarded Krickenbeck for his 50 years of service to approved the petition of Maynilad and MWSI to increase their
the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement in Cebu. prices by P3.87, per cubic meter and P3.45/m3, respectively.
FILE PHOTO

The prelate said he was also hoping that the Catholic move- Elmer Labog, KMU national chair said the water rate increase
ment will spread in other dioceses and be felt at the national level. Archbishop Jose Palma is inappropriate especially that everything is going up—toll
(CBCPNews) fee, taxi fare, and oil prices. (Noel Barcelona)

RH Bill / A1 Sue Angie Reyes, Aquino gov’t told

ANTIPOLO City—The militant fisherfolk Pambansang Lakas
the many threats to human life. RH bill, they said, is “a major attack on expressed sadness over how the talks have ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas challenged President
The appeal was culled from the CBCP’s authentic human values and on Filipino been going on. Aquino to file a case against the so-called “GMA Generals.”
statement issued after the 1986 snap elec- cultural values regarding human life that “Sadly, our dialogue has simply revealed In a statement, Pamalakaya chairman Fernando Hicap said,
tions allegedly marred by massive fraud all of us have cherished since time imme- how far apart our respective positions are,” it is high time for the Aquino administration to file a case
which, in a way, fueled to massive street morial.” part of the statement reads. against former AFP Chief-of-Staff Angelo Reyes for alleg-
protests which later led to the downfall of The CBCP emphasized that they are Malacañang insists on its pro-choice edly benefiting from corrupt practices inside the AFP. (Noel
the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. deeply concerned about the plight of the stance and clarified that its proposed “re- S. Barcelona)
In doing so, the church officials said, poor especially of the suffering women, sponsible parenthood bill” is only to reduce
the people must make a “moral choice” but on choices related to the RH bill, “con- poverty and not as a birth control policy. DOLE urged to ensure workers’ safety
between life and death. science must not only be informed but most Presidential spokesperson Edwin Laci- QUEZON City—Kabataan Partylist Rep. Raymond Palatino
But the bishops did not give any hint on of all rightly guided the teachings of one’s erda also said there will be no “compulsion” urged the DOLE to ensure the safety and health of the work-
how they want the people to express their faith.” on the part of the government to insist upon ers, especially the young ones, in the country’s seven key
opposition against the measure, saying that “We are pro-life. We must defend hu- one particular method. industries. The young lawmaker said, while the drafting of
it would be up to the people. man life from the moment of conception But the church officials said that based the Occupational Safety and Health Code is a welcome de-
“At this point we cannot predict what or fertilization up to each natural end,” the on the recent dialogues on the reproductive velopment, it is a challenge for DOLE to advance the holistic
would be the people’s response or reactions CBCP said. health (RH) bill, they feel that it is seemingly welfare of the workers in the following industries, namely
from our pastoral statement,” Odchimar “We believe in responsible and natural going nowhere. the business process outsourcing; agribusiness; creative in-
said in a press conference. regulation of birth through natural family The prelates are also dismayed over dustries; infrastructure; manufacturing and logistics; mining;
“They are looking for moral guidance planning through which character-building Malacañang claims that it already reached and tourism, medical, travel; and retirement industries. (Noel
so we provide the moral guidance and the is necessary which involves sacrifice, dis- consensus with the CBCP in so far as the S. Barcelona)
people would be the one to decide of what cipline and respect for the dignity of the provisions of its bill are concerned and that
would be their reaction and response to our spouse.” the church is not against it.
Explain Saudi deployment ban, DOLE told
call,” he said. The controversial bill, which the propo- “Therefore, instead of building false
QUEZON City—Migrant workers’ watchdog, Migrante-
nents described as a “health measure”, pro- hopes, we wish at the present time to draw
Middle East (Migrante-ME) urged the Philippine Labor
Corruption poses for a large-scale government funding up clearly what we object to and what we
Department to clarify reports about the planned deployment
In the 5-page statement titled “Choosing on artificial contraceptives. stand for,” said the CBCP.
ban in Saudi Arabia as well as in China and Japan. Migrante-
Life, Rejecting the RH bill”, the bishops Odchimar, however, stressed that they
ME regional coordinator John Leonard Monterona in his
cited President Benigno Aquino’s popular Dialogue have yet to fully decide on the matter as
email, said they have already received some reports—which
pronouncement “if there’s no corruption, The bishops said they might walk out of they are still open to at least one more
are yet to be confirmed with the Department of Labor and
there would be no poverty.” dialogue with Malacañang once the Aquino dialogue.
Employment (DOLE)—that there is already an existing ban
As religious leaders, they said, “moral administration insists in supporting con- He said the CBCP panel will still be at-
for workers in the said countries. (CBCPNews)
corruption” is really the root of all corrup- traception. tending the next meeting next month before
tion. After all, CBCP President Bishop Nereo deciding on its fate.
“On the present issue it will be morally Odchimar said, the ongoing dialogue has “Probably in the next meeting, the two NGO wants probe on construction tragedy
corrupt to disregard the moral implication shown how far their positions are on re- panels will decide whether it is futile to go MAKATI City— The Institute for Occupational Health and
of the RH bill. This is our unanimous, collec- productive health issue and it may be futile on or there is still hope,” said Odchimar. Safety Development, a labor safety and health non-govern-
tive moral judgment,” the statement read. to pursue it. To recall, the CBCP and Malacañang mental organization urged the concerned government insti-
“Again, it is a possibility,” Odchimar said. have agreed to hold a series of dialogues tutions to thoroughly investigate the gondola accident that
Not just a Catholic issue (But) at this point in time, we have not yet on the RH bill amid the heated word war killed 11 workers in Makati recently. Noel Colina, executive
The bishops underscored that its mission agreed to pullout. We have to still make late last year. director of IOHSAD, said the construction sector is considered
of protecting the sanctity of life and the formal agreement from this dialogue.” In the statement, the CBCP also strongly a highly dangerous job, thus there is a need for a tight watch
family is far from being simply a Catholic In their pastoral letter released at the urged Aquino to reconsider his pro-choice in occupational safety standards being implemented by the
issue. conclusion of the assembly, the bishops stance and totally reject the RH bill. construction companies. (CBCPNews)

Charter change, key to Mindanao peace process

Commentary / A5
CAGAYAN DE ORO City—Changes in the present Consti-
critics—is any sense of a fuller a child who is determined to orient his talents, decisions, your girls fiercely. Perhaps this tution that recognizes the rights of the Bangsamoro people
purpose to human life. The be a good, moral human be- and achievements towards is the season to love gently. would be a key factor in achieving a viable peace accord with
measure of our parenting suc- ing; teach the child right from others (“the common good”) the MILF,” according to a policy adviser of the think-tank
cess is not what our child does wrong, grounding her in the rather than selfish goals; model (Mary Rice Hasson is a writer Institute of Autonomy and Governance (IAG). The “Cory
or achieves, but what kind of rules that limit and govern love, humility, forgiveness, and and attorney from the Washing- Aquino Constitution of 1986” is the “single biggest stumbling
person he or she becomes. It’s human behavior; teach her respect for all. ton, D.C. area. She blogs at words- block to a comprehensive political settlement with the MILF,”
more about “being” and less the virtues (Habits of doing Amy, a word of advice from fromcana.wordpress.com. This said lawyer Camilo Montesa, who is also former assistant
about “doing”. good); help him forge strong a fellow mom… We’re all far article is published here under a secretary at the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace
So what should successful relationships, built on love, from perfect but love makes all special republishing agreement Process. (Bong D. Fabe)
parents strive to do? Raise service, and respect; help him things new again. You’ve loved with MercatorNet)
 A8 People, Facts & Places CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

Pope to UST on its 400th year: Focus faith in Christ FAITH and Reason are always part cant event in the life of the Church.”
of a truly integrated education, Pope “Although I am not able to be with
Benedict XVI told the Asia’s oldest you physically,” he said, “I am delight-
university on its 400th year celebration ed to be able to speak to you personally
on Jan. 28. in this way, to join with you spiritually
The Holy Father said this through and offer to all my best wishes on this
a pre-recorded video message during happy occasion.”
UST’s quadricentennial Mass at the UST He also thanked “the many priests,
campus in Sampaloc, Manila. religious and laypeople at Santo Tomas
The anniversary celebration that who transmitted the faith, knowledge
coincided with the feast of St. Thomas and wisdom found in the religious
was graced with the presence of Papal and secular sciences to generations of
Legate Cardinal Zenon Grocholewski, Filipinos.”
Prefect of the Vatican’s Congregation He specifically cited UST’s founder
for Catholic Education. Bishop Miguel de Benavides and “the
In his message, the pontiff wants UST, great commitment of the Domini-
which “continues to play a very impor- cans who have guided this institution
tant role in the Church of the region,” through the many challenges of the past
to ensure that education given to its four centuries.”
students is centered on faith in Christ. The pope has earlier declared a Jubilee
“I pray that you will always continue Year from January 2011 to January 2012 to
to seek a knowledge of human and di- mark UST’s Quadricentennial celebration.
vine things in the light of that ultimate In a decree last Dec. 21, the Vatican’s
clarity that is in the person of Jesus Apostolic Penitentiary allowed Manila
Christ,” Benedict XVI said. Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosa-
“I am confident that keeping in mind les to bestow a Papal Blessing carrying
the faith and reason which are always a Plenary Indulgence following the

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

part of a truly integrated approach to Jubilee Mass on Jan. 24.
education the university will continue A separate decree also granted ple-
to contribute to intellectual, spiritual nary indulgence to “all those who pi-
and cultural enrichment, not only of the ously join the sacred rites, ceremonies,
Philippines,” Benedict XVI said. and activities in celebration of the Jubi-
The pope also said that the fourth cen- lee at the University of Santo Tomas”.
tenary of UST’s foundation is “a signifi- (CBCPNews)

Oral reading kicks off Bible week celebration

Pro-life month stresses
pro-life family values
A SERIES of activities aimed to to be presided by ECFL chairman
highlight the value of family and and Pampanga Archbishop Paciano
sanctity of life will be part of the Aniceto.
month-long celebration of Pro-Life On February 6 at 9:30 a.m., a Eu-
month this February. charistic celebration will be held at
Pro-life Philippine Foundation to- the Shrine of Mary Queen of Peace
gether with the Episcopal Commission at EDSA, Mandaluyong City to for-
on Family and Life (ECFL) and Couples mally open the pro-life month.
for Christ Foundation for Family and A prolife healing mass will be
Life (CFC-FFL) are spearheading vari- celebrated by Dominican priests Fr.
ous events to promote pro-life family George Moreno and Fr. Vicente Cajilig
values among the people. on February 10 at the Sto. Domingo
With the theme “Filipinos, Unite Church. The 5 p.m. activity will be
for Life”, organizers aim to bring organized by Bro. Gonzalo Goquiolay
Filipinos together to fight anti-life in collaboration with the Blessed Mar-
and anti-family value system that garet of Castello movement.
threaten the Filipino family. Prolifers will also pay homage to

www.ecba-cbcp.com
The string of month-long activi- the Virgin Mary in a Marian Regatta
ties will begin with a mass on Feb- Prayer Rally to be held in the after-
ruary 1 at 12:15 at the North Wing noon of February 13 at the Subic Bay,
of the House of Representatives in Olongapo City. (CBCPNews)

A CONTINUOUS oral reading of casters Kata Inocencio, Alex Tinsay, Among the proposed biblical activi-

2 Papal aides visit Manila Cathedral Scriptures kicked off the week-long
nationwide observance of Bible week
that went on from January 24 until
Dodie Lacuna and Maloi Salumbides,
NCCP/IEMELIF Bishop Nathanael
Lazaro; Lighthouse Bible Bishop Reu-
ties for the bible week include Bible En-
thronement in Families, BECs, Schools,
Churches, Institutes, Convents, Houses
TWO aides of Pope Benedict XVI made and premier cathedral—the mother of January 30. ben Abante; Dr. Dave Sobrepena of of Formation, Public Places etc.; Gospel
a visit to the Manila Cathedral, the all churches and cathedrals in the coun- Dubbed i-proclaim, the ecumenical Word of Hope; Dr. Buth Belgica of the Sharing in homes, campuses and public
Archdiocesan See, recently. try at the St. Pius X Chapel; Exhibit on reading of the bible on January 24 at Lord’s Vineyard, Fr. Archie Guiriba places; Family Bible Encounter (quiz);
Dressed in their clerical garb, Archbish- the post-war Manila Cathedral at the the Quezon City Memorial Circle was of Shalom; Bishop Rene Mayugba of Extemporaneous speech (proclamation)
ops Francisco-Javier Lozano Sebastian, Sta. Potenciana Chapel; Exhibit on Mary led by representatives from various CBCP-ECBA; Atty. Jose Tale of Cou- of the Word of God on Creation Texts;
Papal nuncio to Romania and Edward at the Our Lady of Pillar Chapel. churches, non government organiza- ples of Christ; Papuri singer Jonaver and Biblialympics (walk - run for the
Joseph Adams, apostolic nuncio to the The papal aides also paid homage to the tions and government personalities. Luklukan, multi-awarded composer bible, palaro sa biblia).
Philippines, made the visit on Jan. 8. former Manila archbishops visiting their i-proclaim is the continuous reading Jonathan Manalo; Radio DJ Jordan Alunday also suggested to organiz-
Archbishop Sebastian was in Manila tombs located at the cathedral’s crypt. of the entire bible which can be done Escusa, members of the clergy, NGOs ers of Bible Week activities to highlight
for a “friendly visit to his old friend, Entombed are the four former Manila in 15 minutes or an hour depending on and sectoral groups. stewardship of creation and maximize
Archbishop Adams. archbishops: Miguel O’ Doherty, Gabriel how many people are assigned to read Meanwhile, Fr. Oscar Alunday, Ex- the use of tri-media to promote active
Msgr. Nestor Cerbo, the cathedral’s Reyes, Rufino Cardinal Santos and Jaime and how long the readings are allotted ecutive secretary of the CBCP Episcopal participation.
rector, welcomed the archbishops and Cardinal Sin. Msgr. Cerbo then took them to on each reader. Commission of the Biblical Apostolate, With the theme “May they be one:
acted as their tour guide as they went the newly constructed ground Belfry which House Speaker Feliciano R. Bel- in a letter, has urged biblical directors Becoming One nation in the steward-
around the cathedral. houses the 7 big bells of the cathedral. monte led the roster of Bible read- in various dioceses to celebrate the ship of Creation”, the celebration calls
The apostolic nuncios viewed the fol- Archbishops Sebastian and Adams ers at the opening ceremony which bible week meaningfully with activities on all Filipinos to take an active part in
lowing exhibits which are located at the were also given a miniature figurine of include Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy “that respond to the social concerns of caring for the environment, especially
side chapels of the cathedral: Exhibit on the cathedral in remembrance of their Belmonte, Justice Raoul Victorino, in- ecological care, family and life values in view of the calamities that hit the
Manila Cathedral as the premier church visit. (CBCPNews) spirational speaker Bo Sanchez, news- and youth formation.” country recently. (CBCPNews)

36 years of the Bamboo Organ Festival

THIRTY six, and still counting!
The event, said to be the coun-
ty’s pride for promoting its rich
musical culture and tradition,
continues to be a yearly treat for
lovers of classical symphonic,
nizers said.
The previous day’s program
will be repeated on the concert
on Feb. 18.
On Feb. 19, the Concert Under
the Trees will feature the Imu-
Markings
organ and vocal music. sicapella Chamber Choir and APPOINTED. Monsignor Jaime Villanueva, parish priest of Our Lady
of Immaculate Conception in Burauen, Leyte, as caretaker administra-
On Feb. 17 to 23, the Interna- soloist Juris Fernanez and Sitti tor of the Archdiocese of Palo. Villanueva was elected archdiocesan
tional Bamboo Organ Festival Navarro. administrator by the 11-member Board of Consultors during its meeting
of Las Piñas will take its center The “Peuri Concinite” concert last January 17 at the Chancery of the archdiocese. He will run the
stage again with various perfor- will be held on Feb. 20, featuring Archdiocese of Palo until the Vatican names a successor to Archbishop
Jose Palma who was installed as Archbishop of Cebu last January 13.
mances from award-winning the Hail Mary the Queen Chil- The archdiocesan administrator-elect was one of the vicars general
global artists. dren’s Choir and the Las Piñas during the time of Archbishop Palma.
Dubbed as the “Philippine Boys Choir. Alejandro Conso-
Historic Music Festival”, this lacion II will play the bamboo CELEBRATED. Perpetual profession of vows of Sisters Mary Ann Sal-
villa and Janith Tinong among the Daughters of St. Paul at the Queen
year will be its 36th edition in organ. of Apostles Sanctuary, Pasay City, January 25, 2011. The Eucharistic
commemorating the world fa- On Feb. 22, dubbed as the celebration was presided by Most Rev. Martin S. Jumoad, DD, Bishop
mous bamboo organ—declared Evening of Organ Music, the Prelate of Isabela De Basilan with other six concelebrating priests. The
Philippine National Treasure. bamboo organ and the SJA Au- occasion was attended by members of the Pauline Family, priests and
In the gala opening concert, ditorium organ will be played by religious, families, relatives, friends and benefactors of the Institute.
the first part will feature Belgian Belgian organists Luc Ponet and LAUNCHED. St. Pauls Publishing launched the latest book by Fr. Jose
organist Luc Ponet, the Las Piñas Guido Segers who will perform Francisco Syquia titled “Exorcist, A Spiritual Journey” at the San Carlos
Boys Choir and Hail Mary the works by J.S. Bach, Dandrieu Seminary Auditorium, January 8, 2011. The first of three volumes, the
Queen Children’s Choir. and Johann Strauss, among book highlights basic spiritual dispositions so essential in the exorcism
ministry. Syquia obtained his Licentiate in Spiritual Theology from the
Other choirs which will per- others. Angelicum University in Rome and his Master’s degree in Psychology
form during the festival are the The festival comes to a glo- from the UST Graduate School. He is the head of the Commission on
University of the East Chorale rious finale on Feb. 23 with a Extraordinary Phenomena for the Archdiocese of Manila. He also sits as
and the Imusicapella Cham- concert titled Evening of Cham- Director of the Archdiocese of Manila Office of Exorcism and member of
the International Association of Exorcists in Rome. Syquia is currently
ber Choir. Two Filipino prime ber Music. Performers include based at the San Carlos Seminary, where he is a full-time formator,
conductors, Joel Navarro and violinist Gina Medina, cellist spiritual director and professor of spirituality and psychology. Through
Eudenice Palaruan, will also take Renato Lucas, organist Armando the book, Syquia seeks to pass on lessons he acquired from his studies
center stage. Salarza, and an Austrian flutist and experiences in the ministry of deliverance and exorcism.
“It is a reverberation-filled performing chamber music of
www.flickr.com

DIED. Sr. Mary Consuelo v. Ferrer, RGS, January 11, 2011. A native
night showcasing the best of the Baroque composed by J.S. of Binmaley, Pangasinan, Ferrer was a member of the Religious of the
the Philippines that only every Bach and Henry Purcell, among Good Shepherd for 58 years until her death.
Filipino can be proud of,” orga- others. (CBCPNews)
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011 Pastoral Concerns B1

PCP-II files
(In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines (PCP-II) we are reprinting
excerpts of the talk of Archbishop Leonardo Z. Legaspi, O.P. , archbishop of Caceres and conciliar president of PCP-II,
delivered during the National Pastoral Consultation on Church Renewal held in Makati on January 22-27, 2001—Eds)

Renewing PCP-II
National Pastoral Plan
By Archbishop Leonardo Z. were then inter-related within to the
analogy of a pilgrim church responding
set numbered only 6 features but
were expanded to 15 by the ad hoc
of social Catholicism for it challenged
Catholics to be involved in reforming
authority, on the meaning of “religious
liberty”, on how to reform the liturgy,
Legaspi, O.P.
to Christ’s call for conversion and committee which finalized it. These 15 the social order and in struggling for on how the Church understood its
renewal. ecclesial features were: Christocentric social justice. By shifting its punto de identity and work in modern times.
Thirdly, the 132 decrees were biblical, Marian, liturgical, catechetical, vista its way of viewing and analyzing There were discussions on how to heat
IN my homily at the opening differentiated according to those ecumenical, pastoral, ecclesial, reality, the Church made a decisive the scandalous division in Christianity,
of the Second Plenary Council that were orientational in intent preferential love for the poor, evangelical, shift in favor of the working class. influenced by the views of theologians
of the Philippines on January from those that were operational in prophetic, missionary, contextualized, This breakthrough, this paradigm like Yves Congar, O.P., the Council
20th 1991, I quoted this passage purpose. Orientational decrees were inculturated, communitarian. As you shifts as it were, sparked within the asked how the Church could make
from 1 Kings 19:7 “Surge, those embodying doctrinal or pastoral can probably surmise, the long list church concrete efforts at renewal. The better use of the gifts and charism of
principles to guide action. Operational of 15 features weighed against their Belgian priest, Father Cardijn founded the laity.
grandis tibi restat via,” Arise, decrees were those intended for action implementation. the Young Christian Workers whose By confronting the critical questions
a long journey lies ahead of through specific programs under the The NPP’s implementation was programs reached the minds and hearts of modern times, the Council opened
you. Words spoken to the responsibility of assigned agents of not left unattended with the closure of young workers and prevented them the doors of renewal. It called for many
Prophet Elijah by the angel renewal. of PCP-II Secretariat. The vital role of from leaving the Church. This period changes that touched the lives of the
Finally, the decrees were classified promoting its implementation was left also saw the emergence of influential faithful and demanded of them radical
of Yahweh, summoning him in two ways: a) through the 4 areas in the hands of the Episcopal Vicars for Christian trade unions, originally led changes in attitude.
to the mountain Horeb for an of concern used by PCP-II, namely: PCP-II concerns. By virtue of Canons by priests but eventually managed by These two historical examples give us
encounter with God. Christian Life, Religious Concerns, Social 476 and 479, these PCP-II Episcopal workers themselves. This encyclical was some insights into the process of church
Concerns and Agents of Communion Vicars possessed executive functions also the inspiration in Europe for the renewal. Both drew their proposals for
As a pilgrim church, our journey and Renewal. The second classification for the dissemination, promotion and formation of powerful political parties renewal from three sources. Firstly, from
has indeed been a long and arduous mode was through the major themes implementation of PCP-II Acts and such as the Christian Democratic Parties a discernment of historical experiences
one. These days, we have another used by PCP-II, namely: Ecclesial Decrees through the NPP and in close of Germany and Belgium. Thus, by of injustices, evil and oppression.
rare opportunity to pause and refresh Communion; Inculturation; Renewal collaboration with their bishops, chosen aligning the Church with the promotion Secondly, from a profound reflection
ourselves in order to reflect on how and Christian Community; Missionary members of the clergy, religious and of social justice, Pope Leo XIII was able on the meaning and purpose of human
far we have travelled, what we have Thrust. laity. However, except for an April 1993 to give Catholicism a renewed identity life. And thirdly, in the words of Pope
achieved along the way and with There is another feature of the NPP seminar held for these PCP-II Vicars, no as a progressive social force. Paul VI, by exploring the nature of the
what spirit we have animated our which is important but which in my further activities related to them were The second historical example of Church and her relationship to Jesus
pilgrimage. opinion was not realized adequately. It done. Thus, the question could now be church renewal I wish to cite is that of Christ.
was an attempt to address the problem relevant as to whether there still is need Vatican II. In our own efforts at church renewal,
Features of the National Pastoral of isolated, competitive, uncooperative to reactivate them. Through the initiative of Pope John what questions should we ask that might
Plan activities within the Church. The PCP-II XXIII, the first official act of Vatican II as uncover our own social reality? What
When PCP-II concluded on 17 clearly considered this to be a serious Some historical Examples its Message to Humanity. It was to set the methods of discernment are we to adopt
February 1991 it left behind a rich problem since it led to demoralization The 20th century Industrial Revolution tone for the discussions of the Church’s in order to discover our people’s true
collection of Decrees 132 in all. It was and division among clergy and faithful, was the age of Pope Leo XIII. It was the Twenty-First Ecumenical Council. What condition? In the midst of a Philippine
left to the responsibility of the CBCP to the uprooting of church activities from advent of mass society. In the words were the main themes of this opening society with its seemingly endless
systematize this wealth into pastoral their spiritual foundations and to the of the historian Thomas Bokenkotter: message? Fr. Walter Abbot, SJ who was problems of conflicts and injustices,
prescriptions. This was done through wasteful duplication of scarce resources. “industrialization brought great numbers the general editor of “The Documents of how can the church be a sign of hope
the instrumentality of a National Thus, PCP-II sharply stated in its Act of people off the land and herded them Vatican II” listed the following: to bring and reconciliation?
Pastoral Plan (NPP). 182 that “no true renewal can happen into congested areas of smoky factories about its renewal, the Council adopted
The NPP needed a conceptual in one area (e.g. catechesis) in isolation and dingy streets in a way that made the process of compassionate dialogue Pastoral reflections
framework that would systematize the from the other areas.” the average person susceptible to mass with modern men and women and to In this final section of my sharing with
132 Decrees for purposes of planning The NPP tried to address this problem suggestion and mass action.” In these their concerns of peace, justice and unity. you, I wish to explore some pastoral
while preserving the spirit and substance by offering a set of pastoral orientations, inhuman conditions, socialism which It emphasized the quest for community reflections on the meaning of church
of PCP-II. This was done through the later, to be called “ecclesial features” was committed to Marxist ideology among peoples, the centrality of Jesus renewal and its implication in the lives
following steps: which were intended to inform and seemed to offer the working class the Christ as light of the world. It had the of people.
Firstly, the key pastoral dimensions inspire every pastoral program. If made only liberating hope. pastoral courage to ask and confront I would also like to attempt basing my
of PCP-II were identified as: a) Church a constitutive element of each church It was in this critical period, when the questions bothering modern men personal reflections on some theological
of the Poor; b) Community of Disciples program these pastoral orientations the Church appeared to be losing the and women. foundations. Thus, in the same manner
of the Lord; c) Renewed Integral would bring about a convergence working class, that Pope Leo XIII issued What were some of these questions? that I went to Vatican II to draw historical
Evangelization. among the different church programs his great encyclical Rerum Novarum. It There were questions touching on insights, so now I wish to return to
Secondly, these three key dimensions and commissions. Originally, this has been rightly called the Magna Carta the essence and exercise of pastoral PCP-II / B4
 B2 Updates CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

The Juridic Enforcement of Catholic

Doctrine The Apostolic Letter motu
proprio Ad Tuendam Fidem
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, abuse—which the present motu
J.C.D. proprio came to forestall? An
attentive reading of the pertinent
paragraphs of the Profession Fidei
Introduction shows that the three categories
On 9 January 1989, the of truths enunciated are as
Congregation for the Doctrine follows:
of the Faith published new 1st Category: “[E]verything
formulas for the Professio Fidei contained in the Word of God,
et Iusiurandum fidelitatis in whether written or handed
suscipiendo officio nomine Ecclesiae down in Tradition, which the
exercendo (AAS 81[1989], 104 106), Church either by a solemn
to replace the previous formula judgment or by the ordinary
of 1967. These formulas were and universal Magisterium sets
approved by the Roman Pontiff forth to be believed as divinely
in a special Rescript dated, 19 revealed.” These are truths found
septembris 1989 (in AAS 81 immediately in Revelation,
[1989], 1169). However, the which the Church vouches for as
new Code of Canon Law (CIC), contained in Revelation. This are
promulgated on 25 January supposed to be held “with firm
1983, did not contain the new faith”, because their certainty has
formula of the Professio Fidei, a twofold basis: the authority of
which, in addition to the Nicene God Revealing (fides divina) and
Constantinopolitan Creed, the infallible teaching authority
enunciates three categories of of the Church (fides catholica).
truths. Thus, the Code of Canon These are commonly referred
Law, and later the Code of Canons to in Dogmatic Theology as De
of the Eastern Churches (CCEO), fide Divina et Catholica or simply
lacked the juridical, disciplinary dogmas.

