Académique Documents
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’08 Preparation Includes Lubich was hospi- Work”—in 1943 in her have been systematically Church in No. 2358, in ficulties they may en-
talized Nov. 2 in the native city. The move- offended, the Holy See which it requests
that “every sign of
Formation of Young Leaders Agostino Gemelli Poly- ment is active in 182 cherishes the hope that
clinic of Rome, and was countries. (Zenit) the question will be re- unjust discrimi-
considered.” nation” against
SYDNEY, Australia, ing the lead-up to Youth The communiqué homosexuals “be
November 9, 2006—A
Youth Leaders Formation
Day 2008.
The live-in course 3 “Holy Cities” Teaming Up expresses “profound dis-
approval of this initiative
avoided.”
No. 2358 states:
Course will help prepare
for World Youth Day
will be held in the Sydney
suburb of Bringelly. Alliance to Promote Art, as it constitutes a grave “The number of
CICM
100 Year s of Missionar y Pr esence
missionary work in the tion of people living in the twenty dispensaries
mountains of Luzon for mission areas. Fr. Con- were built. He estab-
seventeen years, evan- stant Jurgens, who later lished a Catholic school
in the Philippines
gelizing the Ifugao became bishop of system that now in-
people while learning Tuguegarao was a mis- cludes thirty-six high
their language and tradi- sionary in Bontoc for schools, twenty-four pri-
tions. He did researches many years. To help up- mary schools, three col-
on the Ifugao Epic Sagas lift the economic condi- leges and two universi-
which became one of his tions of the people, Fr. ties. He also founded a
By Pinky B. Barrientos, FSP many enduring contribu- Jurgens tried to intro- local religious congrega-
tions in the field of an- duce silk-worm culture in tion of women to minis-
A Jubilee is a momentous especially being a “light This became a source of five went to Cervantes, thropology. He shared the area. The project did ter to the people of
occasion to celebrate with in the north.” There is so great concern that the old capital of the his passion for anthro- not take off because of Mountain Province.
joy and thanksgiving. It is much to thank God for, prompted Rome to call for mountains. pology among his stu- opposition from the gov-
a time for remembering, of and so much to take as missionaries to fill up par- The missionaries set dents at Maryhurst Semi- ernor of the place. Other Contribution to Semi-
looking back with grati- challenges for the fu- ishes left vacant by Span- themselves to study the nary, St. Louis University projects, however, suc- nary Formation
tude for what has been. It ture.” ish friars and the Filipino native dialects and cus- and Baguio Colleges. ceeded, such as weav- Aside from mission-
is also a time of renais- clergy who followed toms of the people. Their ing, lace-making, silver- ary work among the in-
sance, a call to renewal of A Glimpse into the Past Aglipay. painstaking study of the “A Light in the North” smithing and broom digenous people, the
the profound missionary The congregation’s The exigency of the local language and indig- The arrival of fresh weaving. More ambi- CICM also dedicated
spirituality that spurred journey into the heart of situation was reflected in enous customs bur- groups of CICM priests tious projects followed their energies and talents
the congregation to re- the Philippine Church a letter sent by the Apos- geoned into a valuable into the country after the later, such as roads, irri- in the formation of local
spond with vitality to the started as a response to tolic Delegate to the treasure-house of linguis- first world war led to the gation, farming coopera- clergy. After many years
challenges of evangeliza- the urgent request of CICM Superior General: tics and anthropology, steady growth of mission tives, credit unions, of patiently building up
tion. Msgr. Ambrosius Agius, “The Superior of the Mill thus preserving a great stations of the CICM in piggeries, dispensaries, the faith of the people in
The missionary con- then Apostolic Delegate Hill Fathers suggested deal the cultural wealth of the Mountain Province, mission hospitals and the Mountain Province,
gregation of the Immacu- to the Philippines; ask- that I write to you be- the people for the suc- among them, La Trinidad, clinics. the CICM started the
late Heart of Mary or ing the CICM Superior cause you could provide
Congregatio Immaculati General, Fr. Adolf Van several vigorous and
Cordis Mariae (CICM) is Hecke, for missionaries, zealous missionaries
launching the centennial to work especially in the since you are looking for
celebration of its mission- northern part of the coun- new mission territories.
ary presence in the coun- try. Please, good Father,
try on November 28 with The year was 1906. come to our aid and do it
the theme Remembrance The religious climate without further delay.”
and Revitalization. In his then was one of extreme The first group of
letter to friends of the concern on the part of CICM missionaries sent
CICM announcing the the Philippine Church. into the country was
theme and objectives of The Spanish occupation headed by Fr. Peter
the centennial celebra- had just ended, and all Dierickx who became the
tion, CICM Provincial Su- Spanish missionaries ex- first superior of the com-
perior, Fr. Romeo Nimez, pelled. The American munity. They stayed ini-
says: “The jubilee is a government took over, tially with the
very important occasion and American Bishops Agustinians in ceeding generations to Bokod near the Spanish Another tireless first minor seminary in
for remembrance and revi- were appointed to take Intramuros while await- value and learn from. mission of Daklan, missionary who worked Baguio in 1942. For the
talization of a religious the place of the Spanish ing word from Bishop Among the many excep- Kapangan, Daluperip, vigorously in the devel- missionaries, the semi-
family like ours. Indeed we Bishops. With the Dennis Dougherty, who tional CICM missionaries Kayan, Sabangan, Barlig, opment of the Mountain nary was the precious
cannot take lightly that Americanization of the was the Ordinary of the in the country who have Burnay-Lagawe, Provinces was Bishop fruit of the many years of
momentous event in No- country also came the diocese of Nueva made valuable contribu- Lubuagan branching out William Brasseur who loving labor in the place
vember of 1907, when the influx of the Protestant Segovia, which covered tions in the field of lin- to Naneng ang Salegseg. was appointed Vicar Ap- that has become a part of
pioneers set foot for the missionaries. On the lo- the whole northern part guistics and anthropol- The priests also worked ostolic of the Mountain their lives; at the same
first time, and inaugurated cal front, the religious of Luzon. Although the ogy were Fathers Morice in the Lepanto- Province in 1948. Bishop time, “the flower of the
the missionary presence movement started by Fr. missionaries wanted to Vanoverbergh, Alfons Amburayan territory, part Brasseur was the generous faith of so
of the CICM in this archi- Gregorio Aglipay stay together in Claerhoudt, Francis of the Diocese of Vigan, epitome of a true shep- many young families that
pelago. From that time on, evolved into a Philippine Cervantes for a year to Lambrecht and Francis with parishes in herd who lovingly cared formed a budding Chris-
and across a span of al- Independent Church learn the languages, they Billiet. Cervantes, Tagudin, for his flock. He had a tian community.”
most 100 years now, we that did not recognize had to let go of it in def- A noted anthropolo- Concepcion, Angaki, dream for the people of In the following
see how the story of the authority of Rome. erence to the bishop’s gist whose work have Tubao, and Pugo. the Mountain Province years more seminaries will
CICM has been inextrica- The founding of the Phil- wish to go at once to been published in scien- Various livelihood which he was able to put be entrusted in the ca-
bly linked with the history ippine Independent Baguio. Three priests tific journals of several