© Noli Yamsuan/RCAM
and penal provisions for the 2nd Category: “[E]verything
second category of truths. definitively proposed by the
Given the compelling need to Church regarding teaching
forestall and refute the theological on faith and morals.” These
opinions being raised against this constitute what Dogmatic
second category of truths, the Holy Theology has always referred
Father decided to promulgate the to as Catholic truths or Church the CIC stipulates “A religious universal Magisterium and are the Congregation for the Doctrine will read:
Apostolic Letter Ad tuendam fidem doctrines, which are to be accepted respect of intellect and will, even if hence infallible. of the Faith, which must be made Canon 750 ─ §1. Those things
last May 28, by which precise with a faith based on the sole not the assent of faith” (c.752). by specific members of the faithful are to be believed by divine and
norms are established in canon authority of the Church (fides Reach of “religious respect when they receive an office that catholic faith which are contained
law regarding the second category ecclesiastica). Even if the Profession Source of Confusion (obsequium) of intellect and is directly or indirectly related in the word of God as it has
of truths indicated in the second fidei did not expressly state it, As previously stated, while will” to deeper investigation into the been written or handed down
paragraph of the concluding these are as infallibly certain as the 1st and 3rd Categories had This religious submission truths of faith and morals, or is by tradition, that is, in the single
formula of the Professio Fidei, dogmas proper.1 their corresponding provisions means more than the usual united to a particular power in the deposit of faith entrusted to the
through modifications to canons 3rd Category: “[T]he teachings in the Code of Canon Law, there obedience required for the governance of the Church. Church, and which are at the
750 and 1371 n.1 of the CIC and which either the Roman Pontiff or was no expressed provision for legitimate command of the The Profession of Faith, which same time proposed as divinely
to canons 598 and 1436 of the the College of Bishops enunciate the 2nd Category. Thus, cc.750 hierarchical authority of the appropriately begins with the revealed either by the solemn
CCEO. when they exercise their authentic & 752 described the 1st and 3rd Church. Specifically, it means: Nicene Constantinopolitan Creed, Magisterium of the Church, or
Magisterium, even if they do Categories respectively, and a. The ordinary response will be a contains three propositions or by its ordinary and universal
Three Categories of Truths not intend to proclaim these c.1371 provided for the penal sincere adherence not only of the paragraphs, intended to describe Magisterium, which in fact is
What was the reason for the teachings by a definitive act.” sanction for their violation. will but also of the intelligence. the truths of the Catholic faith, manifested by the common
confusion—and accompanying These are the teachings for which This has given rise to not a few In an exceptional case, a teaching which the Church, in the course adherence of Christ’s faithful
cases of open dissent, perhaps might not be intellectually of time and under the guidance under the guidance of the sacred
emboldened by a seeming lacuna convincing. Then the first duty is of the Holy Spirit “who will teach Magisterium. All are therefore

Bows in the
in Canon Law, especially as to doubt oneself, giving credibility the whole truth” (Jn 16,13), has bound to avoid any contrary
regards the penal provisions. to the Magisterium. This does not ever more deeply explored and doctrines.
A more attentive reading of mean that one must stop working will continue to explore. §2. Furthermore, each and
the Profession fidei, however, on research and presenting The first paragraph states: everything set forth definitively

Extraordinary
coupled with a solid grounding the authorities—in a private “With firm faith, I also believe by the Magisterium of the Church
in Dogmatic Theology, shows way—one’s own reasons and everything contained in the Word regarding teaching on faith and
that there was really no lacuna. the possible formulations that of God, whether written or morals must be firmly accepted
As Ott would affirm, the 2nd one might suggest as being better handed down in Tradition, which and held, namely those things

Form
Category are “as infallibly certain suited for expressing the truth. the Church either by a solemn required for the holy keeping
as dogmas proper”—i.e., the b. In any case, religious judgment or by the ordinary and and faithful exposition of the
norm for the 1st Category should submission implies the obligation universalMagisteriumsetsforthto deposit of faith; therefore, anyone
hole also for the 2nd. Hence, to avoid every dissent; the only be believed as divinely revealed.” who rejects propositions which
when the CIC expressly provided thing admissible is to suspend This paragraph appropriately are to be held definitively sets
for the 1st and 3rd Categories, it or withhold assent. If dissent is confirms and is provided for in himself against the teaching of
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina tacitly provided also for the 2nd made publicly and obstinately, the Church’s legislation in c.750 the Catholic Church.
Apostolorum university, answers the following query:) Category of truths. opportune sanctions would be of the Code of Canon Law and Canon 1371, n.1 of the Code of
Nevertheless, since abuses in order (c.1371). c.598 of the Code of Canons of the Canon Law, consequently, will
Q: Regarding the genuflections during the old rite, would a have arisen, and such may be Eastern Churches.4 [Referred to receive an appropriate reference
profound bow suffice for a priest suffering from arthritis, etc.? legally defended against sanction Conclusion in Dogmatic Theology as De fide to c.750, §2, so that it will now
I am 70 years young, and was ordained according to the new with the principle of “nulla poena From the foregoing, and the Divina et Catholica.] read:
rite and have never celebrated Mass in the old rite. One of sine lege”, the Supreme Church preceding three issues of this The third paragraph states: Canon 1371 ─ The following
my biggest joys will be to celebrate Mass using the old rite. I Authority has come up with this column, I think it is quite clear that “Moreover I adhere with are to be punished with a just
am also a Dominican tertiary priest. Can I use the Dominican new legislation to fill up that the Bishops are quite empowered submission of will and intellect penalty:
rite?—F.A.C., Comayagua, Honduras. seeming lacuna. to call the attention of all the erring to the teachings which either the 1° a person who, apart from
theology professors, in Catholic Roman Pontiff or the College the case mentioned in c.1364, §1,
Infallibility of Ordinary and institutions or otherwise, and of Bishops enunciate when teaches a doctrine condemned
A: The Code of Canon Law covers the case of priests with Universal Magisterium in the case of obstinacy, apply they exercise their authentic by the Roman Pontiff, or by
physical limitations. To wit: It is fitting to note also that canonical sanctions. Magisterium, even if they do not an Ecumenical Council, or
“Can. 930 §1. If an infirm or elderly priest is unable to stand, almost all infallible teachings in [Following is an abridged version intend to proclaim these teachings obstinately rejects the teachings
he can celebrate the eucharistic sacrifice while seated, but the field of morality are contained of the Apostolic Letter, excluding by a definitive act.” This paragraph mentioned in c.750, §2 or in
not before the people except with the permission of the local not in solemn definitions (so what is pertinent to the CCEO, and has its corresponding legislative c.752 and, when warned by the
ordinary; the liturgical laws are to be observed. called definitive acts or definitively retaining the original numbering for expression in c.752 of the Code of Apostolic See or by the Ordinary,
Ҥ2. A blind or otherwise infirm priest licitly celebrates the proposed in the language of the easy reference.]3 Canon Law and c.599 of the Code does not retract;
eucharistic sacrifice by using any approved text of the Mass Profession fidei and in the CIC), To protect the faith of the of Canons of the Eastern Churches.5 2° a person who in any other
with the assistance, if needed, of another priest, deacon, or but precisely in the teachings Catholic Church against errors [Referred to in Dogmatic Theology way does not obey the lawful
even a properly instructed lay person.” of the ordinary and universal arising from certain members of as De fide Catholica.] command or prohibition of the
These canons specifically refer to the present rite but are Magisterium. This has led some the Christian faithful, especially 3. The second paragraph, Apostolic See or the Ordinary or
probably applicable to the extraordinary form. In the case of to think that there are no infallible from among those dedicated to however, which states: “I also Superior and, after being warned,
doubt one can always have recourse to the local ordinary as teachings in the field of morality, the various disciplines of sacred firmly accept and hold each and persists in disobedience.
Canon 930 codifies faculties granted to bishops in 1963. Before inasmuch as, in fact, there theology, we, whose principal everything definitively proposed
this date it was necessary to have recourse to the Holy See are no texts in which such duty is to confirm the brethren by the Church regarding teaching NOTES
which, however, habitually granted such favors. infallibility is explicitly claimed. in the faith, consider it absolutely on faith and morals” has no
The novelty is that the code allows the infirm priest to
1
Ref. Ludwig Ott, Fundamentals of
This assertion fails to recognize, necessary to add to the existing corresponding canon in the Catholic Dogma, Tan Books and Publish-
decide himself if his condition merits remaining seated while however, that the ordinary and texts of the Code of Canon Law Codes of the Catholic Church. ers Inc., Illinois (1960), p.9.
celebrating Mass alone or with one or few attendants. universal Magisterium, which (CIC) and the Code of Canons of This second paragraph of the 2
Address of 15.X.1988.
I believe that the same basic rule would apply—for both by nature does not adopt such the Eastern Churches (CCEC) new Profession of Faith is of utmost
forms of the Roman rite—in the case of omitting or substituting solemn expressions, is precisely norms which expressly impose importance since it refers to truths 3
Taken from L’Osservatore Romano,
15.VII.1998.
gestures such as genuflections when a priest is impeded by the normal way in which the the obligation of upholding that are necessarily connected
some physical limitation. Even young priests can sometimes infallibility of the Church is truths proposed in a definitive to divine revelation. These 4
Can.750 of the CIC states: All that is
have injuries which make it practically impossible to perform exercised. truths, in the investigation of contained in the written word of God or
way by the Magisterium of the in tradition, that is, in the one deposit of
these gestures, and this should not prevent them from being As Pope John Paul II affirms, Church, and which also establish Catholic doctrine, illustrate faith entrusted to the Church and also
able to celebrate Mass. “The Magisterium (...) includes related canonical sanctions. the Divine Spirit’s particular proposed as divinely revealed either by
Once more, each priest can decide for himself how best to the charism of infallibility, which inspiration for the Church’s the solemn magisterium of the Church
or by its ordinary and universal mag-
proceed when celebrating alone. He can probably also make is present not only in the solemn 1. From the first centuries to deeper understanding of a truth isterium, must be believed with divine
an ad hoc decision with respect to Mass for the people in the definitions of the Roman Pontiff the present day the Church has concerning faith and morals, and catholic faith; it is manifested by
case of a short-term impediment. If the impediment is long and the Ecumenical Councils, professed the truths of her faith with which they are connected the common adherence of the Christian
term or permanent, he should ask the bishop’s permission faithful under the leadership of the
but also in the ordinary and in Christ and the mystery of his either for historical reasons or by sacred magisterium; therefore, all are
and explain his situation to parishioners. universal Magisterium, which redemption. These truths were a logical relationship. bound to avoid any doctrines whatever
The venerable Dominican rite, a form of celebrating Mass can be considered the usual subsequently gathered into the 4. Moved therefore by this need, which are contrary to these truths.
that was proper to the Order of Preachers, is no longer in expression of the infallibility of Symbols of the faith, today known and after careful deliberation, we 5
Can. 752 of the CIC states: A religious
general use. In 1968 the general chapter of the religious order the Church.”2 and proclaimed in common by have decided to overcome this respect of intellect and will, even if not
opted to adopt the reformed Roman rite of Paul VI. The old Practically all concrete and the faithful in the Solemn and lacuna in the universal law in the the assent of faith, is to be paid to the
teaching which the Supreme Pontiff or
rite was not abolished, however, and Dominican provincials absolute moral norms that are festive celebration of Mass as following way: c.750 of the Code of the college of bishops enunciate on
may grant permission to their subjects to celebrate according under debate today (e.g., abortion, the Apostles’ Creed or the Nicene Canon Law will now consist of two faith or morals when they exercise the
to its provisions. I do not know if this authority extends to contraception, homosexual acts, Constantinopolitan Creed. This paragraphs; the first will present authentic magisterium even if they do
tertiary priests, and it would be necessary to consult the local not intend to proclaim it with a definitive
premarital relations, euthanasia, same Nicene Constantinopolitan the text of the existing canon; the act; therefore the Christian faithful are
provincial to find out. divorce, masturbation), have Creed is contained in the second will contain a new text. to take care to avoid whatever is not in
been taught by the ordinary and Profession of Faith developed by Thus c.750, in its complete form, harmony with that teaching.
 Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
B3

A Call to Conversion for the

Philippine Church
By Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo wrote: “In no way can the Church restrict Philippine Church pales in comparison on Migrants and Itinerant Peoples and again a month ago, it is as if I was reading
her pastoral work to the ‘ordinary to the Lenten program of Germany, of a few religious congregations are left a document written this year. Most
maintenance’ of those who already small Switzerland, and even of not so to fend for themselves to answer this of the things have not changed. What
HERE are many dramatic conversions know the Gospel of Christ. Missionary Catholic Australia. They have more great need. have we done in these 20 years? Many
in church history, like the conversion outreach is a clear sign of the maturity vigorous Lenten programs that enable In Verbum Domini Pope Benedict tells of us believe that PCP II was Spirit-led.
of St. Augustine, that of St. Francis of an ecclesial community… The Church them to help our country, while we, us: “Following the example of the great It shows us the right path to take. But
of Assisi, of St. Ignatius of Loyola, of must continue her prophetic defense with our more than 80 million Catholics, Apostle to the nations, who changed the have we taken it seriously?
St. Camilo de Lelis. These conversion of people’s right and freedom to hear we cannot even answer the calamity course of his life after hearing the voice Allow me to point out just a few of
stories have great impacts in Church the word of God, while constantly calls of our own people from our Alay of the Lord, let us too hear God’s word the decrees to show how far-reaching
History, but none is as dramatic and as seeking out the most effective ways of Kapwa. On the average, 0.017 centavos is as it speaks to us, ever personally, here the council was and how we have not
far-reaching for the life of the Church seriously acted on it:
than that of St. Paul. The 14 letters of Very few maverick people spoke of
the New Testament that are attributed to climate change and care of environment
him attest to this, 14 out of 21 letters, 14 back in 1991, but article 31 states:
out of 27 books of the New Testament! “The Church, through the initiatives
Not only the sheer number of the of the CBCP, should develop a
writings of Paul, but also the themes comprehensive theology of stewardship
that they deal with show his greatness. and, in the light of this theology, should
They deal with important themes of the make ecology a special concern of the
Bible like, how we are made acceptable social action apostolate down to the
to God or the question of justification, parochial level, with the end in view
the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian of making everyone a true steward of
life, the Church as the body of Christ, God’s creation.”
baptism as participation in the life of We are saddled with the Reproductive
God, Christian and Jewish relations, Health issue now. We should have not
Christian worship, the importance of been if in these 20 years we have acted
faith and love, just to name a few. What on Art 29:
would our New Testament be without “The Church, faithful to her teachings,
Paul? The significance of Paul is also should call on the responsibility of all
highlighted by the fact that his writings concerned to help present the notion
are the earliest written witnesses to of responsible Christian parenthood as
the Lord Jesus and the situation of the contained in Gaudium et Spes, Humanae
early church among the New Testament Vitae and Familiaris Consortio. In
writings. The first 10 years when New this sense, a broader, more decisive
Testament writings came, years 50 and more systematic effort should be
to 60 AD, all have the genuine letters undertaken to make the natural methods
of Paul—Thessalonians, Romans, of regulating fertility known, respected
Corinthians, Philippians, Philemon. and applied.”
Yes, Paul has a unique importance in Presently our response to the RH
the New Testament, and consequently, a issue is to lobby not to allow the bill
great impact on our Christian faith. This to be passed but, I wonder how many
is why the whole Church celebrates his of our dioceses have serious programs
conversion as a great feast. to promote natural family planning
We have to accept that Paul deserve methods? Art 115 section 6 states:
his fame for he did exert great sacrifices “Tithing, after a good pastoral
in carrying out his mission. Yet, Paul’s catechesis, shall be introduced with the
place in the history of salvation is set by end in view of the gradual abolition of
God. It was God’s choice. When Ananias the Arancel System.”
complained that this Saul to whom he I wonder how many dioceses have
was asked by the Lord to anoint was a moved away from the Arancel System
known persecutor of those who follow since 1991? Art 25 #3 mandates:
Jesus, he was told “Go, for this man is “As an urgent solution to the problem
a chosen instrument of mine to carry of poverty in the country, and following
my name before Gentiles, kings, and the example of the early Church, all
Israelites.” (Acts 9, 15) Paul’s conversion, dioceses and parishes must set aside
and subsequently, his mission, was grace, a collection or fund specifically for the
and he recognized this. Thus he wrote to poor and needy to be disposed of without
the Corinthians: “Last of all, as to one born red tape.”
abnormally, Jesus appeared to me. For I Is helping the poor part of our diocesan
am the least of the apostles, not fit to be and parochial budget, or does it come
called an apostle, because I persecuted the only as an afterthought when calamities
church of God. But by the grace of God strike, and so we resort to appealing to
I am what I am, and his grace to me has the people because the Church of the
not been ineffective. Indeed, I have toiled people has no funds for it?
harder than all of them; not I, however, I just gleaned through 4 articles to
but the grace of God (that is) with me.” illustrate that PCP II as a document is still
(1 Cor 15, 8-10) valid. We just need to seriously execute
Paul’s conversion is grace, as all it. And if we do, we will be a renewed
conversions are. This is why the Church, self-sustained and missionary,
© Noli Yamsuan / RCAM

sacrament of reconciliation is called in able to engage the world in spreading

popular parlance as confession, not so the faith by 2021.
much though as a telling of sins, but As Church we need a conversion
as a confession, a proclamation, of the similar to that of Paul. We need to be
Lord’s goodness to give us the grace thrown to the ground, blinded by searing
of conversion. We go to this sacrament light of the Word of God. Let us pray
because we are already graced with proclaiming that word, even at the risk donated by every Catholic Filipino to the and now.” (VD 122) We cannot afford to for this grace, since every conversion
conversion. What is admirable in Paul is of persecution. The Church feels duty- Alay Kapwa, our nationally endorsed just continue what we are doing now. We is a grace. But in a way, we are already
that, as he wrote, “By the grace of God I bound to proclaim to every man and Lenten campaign program! have to provide leadership to the whole graced by PCP II. Let us work all the
am what I am, and this grace to me has woman the word that saves.” (VD 95) But let us not just look at our finances Philippine Church in these 10 coming harder then, so that the grace may not be
not been ineffective. I have toiled all the In our context here in the Philippines, whether we are still a receiving church years so that 2021 can find us more of a in vain, pushing forward, not minding
harder!” He really fulfilled the great let us aim our sight at 2021, 10 years or a giving church. What about our giving than a receiving Church, a more what is past and be lost in finger pointing,
mandate of the Lord after the resurrection from now. In 2021 we will celebrate the missionary outreach? We can readily mature ecclesial community, that is. not running aimlessly, not wasting our
to go out to all the world and to proclaim 500th anniversary of the coming of the point out to our 10 million OFWs How are we to prepare to 2021? I do punches in shadowboxing, but running
the good news to all creation. Christian faith in our shores. What can who gain the praise of many bishops not aim to pre-empt our forthcoming in order to attain the prize of victory.
We see the conversion of Paul not just we present to the universal Church after in other lands since they fill up their discussions in the plenary sessions, if we
as a turning away from persecuting the 500 years of our Christianity? Should Churches. But this is not a program ever talk about this. My humble take on (This is a homily delivered January 25,
Christians, but the start of his mission we still remain a receiving Church? We of our Philippine church. This is a this is not to discuss again what we have 2011, feast of the conversion of St. Paul,
to preach Christ to all. So he came to are still dependent on foreign aid for phenomenon that we as church did to do, but to simply seriously put into by Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Auxiliary
Damascus no longer as a persecutor our apostolic programs. If we examine not and do not intend and, sad so say, practice PCP II. This year is PCP II’s 20th bishop of Manila and Chair of the Episcopal
but as a proclaimer of the faith. Once the amount of money the Philippines not even support. We do not have, anniversary. It was meant to help us be Commission on Social Action, Justice and
he came to know Jesus, nothing could receives from Propaganda Fide, with as church, any vigorous, coordinated a more integrally evangelized nation by Peace, to the bishops who were gathered at
stop him from announcing him. the amount we are giving to it, we are effort to be a missionary church, not the turn of the new millennium. The new the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila
Pope Benedict XVI in his Post-Synodal indeed a receiving Church. Our Alay even just to accompany our OFW millennium has come and we are now in preparation for the January 2011 Plenary
Apostolic Exhortation Verbum Domini, Kapwa, the Lenten program of the Catholics. The Episcopal Commission 10 years into it, yet when I read PCP II Assembly)

May They Be One Bibles for a Big Harvest Praise God for the strong

F
or the Congregation of Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Si- interest expressed by different
enna based in Quezon City, “The harvest is plentiful” (Matthew sectors to get involved in the

Bible Campaign
9:37a) but the Bibles are few. They have an outreach to several 2-year (2011-12) Handwritten
community partners and to more than a thousand elementary and high
school students throughout the country but most of these do not have Unity Bible (HUB) and for 57
Bibles. Among the 625 Catechists – the Bible teachers themselves − churches and organizations
Help Put a Bible in Every Filipino Home only 30% had Bibles. A positive turnaround came when the Congregation that have signed up as Writing
was able to acquire 600 subsidized Bibles under the May They Be One Centers.
Bible campaign. As a result, 100% of the Congregation’s Catechists Pray for wisdom for the
now have access to the Word. Among the Bible recipients were the far
flung areas in Pilar, Sorsogon and Palawan, which can only be reached leadership of the HUB as they
through small motor boats. Sis. Rhea Castillo, Congregational Director finalize the Project Mechanics
of Religious Education, observes that the regular practice of reading and other organizational
God’s Word has brought about a deepening and strengthening of the details. Let’s pray for more
Catechists’ prayer life. They have also become more active in sharing organizations to sign up as
their faith-life experiences to each other. Many of the students, though
they still don’t have their own Bibles, must have absorbed the Catechists’ HUB Writing Centers.
high regard for the Word. Before starting meetings, programs and even
parties, they have made it a point to honor the Word by including Bible
verses in these activities.
To learn more about how you can be
No. of Dioceses participating in the Bible Campaign – 78 out of 86 part of the Campaign and make signifi-
Dioceses cant change, call us at PBS 526-7777,
Bibles Distributed (Jan 1, 2011 – Jan 26, 2011): 10,918 cps ECBA 527-9386 or visit www.bible.org.
Bibles Distributed by Languages – Tagalog (2,661 cps.), Cebuano ph and www.ecba-cbcp.com. Donations
(1,200 cps.) English (3,720 cps.), Ilocano (2,025 cps.), Hiligaynon (0 can be made by making a deposit to the
cps.), Bicol (750 cps), Pangasinan ( 0 cps.), Pampango (62 cps.), Sa- following bank accounts: PBS-MTBO
marenyo (500 cps.) Account#393-0649-34 (BPI Sta. Mesa
Parishes/Communities served: 17 Branch) Fax deposit slip to 521-5803
Total Bible Distribution: (Jan 2009 – Jan. 26, 2010): 318,892 cps or ECBA-CBCP Account #0251-021376
Target No. of Bibles for Distribution for 2010: 400,000 cps. (BPI-Tayuman Branch) Fax deposit slip to
Public School Instruction at the Holy Trinity College in Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Total Funds Needed for Printing and Transport of Bibles in 2010: 527-9386. For credit card payments – go
P60M to PBS website (www.bible.org.ph)
 Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

Defending Life in The year of the youth

the Philippines

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

Mr. Brian Clowes, HLI’s Director of Research and Training worldwide, speak
before pro-life representatives during the 17th Asia-Pacific Congress held
in Manila on November 6, 2010.

By Brian Clowes, PhD

AFTER effectively fighting for Faith and family for decades

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

against the Culture of Death, the Church and the people of
the Philippines find themselves in a truly desperate situation.
For the first time, there is a distinct possibility that this most
Catholic of nations might embrace abortion.
For more than a decade, the death peddlers have pushed
for the so-called “Reproductive Health Bill (RH Bill),” which
provides for the universal distribution of all methods of birth
control, including abortifacient pills, injections, and IUDs. The
promoters of the RH Bill allege that it will prevent abortions
THE youth constitute a large and dynamic (ECY) was initially a committee under the in all the dioceses on 16 December 1986 with
through the widespread promotion of contraception, but its
portion of the laity. The Second Plenary Episcopal Commission on Lay Apostolate a focus on the poor, jobless and out-of-school
sponsors are well aware that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
Council of the Philippines (Cf. PCP-II, Art 50) (ECLA) during the period 1996-1985). youth.
has said that “... reproductive health includes contraception and
family planning and access to legal, safe abortion.” affirmed this demographic reality and issued This period marked the rise of national
a conciliar decree in order to respond to the youth organizations and movements, and Double celebration
The RH Bill provides for heavy fines and imprisonment for
young whose number and population makes the creation of youth ministry structures The CBCP Year of the Youth started 16
Catholic and other hospital personnel who refuse to distribute
the country a Church of the young. within the dioceses. During the National December (National Youth Day) 2010 and
contraception or perform sterilizations. Additionally, anyone
Through the years, young people have Conference for Youth Ministers (NCYM) in will culminate on 16 December 2011. The
who distributes “malicious disinformation” about the RH
shown how important they are and how January 1986, the youth minister-delegates ECY will celebrate its 25th anniversary in
Bill itself can be jailed. Naturally, the bill’s sponsors refuse to
gifted they can be as they place their gifts at proposed for the creation of a commission July 2011. The CBCP Year of the Youth is part
define this term, but we can be certain that they consider all
the service of God and their neighbor. for the youth separate from the ECLA. of the Silver Anniversary celebrations since
opposition to the RH Bill to be “malicious.” The RH Bill also
They are important, as they serve as a The ECLA presented the proposal to the the anniversary aims to focus not only on
provides for mandatory comprehensive sex education beginning
gauge and reference for trends and the ECY but also on the youth and
in fifth grade, which its proponents know is the best way to
patterns for living, thus becoming the youth ministry among them in
destroy the innocence of the children and get them “hooked”
major targets of worldly schemes its various forms, united towards a
on contraception.
towards materialism, hedonism common vision.
In other words, the RH Bill is a complete package designed
and mediocre living. As Church, This double celebration will be
to integrate the anti-life mentality into the fabric of the nation.
we need to counter these and lead for the whole Catholic Church
It is plainly a “lethal injection” to the soul of the Philippines,
the youth towards the discovery of in the Philippines. Thus, the
as the European experience has shown us.
their genuine identity and of their different commissions of the
Benigno Aquino III is the first Filipino President to say that
potentials, indeed towards life in Catholic Bishops’ Conference
he supports the RH Bill. Like John F. Kennedy, he says that
its fullness in Christ. of the Philippines, the dioceses
he will keep his “Catholic” faith separate from his public life,
They are gifted, as evidenced by the around the country (led by the
and that the Church will play no role in shaping his decisions.
many examples of youthful idealism local ordinaries and their respective
Naturally, the population controllers and other anti-lifers
and heroism that have graced diocesan youth ministry offices)
are ecstatic over this, and anticipate legalized abortion in the
world and Philippine histories. and their parishes, the member-
Philippines in less than three years.
But especially in the recent 2010 organizations of the Federation
The purpose of my tenth mission to the Philippines was to
national and local elections, young of National Youth Organizations
speak at Human Life International’s 17th Asia-Pacific Congress,
people of voting age cast the biggest (FNYO), along with religious
and to help our Regional Coordinator, Ligaya Acosta, assist the
number of votes. They also rallied institutes and communities and
Church hierarchy and large Catholic lay groups in organizing
behind the Parish Pastoral Council civic and civil youth organizations,
and synchronizing their efforts.
for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) will all be involved by the ECY and
The pre-Congress training sessions kicked off with an
and other similar non-government its implementing arm, the National
opening Mass celebrated by a dozen priests. We had pro-life
organizations. Truly, the youth can Secretariat for Youth Apostolate
representatives from Laos, India, Thailand, Papua New Guinea,
make a dynamic impact in the church (NSYA) as well as YouthPinoy,
Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Taiwan, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore,
and society as powerful catalysts of with the valuable assistance of
Uzbekistan and, of course, the Philippines. The three-day
change. the Regional Youth Coordinating
pre-Congress was designed to train pro-life leaders from each
These bring all of us to reflect on Councils.
of the countries in the basics of the anti-life assaults, and to
our ministry among them. We may The double celebration is an
awaken and inform them as to the many directions they may
have made great strides in the past appropriate time to commemorate
come from. We also hosted a meeting of more than 150 high-
decades—in our parishes, schools, in milestones and successes in youth
level pro-life leaders, including bishops, senators, congressmen
the diocese and in many other areas. ministry, and celebrate the idea
and judges, as well as large numbers of businessmen, doctors
But, as we measure how far we have of many more years to come for
and lawyers.
fared, we become uncomfortable in the it to flourish and be fulfilled. This
The worst fear of the population controllers is a vocal Church
thought that we run short even of our year is deemed to be more than
working hand-in-hand with large and activist lay groups. The
own expectations and realize there is just a celebration of the creation of
head of the Knights of Columbus of the Philippines was at the
still a need for intensified efforts for this ECY—a) it will be, for the Church
meeting, and he said that the combined strength of 300,000
ministry to be more relevant and effective. bishops in the Bishops’ Plenary Assembly in the Philippines, a thanksgiving for the
fourth-degree Knights will be marshaled against the RH bill.
By the declaration of 2011 as CBCP year of July 1986. The bishops acknowledged wonderful gift of young people and their
They will be joined by the powerful Couples for Christ group,
of the Youth during the 101st Bishops’ the need for a commission that addresses great contribution as well as potentials; b)
El Shaddai, and the Focolare, among others. Between them,
Plenary Assembly held in July 2010, the all youth ministry concerns distinctively. it will be a tribute to the youth ministers,
these groups represent millions of Filipinos.
CBCP together with youth ministers at all The proposal was unanimously approved especially those within the dioceses and
The 17th Asia-Pacific Congress officially began on November 6.
levels will intensify awareness and love by the bishops. ecclesial youth organizations, who have
Among the many bishops staying through the entire conference
for the youth; and wider participation in The same assembly also approved the genuinely responded to the call to serve the
were Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, recently retired from the post of
youth ministry, leaving to a ministry that is following proposals: a) For each diocese young; c) above all it will be a celebration
Archbishop of Cebu City; Archbishop Jose S. Palma, his successor;
undertaken with the “fullest attention and to have a Diocesan Youth Council (or its of a youth ministry that is lived fully and
Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Archbishop of Manila; Archbishop
highest priority in every way by all in the equivalent) with well formed and trained passionately for Christ.
Tomash Peta, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of
Kazakhstan; Archbishop Francesco Panfilo, President of the Church.” (PCP-II, Art 50). fulltime youth ministers (formators/
coordinators) who may be priests, religious (This article is lifted from the Conceptual Plan
Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and the
Life / B7 The ECY sisters/brothers and/or lay youth ministers; and General Information of the CBCP Year of
The Episcopal Commission on Youth b) That a “National Youth Day” be celebrated the Youth)

PCP-II / B1

Vatican II sources in order to draw some fellowship realized when Jesus Christ when the thunder of protests and the and evaluations. An efficient church of others.
pastoral reflections. by His incarnation united himself with stormy winds of political conflicts structure can be achieved at the price Finally, this national consultation
Vatican II in its Lumen Gentium us in o9rder to show us how to achieve render all but impossible that serenity of dehumanizing its staff. for church renewal is a reminder of the
describes the Church as the mystery of communio with the Father. And how and pace of mind needed to arrive are The pastoral strategy for church renewal principle ecclesia simper reformanda.
communio. First of all what is meant is this life of communion to be gained? clear and objective judgments—are you involves two interrelated dimensions. The Church—bishops, priests, religious
here by “mystery”? It does not refer to Through following the example of the at the Crucified One, are you like Elijah The first is internal, it involves the and laity—in their pilgrim journey to
something unknowable but rather it is Crucified Christ in his manifestations of old, standing in the right place to hear church’s mission and ministry within the Kingdom are still in the process of
the manifestation in a visible way of of supreme love and forgiveness in that gentle breeze into which is enfolded its own community. The second is taking on the fullness of Jesus Christ.
a transcendental saving reality. What the words of Pope John Paul II during the message of God—a message of external and involves its giving witness The effort for reform and renewal is
is that “transcendental saving reality” the World Day of Peace on January 1st love, a call to unity, a challenge to and proclaiming its mission to the wider unceasing.
which the Church makes visible? It is 2001: forgive and reconcile? Even as we society. It is understandable to give In this consultation, you are carrying
communio. “The example of Christ makes us have elaborated effective strategies for priority to the first dimension but we on this vital task of renewal in a period
How is communio manifested in the certain that the many impediments to denouncing political corruption and cannot ignore the second since the church‘s of great national crisis. The challenge is
world by the Church? Not through its communication and dialogue between economic injustice should we not also mission is essentially outward looking. for Filipino Catholics to face this time of
structures, its rituals, its dogma—but people can indeed to be torn-down. work at designing strategies for national We cannot turn the church into a ghetto, peril with courage and hope lest we be
through its faithful. The faithful who Gazing upon the Crucified One, we are reconciliation and unity? concerned exclusively with building up its further torn apart, unable and unwilling
in the early church shared their goods filled with confidence that forgiveness You are focused these days on arriving resources, its power, its interests. to heal our conflicts for lack of love and
with one another and which made and reconciliation can become the at doable propositions for church Accordingly, your doable programs humility.
observers exclaim: “See how these normal practice of everyday life renewal. But does your focus limit you will help motivate the individual to Help make our Church in the
Christians love another”. Communio and every culture, and thus a real to view church renewal merely in terms reach outwards to help not only his Philippines the home of hope and not of
emerges when in the midst of rancor opportunity for building humanity’s of structural and ritual reforms? These or her immediate community but also despair, the abode of a new humanity, of
amid intense confrontations, a Christian peace and future.” laudable efforts if detached from the the wider community; not simply men and women practicing truth, justice,
brings in a formula for forgiveness and It is the promotion and proclamation renewal and emergence of the mystery the members of his or her church freedom, love and peace in renewed
reconciliation. of the Church as communio that is at the of the Church, which is communio organization but the unreached sectors Community of Disciples of the Lord
Why does communio manifest and heart of church renewal. might only limit you to administrative of society who are deprived of the Jesus Christ.
emerge when people manifest love and In these long days and nights of our and procedural reforms. In this manner ministry and sacraments of the church. May our Blessed Mother guide you
forgiveness for one another? Because it crisis, when our faithful are confused, one runs the danger of becoming a The only thing that really counts in in this exploration of new ways, new
is an invitation lodged in our hearts by divided and manipulated by diverse carbon copy of secular organizations church renewal is a life of faith, hope fervor, new insights that will bring forth
the Creator for fellowship with Him, a political ideologies and vested interests, when they make their yearend review and charity that is lived through service about church renewal in our times.
 Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
B5

Choosing Life, Rejecting the RH Bill

Our Filipino Brothers and Sisters: for the dignity of the spouse.
The State values the dignity of 4. We believe that we are only stewards
every human person and guarantees of our own bodies. Responsibility
full respect for human rights (Art. II, over our own bodies must follow the
Section 11). The State recognizes the will of God who speaks to us through
sanctity of family life and shall protect conscience.
and strengthen the family as a basic 5. We hold that on the choices related
autonomous social institution. It shall to the RH bill, conscience must not only
equally protect the life of the mother and be informed but most of all rightly
the life of the unborn from conception guided through the teachings of one’s
(Art. II, Section 12). faith.
6. We believe in the freedom of religion
Background and the right of conscientious objection
We begin by citing the Philippine in matters that are contrary to one’s faith.
Constitution. We do so because we The sanctions and penalties embodied
intend to write you on the basis of the in the proposed RH bill are one more
fundamental ideals and aspirations reason for us to denounce it.
of the Filipino people and not on the
basis of specifically Catholic religious Our Calls
teachings. As religious leaders we have deeply
We are at a crossroads as a nation. and prayerfully reflected on this burning
Before us are several versions of a issue. We have unanimously made
proposed bill, the Reproductive Health the moral judgment—to reject the RH
bill or sanitized as a Responsible agenda and to choose life.
Parenthood bill. This proposed bill 1. We call for a fundamental
in all its versions calls us to make a transformation of our attitudes and
moral choice: to choose life or to choose behavior towards all human life especially
death. the most defenseless, namely, human life
At the outset we thank the government being formed or being conceived. The
for affording us an opportunity to cheapness with which many seem to

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

express our views in friendly dialogue. consider human life is a great bane to
Sadly our dialogue has simply revealed our religious-oriented nation.
how far apart our respective positions 2. We call upon our legislators to
are. Therefore, instead of building false consider the RH bill in the light of the
hopes, we wish at the present time to God-given dignity and worth of human
draw up clearly what we object to and
what we stand for.
A Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines life and, therefore, to shelve it completely
as contrary to our ideals and aspirations
as a people. We thank our legislators
Moral Choices at the Crossroads—at author of life, endows a human being. AIDS. This goes against the grain etc. World organizations estimate that who have filed bills to defend human
EDSA I and Now Placing artificial obstacles to prevent of many available scientific data. In in our country more than P400 billion life from the moment of conception and
Twenty five years ago in 1986 we human life from being formed and some countries where condom use pesos are lost yearly to corruption. call upon all other legislators to join
Catholic Bishops made a prophetic being born most certainly contradicts is prevalent, HIV/ AIDS continues The conclusion is unavoidable: for our their ranks.
moral judgment on political leadership. this fundamental truth of human life. to spread. Condoms provide a false country to escape from poverty, we have 3. We thank the great multitude of
With this prophetic declaration we In the light of the widespread influence security that strongly entices individuals to address the real causes of poverty and lay people all over the country, and
believe that we somehow significantly of the post-modern spirit in our world, towards increased sexual activity, not population. particularly the dedicated groups who
helped open the door for EDSA I and a we consider this position as nothing less increasing likewise the incidence of made their presence felt in the halls of
window of political integrity. than prophetic. As religious leaders we HIV/AIDS. “Safe sex” to prevent HIV In the light of the above, we express Congress, to defend and promote our
Today we come to a new national must proclaim this truth fearlessly in /AIDS is false propaganda. our clear objections: position. We call upon other lay people
crossroads and we now have to make season and out of season. Advocates also assert that the RH Bill 1. We object to the non-consideration and adherents of other religions to join
a similar moral choice. Our President (2) It is parents, cooperating with empowers women with ownership of of moral principles, the bedrock of law, the advocacy to defend and promote
rallied the country with the election God, who bring children into the world. their own bodies. This is in line with in legislative discussions of bills that are our commonly shared ideals and
cry, “Kung walang corrupt walang It is also they who have the primary the post-modern spirit declaring that intended for the good of individuals and aspirations.
mahirap.” As religious leaders we inalienable right and responsibility women have power over their own for the common good. 4. We call on our government to
believe that there is a greater form of to nurture them, care for them, and bodies without the dictation of any 2. We are against the anti-life, anti- address effectively the real causes of
corruption, namely, moral corruption educate them that they might grow as religion. How misguided this so-called natal and contraceptive mentality that is poverty such as corruption, lack of
which is really the root of all corruption. mature persons according to the will of “new truth” is! For, indeed, as created reflected in media and in some proposed social and economic services, lack of
On the present issue, it would be the Creator. by God our bodies are given to us to legislative bills. access to education and the benefits of
morally corrupt to disregard the moral keep and nourish. We are stewards of 3. We object strongly to efforts at development, social inequities.
implications of the RH bill. What We Specifically Object to in the our own bodies and we must follow railroading the passage of the RH bill. 5. We call for the establishment of
This is our unanimous collective RH Bill God’s will on this matter according 4. We denounce the over-all trajectory more hospitals and clinics in the rural
moral judgment: We strongly reject the Advocates contend that the RH bill to an informed and right conscience. of the RH bill towards population areas, the deployment of more health
RH bill. promotes reproductive health. The RH Such a conscience must certainly be control. personnel to provide more access to
Bill certainly does not. It does not protect enlightened and guided by religious 5. We denounce the use of public funds health services, the building of more
Commonly Shared Human and the health of the sacred human life that and moral teachings provided by for contraceptives and sterilization. schools, the provision of more aid to
Cultural Values—Two Fundamental is being formed or born. The very name various religious and cultural traditions 6. We condemn compulsory sex the poor for education, and the building
Principles “contraceptive” already reveals the anti- regarding the fundamental dignity and education that would effectively let of more and better infrastructures
Far from being simply a Catholic life nature of the means that the RH bill worth of human life. parents abdicate their primary role of necessary for development.
issue, the RH bill is a major attack on promotes. These artificial means are Advocates also say that the RH bill educating their own children, especially 6. We echo the challenge we
authentic human values and on Filipino fatal to human life, either preventing it is necessary to stop overpopulation in an area of life—sexuality—which is a prophetically uttered 25 years ago at
cultural values regarding human life from fruition or actually destroying it. and to escape from poverty. Our sacred gift of God. EDSA I and call upon all people of good
that all of us have cherished since time Moreover, scientists have known for a own government statistical office has will who share our conviction: “…let us
immemorial. long time that contraceptives may cause concluded that there is no overpopulation What We Stand For pray together, reason together, decide
Simply stated the RH Bill does not cancer. Contraceptives are hazardous to in the Philippines but only the over- On this matter of proposed RH bills, together, act together, always to the end
respect moral sense that is central to a woman’s health. concentration of population in a number these are our firm convictions: that the truth prevail” over the many
Filipino cultures. It is the product of Advocates also say that the RH bill will of urban centers. Despite other findings 1. We are deeply concerned about the threats to human life and to our shared
the spirit of this world, a secularist, reduce abortion rates. But many scientific to the contrary, we must also consider plight of the many poor, especially of human and cultural values.
materialistic spirit that considers analysts themselves wonder why the findings of a significant group of suffering women, who are struggling We commend our efforts against the
morality as a set of teachings from which prevalent contraceptive use sometimes renowned economic scholars, including for a better life and who must seek it RH bill (or the Responsible Parenthood
one can choose, according to the spirit of raises the abortion rate. In truth, economic Nobel laureates, who have outside of our country, or have recourse bill—its new name) to the blessing of our
the age. Some it accepts, others it does contraceptives provide a false sense of found no direct correlation between to a livelihood less than decent. almighty and loving God, from whom all
not accept. Unfortunately, we see the security that takes away the inhibition population and poverty. In fact, many 2. We are pro-life. We must defend life comes and for whom it is destined.
subtle spread of this post-modern spirit to sexual activity. Scientists have noted Filipino scholars have concluded that human life from the moment of
in our own Filipino society. numerous cases of contraceptive failure. population is not the cause of our conception or fertilization up to its For the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
Abortion is resorted to, an act that all poverty. The causes of our poverty are: natural end. of the Philippines,
Our position stands firmly on two of religious traditions would judge as flawed philosophies of development, 3. We believe in the responsible and
the core principles commonly shared sinful. “Safe sex” to diminish abortion misguided economic policies, greed, natural regulation of births through +NEREO P. ODCHIMAR, D.D.
by all who believe in God: rate is false propaganda. corruption, social inequities, lack of Natural Family Planning for which Bishop of Tandag
(1) Human life is the most sacred Advocates moreover say that the RH access to education, poor economic and character building is necessary which President, CBCP
physical gift with which God, the bill will prevent the spread of HIV/ social services, poor infrastructures, involves sacrifice, discipline and respect January 30, 2011

Statement of the Apostolic Speak the Truth

Vicar of Puerto Princesa on from the Heart!
“LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent?
Dr. Gerry Ortega’s Murder Who may live on your holy mountain?
The one whose walk is blameless,
On January 24, 2011, Palawan and
the World lost a good man. Our dear
to do the “seeing of the real Palawan”
ourselves.
to “A ten (10) Million Signature
Campaign” for a “No Mining in who does what is righteous,
brother and friend, Dr. Gerardo
V. Ortega, a zealous advocate for
Let us, then, nurture our grief and our
outrage over the senseless killing of our
Palawan” advocacy. Gerry has
made us see the evil of mining, not who speaks the truth from their heart.
environmental protection and a
fearless critique of cabal corrupt
beloved Gerry. If in the last moment of
his life, Gerry rummaged through used
only in the extracting of minerals in
the depths of the earth but also in the
(Psalm 15:1-2)
officials, was shot to death by a hired clothing at store, let us, as it were, this unmasking of truth in the depths of
gunman. With bullet pumped into very moment, rummaged through our a person’s heart. Let us carry on his Introduction forces us to consider the malignance of
his head, .Gerry fell and moved on heart in search of values we still hold fight and make it our own. We are moved by the recent turn corruption that continue to paralyze
to see the face of god in heaven. dear: values like honesty, transparency Now, as we commend to the Lord of events in the plunder case against government generation of revenues and
And so we grieve. and accountability. Corruption has that He grant Gerry eternal rest, let former military comptroller Gen. delivery of social services.
We grieve because while he was insidiously seeped into their way of us also pray that all of us be restless Carlos Garcia. The end of the year left Garcia, a former military comptroller
with us, Gerry wanted to make us life as a people so that even persons until we make the “No Mining in us shocked at the scandal of the plea who figured in a plunder case involving
“see the face of the real Palawan.” we used to revere on this island have Palawan” a reality. bargaining agreement entered into by Php 200 M in 2007, entered into a
Of Palawan being ravaged and become stained. Inspired by Gerry’s May Mary, the Immaculate the Office of the Ombudsman. The New plea bargain with the Ombudsman
disemboweled because of selfish efforts to make us see the real Palawan, Conception, present Gerry before Year, however, has uplifted us with the last February 25, 2010. Under the
mining interests. Of Palawan let us help one another in getting rid the Father and may She continue unfolding of truth through the revelation agreement, the cases of plunder and
being governed by leaders whose of corruption in ourselves and in our to intercede for us in our attempts of courageous, competent and faith- money laundering were dropped in
main concern is not the welfare of society and, in particular, of corrupt to make the Philippines’ Last inspired witnesses. This series of events exchange for Garcia pleading guilty to
the Palaweños and of the whole government officials and their callous Ecological Frontier a true heaven reveals both the ugly and the redeeming lesser offenses of bribery and facilitating
province but of the money that collaborators. These government on earth. qualities of the Filipino people. money laundering. On December 16,
finds its way into their own pockets. officials are these because, enticed and On the one hand, we are confronted 2010, he posted a Php 60,000 bail and was
Of Palawan and Palaweños being bribed by their money in the elections, MOST REV. PEDRO D. ARIGO, with the reality that political expediency immediately released from his detention
continually and, with impunity, we voted them into office. D.D. and patronage are the elements that cell in Camp Crame.
deceived by its own elected officials After the example of Gerry, let us Vicar Apostolic currently define our government. The fact that Garcia was allowed at
because of the lure of money. say “No to Mining!” And, for Gerry, Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Notwithstanding our hope and all by the Ombudsman to enter into a
Now, with Gerry gone, we need let us individually affix our signature Princesa supposition for a better form of plea bargain despite the extensive and
governance, the Ombudsman’s decision damning evidences unearthed by the
to reduce the case of plunder to bribery Truth / B7
 Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

How Do We Change Our Country and the World—

By Force, Naked Power, Violence and Uprising?
By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo,
SThD
5th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A (Mt 5:13-15) February 6, 2011 set on a hill.
A s the light of the world, this
community that Jesus had in mind
holds values that contradict the values
BEFORE the collapse of Communism of this world. If the present world values
in 1990, many idealists from the world power, wealth, honor and domination,
over, recognizing the evils of capitalism, the community of disciples will value
thought that communism, with its their exact opposite: weakness, poverty,
program of violent revolution, would and slavery. That is why, in sharp
establish heaven on earth—the classless contrast with the world, the disciples
society. Thus, the Constitution and By- are to become poor, sorrowing, thirsty,
Laws of the Hukbong Magpapalaya hungry and weak (Matt 5:3-112). As
ng Bayan (HMB, 1950) in the country such, they have nothing to boast before
declares in its preamble: “In the face of the world. Instead of being a community
these national crimes and treachery we held captive by power, money and
have no other recourse but to act. We… influence, the disciples are a community
consider it our duty… to band together that is characterized by freedom from
and resort to our inherent right and only these. Thus, in Luke’s account of the
remaining means to save our country early Church, we are told that the
and our nationhood—armed uprising community of believers was poor, but
or revolution.” But after a communist the members were one in heart and
revolution, heaven does not really come mind (Acts 4:32). In John, the disciples

www.jesuschristsavior.net
down. As Alexander Solzehnitsyn are recognized as Christ’s community in
writes: “Communism was condemned their love for one another (John 13:35).
the day it was born… Inside the Soviet The same qualities are emphasized in
Union it held on for seventy years Paul’s description of the community: “I
only thanks to repression and blood plead with you to live a life worthy of the
violence—don’t forget that it killed up calling you have received, with perfect
to 60 million people. Abroad it was able and to the new awareness that shakes Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7) in which let us climb the Lord’s mountain, to the humility, meekness, and patience,
to hold sway thanks to demagogy and people of out fatalistic resignation and Matthew outlines what is distinctively house of the God of Jacob, that he may bearing one another lovingly. Make
lies. It fascinated the West, because it was spurs them on to liberate themselves Christian in the life of the community instruct us in his ways, and we may walk every effort to preserve the unity which
like a sickly blossoming of humanism. and be responsible for their own destiny of believers. For Matthew, the Christian in his paths” (Isa 2:2-3a). In this passage, has the Spirit as its origin and peace as
Didn’t the intellectuals of the 1930s (cf Synod of Bishops, Convenientes community does not isolate itself from the mountain represents the people of its binding force. There is but one body
believe that it had brought us paradise ex universo). After all, it is the bearer the world of sin and injustice, but has God who do his will, who are faithful and one Spirit, just as there is but one
on earth?” There is really much truth to of the Gospel, which is precisely the a role to play in the transformation of to his covenant. By appropriating this hope give all of you by your call” (Eph
the maxim attributed to John Galbraith: Good News of salvation; and, as such, that world. That function he describes imagery and applying it to his disciples, 4:1-4).
“Under capitalism, man exploits man. represents God’s will to change this as being a city set on a hill: “You are the Jesus wanted to emphasize that the It is by living this kind of life that
And under communism, it is the exact world of sin, division and injustice, light of the world. A city set on a hill world of sin and injustice cannot be the community of disciples functions
opposite.” since God himself wishes all men to be cannot be hidden” (Matt 3:14). Here changed through violent revolution, but like a city set on a hill that gives light to
What does the Church have to say to saved (1 Tim 2:4). But the Church is not Jesus was speaking to his disciples about through his community of disciples who the world. Hence, Jesus described the
men and women who aspire to alter the equivocal about changing the world by their function in the world. This imagery fulfill their role as a city set on a hill that community as “the light of the world”
present order of injustice and violence means of armed revolution; it outrightly is undoubtedly taken this text in Isaiah: gives light to the world. Which is why (Matt 3:14). With such kind of life, the
and replace it will a new one, just rejects it, because it is not consistent with “In the days to come, the mountain of the in Matthew, before Jesus delivered the disciples lead a life that is in contrast with
and more humane? The Church is, of the teaching and life of Jesus. What the Lord’s house shall be established as the Sermon on the Mount, he first called the world. But Jesus was convinced that
course, not insensitive to the existence Church sanctions finds answer in this highest mountain, and raised above the some men to constitute the community if the community is faithful to its call, it
of serious injustices that build a network Sunday’s Gospel. hills. All nations shall stream toward it; of disciples (Matt 4:18-22), and it is this will have an influence on the nations. Like
of domination, oppression and abuses, The Sunday reading is part of the many peoples shall come and say: Come, community that he describes as a city Change / B7

Choose the Life

Bishop Pat Alo

ENCOUNTERS

Live and let live (Golden Rule) of the Lord

THE above title is a common Prophets” (Mt. 7:12). greed that make people resort to and masturbation, following the
6th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year
English proverb that signifies
a respect, not only for our own,
Presumably respect for life
implies also not obstructing the
the use of artificial methods to
limit the birth rate.
6th commandment—“Thou shall
not commit adultery.” (See also
A (Mt 5:17-37) February 13, 2011
but also our neighbor’s life and oncoming life that is the normal So, too, the Catholic position is Bible texts in Ex. 20:12-16, Deut.
rights. It somehow agrees with result of sexual union of man and consistent in its respect for life and 5:16-20). By Fr. Joseph Pellegrino Ben Sirach. The famous Jesuit,
what the Lord Jesus indicates woman. Hence God’s word is the rights of human beings, from The concomitant moral rules Walter Burghardt, focused
as the meaning of the prophetic the first book of the Bible. Gen. infancy till adulthood, even till death are intended to build up a in on the phrase, Before man
messages and substance of the 1:28 expresses it this way: “God itself. The Church stands against faithful, solid and loving family BACK in the olden days, when I are life and death, whichever
divine Law. Thus Jesus considers blessed them, saying to them, ‘Be the abortifacient pills or injections, where the child can grow to was in college, I was a religious he chooses shall be given
the following a golden rule: “So fruitful, multiply, fill the earth and and against abortion. Also in its maturity, both physically and brother with the Salesians of St. him. He goes on to state
always treat others as you would conquer it.’” What happens in our morality, as derived from the very spiritually. Thus stable, God- John Bosco and studying to be a that to the ancient Hebrews
like them to treat you; that is world is the desire for pleasure, traditions and earliest teachings, the fearing families make also a priest. I was given an additional life meant far more than the
the meaning of the Law and the power, money or other forms of Church stands against fornication strong society. assignment my senior year to period between conception
be an assistant to the young and death. Life was what
men in their first year in the proceeded from loving and
Fr. Francis Ongkingco seminary. This position meant obeying God. And death was

WHATEVER
living with them, showing them not just that which followed
what religious life was all about, the last breath on earth. To
helping them with their studies, the ancient Hebrews, death
and organizing everything in was the rejection of the living
their lives from work to play. God. “Seek the Lord and you

‘The Big C’ Now some of these fellows

were right out of high school.
A few of them, though, were
people who had already made
will live,” the prophet Amos
tells the people. He was not
just speaking of eternity. He
was speaking of living life to
a bit of a mark on the world. its fullest right now. And,
THE fellow who dropped by the chaplaincy “Oh, you mean…,” Father Arnold needs of our hearts.’” One was a professional banjo conversely, isolate yourself
was one of the best students of the batch. chuckled. “When you’re old and have done “Double ouch!” Dave cried out. “Okay, player who had performed from the love of the Lord,
Ever since he started intermediate level he everything for yourself, and you can just settle Father. I guess you win this round.” on TV and in Carnegie Hall in and you will join the living
made it a habit to see the priest regularly for down and give God the scraps?” “Dude, I guess you simply need to be New York City. Another, Rich dead.
spiritual guidance. “Ouch!” Dave reacted. “That wasn’t exactly sincere about this and pray about it.” Regan, was an accomplished The point is that you and I
“Hi Dave,” the priest greeted the now what I meant, Father.” guitarist who had worked with are not genuinely alive because
graduating college student. “What’s up? It’s “You know Dave, giving ourselves to God *** some well known individuals we are not medically dead.
been some time since you last visited.” doesn’t really depend on our being settled. When Dave left, Father Arnold scribbled his in Church music. Towards We are genuinely alive when
Father Arnold admired the young man: a In reality, man is never settled. It is when fragmented thoughts from his conversation the end of the school year I our actions are full of love and
good leader, cheerful, generous in serving he decides to commit himself to someone or with Dave. attended a Catholic education understanding and intelligence
others. And yet, the priest pondered, “Like something that he really settles down. His “Why is it so hard for many young people convention and came upon a and heart. To be genuinely alive,
many of his generation he was lacking entire life starts to have meaning, direction today to make lifetime commitments?” He booth selling Church music. we must experience God. It
something.” and is fruitful.” jotted down some reasons that possibly On one of the CD’s there was a is not enough to know about
“Everything, thanks to God, is in great “Yeah, I’ve heard that many times before, explain why it’s hard for the young to commit picture of the group including God. We must know Him,
shape, Father,” Dave pulled a chair and sat Father. But I guess it isn’t the right time yet. It’s themselves to God: Rich Regan. I said to the man experience Him. We can only
down. more like…that I need more time to establish a) Their notion of freedom is either wrong, behind the booth, “That’s Rich know Him and experience Him
Father Arnold continued pondering, “… myself personally and spiritually.” or often faulty. Commitment is impossible for Regan. I teach him.” There was through love. The First Letter
and to top all his good qualities, this fellow “Oh, going for the mediocre middle one who cannot understand that commitment another Salesian with me, who of John states, “Whoever does
has also matured in his spiritual life. But ground, is that it?” Father Arnold wasn’t to an ideal actually makes one more free and sarcastically asked me: “You not love, does not know God.”
why…?” afraid to challenge the man. “What is there mature by giving it up for love; teach him what?” I quickly We shall only be admitted
Dave sensed that Father Arnold was deeply in the world that can match the ideal of b) Youth today constantly lack ideals (e.g. responded, “I teach him how into the eternal presence of
concerned with something. He cordially broke becoming a saint?” love, friendship, loyalty, etc.). Without these, to live.” God if we love Him, if we love
the priest’s ponderings with a question that “I know, but it’s like when I commit they tend only to only commit themselves to I don’t think I fully understood Christ, above all else and if we
surprised Father Arnold, “You’re not going to then…,” Dave tried explaining himself. material and ephemeral ones; my own answer back then. I love the human images of God
ask me about the Big-C, are you, Father?” “Look, remember what Pope Benedict said c) And, they lack models for these ideals. think there was a great deal of and Christ at least as much as
“Big-C?” the priest asked quite confused. recently to some young people when he went Ideals and ambitions are normally drawn plastic piety involved mixed we love ourselves. When we
“Cancer?” to the U.K.?” from “heroes”, but today there are very few in with an abundant measure consider all things through the
“No, Father, something more serious than “I sort of read that, but I guess you can positive model references for the young. The of the triumphalism that many Love of Christ, we are alive in
cancer,” Dave grinned. refresh the more salient points of what he breakdown of marriage and the family is one religious orders try to generate, Christ. St. Paul puts it this way,
“What then? I’m lost.” shared,” he said. major factor causing this; favorably comparing their way “For me, living is Christ.” Then,
“COMMITMENT,” Dave said. “Let me read it to you.” Father Arnold got d) A materialistic outlook of life anchors of life to all others. as Paul says in Romans Eight,
“Oh, that,” Father, sighed with relief. a note card from his table. “He said: ‘When I them in only “having” and “wanting” things. As I get older, and reflect on nothing in creation can separate
“What made you think I was going to ask invite you to become saints, I am asking you As a result, they overlook the more important the successes and failures of us from the Love of Christ,
you about that?” not to be content with second best. I am asking task of “becoming persons” which allows my life as well as the hills and not even physical death. For,
“Your expression, I guess,” Dave smiled. you not to pursue one limited goal and ignore them to give their life –not their things– to God valleys that lay ahead of me, as we heard in today’s second
Father Arnold and he had been together for all the others. (…) Happiness is something we and neighbor. When everything is treated I am beginning to realize that reading, ‘The eye has not seen,
many years that a natural friendship and all want, but one of the great tragedies in this from a materialistic outlook, spiritual truths now at 63 I know far less about the ear has not heard, nor has
trust had developed between them. world is that so many people never find it, or values are less appreciated and applied. life than in those wonderful it so much as dawned on man
“So, why not, Dave?” the priest’s tone because they look for it in the wrong places. “Yes, the young are seeking to ‘be happy’,” idealistic days of my early what God has prepared for
suddenly changed to engage Dave. The key to it is very simple – true happiness Father Arnold thought. “But like the Holy twenties when I had everything those who love him.’ Yet God
“It’s simply, that I don’t think it’s the right is to be found in God. We need to have the Father said, they don’t know where to look figured out. has revealed this wisdom to us
time…, at least, not yet….” courage to place our deepest hopes in God for it. Perhaps, Big-C really means, Big This last week I was reading through the Spirit. The Spirit
“So then, when is the right time?” alone, not in money, in a career, in worldly Cowardice to fight one’s ego, disordered a commentary about life based scrutinizes all matters, even the
“I guess when I’m settled… success, or in our relationships with others, attachments, and projects for the love of God on today’s first reading from deep things of God.”
professionally?” but in God. Only he can satisfy the deepest and neighbor.” the Book of the Wisdom of Choose / B7
 Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
B7

The Trafficking
of Children

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

By Fr. Shay Cullen the international policing community less, immigration officials are on the a Philippine Mayor was dismissed We live in a globalized world where
on trafficking of children, fewer are look out to arrest them. because the evidence was only sufficient the sexualization of children is taken for
being trafficked abroad. Instead the sex The anti-trafficking law needs to prove that he was a customer of the granted and women are increasingly
THE great challenge that the Aquino tourists are being encouraged to come amending. Lawmakers, some critics 12 year old child. So a defective charge seen as sex objects.
government has inherited and is to the Philippines and other countries in claim, wrote the law as if they themselves enabled the judge to dismiss the case of Young people are brainwashed into
trying to confront is the proliferation South East Asia. One report says that 14 would benefit from them, it is riddled trafficking. He is still charged with child believing that sexuality is pleasure
of sexual violence against children and % of the Philippine tourist trade is sex with loopholes to enable the child sex sexual abuse under RA 7610. seeking and has little to do with
the shocking trade in human persons in tourism. The failure of the Philippine abusers to escape justice. So instead In another case, Maricel, a diminutive procreation and family life until they get
the Philippines. internet providers to obey the law and the accused are being charged under 14 year old girl was sold by her mother unexpectedly pregnant and many then
Most of the trafficking is internal to install the software filters to block access R.A.7610—the child protection law. to an Australian, Pete the Pedophile seek abortions. Sexual exploitation has
the Philippines. Thousands of women to child pornography only encourages They will get a minimum of seven years here in Olongapo City. He continually replaced commitment and has led to huge
and children are taken from the remote the growth of this evil practice and to life if convicted. sexually abused her in the apartment numbers of divorces, separations, broken
impoverished rural regions. The job the increase in sexual violence against The proposed amendments before the of Nick, another Australian. The same homes and abandoned children. Taking a
recruiters pay the parents an advance on the children by locals and foreigners alike. Philippine Senate committee headed by had happened to Patty the 16 year older stand and promoting love as dedication is
promised salary of the child. The recruited But cracking down on this scourge Senator Loren B. Legarda are most urgent. sister of Maricel. She did not want her what we need to help young people have
children, some as young as 14 years old is of sexual violence against children is There are few convictions for trafficking of sister to suffer as she was suffering. She a happy family life. Yet outmoded and
bonded labor and controlled by the debt gaining strength and more charges persons and this had landed the Philippines called the Preda “Child Watch” hotline. unfashionable as it may appear love that
and fear of prosecution by the recruiter against foreigners are being filed. on US State Department “Watch List”, of Soon the Preda team had rescued Maricel is grounded in commitment and unselfish
and later to the employer. In many cases Those coming here to get young girls countries that have low compliance with and brought her to safety and the two care for another without demanding or
the job as a domestic worker turns out to under the guise of marriage are being international standards of child protection Australians were jailed. The charge asking for sexual pleasure as a reward,
be that of forced prostitution. investigated in Butuan City. The men and anti-trafficking of persons. against Nick was dismissed but Pete is the love that brings lasting happiness
With the renewed crackdown by traffickers are coming from Ireland no Most recently, a trafficking case against the Pedophile is on trial. for a whole lifetime.

Life / B4 Truth / B5

Solomon Islands; Archbishop productive trip we have had to the team of auditors is a case for misgivings. The the abuse of office that impoverishes the people schools to review our formation programs
Paciano Aniceto, Director of the Philippines. More than 500 people surreptitious transfer of funds amounting and harm the common good. It is unfortunate that may unwittingly breed selfishness and
Episcopal Commission on Family attended the Congress, and there to 200 M, authorized by Garcia from AFP that the greatest threat to our country’s well- narcissism, equating academic excellence
and Life; and Bishop Nereo were more high-ranking Church Land Bank account to a private account in being has come not so much from globalization with financial success. We must develop
P. Odchimar, President of the officials there than at any other HLI UCPB, is a major transaction that should or financial crises but from the entrenched pastoral programs for our erring alumni as
Catholic Bishops Conference of conference we have ever held. We have been properly reflected in AFP’s book of system of corruption that has crippled our well as support mechanism for those who
the Philippines (CBCP). also helped achieve more strategic records. Thus, a defense of “late recording”, development and eroded public trust. But it serve as moral exemplars.
The two and a half days goals than at any other conference, as argued by the prosecutors and upheld would be even worse if truth-tellers themselves, We call on offices—public and private
of talks stretched from early the most important being the by the Ombudsman, is insubstantial to say who struggle to live a life of integrity, would alike—to look deeper into your procurement
Saturday to noon on Monday. organization of the pro-life leaders the least because a two-year delay of bank be left in the cold, while the real culprits were practices, and enhance transparency and
We had eleven different talks, of the entire nation to fight the reconciliation is in itself a qualification for allowed to enjoy impunity. accountability.
and the open forum discussions Reproductive Health Bill. misconduct and corruption. This is also a challenge to our institutions, We remind lawyers, law enforcers and
were extensive. As usual, the To lose the Philippines to On the other hand, the integrity and noble including our families, schools, and even law schools, too, of your public oath of honor
most important work happened the culture of death would not sacrifices of public servants show an inspiring religious communities. This is not anymore and integrity. Beware of just being used as
behind the scenes with meetings only be a devastating blow to side of the Filipino people. Former COA about Gen. Garcia; this is now more about the instruments of impunity of corruption. We
and networking. the morale of pro-lifers all over auditor Heidi Mendoza, former Ombudsman honor and integrity of the country that is at knock on the doors of the OMB and OSP. It takes
One of our speakers was the world, it would open the Simeon Marcelo, former special prosecutor stake. This is now more about the reputation years to build trust and a few seconds to destroy
Congressman Roilo Golez, the floodgates to funds pouring in Dennis Villa-Ignacio, and more recently of fiduciary institutions – the Office of the it, and takes longer time to restore it. We beg on
author of House Bill 13, which to devastate Filipino families. Lt. Col. Rabusa, have risked their lives and Ombudsman (OMB) and the Office of the bended knees, do not fail the country.
would protect all human life from So we are appealing to all of our the security of their families to unmask the Special Prosecutor (OSP) – that is suspect. This We will also have to examine ourselves.
fertilization. He presented me friends to support our efforts in arrogance of those who abuse their power. is now more about the entire Filipino people Where have we gone wrong? We beg the
with a thick pile of papers proving the Philippines with generous They have also exposed the desperate moves losing trust and faith on these institutions. This Lord for the gift of discernment in order to
statistically that the main causes donations. Please also pray of government and financial institutions that is a classic betrayal of public trust. see what is right, for commitment to do what
of high maternal mortality in the fervently for the future of the try to cover up the crimes. A good number of is just, and for the gift of pronouncement to
provinces of the Philippines is not Philippines. If the RH Bill passes, lawmakers have displayed love of country Challenge to All speak the truth from the heart (Ps. 15).
the lack of “safe” abortion, but a there will be abortion mills all by the way they are probing the case. And Gen. Garcia’s case is corruption that creeps Amidst these challenges, we thank God,
lack of attended childbirth. But over the country within three media has been generous in informing and into our families. His wife had admitted that in particular, for Mrs. Heidi Mendoza whose
the population controllers do not years, and the soul of this most educating the public. the whole family shares in the loot. How sad Christian witness in public service ignites spaces
care about this; all they want is Catholic nation will quickly indeed that a few families benefit from this of hope for many Filipinos. The undersigned
fewer Filipinos. wither and die. The West will A Test Case corrupt system while other soldiers and their networks stand firmly behind her.
Cardinal Rosales encouraged have occupied the Philippines This is a test case for the sincerity and poor children suffer. Finally, we call on our fellow Filipinos to
all of us during his homily at the yet again, but this time the stamina of the administration of President And so, we call on the parents to serve pray that out of our brokenness—speaking
closing Mass of the Congress, occupation would be in the Benigno Simeon Aquino, III, who pledged as good examples to their children and the truth from the heart—we may become
emphasizing that prayer and form of anti-life resources and a clean government with zero tolerance espouse the virtue of honest toil. We call whole again.
action are both needed in the structures that would destroy for corruption. There are so many other on the children to ask your parents about
world today. We also outlined what is so beautiful and unique unresolved cases pending in the courts. They their sources of income. We also call on FR. ALBERT ALEJO, SJ
our plans for the next Congress, about this great country: its all cry for a strong, no-nonsense drive against family movements, prayer groups, and other Ehem/Aha Movement
which will be held in Kazakhstan faithful and joyful families, and the perpetrators. lay communities to include parenting for
in September of 2011. indeed, its future. Please heed the call of noble Filipinos, like integrity in your prayer and ministry. FR. CARMELO O. DIOLA
This was definitely the most Join us—don’t let it happen! Heidi Mendoza, when they come out against We call on the schools and the coalition of Dilaab Movement

Change / B6 Choose / B6

a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden, Of course, it is often said that what is Perhaps all this helps us understand lives, the life of Jesus within us. We hypocritical. If we live in our own
the quality of life that the community needed is a change of heart. This is the Gospel for this Sunday. The Sermon cannot love God and hate another false little worlds where we attempt
leads will not be hidden; nations will needed, it is true, but this approach is on the Mount is not about do’s and person at the same time. to create reality with our lies, we will
take notice of it and ask: why do these too individualistic, and fails to take into don’ts. It is not about limitations: how We have to fight that within us be dead to Jesus Christ. The truth sets
people live that kind of life? Jesus must consideration that man is conditioned little must I do to slip by St. Peter at which destroys the love relationships us free to be who we are rather than
have thought that because of the quality by society and culture. A change of the gates of heaven. The Sermon on we have committed ourselves to in who we fabricate ourselves to be. We
of life lived by the community members, heart would not be workable without a the Mount is about being fully alive life, whether this be your marriages, have to teach our children that Jesus
it would earn the admiration and envy community or environment that makes in Jesus Christ. It is about nourishing my priesthood, the love of your Christ is the Truth and that living in
of men. As Isaiah points out, when the change possible. That is why the the eternal life within us. families, your ability to love others. our lies results in being dead to Christ.
the community becomes an example present Gospel text actually provides The Sermon on the Mount is We cannot be alive to Jesus Christ if But trusting in the truth is trusting in
of a people who, because of their love, a third alternative to social change: not demanding. It is just not enough to within us we have a secret desire to Jesus, even when the truth might not
release those bound unjustly, who free by violent revolution, not simply by a avoid external sins of great magnitude. replace His Love, sacrificial love, with be pleasant such as admitting that you
the oppressed and break every yoke, change of heart, but through a community It is not enough to avoid murder. It is our selfishness. We cannot be alive to broke something or did something
sharing the bread with the hungry, and that exhibits the new life in Jesus. By its not enough to avoid adultery. It is not Jesus Christ unless we are continually wrong.
sheltering the homeless, their light will way of life, by being a contrast-society, enough to avoid taking false oaths. fighting to protect His Love from our St. Leo the Great used to challenge
break forth (Isa 58:6-8a, First Reading). the Christian community can renew the We have to fight that within us lust. We have to teach our adolescents the Christians of the fifth century,
Thus, it truly reflects the presence of world of sin and injustice. Of course, which results in murder, namely our and teens the difference between love “Remember your dignity.” We also
God for other nations to see. Since in for people who think they are “wise” anger, our hatred, our grudges, our and sex. We have to teach them that have to remember the dignity we have,
their manner of life and action the glory in the ways of the world, this might past hurts. Hatred, anger, and grudges people who have sacrificed their lives the dignity of being fully alive with the
of God is manifested, other nations will appear impractical, even quixotic. This destroy the life of Christ within us. for each other make love and grow in life of Jesus Christ.
stream toward it (Isa 49:6), and learn is precisely the reason why hardly any We cannot be fully alive if we treasure the Love of Jesus Christ and are fully “Before man are life and death,
from its ways. Thus, evil nations will be world leaders listen to this teaching but our hatred more than we treasure the alive. And we have to teach them that whichever he chooses shall be given
transformed even without violence. rather resort to their own wisdom which Love of God, Jesus Christ. We have to people who desire to use the bodies him.” the first reading states, to which
Violence begets violence. Revolution they think is practical and effective—kill teach our children that there is never of others for their own selfish needs Jesus adds, “Love the Lord, your God,
always engulfs its sons and daughters. those who they think are evil! But what room for hatred in the world. And yes, have no concept of love and are dead with all your heart, with all your
Theologically considered, violence is a the world considers a wise decision is they may be very upset with a teacher, to the Lord. being, with all your strength, and with
contradiction of faith in God, the creator folly before God, whose wisdom defies a playmate or a family member and We have to fight that which is within all your mind, and your neighbor as
of man, who cares for man and loves the wisdom of men. The Christian this upset may be justified by someone us that results in lying and cheating yourself.”
him (Pope’s Message for the World community, on the other hand, rests not hurting them, but if we allow upset to and what the Gospel calls false oaths. Today we pray for the strength to
Day of Peace). That is why a Christian, on the wisdom of men but on the power turn into hatred we destroy ourselves, We cannot be alive to Jesus Christ if be fully alive, and the grace to choose
qua Christian, cannot espouse violence. of God (1 Cor 2:5, Second Reading.) we destroy our ability to live genuine we are dishonest, disingenuous and the Life of Christ.
 B8 Entertainment CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

Moral Assessment Technical Assessment

 Abhorrent  Poor
 Disturbing  Below average

 Acceptable  Average

 Wholesome  Above average

 Exemplary  E
xcellent

Having to deal with the loss anti-hero characters in the film. TITLE: The Green Hornet
of his mother at a young age Although there are some hilarious CAST: Seth Rogen, Jay Chou,
and with a father (who owns a and comic moments in the movie, Cameron Diaz, Christoph
journalism empire who doesn’t some parts still lack the supposed Waltz; Edward James
seem to have time for him), Britt wit it tries to convey. Rogers is Olmos, David Harbour,
Reid (Seth Rogers) grows up solid as the Green Hornet while Tom Wilkinson, Edward
Furlong, Chad Coleman,
into becoming an irresponsible, Chou still needs a bit of a push to Robert Clotworthy
directionless man who parties all register strong screen presence. DIRECTOR: Michael Gondry
night with alcohol and different Their contrasting characteristics WRITER: Evan Goldberg,
women. But when his father works well as a tandem at times, Seth Rogen, Fran Striker,
suddenly dies mysteriously but sometimes, it falls flat. Camera George W. Trendle
because of a bee sting, Britt works, editing and direction SCREENPLAY: Seth Rogen
finds himself overwhelmed are imaginative but some fight PRODUCER / DISTRIBUTOR:
inheriting the family newspaper and chase scenes seem to lack Columbia Pictures
business and living up to his coherence. As a whole, The Green GENRE: Action/ Adventure
RUNNING TIME: 108 minutes
father’s legacy, thus, turning Hornetstill delivers a certain level
him all the more into a useless of entertainment value and does Technical Assessment: 
bum. Then he finds rescue with not really disappoint, only that Moral Assessment: 
his father’s brilliant mechanic it can still do better than what CINEMA Rating: For viewers
Kato (Jay Chou) who knows it is. 14 and above
martial arts as well. After the What do audiences really through executing criminals via
two have a night of encounter get out of an anti-stereotypical extra-judicial means. There’s
with criminals, Britt gets an idea super hero? Well, it makes them no way that this can ever be
of how they could further help realize and appreciate even right. This might also be rooted
resolve criminality in their area more that human weakness in the fact that Reid’s intention
by becoming masked vigilantes can possibly be turned into of becoming a vigilante-hero is
themselves. Their actions later strength. Although his past is not fuelled by his anger towards his
blow up into proportions that a justification, Reid’s character father. Although such intention
attract the attention of hard core could well be a wake-up call to is later on purified, still, their
underworld boss Chudnofsky parents to nurture their children end does not justify their means.
(Christoph Watz). even more. Time and again, How could Green Hornet and his
The Green Hornet is a the family remains to be most sidekick be really heroes if they
deconstruction of the usual crucial in bringing up useful cause unnecessary destruction,
superhero audiences see on citizens of the land. The Green thus, hurting and killing lives
screen. This time around, the Hornet says it is never too late for in the process? The way Reid
main superhero seems to be less anyone to start over. However, manipulated the press for his own
competent and hardly dependent looking at the film closely, such agenda is also disturbing. Some
on a sidekick that he takes for intention is not quite coherent scenes of suggestive sex, violence
granted. Britt Reid as the Green with its plotlines as a whole. and gore, although a necessity to
Hornet is just as flawed and weak Reid wants the Green Hornet portray the underworld, might
as any other man. This is quite and his sidekick to be heroes leave a lasting impression on
an interesting premise to begin a while appearing as villains but the vulnerable minds of a young
story with, however, something is they kill people (although yes, audience, so CINEMA finds the
still missing in the whole gamut of criminals) without remorse. They movie unfit for viewers below
exploring the dynamics of hero/ took the law in their own hands 14 years old.

MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi

TITLE: Hereafter
CAST: Matt
Damon,
Bryce Dallas
Howard,
Jay Mohr,
Richard
Kind, Cécile
De France,
Lyndsey
Marshal,
Mylène
Jampanoï,
Steve Schir-
ripa, Marthe
Keller, Niamh
Cusack
DIRECTOR: Clint
Eastwood

Buhay Parokya
WRITER: Peter Images of
Morgan Immaculate
GENRE: Sus- Heart of Mary,
pense/ Pope John Paul
Thriller II and Saint
RUNNING TIME: Lorenzo Ruiz.
129 min.
Technical: 4
Moral: 3
Rating: V 14 (14
years old
and above)

An illness in the childhood of George Lonegan (Matt Damon) gave

him the ability to communicate with the recently departed. Becoming
a celebrated psychic, he realizes he cannot ever enjoy a normal life
if it is spent connecting with the dead. He hides from the public by
working in a warehouse in San Francisco, but somehow is found by
people needing to communicate with their dear departed or to simply
understand death. One of them is a French television reporter Marie
LeLay (Cecile De France) who, on a holiday with her producer-lover
(Thierry Neuvic), goes through a near-death experience that changes
her life. Another is a widower who is distraught over his wife’s sudden
death. Then there is also a young boy Marcus (Frankie McLaren) who
cannot get over losing his beloved twin brother Jason (George McLaren).
It seems George cannot escape his mysterious ability which people say
is a gift but which he sees as a curse.
If you’ve ever seen a perfectly braided hairdo, you will note that
its beauty depends on balance, as the hair is divided into three equal
parts which are made to criss-cross over one another to form a perfect
braid. That is the image Hereafter evokes, with its three separate tales
involving death somehow skillfully woven until they are revealed to
be part of one whole story that bears a powerful message about death.
The master weaver here is Clint Eastwood, getting even better as a
director at age 80. The plot is seamless and the treatment of the subject
of communicating with the dead handled with discretion, prudence,
and—again—balance. No mushiness, no fear-inducing special effects,
no notions that make death larger than life while plumbing the depths
of feelings and thoughts that haunt people who have been confronted
with death. Nothing more, or less, may be asked of Damon’s acting;
watching him the viewer does not see the actor but the character, a gifted
man who refuses to buckle under the weight of his gift. Technically at
least, Hereafter deserves an Oscar.
The three main characters consulting the psychic do not know one
another. They are separated by space, their circumstances in life cocoon
them from the rest of the world, and yet their individual world share
a gloom that every man in their situation must inevitably face. It is a
gloom that a person must learn to grapple with by himself to understand
and accept, but in time the gloom gives way to light. Hereafter is a film
that can make you think about your own mortality, even as you try to
understand other people’s loss by it. There is something to be learned,
too, from the psychic’s attitude towards his unusual ability. In the
film, the psychic’s feet are firmly anchored to the ground—while he
cannot question that he has an unusual ability, he is not awed by it nor
overwhelmed by people adulation of him. Hereafter presents a sensible
view that may be good for viewers to adopt, particularly in our culture
where such abilities are all too quickly accepted as “powers” and “gifts”
that put the psychic several notches above the average man.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
C1

The News Supplement of

Couples for Christ

Put On The Full Armor of God

By Layle Ancheta can take your stand against the Council member and Interna- as a community, for the past World.” He reminded everyone The last talk, entitled “The
devil’s schemes…” tional Missions Director. He en- 30 years. to fulfill our vision and mission Response- Leaps of Faith for the
The first session, entitled joined the members to continue Joe Tale, CFC Chairman, gave as a community and to move Future” was delivered by CFC
THE recently concluded CFC “CFC- a Gift of God,” was given to be thankful for the blessing the second talk entitled “CFC- as one- one in mission, as one Executive Director Joe Yamamo-
Leaders Conference at the by Rouquel Ponte, International of God to us, individually and A Gift of God Shared to the united global army of Christ. to. He encouraged all CFC to
Araneta Coliseum last Jan embrace the mission given to
15, 2011 drew an estimated us in spite of all the challenges
18,000 CFC members from and hardships it will bring. He
the different countries and enjoined all CFC to engage in
the work as one people submit-
provinces. Thousands more
ted to one pastoral structure
milled outside the coliseum
and accountable as leaders and
unable to get in because of members of the community.
stringent venue rules. It was an Truly, the whole afternoon was
afternoon filled with rejoicing, a blessing to the community, not
inspiration and excitement as just in the Philippines, but for our
the brethren listened to the CFC members all over the world
directions the community will who were one with us in this event.
take in the year 2011. Through the wonders of technol-
The theme of the conference ogy, the conference was beamed
is the theme for 2011, taken to members throughout the world.
from Ephesians 6:11:”Finally, The livestreaming via YouTube
be strong in the Lord and in and Facebook generated 322,422
his mighty power. Put on the hits and almost 3,000 messages
full armor of God, so that you from members in 34 countries.

CFC: Growing New CFC Commits to

In Growing Old be God’s Army
By Nirva de la Cruz for battle.”
Asserting that Satan wants us un-
prepared and out of focus, Rommel
THE weather in Baguio was cold said that “This battle is not something
but inside the CAP Convention to come, it is a spiritual warfare that
Center on the weekend of January is already upon us.” He noted that
28-30, it was heated! More than when we speak of being armored for
2,400 delegates to the annual battle, we do not simply mean fight-
CFC Weekend Conference, called ing external enemies but the enemy
“Armor of God Weekend” provided within – ourselves. He mentioned
the heat with their passion for the tendency of some brethren to
criticize, especially the top leaders,
mission, their zeal for service and
the attacks on our culture of trusting
their love for one another. The in our leaders’ anointing, the “collec-
warmth prevailed right down to the tive” weakness of the community to
very last talk and praisefest when question our top leaders’ decisions.
the temperature shot up several Rommel reminded everyone that this
notches still, as the delegates were is the field and the foe but Christ will
sent off with the admonition to “Go win this battle for us because He has
and serve the Lord with all your already won the war through His
heart and all your mind and all Resurrection.
your strength!” Eric Villanueva, CFC USA National
The conference theme was taken Director, spoke on how CFC should

By Arnel Santos 2010 accomplishments, announced the structure and there will be chaos. The
2011 directions to ensure CFC’s strong structure works. Go back to it.” He em-
legacy in terms of Evangelization, phasized that although the structure has
CFC leaders from all over the world Leadership, Pastoral Formation, and evolved, the basics are still the same.
gathered on January 16, 2011, at the Spiritual Deepening. Joe Yamamoto summarized the dis-
Marikina Convention Center for the There will be established a “Pastoral cussions with these key words: “United,
annual Global Leaders Summit, titled Institute to teach the Word of God, train Integrated and Obedient.” Thus, “all
“Evangelization and Mission Confer- catechists and formulate CFC formation directions and activities must reinforce
ence.” tracks within CFC” and a “Leaders oneness; everyone must be part of one
The event started with a mass cel- Institute to train leaders and review, bigger body, relating well with territo-
ebrated by CFC’s Spiritual Director, retool and make responsive CFC forma- rial leadership.”
Monsignor Allen Aganon, whose tion courses.” Workshops marked the afternoon
homily expounded on God’s message Efforts are also under way for the session. The activity was capped by a
for CFC as inspired by the Gospel for “alignment and integration of all min- talk by CFC Chairman Joe Tale on “Full
the day, Mt. 18:1-5, the Feast of the Sto. istries- the Family Ministries, the Social Steam Ahead for ANCOP.” Joe Tale from Ephesians 6:11, also the verse “Rely on the Mighty Power of God.”
Nino. Ministries and ANCOP.” There will be explained that although ANCOP Tekton anchor for CFC’s theme for 2011. Quoting Nehemiah, Eric reminded
Msgr. Aganon explained that “the “no more parallel structure/ dual lead- Foundation, Inc. is a distinct entity from The conference featured new and everyone that true joy is not based
eyes of a child could see reality in total- ership” with the territorial leadership CFC, it embraces CFC’s directions and young speakers. From the prologue on what is happening to us. It is an
ity and without filters” but “when we and the relationship among various its CFC volunteers follow the territorial (Fighting for Fullness) delivered by attitude. It is a heart that completely
grow older, reality is seen in a certain ministries clarified. structure and governance of CFC. Shok Ariola to the five talks of the trusts in the Lord. Eric encouraged
perspective. We become cynics and On the integration of the Family Thus the general principle guiding conference proper, the speakers rep- everyone to go on mission, “You’ll
sophisticated. We lose that sense of Ministries, Melo Villaroman, a member CFC in its work with the poor is: “AN- resented freshness and change and get a different sense of what we’re
wonder, the sense of God.” of the International Council, explained COP is the institutional work with the signaled the community’s readiness doing in CFC when you go on mis-
Msgr. Aganon continued, quoting that the Family Ministries will empha- poor of CFC.” Joe explained that this to face the future, clothed in God’s sion.” He also stressed that as we
G.K. Chesterton: “The greatest illusion size oneness, relevance, collaboration means that ANCOP is therefore “con- armor and as one global army. go about our work and our mission,
is the illusion of familiarity.” This is and support for the global family sistent with the Vision and Mission, “We have to fight for the fullness whether in our own countries or on
when the grace and surprises of God ministries. principles and core values of Couples of life we have received,” Shok mission, we can be sure of being on
are lost. He said that “we must all be champi- for Christ.” Ariola said in the prologue to open track if we rely not on our own power
Thus, according to Msgr. Aganon, ons of oneness and fullness in the vision For the guidance of the leaders pres- the conference. “God has given us but on God’s mighty Hand.
“we must go again to the womb of dark- and mission of CFC” such that “before ent and in response to lingering ques- a gift of a full life through Couples Arnel Santos, sector head of West
ness, so that when we get out, we will the ministry goals, the more important tions about the status of CFC sites, Joe for Christ” but as he explained, B, affirmed that aside from God’s
have the sense of wonder and the sacred is the bigger community goal.” presented the following conditions for “Everyday, we are challenged by love, we have pure dynamite on our
once again.” For, “God is a God of sur- For the CFC territorial leadership transitioning these sites to ANCOP: the enemy to doubt. He strikes fear side. His talk “Stand Firm Against
prises” and again quoting Chesterton, structures, Manny Garcia, a member in our hearts.” the Foe” provided a simple answer
“Things grow new as I grow old.” This, of the International Council who has 1.There is significant justification for The first talk, given by newly- to how we can indeed stand firm. We
according Msgr. Aganon, is “part of been in CFC since its nascent stages, the change from GK to ANCOP in the appointed Flame Ministry Head and stand firm because God loves us and
putting on the armor of God.” reminded everyone of the international viewpoint of the poor. former YFC International Coordina- we get additional support from the
The “surprises” were unveiled during governmental structure of CFC, which 2.There is voluntary decision of the tor Rommel Ancheta dealt with the Holy Spirit, who is our dynamite.
the daylong conference. delineates the functions and responsi- village’s authorized representative, “Field of Battle.” Rommel explained Quoting Max Lucado, Arnel cau-
In his talk, “The Path to Take,” CFC bilities of CFC elders. legally documented, to change the GK that “Our fullness as an individual tioned against climbing the following
Executive Director Joe Yamamoto, after He reiterated that “God gifted us with Village into an ANCOP community and and as a community prepares us CFC / C3
recounting the CFC milestones and the structures that are Biblical. Subvert this Growing / C3
 C2 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

Joe Tale, CFC Chairman

On Turning 60
BY God’s grace, I turn 60 this month. that we can give. It is still early to be in our small ranch in the mountains of We linger in the lowlands because we are downhill from here. The horizon beck-
Praise God, the author and giver of distracted by the thought of stepping Siaton, Negros Oriental. afraid to climb the mountains. The steepness ons. The sunlit fields and mountains cry
life. down to the dark valley of our lives. At But most of all he, together with my and ruggedness discourage us, so we stay out to be explored. The summit we are
My wife Babylou and I embarrass- this stage, especially if we are serving mother, taught us values without being in the mist of the valleys and never learn still called to overcome might be profes-
ingly recall that when we were children the Lord, what we see before us are not preachy. One incident I cannot forget the mystery of the hills. We do not know sional and personal goals, but it could
(yes, we were childhood friends in the valleys, but more mountains to climb, was when he brought us along to visit what is lost by our self-indulgence, what also very well be the challenging climb
idyllic town of Valencia, Negros Orien- more peaks to be conquered, more op- his friend in a well-managed farm in glory awaits if we only have the courage to to repent of previous wrongs, to forgive,
tal), we considered those who were 60 portunities to love as Jesus did, and to another town. It was in that farm that I climb, or what blessings we will find if we and to ask for forgiveness, to restore
years old and above as very old, as in share that love with many more. first came across a poster that reads: only ascend the mountains of God!” broken relationships, indeed, to love.
ancient. Perhaps that’s how the young At 60, we continue to have, or maybe In the same book, the author takes a Let us go forth, bravely. No excuses. It is
ones see us now. are even better placed to achieve, I shall pass through this world but once piece from the strong admonition of the not about weak knees, it is about a stout
Perhaps, but really, many times we the full potential of what we can be. Any good, therefore, that I can do evangelist Charles H. Spurgeon: heart, and a heart after God’s own.
don’t feel having grown old. We forget The wisdom of the years, the width or any kindness I can show “ Wake up believers, from your lowly One thing though – we should not
we have advanced in age, except when and breadth of experience, the gifts to my fellow creature, condition! Throw away your laziness, slug- insist on staying on the same sunlit field,
we see the salt and pepper in our hair, or and skills honed and sharpened with Let me do it now. gishness, coldness or whatever is interfering or on the same mountain ridge. When
more prominent wrinkles in our faces, increasing responsibilities, even the Let me not defer or neglect it with your pure love for Christ. Make Him the conditions are right, we should be
or when the hypertension, the gout, and maturity that comes with committing For I shall not pass this way again. the source, the Center, and the One who ready and even excited to conquer other
the occasional aches and pains strike, mistakes, if matched with a heart set encompasses every delight of your soul. mountains and explore new territories.
or when forgetfulness (euphemistically for the Lord, all these form a platform This piece, which I now know to Refuse to be satisfied any longer with your As applied to us in CFC, we should not
called “senior moments”) happen more to spring to a higher level, to be what be attributed to one Stephen Grellet meager accomplishments. Aspire to a higher, stick to our service designations as if
often, or when, in a game of basketball, more we can be. (thanks to our daughter Vida who did a nobler, and a fuller life. Upward to heaven! these are the only things we can do, or
our mind says Jump! but our legs don’t At 60, by God’s grace, we have an the research), has stuck to me since, Nearer to God!” as if we own the position. We should
follow. Then reality sets in, and the advantage. We have a keener sense and I have tried to live by it, though not Christians should always strive, with continue to make ourselves available,
acceptance that yes, we have indeed of our mortality. It is clearer to us that always successfully. It is not couched in the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, to but at the same time be ready to pass on
moved on in years. although life is a gift, it is not forever, theological language (although Grellet become the best that they can be. the baton. We should be open and ex-
For some, growing old is something and that therefore we must make the was said to be a Quaker missionary), but Importantly, the gift of being 60 can cited to play another role, allowing the
to be ashamed of; for others, something most use of the time given to us. At it is a wonderful guidepost for us in fol- still give us a special opportunity, if we others, especially the next generation, to
to dread. I say though that growing old this period in our life, we should have lowing Jesus’ commandment to love. have not done so yet, to right what may take center stage. There continues to be
is a gift from God. Thus, turning 60 is acquired a greater sense of urgency to Indeed, we should not postpone shar- have been wrong in our lives before. It is an important role to play for every one.
a cause for thanksgiving, for rejoicing, do what needs to be done immediately, ing goodness. another chance to make up for what we At some point, a star ball player can be
for celebration. It is a blessing to have and not to postpone it. We should also still aspire to live life may have missed out. It is a great time better off as a coach rather than insist on
survived this long. My father did not reach 60. He was 58 to the full. It is not just about coming to go to confession, to repent, to change playing. At some point, CFC leaders can
Moreover, among the generation of when the Lord called him to Himself. up with a “bucket list” of things we still for the better, to turn around, to have a be better off becoming resource persons,
baby boomers, which many of us in My father was a lawyer, an officer in want to do, places we still want to see. metanoia resolve. e.g. in pastoral formation, rather than
CFC belong to, the age watchers have the Philippine Army, a USAFFE guerilla That is nice too, but it is beyond that. Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales, in his insist on continuing to exercise day- to-
observed that 60 is the new 40! If before, veteran during World War II, and was Jesus challenges us, regardless of age, to homily during the mass preceding the day operational responsibilities.
people used to say “life begins at 40,” a justice of the peace (now known as be “light for the whole world,” so others groundbreaking in Monte Maria in Al- It is indeed a blessing to be 60. Actu-
now, because of medical advances and municipal trial court judge). He was may see the good we are doing, not for fonso, Cavite on January 11, 2011, shared ally, it is blessing to be any age, when
increase in life expectancy, it is sup- a quiet person, did not talk much, but ourselves, but so others will praise our his thoughts that I believe remained we have a life filled with meaning, and
posed to be “life begins at 60!” I will raised up his three boys with loving dis- Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:16). in many of those who were there. He that happens when we have a life lived
soon find out if this is true. cipline. When we had exams in school, In the devotional book “Streams in said “God gives every person the time for others, when we are on the path the
Seriously, it is great to be 60! And he would wake us up at dawn, and then the Desert,” a collection of prayerful and the chance to think and do what is Lord has set for us, when we live out
not only because of the significant 20% light the “petromax”so we could study meditations of L.B. Cowman, edited by good.” He quickly added, when that our love for the poor, when, wherever
discounts and other privileges senior (our town didn’t have electricity at that James Reimann, the Christian believer moment comes, “grab the chance!” we are, whatever we do, we give of our
citizens are entitled to. time). He taught us many things – ride is confronted thus: And so, for my fellow senior citizens best, and offer everything to God and
At 60, by God’s grace, there is more the bike, ride on horseback, brand cattle “Not many of us are living at our best. of whatever age, it is far from being to His glory!

Joe Yamamoto, CFC Director

The Path To Take

JANUARY is traditionally the through the overhaul of our services, Facebook and Twitter other ministries. CFC leader must understand and Support Structures, we have in-
time for CFC leaders to gather and pastoral teaching courses, mak- updates – gave us a more efficient With our Pastoral Formation, faithfully discharge his duties and troduced the RF IDs and online
to receive their marching orders, ing them responsive to chal- system of networking with lead- we hope to establish the Pastoral responsibilities in accordance technology. For timely and re-
so to speak, for the year ahead. lenges and changes in CFC’s life ers globally. Institute, which will, among other with the pastoral/leadership sponsive governance, we are
The military term “marching or- and mission. We also addressed We were also able to resolve things, teach the Word of God structure, and understand and progressively adopting social
ders” is particularly apt for 2011 the main issues, problems and the issues and problems raised through Scriptures and Great appreciate his role in relation to media and websites, and are us-
because this is the year when, as consequences of the 2007 crisis, in 2009, and through the leading Discovery Bible study, train lead- the local and overall territorial ing VOIP, Skype, Magic Jack and
our theme dictates, we “Put On and acted on the outputs of the of the Holy Spirit, made the deci- ers in Catechesis and teachings/ leadership. teleconferences. The establishment
the Full Armor of God” and go Pastoral Congress. sion to let go of Gawad Kalinga, doctrines of the Catholic Church, We have revisited and continue of territorial (regional) hubs for im-
out to do battle for Our Lord. This In 2010, through God’s provi- allowing it to flourish as God’s and train leaders on contempla- to review CFC’s By-Laws to make proved governance, streamlining
is also appropriate because, as the dence, we were able to acquire work independent of CFC. In- tive prayer. it more responsive to expected of resources, mission, and finances
teambuilding exercises of 2010 the site that will house the global stead of GK, we chose to expand In terms of Spiritual Deepening, changes in leadership and struc- and the establishment of mission
uncovered, our evangelization headquarters of CFC. This is ANCOP as a more aligned and we want to implement programs ture. Term limits have been set support centers in the Philippines
posture should really be based truly reason for the community relevant approach to poverty al- and courses that will deepen the for the International Council and and abroad are all in line with our
on the battle cry: “One CFC, One to rejoice because this is a dream leviation, in line with God’s call Foundational Spirituality for CFC for the local leadership, including desire to bring Christ to “the ends
Mission, One Global Army, One that we have nurtured for so long. to us to focus on “Christ, Family in all levels, enable everyone to country councils. Our structure is of the earth.”
Community!” Finally we have a permanent and Poor.” understand and embrace the truth now revised and has been made We continue to embed mission-
This posture is premised on home! We also launched the program that we are first called to holiness more responsive and aligned to the ary couples in foreign countries
three basic elements which are 2010 was also the fourth consec- on Contemplative Prayer and and faithfulness, and help every- One Mission Orientation. and even in underserved prov-
also CFC’s directions in terms utive year that CFC has remained Bible Study (using the Great Ad- one to stay committed to a deep For everyone’s reference, the inces in the country. We are estab-
of how we relate to one another bank debt-free, meaning we had venture method), as part of the and regular prayer life, including highest governance in a country lishing mission area priorities to
as we do our mission: CFC is no deficit spending. This is a ma- community’s spiritual deepening contemplative prayer and the is the Council, applied when the make our evangelization efforts
united. CFC is obedient. CFC is jor victory for all of us, coming as program.. Scriptures. members total 1,000 members more efficient and productive.
integrated. we did from a very triumphant Through all of these, God calls In line with our One Mission and above. For countries with less
As we look ahead to what is in paying off of more than P20 mil- us back to the Heart of the Mis- orientation, CFC’s thrust for 2011 than 1,000 members, the leader- CFC’s Guiding Principles
store for us in the years to come, lion in debts that we inherited. sion – which is the Heart of Jesus and beyond is the alignment ship is composed of the Country In strengthening and imple-
particularly in 2011 when we cel- During the year, we initiated and – to proclaim Christ in words and integration of all ministries Governance Team with a Coun- menting our life and mission, CFC
ebrate our 30th year of existence, regularly conducted dialogues and in action – “Christ, family – family, social, ANCOP - to the try Head or Director. Metro follows the guiding principles of
it is only apt for us to take a look at and engagements with the leaders and poor.” overall pastoral and leadership Manila Sectors continue to have being UNITED, INTEGRATED
how God has blessed CFC’s jour- through our bi-monthly meetings This is why we go back to structure. We don’t want or need Sector Governance Teams (SGT), and OBEDIENT. There is only
ney so far. It is by looking at the with the Metro Manila-based CFC’s global goals: Total Chris- a parallel structure nor dual/ led by the Sector Head, while the one CFC community, and there-
following milestones that we will Area Heads, monthly meetings tian Evangelization and Mission, divided leadership. We want to provinces are led by the Area fore all directions, activities and
be able to fully understand how with the Metro Manila-based Re- Family Renewal, and Effective clarify territorial leadership and Director and the Area Gover- pronouncements must reinforce
God’s grace and mercy has been gional Heads, quarterly meetings and Efficient Governance. the clarity of relationships among nance Team (AGT), which is the this oneness. Thus, these prin-
with us throughout this time. with Mindanao Region Heads, the various ministries. In terms of new name for the Area Council. ciples of unity, integration and
First, we courageously and and monthly meetings with the Total Christian Evangelization headship, we want to set in place The Area Head’s and Regional obedience apply to all segments
faithfully responded, and are Metro Manila Sector Heads. The and Mission the system of having one head, Head’s roles and responsibilities of CFC, including the ministries.
still responding, to the Vision of team building activities for the We are called to evangelize – to and one governance structure are retained. Everyone is part of the ONE
being “Families in the Holy Spirit Philippine and Metro Manila Mis- witness and to share Christ with in any given area or sector and The Family Ministries, in lieu greater and bigger body, where
Renewing the Face of the Earth.” sions were fruitful and significant others by allowing Christ who any ministry. Because of this we of Councils, will be led by Core the territorial leadership relates
In doing so, we refined CFC’s in terms of clearer understand- dwells in us to shine through. We intend to institute changes in no- Teams, headed by the respective well and dynamically with the
Mission as “Building the Church ing and grasp of CFC’s life and should strive for continuous spiri- menclature in the CFC structure, International Coordinator per Family and Social Ministries, and
of the Home and Building the mission. It was also meaningful tual empowerment, especially as including the ministries. ministry. In lieu of the Family ANCOP. The governance of CFC
Church of the Poor.” in terms of cementing relations CFC is on its 30th year. As we In line with our Work with the Ministries Heads, there will be follows one pastoral structure
And just as gold is refined among the leaders and their journey beyond 30, we need to Poor and Total Christian Libera- Family Ministries Coordinators, and the governance principle
by fire, we believe that God has members. build a strong legacy in terms tion, we are undergoing progres- who are expected to serve and that promotes integration of all
refined us through the events of The conduct of the Clergy-Lay of Evangelization, Leadership, sive and systematic transitioning receive training in mainstream ministries.
our recent past. 2007 was a year Congresses locally and inter- Pastoral Formation, and Spiritual to ANCOP, where Christ is the CFC for fuller exposure and bal- Indeed, it is by God’s grace that
of crisis for us, which resulted in nationally showed the further Deepening. Center of the work, and evange- anced growth in service. we are able to implement these
it becoming a year of prayer and strengthening of the CFC relation- In our evangelization efforts, lization is the goal. Our strategic To help in CFC’s effective and changes and strive for efficiency
silence for all of us. It was during ship with the clergy. Aside from we are reminded to be fishers goals are contained in the acro- efficient governance, standards and efficacy in our work. As we
that year when we launched the participating actively in major of men, learning to cast into the nym “CFC,” which stands for for leadership selection and ap- “put on the full armor of God” we
Pastoral Congress – a first for the clergy events in the Philippines, deep, and to regain passion, be Child, Family and Community. pointment have been set in place, know that He has used and is us-
community, and a chance to look CFC was also invited to be a ma- innovative and adaptive in all The work of ANCOP is expansive with the focus on “Recruiting for ing everything in our community
inward, outward and forward. jor convenor of the August 2010 we do. In terms of Leadership, and includes work with the mi- Attitude, Training for Aptitude.” life to strengthen and equip us for
In 2008, we reviewed and Congress on Evangelization in we hope that every CFC member grants and other segments of soci- Leaders are more empowered what is to come. In our unity, in-
reinforced our evangelization ap- Asia in Seoul, Korea, conducted may become an INFLUENCER. ety. We are not focused on shelter but at the same time are held to tegration and obedience, we give
proaches and adopted innovative by the Pontifical Commission on Through our planned Leader- alone but more comprehensive greater accountability and stew- back all glory to the Father, and
strategies, such as holding pocket the Laity, and presided by His ship Institute, we hope to build in scope, to include education, ardship. Regular dialogues and continue along the path He has
CLPs, and offering the MER to Excellency Cardinal Stanyslaw competence and capabilities and health and livelihood. meetings have been implemented set before us – the path to holiness
parishes and dioceses. We also Rylko. enable our people to respond pro- and criteria have been set for as- and discipleship, set in place by
formed our Migrant Workers Pro- The Lord also showed His faith- actively to existing and emergent Effective Governance signments to leadership positions our Lord and Master, Jesus Christ,
gram and were more proactive in fulness to us through the record challenges and realities. We also As a global community, CFC (for example, provincial heads the reason for our being. We are
our engagement with the Bishops attendance in conferences, indi- hope to upgrade leadership skills, is tasked to bring God’s Word should at least be cluster heads). couples for CHRIST, and will be
and Clergy. cating a renewed vibrancy in the attitudes and capabilities, and to ALL. Indeed, we are called to The Leaders Service History for the next 30 years and beyond.
From 2008 to 2009, we strength- community. Our enhanced modes complement our teaching tracks bring Christ to the ends of the should be part of their Service Let us continue to fight the good
ened our Pastoral Formation so of communication – particularly for household, unit and chapter earth. To do so, effective and ef- Record. fight, humbly relying on the Holy
as to “equip the evangelizer” through the CFC website, Infotext heads, as well as the leaders in ficient governance is key. Every In terms of improving CFC’s Spirit for everything.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
Ugnayan C3

ANCOP Livelihood Hits The

Ground Running in 2011
By Bernie Cuevas provide Reten- in cooperatives Isabela is now in the process of
tion on Net In- are helping to establishing an ANCOP enter-
come to support provide basic prise in Isabela to provide grains
THE ANCOP Livelihood Core ANCOP, and cooperative to Batangas ANCOP Trade. For
group, formed in Dec 2010, is generate tithes training for the the establishment of an entre-
well on its way to achieving its on individual community worker cooperative to provide
aims of providing livelihood to dividends for members while jobs, Tekwork Cebu and Gen-
those who have less in life. CFC. the community eration One resource will assist
The main goal of ANCOP The second members are Batangas and other provinces in
Livelihood is to create oppor- directive is to trained to man starting their workers coop.
tunities for the poor so they can establish con- the community There are many more projects
be economically productive and nectivity among stores. Cur- in the pipeline for this year
empowered to provide for the ANCOP Liveli- rently there are from CFC Quezon, Negros Oc-
basic needs of their family and hood Projects/ seven CFC sites cidental, Metro Manila South A
the education of their children enterprises en- that have started Sector and Cebu. ANCOP Liveli-
with dignity. The program is also visioned to be the community hood will set up Core Teams in
a call for those who have more in set up all over stores. They are Visayas and Mindanao and will
life to participate in livelihood- the country considered pre- work with the CFC Coopera-
generating enterprises for the and to estab- cooperatives di- tives Federation to facilitate the
needy. Recognizing the need for lish synergy rectly under the creation of more job and liveli-
continuing spiritual transforma- with the Coops supervision of hood opportunities for the poor
tion to sustain change, partici- for Christ Fed- ANCOP Trade. nationwide.
pants in the ANCOP Livelihood eration/Tekton The target is to Rudy Lubis of CFC Batangas
programs and enterprises will and its mem- have 37 com- was appointed as the ANCOP
undergo pastoral formation that ber primaries. munity stores Program Director by the AN-
will be conducted by Couples The Coops for ANCOP volunteers listen as Program Director Rudy Lubis stresses a point. within the year. COP Board. Community Devel-
for Christ. Christ Federa- In just three opment- Shelter and Livelihood
The Livelihood Core Group tion/Tekton will be working ANCOP projects in Batangas. The lished the ANCOP Trade for the months since it started opera- is one of the three Core Programs
has two major directives. The closely with the ANCOP Liveli- group, joined by ANCOP Presi- purpose of creating a community tions, ANCOP Trade has pro- of ANCOP together with Educa-
first is to Go Macro/Micro, hood enterprises that will be set dent Ricky Cuenca, CFC Director chain of stores, hog raising and vided 19 jobs/livelihood oppor- tion and Health. The Core Team
that is, to create a network of up. At the local level, the Coops Joe Yamamoto, IC member Lito cattle fattening that will eventu- tunities for the poor residents of members are: Elmer Cadiz, Rob-
social enterprises. CFC entre- for Christ primaries are expected Tayag and other elders of CFC, ally be run by trained commu- the communities. ANCOP Trade ert Poblete, Edwin Chavez, Larry
preneurs will be tapped to lend to work very closely and be part visited three CFC sites located in nity cooperatives. The concept also plans to establish a feedmill, Castillo, Mike Lopez, Pol Pinera,
their expertise and to invest in of the local ANCOP Livelihood Malvar, Padre Burgos and Lipa of going “macro/micro” is well hardware and gasoline station in Alex Geremias, Mon Buyco, Mon
businesses that will provide teams. City which culminated in a meet- demonstrated in this project. the next few years. Penalosa, Andy Alquiroz, Bernie
livelihood for the poor. Such The first activity of the AN- ing in Reunion Village. CFC leaders provided the initial The ANCOP Livelihood is Cuevas (Secretariat).The group
enterprises will provide a decent COP Livelihood Core Team, on CFC Batangas elders under the investments to set up the busi- piloting connectivity among the works closely with Eric de los
return for the ‘donor’/investors, January 19, was to visit ongoing leadership of Rudy Lubis estab- ness. Brothers who are experts CFC areas. Elmer Cadiz of CFC Reyes, COO of ANCOP.

CSP Launched in ANCOP to Open Rotary Homes

Nnewi, Nigeria Village Phase 2
CFC ANCOP Tekton Foundation will be the new home of those who have for the new settlers to help ensure a
Inc. once again took a giant step in been living almost all of their lives along better life for them. Rotary Homes
achieving its mission of answering the banks of the Paranaque River. now has a fund of P3.0M which is
the cry of the poor. In his message during the short pro- good for the construction of thirty
ANCOP entered into a Memoran- gram, PDG Sid Garcia said that Rotary (30) homes.
dum of Agreement (MOA) with the International always treasures partner- In closing PDG Sid related that the
Paranaque City Government and the ships, particularly those that lead to city got its name during the Spanish
Rotary Homes Foundation Inc. to de- the transformation and improvement times. The friars in Intramuros would
velop a 4.2-hectare city government of society and mankind. He also noted normally visit coastal towns outside
property into what will be called that Rotary Homes Foundation Inc has of the Walled City during the summer
as Rotary Homes Village Phase 2. truly become international because of in order to escape from the swelter-
The property is located along the this partnership with ANCOP Inter- ing heat in the city. One of those
C5 Extension road near NAIA 1 nationa. trips brought them to a coastal town.
runway and Multinational village. PDG Sid recounted that this project Enchanted by the town’s beauty, one
The signing ceremony was held last started with a dream: to save the of the friars told the coach driver:
January 13, 2011 “Para na aqui!
at the Luk Foo Para na aqui!”
Hot Pot restau- which means
rant in Paranaque Stop here! Stop
City. here!
Signing the DG Sid ex-
agreement were pressed hope
Mayor Flor- that the phrase
encio “Jun” M. from where
Bernabe, Jr. for the city got its
the Paranaque name would
By Malou Clarito The initial 15 Nnewi children includ- City Govern- also be used as
ed in the program were all excited when ment, Philippine the battle cry
told that they will now be able to fulfill District Gover- for this partner-
ANCOP Canada welcomed 2011 in a their dreams with the love and support nor Isidro “Sid” ship: “Para na
very positive mood by entering into a of donors through ANCOP Canada. Garcia for Rotary Paranaque Mayor Jun Bernabe, PDG Sid Garcia and ANCOP CEO Ricky Cuenca (seated left to aqui! Poverty
Child Sponsorship agreement with His Also excited at this development was Homes Founda- right) sign the MOA for the Rotary Homes Village while CFC legal counsel Rene Punsalan (seated stops here in
Excellency Bishop Hilary Okeke of the ANCOP Canada President Temi Pan- tion, and Ricky right) and members of Rotary International, CFC South B and other city officials look on. Paranaque!”
Diocese of Nnewi, Nigeria for an initial gilinan who said that this will be the Cuenca, Chair- Mayor Jun
batch of 15 children. The agreement start of Ancop Canada’s commitment to man and Chief Executive Officer of Paranaque River from becoming a dead Bernabe expressed appreciation to
was signed by the bishop in front of the spread the ANCOP and CFC work for CFC ANCOP Tekton Foundation, river. In trying to achieve this dream, all the partners of this project. In
happy children, CFC fulltime pastoral the poor in Nigeria and Africa. Inc. The ceremony was witnessed by all those involved realized the need the case of this 4.2-hectare property,
workers in Africa, Aurelio ‘Boy’ and The Child Sponsorship Program of key officials of the Paranaque City to reduce the source of pollution – the Mayor Jun said that the land will be
Radel Guinto Jr, who instigated the Ancop Canada started in the Philip- government, ANCOP International, more than 2,500 families living along distributed based on a community
sponsorship and worked for its funding, pines where over 1,500 children are now Rotary Homes, different Rotary the banks of the river. mortgage program (CMP), where
and the diocesan nuns who assisted in currently enrolled in the program. Visit Clubs, and CFC South B Sector. Thus, a new dream was born: payment will be pegged at less than
the selection of the children. www.ancop.ca for more details. The project involves the establish- reduce, if not totally eradicate, pov- P1,000 per month.
ment of Rotary Homes Village Phase erty in the city. Rotary International Ricky Cuenca thanked the gener-
Growing / C1
2 under the care and management of District D-3830, during the term of ous donors, stating that ANCOP is
ANCOP. It will involve the construc- PDG Sid, created the Rotary Homes privileged to be part of this project as
its programs. (PITs) tion of at least 1,500 homes in the Foundation Inc. to make this dream ANCOP is a global network address-
3.There are no legal impediments 6.There is formal acceptance of AN- next five to seven years, as well as become a reality. Aside from the de- ing poverty mainly in the Philip-
with third parties (partners or GK). In COP Tekton Foundation. the implementation of the various cent homes, the Village will also house pines. He committed the full support
this case STMA may be consulted. programs of ANCOP in values for- a multipurpose centre, a park and of CFC, ANCOP and its partners for
4.There are no existing unliquidated The open forum that followed was mation, education, health, and com- health and educational centre. Liveli- the complete success of the Rotary
funds and other liabilities that may ac- spirited, frank and open and served to munity development. This village hood training will also be organized Homes Village Phase 2.
crue to ANCOP. clarify many issues, both with regard
5.There is an organized ANCOP core to ANCOP and the proposed structural
team and program implementing teams revisions.

CFC / C1

mountains: merly KFC International Coordinator

- Mt. Savior (God alone is our and now newly –appointed Interna-
power, not ourselves.) tional Missions Office Head, exhorted
- Mt. Self-sufficiency (We are fully everyone to strive for “Victory in the
dependent on God. We do noth- Spirit.” He described ways by which we
ing from our own power.) can indeed be victorious, citing practical
- Mt. Applause. (We do not serve examples of our attitudes toward our
or do good to be admired or service, our relationships (especially
praised.) with our spouse), our response to direc-
The fourth talk, “Put on the Full tives from our leaders. The testimonies
Armor of God,” was given by Jimmy shared by young leaders and mission-
Ilagan, Sector Head for Central A. He aries – Layle Ancheta, Bobbee Mella,
encouraged everyone to hold fast and Clarke Nebrao, Ruel and Maan Aguirre,
to take a stand in the battle for Christ’s Jerry Tanigue, Bing Santos – moved the
values in this modern world. A Chris- delegates and inspired them.
tian is expected, if he is to be part of As one, the delegates rated the confer-
God’s army, to be shod in readiness, to ence as “deeply moving,” “excellent in
hold the shield of faith, to wear the hel- content and in the creatives,” “indica- CFC Executive Director Joe Yamamoto was invited to be one of the speakers during the Thomasian Clergy Congress last January 28 at the UST
met of salvation and to wield the Sword tive of a fresh wind of change,” “highly auditorium. He spoke on how his Thomasian education has enhanced his Christian life and enabled him to serve God in community. Photo shows
him receiving a plaque of appreciation from Bishop Ricardo Baccay as the other speakers, PPCRV Chairperson Henrietta de Villa and Gawad
of the Spirit or the Word of God. inspirational.” Kalinga head Tony Meloto look on.
In the last session, Kirby Llaban, for-
 C4 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

YFC Liveloud Just Got

Louder
By Dudz Academia be held in Cagayan de Oro. The Sikal The technical team panicked but
Dance Group won. they need not have worried. Without
Prior to the concert, Dessie Brazil, missing a beat, the band played on,
ABOUT 5,000 youths sang their co-director of the concert, was asked as one by one, everyone lifted up
lungs out to praise God in the YFC what the audience can expect from their backlit cellphones, providing a
Liveloud praise concert at the Ninoy Liveloud 2011. Her answer? “I don’t magical effect. The lights came back
Aquino Stadium held last January want to box what God would want the on after a few minutes, but the magical
22, 2011. people would experience with my own atmosphere remained, as the stadium
This year’s Liveloud focused on a expectations. However, with regards rocked with the songs of praise of the
Bible verse from Psalms 30:11-12 -- “So to the technical elements, this year’s youth present.
I will not be silent; I will sing praise to Liveloud promises to be bigger and The audience expected very little
you. Lord, you are my God; I will give louder. Let’s just let God surprise us.” from the Liveloud concert; the service
you thanks forever.” And indeed God did. team were focused only on ensuring
The event started with a dance battle Goi Villegas, together with the a smooth activity. But everyone was
where three dance groups from Metro Liveloud band, led the crowd into surprised. Everyone was left in awe
Manila and nearby provinces vied for praise and worship. But in the middle at the power of voices raised mightily
the chance to get free registrations of the worship, the lights shut off, leav- in praise of a loving God. Everyone
for the whole dance group at the next ing just the LED screen dimly lit as the went home filled with God’s overflow-
International Leaders Conference to source of light. ing love.

CFC as the seedbed of vocations The Lessons of

From Couples for Christ to the Society of Jesus Christmas
By Tina S. Rodriguez Then something happened – April 26, 1970 in Pasay City, the Ironically, Flip says that it was
his parents joined CFC and this youngest of three children, and at the happiest point in his life
led to the transformation of his the only son. Growing up in a that he decided to ‘leave eve-
WHEN one thinks “vocation” family. Jun-G acknowledges that simple household, Flip recalls rything behind’ and respond to
a lot of times images of priests this was crucial in his vocation how his parents put up a small the call of entering religious life.
and nuns would come to mind. discovery. God became alive in sari-sari store business, which However, just thinking about
The truth is though, “vocation” his life and he felt God’s love so his mother would manage, while his decision gave him consola-
according to the American much that he “fell in love with his father worked as a room boy tion and peace.
Heritage Dictionary of the Him” and wanted to love Him in a small hotel in Libertad. Dur- For those who may be discern-
English Language, is defined back. Becoming a member of ing weekends the family would ing about their vocation in life,
as: CFC Youth for Christ when he go to Derham Park in Pasay, Flip suggests attending Mass reg-
was 15 years old provided Jun-G and Sunday mornings were ularly, even “when you feel bored
1. A regular occupation, espe- with a venue where he could always spent attending mass and lazy to go.” He believes that
cially one for which a person know, love, honor and serve God in Our Lady of Perpetual Help it is through the Eucharist where
is particularly suited or quali- even more deeply, intimately Shrine in Baclaran. His parents one can really sense and embrace
fied and passionately. He says, “YFC always insisted on praying the one’s vocation in life. This is one
2. An inclination, as if in response made me a man after God’s own rosary together as a family at 6 of the important dialogues one of sin and set us free to enjoy the
to a summons, to undertake a heart. My deepest desire is a life o’clock every day, and taught should engage in when discern-
By Belen Anota
abundance and fullness of life in
certain kind of work, especially of praise and thanksgiving-- a life their children how to pray right ing for a vocation. He also says Christ in this world.
a religious career; a calling. exclusive for God and inclusive from the start. Discipline and one should talk to people – your WE have just finished meditating
of all.” diligence were traits instilled in parish priest, the elders in your and contemplating the lessons As the Magi Taking Another
Indeed, every person alive can It was because of YFC, and Flip at a young age, shown by community (if you’re part of of the joyous and festive Season Route
be considered to have a vocation; later on, SFC, that Jun-G decided the fact that he and his sisters one) or somebody who is close of Advent and Christmas. We Like the magi we have the goal
a calling to do a particular thing, to become a fulltime pastoral were not allowed to watch TV to you, and vocation directors. glean lessons from: of returning home to God now
equipped with one’s own talents worker for the youth. One of his in the evening during weekdays, If possible, seek spiritual direc- The shepherds: “When the and forever. But God, through
and abilities. Oftentimes how- mission assignments included and were trained to help out in tion, and don’t be afraid to ask shepherds had seen the infant the Holy Spirit, may lead us to
ever, many people don’t get to a two-week long mission trip household chores. All in all, Flip questions. Jesus, they spread the word another route of righteousness
concerning what had been told and holiness.
them about this child, and all Since with God everything
who heard it were amazed at is possible, we need not put
what the shepherds said to them. God in the box of our limited
Then the shepherds returned, understanding, resources and
glorifying and praising God for capability. Allow God to be the
all the things they had heard and Master Potter who can mould us
seen, which were just as they had according to His perfect design.
been told.” Allow God to be our Guide who
The Magi: “The magi having can show us the path to righ-
been warned in a dream not to teousness and holiness. Trust
return to King Herod, returned God to make a way and to pro-
home taking another route”. vide us the necessary wisdom,
Mary: “Mary treasured up all strength and courage to obey
these things and pondered them His will for us.
in her heart.”
Joseph: “And Joseph warned Like Mary Pondering in our
by an angel of the Lord took the Heart
Philip and Jun G, second and third from left, stand on stage with their Jesuit brothers, also “graduates” of YFC/SFC, during the Araneta Leaders Conference. child and his mother to escape Only when our hearts are at-
to Egypt. And when told to tuned to that of God can we be
return to Israel, he obeyed and effective evangelizers like the
discover what it is that the Lord to East Timor (Timor Leste). considers his childhood to have Jun-G and Flip are both 2nd the Holy Family lived in the shepherds or trustingly obedi-
is really calling them to do, and It was there where he first felt been a happy one, although Year Philosophers, and belong district of Galilee to fulfill the ent like the magi. Meditating on
so end up not living their lives God’s calling to the priesthood. priesthood never entered his to the Jesuit Philosophers Sub- prophecy that He will be called the Word of God, like Mary will
fully according to the calling Originally desirous of being mind then. Community. They are only two a Nazarene.” allow us to have a deeper and
which they have received. a diocesan priest because he Back then, Flip thought of of 15 Jesuits (and would-be What about us? How are we to lasting understanding of God`s
What a blessing that CFC is wanted to be able to serve where Jesus as being more like a super- Jesuits) who come from the CFC live 2011 after encountering the love and His ways that will en-
then! A lot of people – married, his family was, he eventually hero, though he had the sense family. The others are: infant Jesus? able us to obey immediately with
single, and religious – have come discovered the Society of Je- that He was more than that. Flip joy, trust and confidence.
to realize their true vocations, sus. He attended their vocation came to know Jesus in a deeper, • Fr. Javy Alpasa, SJ – President As Shepherds Spreading the
and learned to live them out, seminar, became active in their more personal way when he of Loyola College of Culion, Word/Praising God Like Joseph Fleeing from Evil
through the community. Here vocation direction program, and joined CFC Singles for Christ in from SFC Makati Like the shepherds, we can Like Joseph, let us flee from
we take a look at two young men, finally entered their candidacy 1988, when he was working as an • Manny Amanense, SJ – 1st spread the Good News of great evil. Let us always obey and
who have discovered their voca- program. After going through architect in Brunei Darussalam. Year Theologian, from SFC joy to all people. Let us be will- trust God. We have limited
tions as members of the Society the process of discernment in Looking back, Flip believes that Cebu City ing agents spreading God`s understanding but God is all-
of Jesus, through their life experi- the candidacy program, he ap- it was providential that he was • Eric Escandor, SJ – 1st Year good news that peace may reign knowing. We have limited ca-
ences, especially as members of plied and was accepted into the able to join a very supportive Theologian, from YFC Iligan on earth to all men on whom pability but God is all-powerful.
CFC Singles for Christ. Society of Jesus. community like CFC. He says City God`s favor rest. Let us glorify We are limited by time and space
Firmo N. Bargayo, Jr., or Jun-G, Jun-G’s decision to become a that it was in the context of liv- • JR Orbeta, SJ – 1st Year Theo- and praise God in good times but God is ever-present all the
was born on November 17, 1978, Jesuit came as a sweet surprise ing in community that he was logian, from YFC/SFC Cebu and bad times because we are time.
in General Santos City. An only to his parents. In fact, it was an able to discern his vocation. City sure that everything will be just Trust God, His ways and His
child, he remembers an unhappy answered prayer. In the end, Through the CFC community • Neo Saicon, SJ – 1st Year as what God told us. God faith- timing because He does not give
home life – culminating in the the family that had caused him Flip was able to recognize God, Theologian, from YFC/SFC fully keeps all His promises. Like us good things, He gives us the
family being bankrupt. Their much pain and suffering as who is ever personal, present Cagayan de Oro City the shepherds, let us continue best things based on His great
family problems would have a child ended up becoming a and involved in our lives. • Rico Adapon, SJ – 2nd Year praising and glorifying God in love and tender mercy for us,
been enough for other youth to source of strength and support When the thought of enter- Regent, from SFC Batangas our daily prayer and scripture His children.
go wayward, but Jun-G finds it for his vocation! Jun-G advises ing religious life came to Flip, • Arnel Ong, SJ – 2nd Year Re- reading time for truly He is
fortunate that he studied in a the youth who are discerning he realized that it was not the gent, from SFC Davao City our wonderful Counselor, our Moving On in 2001
Catholic school where he was their vocation to “Nurture your kind of decision one can make • Ro Atilano, SJ – 2nd Year mighty God, our everlasting For 2011, let us live the les-
introduced to God, and taught desire and actively find oppor- overnight, so he decided to ask Philosopher, from YFC/SFC Father, our Prince of peace. sons of Advent to continuously
about faith and the value of tunities that can keep alive the around about it. He read books Zamboanga City We can rely on God to purify purify ourselves so we can be
prayer. desire for religious life. If the about vocation and spirituality • Tootsie delos Santos, SJ – 1st our thoughts, words and deeds worthy ambassadors for Christ.
Jun-G relates that “becoming a desire continues to flourish, it in general, talked to his elders Year Philosopher, from YFC so that all people who encounter The lessons of Christmas teach
priest was not part of my dreams is a sign that you are called to in CFC, and also sought the Naga City us in the daily circumstances of us to simply obey and not to fear
during my childhood.” In high religious life. Pray about it a lot advice of the priests around • Kim Buñag, nSJ – 1st Year our life will be amazed at the lov- the consequences of our obedi-
school though, he was attracted and cultivate that personal rela- him. He found time to know Novice, from YFC Ateneo de ing and caring God that we have. ence, for with God everything
to the life of the Marist Brothers tionship with God for it is only himself and to have a dialogue Manila We can pray that our encounter is possible.
(his teachers then). This was in the sacred space of prayer that with others. He prayed a lot. • Marlon Fabros, nSJ – 1st Year with God at the Holy Mass will Let us make 2011 truly joy-
when he underwent a change His voice becomes clear, and His He looked at the status of his Novice, from YFC UP Dili- truly be a celebration of thanks- ous, with our determination and
in his perception of Jesus – from courage is found. And finally, life with regard to his career, man giving for a God who loves us zeal to evangelize, bravely and
being merely an important just say YES.” the activities he was doing, his • Ed Colminares – Candidate, perfectly and unconditionally. confidently taking a new route
historical figure to someone to Felipe B. Yohan, Jr., also relationships with others, the YFC Ateneo de Manila Our every encounter with God in as prompted by the Holy Spirit,
emulate, a model on how to live known as Philip or Flip to his community, and his family. • Mark Medrano – Candidate, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and fleeing from evil, by ponder-
an exemplary life. friends and family, was born on He weighed the pros and cons. YFC Iligan City should free us from the bondage ing God`s Word in our Heart.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011
The Black Nazarene of Quiapo D1

Millions of devotees pay

homage to Nazarene icon

© quiapo files
By Pinky Barrientos, FSP lions of poor Filipinos who identify their Quiapo Church since it was moved The Traslacion its present course to avert injuries and
sufferings and tribulations with those of there some time in 1791. When the Every January 9, the Black Nazarene stampede. The change in route is also in
the suffering Christ. icon was brought into the country is brought out in procession to com- keeping with the original meaning of the
AMID the mammoth crowd This fact is further reiterated by Ma- by the Augustinian Recollects in memorate the icon’s transfer from its traslacion, which is the transfer of the im-
of pilgrims, the statue of the nila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal 1606, the image was first enshrined original location in Luneta to its present age from Luneta to Quiapo. Last January
Rosales who said that people are drawn in a Recoletos church in Bagumbayan shrine in Quiapo Church. 9, the number of people injured has risen
Black Nazarene floated atop to the devotion to the Black Nazarene (now Luneta Park). It was later on The traslacion is usually preceded to 708, tripled than that of last year’s 246,
heads of devotees as its car- because they recognize in His cross their transferred to Quiapo Church upon by an overnight vigil at the Quirino but no death was reported.
riage inched its way along a own struggles. the order of the then Archbishop of grandstand in Luneta where thousands
4.2 kilometer-long procession “The image of the Black Nazarene is Manila Basilio Sancho de Santas Justa of devotees gather in prayer to prepare Black Nazarene’s 404th year
the image of suffering, struggling, that y Rufina. for the next day’s procession of the im- The overnight vigil held at the Lun-
that would last for at least 15 is why people like Him… they see in the The image is said to have been made age back to the shrine. eta before the procession on the feast
and a half hours. cross a picture of them,” he explained. by a Mexican carpenter and came into This year’s procession, according to day is a practice that has been in place
Devotees believed their devotion to the country via the galleon trade. Tradi- news reports, has an estimated 7 million for three years now. The vigil gives
Considered one of the country’s big- the suffering Christ will help improve tion also holds that the galleon carrying devotees, slightly higher than last year’s pilgrims the chance to spiritually pre-
gest and spectacular religious events, their lives, bring forgiveness to sins, the image caught fire which explains the count. Organizers said that the increase pare themselves for the feast through
the annual celebration of the feast of cure illnesses of family members as Nazarene’s dark color. in number of pilgrims might have also liturgical celebration, healing service
the Black Nazarene every 9th of Janu- well as bring peace and prosperity in contributed why the procession took so and catechesis. They also get the chance
ary draws millions of pilgrims from all the country. Papal approval long to reach the shrine. to venerate and kiss the image before
walks of life who come from all over the The church in Quiapo, where the Two popes on separate instances have Devotees wear clothing that is of the it goes in procession.
country to pay homage to the revered image is enshrined has become a place given their blessing on this uniquely same color the image has and join the Simultaneous with the celebration of
icon. of refuge for people who are burdened Filipino devotion. A papal bull was is- procession barefooted in imitation of the feast of Black Nazarene in Manila is
Devotees believed the image is mi- with life’s troubles. Pilgrims can be seen sued by Pope Innocent X in 1650, giving Jesus’ walk in Calvary. a similar observance in the Archdiocese
raculous and many have attested for ex- walking on their knees as they implore his pontifical blessing for the canonical Processions in the past were infamous of Cagayan de Oro where a replica of
traordinary healings as well as spiritual God for special blessings. establishment of the Confraternity of for the record number of injuries and the image donated by Quiapo Church
and material blessings obtained after Although daily masses are often well the Most Holy Black Christ Nazarene. In death of devotees who were trampled is enshrined in the church of Jesus
touching the statue. Those who joined attended, it is the first Friday Masses the 1880s, Pope Pius VII granted plenary upon by the mammoth crowd. In 2006, Poon Nazareno in Calamian, Cagayan
the procession do so to fulfill their vow and novenas celebrated in honor of indulgence to those who pray devoutly two people died and around 20 people de Oro city. The replica that used to
or panata, often in thanksgiving of a the Black Nazarene that draw the most before the image of the Black Nazarene were injured. In 2008, the number of be the pilgrim image was given to the
particular grace received from God. number of devotees. and fulfill all the requirements neces- injuries climbed up to 50, again with Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro in 2009
sary to gain an indulgence. two reported deaths. to make it easier for devotees from the
Popular devotion The Black Nazarene In 1988, the Quiapo Church was de- During the celebration of the Naza- regions of Mindanao and Visayas to
Devotion to the Black Nazarene is The life size statue of the Black clared the Minor Basilica of the Black rene’s 402nd year, the procession’s origi- make their annual pilgrimage in a place
particularly close to the hearts of mil- Nazarene has been enshrined at the Nazarene. nal 4.7 kilometer route was changed to nearer to them.

Black Nazarene’s devotion, an occasion for social renewal

MANILA Archbishop Gau- ask for God’s blessings to help theme: “Yapak ng Poong Naza- Sunday, we expected the crowd stopped one hour before the injuries,” Msgr. Ignacio added
dencio B. Cardinal Rosales one another and help every fam- reno, Yakap ng Mamamayan to increase,” Msgr. Clemente concelebrated Mass presided by as he expressed his gratitude
said most of the devotees ily and parish and country. para sa Pagbabago”. Ignacio, rector of the Basilica of Manila Archbishop Gaudencio to monastic communities he
came from people who iden- This year`s celebration had the “With the feast falling on a the Black Nazarene said. B. Cardinal Rosales. asked earlier to pray for the
tify their daily struggles with He thanked the regional po- The marshals this year were safe observance of the feast.
the wounds and tribulations lice for doubling the contingent able to keep the crowd in their “This year’s traslacion is the
experienced by Jesus of Naza- assigned to the two venues, the specific areas. The security longest in the over 400 years
reth. Quirino Grandstand and the force was doubled too as they of observance of its feast as it
“The image of the Black roads leading to the Basilica watched over the crowd at the begun from 8:00 a.m. of Sun-
Nazarene is the image of suf- Minore of the Black Nazarene. Quirino Grandstand. day until 12:05 a.m. Monday,
fering, struggling that is why and most attended,” Msgr.
people like Him, they see in Ignacio said.
the cross a picture of them,” The traslacion is the pro-
the 78-year old prelate told cession being made from the
reporters. Church of San Nicolas de
But he lamented how the Tolentino in Intramuros where
well-off and influential peo- Manila Bulletin stands to-
ple have failed to help the day to the Basilica Minore in
poor and instead fueled their Quiapo.
sufferings. The basilica rector said he
“The rich, unjust people is thankful to Manila Mayor
increase their suffering,” he Alfredo S. Lim and his divi-
said after the 6:00 a.m. Mass sion heads who wholeheart-
for the 404th Feast of the edly extended assistance to
Black Nazarene at the Quirino the organizing committee,
Grandstand. NCR Police Office Direc-
In his homily, the Cardinal tor Nicanor Bartolome and
© quiapo files

said there cannot be any real MPD Director Chief Supt.

change in the country as long Roberto Rongavilla, MMDA
as people are only looking out Chairman Francis Tolentino
for themselves and their own and his staff who helped
concerns. man the traffic, this year’s
Genuine change, he said, He also acknowledged the help Msgr. Ignacio described the Fiesta Committee and Ma-
would only come if people of doctors, nurses and health crowd’s desire to get close to nila Archbishop Gaudencio
PUBLICATION LAYOUT BY KRIS BAYOS

will show utmost concern for volunteers who came with their the image as “intense” because B. Cardinal Rosales and the
their countrymen. ambulances which were strategi- they had to cross and jump over other archdiocesan ministries
“The key to change is show- cally located around Luneta and fences and barricades and found who supported their pro-
ing concern for your neigh- Quiapo church. their way through despite the gram including the Liturgical
bors. If people will not show The rector also lauded the police presence in the area. Commission, Social Com-
© quiapo files

concern for others, change mandated organizations in “There were no serious in- munications, Radyo Veritas
will not happen,” said Ma- maintaining order among the cidents this year, thank God and TV Maria and the Social
nila’s archbishop. devotees because pilgrims wish- and it’s enough miracle there Communications team. (Melo
He called on the faithful to ing to kiss the image have been were no fatalities and serious Acuna/Roy Lagarde)
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011 The Black Nazarene of Quiapo D3

Yapak ng Mahal ng Poong Nazareno?

Ni Msgr. Clemente Ignacio rin niya, kung tayo ay uupo sa mesa sa mamalasakit sa atin. Nawa ito ang mag-
The Roman Catholic Archbishop of
Manila
121 Arzobispado Street, Intramuros
P.O. Box 132
Manila, Philippines

isang piging, huwag nating piliin ang patungo ng ating mapagmataas na mga
pinakamataas na puwesto, kundi ang noo at magpataas muli ng ating mga ulo Message
ANO nga ba ang ibig sabihin ng “Ya- pinakamababa (lk 14:7-8) At sinabi pa na may ngiti sa ating mga labi at liwanag
pak ng Mahal na Poong Nazareno?” ni Hesus, ang pinakadakila ay dapat sa ating mga mata sa pagtanaw natin sa THE throng of
Ito nga ba yung paglalakad na walang maging lingkod, ang nagmamataas ay pagmamahal ng Diyos sa atin.
sandalyas o tsinelas ng ating Mahal na
devotees that
ibababa at ang nagpapakumbaba ay Dahil sa pagpapakababang ginawa ng
Poon? Madalas, nakikita natin sa araw itataas (Mt 23:11-12) ating Mahal na Poon, ang mundong ito
flock the church
ng prusisyon na ang mga deboto ay Si Juan Bautista, ang ating patron, ang na nalugmok sa kadiliman ay binigyan of Quiapo on
patungo sa ating Simbahan na nakaya- siyang dinakila ni Kristo upang tularan. Niya ng liwanag at pag-asa. Dahil sa January 9 of
pak. Ito ang kapansin pansin sa mga Si Juan ang nagsabi na mayroong darat- pagpapahalaga ni Kristo sa daigdig every year has
kapatid nating mamamasan. Ito nga ing pagkatapos niya na siyang nauuna na ito, dahil sa kanyang paglalakbay always amazed
ba ang nais isalarawan ng ating tema at kaysa sa kanya at ang kanyang sanda- sa daigdig na ito, sa pagbubuhos ng us. We always
bakit nga ba tayo nagtatanggal ng ating lyas, hindi man lang siya karapat-dapat kanyang dugo sa lupa ng daigdig na
mga sandalyas, tsinelas o mga sapatos
witnessed how
magkalas (Jn 1:27). Ang pagsasalarawan ito, ginawang banal ng Diyos ang mga
sa ating mga prusisyon? Sinusundan ba ni Juan sa kanyang sarili bilang aliping lansangan natin na ngayo’y Kanyang
those who join
natin si Kristo na nakayapak nuong Siya nagsisilbi ay isang birtud ng pagpa- pinananahanan. the procession
ay naglalakad sa mga lansangan nuong pakababa. Ang birtud na ito ay malaki Mga kapatid, ang Yapak ng Poong wanted to each
panahon nang siya’y naririto sa lupa? ang maitutulong sa ating pagbabago na Nazareno ay Yapak ng Pagpapakumba- the image of
Totoo, naglakad si Kristo na nakaya- siyang naging paanyaya ni Juan. ba at Pagmamahal. Sa ating pagyaya- the Black Naza-
pak, ngunit hindi sa mga lansangan Si Maria rin ay tinuringan ang kan- pak, nawa’y maisapuso natin ang mga rene and touch
kundi sa pagpasok Niya sa mga tahanan yang sarili bilang alipin ng Panginoon birtud na ito na tutulong sa ating makita
(Lukas 7:38) at sa mga banal na lugar
Him. For oth-
at sinabi niya “Mangyari nawa sa akin pa ang maraming aral na ipinahayag ng
tulad ng mga sinagoga o ng templo ang kalooban ng Diyos (Lk 1:38)” Ang ating Mahal na Poon sa mga lansangang
ers, holding on
sapagkat sa mga banal na lugar na iyon, halimbawa ni Maria ay siya nawang Kanyang pinabanal. Ngunit alalahanin to the rope or
naroroon ang Diyos (Eksodo 3:5). Sa magbigay rin sa atin ng lakas ng loob na na rin natin na ginawang sagrado na ng having their
mga lansangan, ang mga Hudyo ay magpakababa at yakapin ang kalooban Diyos ang ating mga lansangan, kung towels wiped on the image is already enough.
nagsasandalyas (Markos 6:9). ng Diyos. kaya’t tayo’y naghuhubad rin ng ating More than looking at these practices as fanaticism,
Kung gayon, bakit tayo nagyayapak? Ang ating Mahal na Poon, nuong gabi mga panyapak, tulad ni Moises nang we see here how our people, especially the poor and
Isang Hudyo si Kristo at Siya’y gumamit bago siya ipagkanulo, hinubad niya ang madama niya ang presensiya ng Diyos
ng sandalyas? Ano nga ba ang ating
the underprivileged, put their trust in Someone they
panlabas na balabal na suot niya at nag- sa nagliliyab na punong-kahoy.
ginugunita kung tayo ay nagyayapak? bigkis ng tuwalya. Pagkatapos, naglagay Ang ating mga lansangan ay hindi
know worthy of their trust. The fiesta of the Black
Totoo, si Kristo ay nagsusuot ng san- Siya ng tubig sa palanggana at lumuhod natin dapat ituring na mga basurahan. Nazarene of Quiapo is a very powerful image of our
dalyas. Ngunit sa mga turo at aral ni at hinugasan ang mga paa ng kanyang Sagrado na iyan dahil naglakad na riyan people’s hope in the Lord. They know that it is not dif-
Kristo, kanyang hinubad ang kanyang mga alagad at pinunasan ang mga ito ang ating Mahal na Poon. Mahalin natin ficult to reach and touch this God because He Himself
mga sandalyas upang ipakita sa atin ng tuwalya na nakabigkis sa Kanyang ang ating mundo at alagaan natin ito is the first to reach out and touch His people.
kung ano nga ba ang landas na itinuturo baywang (Jn 13:4-5). Ginawa niya ang tulad ng pangangalaga at pagmamahal The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, explains in
at isinabuhay ng ating Mahal na Poon. napakababang pagkilos na ito - ng isang ng mga tunay na disipulo ng Mahal
Isa sa mga napakababang uri ng
his second encyclical letter Spe Salvi: God cannot
alipin—mga tinataguriang mahihirap at na Poon. Nawa ang buhay natin ay
pagsisilbi noong panahon ni Kristo walang karapatan sa lipunang iyon. Sila maging isang buhay na YUMAYAKAP
suffer, but he can suffer with. Man is worth so much to
ay ang mga gawain ng mga alipin na ang mga walang sandalyas (Lk 15:22)— SA YAPAK NG ATING MAHAL NA God that he himself became man in order to suffer with
nagtatanggal ng mga sandalyas ng ang mga mahihirap. POON, isang buhay na mapagmahal, man in an utterly real way—in flesh and blood—as is
mga bisita at naghuhugas ng kanilang Kung gayon, totoo nga na hinubad isang buhay na patuloy na nagbabago revealed to us in the account of Jesus’ Passion. Hence is
mga paa (Lk 7:44). Ang gawaing ito ay ni Kristo ang Kanyang mga sandalyas. tungo sa landas ng kabanalan! all human suffering we are joined by one who experiences
nakakahiya at napakababa. Ito’y para Nagpakababa Siya! At dahil dito, nakita Maligayang Piyesta po ng Traslasyon and carries that suffering with us (#39).
sa mga alipin lamang. Ngunit ito ang natin, nagpakababa ang ating Diyos! Ito 2011!
paanyayang itinuro at isinabuhay ni
As we gaze at Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno de Qui-
ang naalaala ng kanyang mga apostol.
Kristo, ang pagpapakababa. Sinabi niya, Kahit na Siya ay Diyos, nagpakababa (Msgr. Jose Clemente F. Ignacio is the
apo, the Suffering Messiah, may we who are suffering
hangga’t hindi tayo maging tulad ng Siya! (Filipos 2:6-11) At sa Kanyang rector and parish priest of the Minor Ba- find hope. May our celebrations make us realize
maliit na bata, hindi tayo makakapasok pagpapakababa, nakilala natin Siya, silica of the Black Nazarene / St. John the that we can always continue to hope, that there is
sa Kanyang Kaharian (Lk 9:48). Sinabi ang kanyang pagpapakumbaba at pag- Baptist Parish) always hope even if it seems there is nothing left to
hope for. In Jesus, we have a reason to hope because

Yapak ng Poong Nazareno, Yakap ng

He Himself is our hope.
Viva Señor!

+ GAUDENCIO B. CARDINAL ROSALES

Archbishop of Manila

Sambayanang Pilipino Tungo sa Pagbabago

Arzobispado de Manila
24 January 2011

ating mga paa, tayo—ikaw at ako— niya ang kanyang pagiging tao upang APOSTOLIC NUNCIATURE
Ni Fr. Jack M. Padua tuwang-tuwa sa pag-uwi ng anak mula ating mga bisig, tayo—ikaw at ako— sa kanya sa panalangin at paglapit sa
Manila, Philippines
ay nabibigyan ng pagkakataon na sa paaralan at, dahil sa kanyang ligaya, ay nabibigyan ng pagkakataon na kanyang imahen bilang tanda ng ating makipamuhay sa gitna natin at maitatag
magnilay hinggil sa ating relasyon sa ay ninayakap ang anak. Masasabi magnilay hinggil sa ating relasyon sa matinding relasyon sa kanya, kailangan ang Kaharian ng Diyos dito sa mundo.
KUMUSTA ang iyong mga paa? Panginoon. Sinasalamin, pala, ng ating namang kaduda-duda ang karakter ng Diyos at sa ating kapwa. Sinasalamin, pa palang sumunod sa kanyang mga Yakapin natin, kung gayon, hindi lang
Ang ating mga paa—ang mga landas mga paa ang ating kabanalan o, di kaya, isang tao kung, sa pamamagitan ng pala, ng ating mga bisig ang apgiging yapak at yakapin ang kanyang mga sana ang ating mga mahal sa buhay, Message
na tinahak ng mga ito—ay palatandaan ang ating pagkamakasalanan. Hindi isang nakuhang larawan, siya ay na- makitid o maluwag ng ating kalooban niyakap. kundi pati na rin ang mga nasa tabi-tabi
ng uri ng ating pagkatao. Kung ang ipagtataka, kung gayon, kung bakit sa kikitang ninayakap ang isang corrupt at ang kasikipan o kalawakan ng ating Pagsunod sa yapak ng Poong Naza- ng ating lipunan: ang mga walang tira-
isang tao ay isang estudyante, ang kan-
THE Church
Huling Hapunan, hinugasan ni Hesus na pulitiko. Kung ninayakap ng isang abot-tanaw at kakayahan. Nang makita reno. Ibig sabihin, kung paano nili- han, ang mga walang makain, ang mga
yang mga paa ay magdadala sa kanya ang mga paa ng kanyang mga apostol: indibidwal ang problema hindi lamang bot ni Hesus ang buong bayan ng batang nasa lansangan na dapat ay nasa in the Philip-
ni Hesus ang mga tao, ayon sa Ebanghe-
mula sa bahay papunta sa paaralan at dahil, sa paglalakbay natin sa iba’t ng kanyang pamilya kundi mga sulira- lyo, nabagbag ang kanyang damdamin Israel upang magturo, magpagaling paaralan, at marami pang iba. Maaaring pines has just
pabalik sa bahay. Kung ang isang tao ibang daan, ang ating mga paa, kung nin din ng iilang mahihirap na kapit- dahil para silang kawan ng mga tupa na ng mga maysakit, magpalayas ng mga napakalawak ng mundo para sa ating observed the
ay ahente ng softdrinks o kung ano baga, ang nababahiran ng alikabok ng bahay katulad ng kawalan ng pagkain, walang pastol. Niyakap ni Hesus ang demonyo, tayo—sa ating mga komu- dalawang maliliit na bisig ngunit kung Feast of the
mang produkto, ang kanyang mga paa lupa, ng kasalanan ng mundo. Hindi rin ibig sabihin, siya ay may malasakit sa kanyang pagiging tao at ang kalooban nidad na ginagalawan—ay magturo isa-isa tayong yayakap sa kung anong Black Naza-
ay magdadala sa kanya sa iba’t ibang dapat ipagkaila na sa katapusan, bilang iba. Kung lampas sa kanyang sariling ng Ama sa kanyang pagiging tao—sa din, magpagaling sa mga maysakit at maaabot ng ating kakayahan, maaaring rene on 9 Janu-
background PHOTO © Noli Yamsuan / RCAM Media

dako ng bansa na sakop ng kanyang masugid na tagasunod ng Poong Naza- pangangailangan, ninayakap ng isang kahuli-hulihan, kanyang inialay ang magpalayas ng demonyo sa iba’t ibang maitatag nga natin, sa tulong ng Poon,
teritoryo. Kung ang mga paa ng isang
ary last. The
reno, ang ating mga paa ay magdadala tao ang pagtugon sa iba’t ibang usapin kanyang sarili para sa atin upang tayo paraan. Kung paano si Hesus nagpak- ang Kaharian ng Lupa dito sa lupang
tao ay nagdadala sa kanya sa simbahan sa atin sa Daan ng Krus. Kung paano sa lipunan katulad ng pangangalaga ain ng mga tao, tayo rin ay magsikap na ibabaw. Maaaring mapagbago natin CBCP Monitor
ay maligtas mula sa pagkaalipin ng sala
tuwing araw ng Linggo, ibig sabihin, tinahak ni Hesus ang Daan ng Krus ng kalikasan, ibig sabihin, siya ay may at kadiliman ng mundo. Kung paano magpakain ng iba. Kung paano si Hesus ang bayang Pilipino. is preparing a
siya ay nagsusumikap na maging isang papunta sa Bundok ng Kalbaryo bilang malawak na pananaw sa kanyang niyakap ni Hesus ang kanyang misyon nag-alay ng buhay para sa iba, tayo rin Nitong araw ng Traslacion, o paglipat supplement to
mabuting Kristiyano. Kung ang mga pagsunod sa kalooban ng Ama, ang mga pananagutan bilang isang nilalang sa sa lupa kahit ito ay nangangahulugang ay mag-alay ng ating buhay para sa ating ng imahen ng Poong Nazareno mula sa commemorate
paa naman ng isang tao ay nagdala sa paa din natin ay inaasahang susunod sa mundong ito. kamatayan sa krus, ang ating mga bisig kapwa. Kilalanin natin ang mga sanhi Luneta papunta sa Basilica Minore ng this special
kanya sa kulungan, ibig sabihin, siya Yapak ng Poon. Sinu-sino at anu-ano, kung gayon, ay inaasahang susunod sa mga niyakap ng karamdaman at pagkaalipin ng ating Nazarenong Maitim, lumapit tayo sa event, and I am
ay napalihis sa matuwid na landas at Kumusta naman ang iyong mga ang ating ninayakap? Hanggang saan ng Poon. lipunan at, katulad ni Jesus, magsikap Poon, sundan natin ang kanyang mga
naligaw sa isang balikong uri ng pa-
happy to con-
bisig? ang abot ng ating mga bisig? Maaari ko May dalawang yugto pa, kung gay- na mapalaya mula sa sakit at pagkatali yapak, at yakapin natin ang kanyang
mumuhay o baka siya ay nasangkot sa Ang ating mga bisig—ang mga ni- bang yakapin ang buong mundo para ang ating bayan mga niyakap. Sa ating pagsunod sa tribute these
© quaipo files

on, tungo sa isang makabuluhang

isang gawaing hindi kasiya-siya sa mata nayakap nito—ay palantandaan ng uri sa Panginoon? O masaya na ba akong pagdiriwang ng Kapistahan ng Poong Pagyakap natin sa mga adhikain ng kanyang mga yapak at pagyakap sa few words
ng lipunan. ng ating pagkatao. Masasabing isang yakapin ang aking sarili lamang? Nazareno, maliban sa paglapit sa ating Poon bilang daan tungo sa pagbabago. kanyang mga niyakap, mababago natin that have been
Ibig sabihin, sa pamamagitan ng mapagmahal na ina ang isang babaing Ibig sabihin, sa pamamagitan ng Poong Nazareno. Na lampas sa paglapit Diyos ang ating Poon ngunit niyakap ang Pilipinas. asked of me.
Anyone who gazes at the image of Jesus, the Black
Nazarene, cannot fail to be struck by how the Lord
is portrayed: crushed by suffering, overwhelmed

Yapak Mo, Yakap Namin

by sorrow, the innocent victims whose death has
reconciled us with the Father and given us a share
in the very life of God.
The man carrying that cross seems to embrace all
Traslasyon 2011 the sufferings of the world, lifting up to heaven the
cries of God’s children, especially of the poor and of
those in distress.
ENERO 9, 2011, araw ng Itim, ang kahulugan at halaga o makahawak sa imahen ng pagkat hindi nila ito gagawin ay nakatanim ang binhi ng This is the Mystery eloquently represented in this
Linggo, muling ipagdiriwang ng Poon sa buhay ng nakara- Poon, samantalang ang Señor kung wala silang malalim na kalooban ng Diyos Ama na sa
ang kapistahan ng Nuestro
holy icon, so beloved by many. It reminds us that
raming Pilipino. Iba’t-ibang ay laging naghihintay sa lahat dahilan. pagsibol nito ay magbubunga
Padre Jesus Nazareno at ang paraan ang kanilang pag- sa loob ng simbahan araw- Sa kasalukuyang lipunang ng kaluwalhatian matapos Jesus is the God who became one of us, the eternal
Traslasyon 2011. Ginugunita papahayag ng pagmamahal sa araw na walang pinipiling ating ginagalawan araw-araw, na ito ay diligin ng pagpa- high priest who unites us to God and whose suffer-
ng kapistahang ito ang pag- Poon, tulad ng paghawak sa panahon, tag-araw man o tag- minarapat ng Simbahan ng pakasakit, pagpapakumbaba ing gives meaning to our own sufferings, our own
dating ng imahen ng Poong imahen ng Poong Nazareno, ulan, may bagyo man o wala? Quiapo na sa kapistahan ng at pagmamahal sa lahat ng needs, hopes and aspirations.
Jesus Nazareno sa simbahan paghipo sa anumang bagay Bakit kailangang makipag- Nazareno 2011 ay magkaroon nilalang ng Diyos. This remarkable affection of the Filipino people to
ng Quiapo, mula sa isang na may kaugnayan sa Kanya siksikan o makipagbalyahan ng tema ang pagdiriwang na Katulad ng naging mga Señor Jesus Nazareno is another consoling symbol of
simbahan sa Bagumbayan (Lu- tulad ng damit, lubid sa prusi- ng mga braso ang mga tao sa angkop na angkop sa kasa- yapak ng Nazareno patun-
neta), na tinatayang naganap
the God who is close to us and whose love gives us
syon, andas na sinasakyan ng isa’t-isa, sukdulang ikapaha- lukuyang panahon at ito ay gong kalbaryo mahigit nang
bago nasunog ang simbahan Señor o kaya, maipahid man mak nila at walang pakun- “Yapak ng Nazareno, Yakap 2000 taon na ang nakalipas, hope to face the difficulties of living a life of faith.
ng Quiapo sa pangalawang lang ang kanilang mga panyo dangan sa ano mang maging ng Sambayanan tungo sa Pag- ang mga yapak na susundan May the devotion to this treasured image of
pagkakat ao n n o o n g E n e r o o tuwalya—lahat ng ito ay kapahamakan ng kanilang babagong Buhay.” Hangad ngayon ay matinik, mabato Christ move us with a desire to better understand
15, 1791. larawan ng paghahangad na kapwa gayong ang Nazareno ng kapistahang ito na pag- at baku-bako pa rin subalit sa the Gospel of love and to learn to accept the Cross
Ang pagdalo ng milyon- malapitan ang Poon at upang ay buong laya at maginhawang nilayan ang napiling temang dulo ng landas na ito, naroon in our lives.
milyong mga deboto, mula mailapit ang Poon sa kanila. masisilayan, mahahawakan at ito upang marating ng bawat ang tagumpay—ang pang- In the name of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI,
sa iba’t-ibang panig ng Pilipi- Maraming katanungan ang madadalanginan upang ilahad isa ang pagbabago ng buhay, ingibabaw ng kabutihan sa
nas, at maging sa iba’t-ibang
I greet and bless all those faithful to Nuestro Padre
maaaring isipin ng iba. Bakit ang lahat-lahat na nais nilang una sa sarili at kasunod na kasamaan.
bansa, ay patunay ng mala- sa tuwing lalabas ang Nazare- hilingin o ipagpasalamat? ang lipunan. Itong inaasam Ipagdiwang natin ang Kapistah- Jesus Nazareno. May God enable you to continue to
lim na pananampalataya ng no mula sa simbahan ng Qui- Maaaring sa mga tanong na pagbabago sa bawat isa, sa an ng Poong Nazareno! grow in grace and prosper in every way.
maraming Pilipino sa Poong apo upang iprusisyon (piesta na tulad nito, mayroon itong pamilya at sa lahat ng sektor
Nazareno. Sinasalamin din ng Enero 9, Biernes Santo at kasagutan na hindi alam ng ng komunidad, pribado man (This article is lifted from Nue- +EDWARD JOSEPH ADAMS
sa pagdiriwang na ito, lalo na prusisyon ng pasasalamat sa nagtatanong subalit sa mga o pamahalaan, ang magpa- stro Padre Jesus Nazareno, the Apostolic Nuncio in the Philippines
sa pagpuprusisyon ng Poon Enero 1) ay dito dinudumog taong pinag-uukulan ng gani- patunay na dito pala sa lupa newsletter of the Minor Basilica 20 January 2011
mula sa Luneta patunga sa Ba- ng libo-libong mga deboto tong mga tanong, maliwanag ay may langit ding maitutur- of the Black Nazarene / St. John
silica Minor eng Nazarenong ang Nazareno upang makita sa kanila ang kasagutan sa- ing. Sa bawat yapak ni Jesus the Baptist Parish)
 CBCP Monitor
D4 Vol. 15 No. 3
January 31 - February 13, 2011

Samu’t saring Saloobin Department of Agriculture

ng mga Deboto
Office of the Secretary
Elliptical Road, Diliman 1100, Quezon City, Philippines

MESSAGE

SA mga pagsubok sa buhay Hindi biro ang aking tanging sa kanya lang ang It is my honor and privilege to join devotees in the celebration
tanging ang pagkapit ko sa pinagdaanan ako ay may aking kagalingan. Himala of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, one of the country’s revered
Poong Nazareno ang nagpap- asawa at walong anak, isang at talaga naman pinagaling icons. Through the years, our countrymen’s faith in the beloved
atibay sa akin. Sa aking panan- driver, ngunit kadalasan ay niya ako kaya naman ngayon Nazarene has strengthened, further bringing the Divine Creator
alig na lubos ay nakayanan ko nawawalan ng hanapbuhay. patuloy akong deboto Niya na closer to the people.
ang pagsubok sa buhay. Hindi Kapag nasa punto na ako’y nagpapasalamat at nananalig We at the agriculture sector culls inspiration from the persever-
Niya ako iniwan at laging ti- walang trabaho ako’y naka- ng lubos. Irene ance and resolve of Christ on His journey to Calvary. Much like
nutulungan. Kaya naman ako susumpong sa paglakad ng farmers and fishers, He too has felt the harsh heat of the sun, the
ay nagpapasalamat ng lubos paluhod sa dambana ng ma- Ako’y isang ina, ang aking roughness of the terrain and has suffered callous hands. These
lubos. Josephine hal na Poong Hesus Nazare- are all for us. In the same way farmers and fishers offer this to
anak na babae ay umalis
no. Parang tuwing ako’y may their family.
at matagal na di bumalik.
These hardship and sacrifices prove to be worthwhile. While
Tubong Quiapo, nakagisnan trabaho ako’y nakalilimot sa Mga tatlong taon din kami Christ has
ko ang pagdedebosyon sa kanya at agad naaalala ko hindi nagkita. Sa sobrang saved humanity, farmers and fishers have continued to strive to
Mahal na Hesus na turo na siya kapag ako’y nawalan ng pag-aalala ko sa kanya halos feed Filipino families. Their efforts have ensured a stable supply
rin ng aking mga magulang. hanapbuhay. Salamat at sa mawalan na ako ng panan- of food and other commodities.
Sa araw-araw na pagsisimba lahat ng panahon hindi niya alig sa Diyos at pag-asa. In response, the Department of Agriculture family has worked
ako ay nakatagpo ng kara- ako pinabayaan. Ricardo Ang akala ko sa araw-araw to increase yields and boost farmers’ income. Providing the neces-
may at tanging. maaasahan. na aking pagdarasal ay di sary infrastructure, training and coming up with new technologies
Ako’y dalaga magpahang- Dalaga pa ako ay deboto niya ako naririnig. Hangang are keys to further propel growth in the sector. We have always believed in farmers’ and fishers’
gang ngayon. Ilang ulit na rin na ako ng Mahal na Hesus isang araw sinagot niya ang resolve and dedication. Given adequate assistance, they would produce more and generate greater
ako na-stroke at patuloy pa Nazareno. Hindi ko akalain aking dalangin bumalik livelihood opportunities. Besides being producers, they have the potential to be businessmen
rin pinagagaling ng Mahal na mapapalayo kami ng tinitara- ang anak ko at nasa mabut- with their respective agri-enterprises.
Poong Hesus. Sa edad kong han, sa mahabang panahon ing kalagayan, nagsisi at Thus as we again give thanks for the blessings this past year, we look to a new year full of hope.
85 years old ako’y nakakapag- ako’y napalayo din sa Kanya. ngayon kaming dalawa na With faith and trust in the Black Nazarene, we prepare ourselves to be worthy of His guidance
simba pa rin. At patuloy na Ako’y nagkasakit hindi ako ang dumudulog sa Mahal and blessings.
kumukuha ng lakas sa ating halos makalakad salamat sa na Poong Hesus Nazareno. Mabuhay!
Panginoong Hesus. Nita kanya at ako’y nanalig na Leonila
PROCESO J. ALCALA
Secretary

Metropolitan Manila Development Author-

ity
Office of the Chairman
EDSA corner Orense St., Guadalupe, Makati City, Philippines

PAHATID-BATI

Nagpupugay ako’t bumabati sa milyon-milyon nating mga

kababayang deboto ng Poong Itim na Nazareno sa mahalagang
araw ng Kanyang Kapistahan tuwing Enero.
Patunay ang taunang okasyong ito sa taos at matibay na pa-
nanampalataya nating mga Pilipino sa ating Poong Maykapal,
na nagsisilbing testimonya ng ating pagkakaisa di lamang bil-
ang mga Kristiyano kundi bilang iisang lahi sa panig na ito ng
sandaigdigan.
Sa araw na ito ng inyong pagpapanibagong pangako bilang mga
deboto, nakikiisa ako sa inyong pagpapsalamat at pag-aalala sa
mga himalang naganap at sa mga kahilingang natupad sa tulong
ng Mahal na Poong Itim na Nazareno.
Kasihan nawa tayong lahat ng Kanyang walang hanggang awa
at pagpapala.

ATTY. FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO

Kalihim

AN INSPIRATION TOWARDS UNITY

With warmth and sincerity, I convey my greetings of Civil society groups and NGOs are DSWD’s partners in this endeavor by serving as the
peace and unity to all our Catholic brethren who remain third-eye in monitoring program implementation.
steadfast in faith as we celebrate the 404th year of the
Feast of the Black Nazarene. The second component seeks to address the need for community driven development through
the implementation of the KALAHI-CIDSS program. KALAHI-CIDSS provides technical
The devotion to the Black Nazarene is a clear manifes- and financial assistance to communities for the construction of social infrastructure projects
tation of our determination, hope and faith amidst hard such as potable water systems, footpaths, bridges, roads, health facilities, day care centers and
times. Yearly, we, the Catholic faithful render our pro- classrooms.
found trust and confidence in the guidance of the Lord
as we celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene. The KALAHI-CIDSS projects ensure that social infrastructures responsive to the needs of
the community and the residents are in place. Religious organizations, civic groups and NGOs
The Department of Social Welfare and Development can share their expertise on skills development, community building and capital augmentation
(DSWD) recognizes that determination, hope and faith through microfinance.
are the foundation to crafting an improved quality of
life. The Department strives diligently to live up to the Recognizing fully well the need for livelihood opportunities, the third component of the Con-
spirit and tradition of unity evoked by this devotion, as vergence Framework is the SEA-K program. SEA-K has been implemented by the Department
the Department strives to bring hope to the poor and for decades now, addressing the need for community-driven enterprise development. History
disadvantaged through diligent public service. affirms that SEA-K benefited poor folks who eventually became successful entrepreneurs.

Knowing the importance of unity towards achieving a goal, the Department has heeded the Under SEA-K, DSWD provides technical assistance and non-collateral, non-interest loans
call of the Aquino administration to pursue Private-Public Partnership (PPP) for a more efficient to the entrepreneurial poor. The program enables the poor to have access to credit, increase
way of delivering public service. PPP is a strategy which combines the expertise of government their income, enhance socio-economic skills, and develop positive entrepreneurial values.
and the private sector towards achieving a noble objective for the benefit of the citizens.
In support to this program, the private sector can complement government initiatives
Through this concept, gone is the “my business only” attitude and hopefully, achieves syn- through assistance in enterprise development, microfinance, business development services,
ergy among different sectors such as the government, civil society, faith-based organization, and market matching.
and non-government organizations (NGOs) to work towards the total development of the
Filipinos, especially the poor. The three components of the Convergence Framework are driven by empowerment process
wherein the resources and its success are in the hands of the poor themselves. The poor and
Alleviating poverty is a tremendous task being faced by the current administration. As the disadvantaged must help themselves and the Convergence Framework provides them the
the lead agency mandated to protect, safeguard and provide social protection to the poor, opportunity to do so.
the DSWD values the efforts of all stakeholders in achieving an improved quality of life for
the poor and the disadvantaged. Collectively, the three components under the Convergence Framework create social account-
ability, build social capital and transform patron-dependent communities into empowered and
Hence, the Department has developed a core poverty alleviation strategy with unity and con- active citizenry. It is a solid building block for true democracy.
vergence as its founding principle, called the Convergence Framework on Poverty Reduction.
Further, the program hinges on the strength of unity as the key towards success. The lessons of
Under this concept, the three major poverty reduction programs of the Department namely: unity and convergence are embodied in the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
Pantawid Pamilya, Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery
of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), and Self-Employment Assistance – Kaunlaran (SEA-K) With the guidance of the Lord, we are determined to realize the goals of the convergence
have been merged to complement one another. framework to enable us to continue providing sincere public service to our countrymen.

This poverty reduction approach of the Department responds to the unique needs of the Most importantly, we, in the DSWD, believe in the power of faith and loyalty to a laud-
poor based on their needs. In the course of the implementation of the three programs, both able cause in achieving our goals. We hope that this year’s Feast of the Black Nazarene,
public and private sectors will be engaged to contribute to the improvement of the lives of and the devotion of millions be our inspiration towards a hope-filled new year for the
the beneficiaries. Filipinos.

The Pantawid Pamilya program is the first component of convergence, responding to the From the DSWD family, a blessed 404th year of the Feast of the Black Nazarene to all!
needs of the poorest households by providing assistance for education and health through
the conditional cash transfer. (signed)
CORAZON JULIANO-SOLIMAN
DSWD believes that Pantawid Pamilya is an investment in human capital, more than any- Secretary
thing else. It emphasizes that education and health are important in achieving a better future Department of Social Welfare and Development
for the beneficiaries and instill the values of responsibility, through faithful compliance with IBP Road, Batasan Pambansa Complex, Constitution Hills Quezon City
program conditionalities. Website: www.dswd.gov.ph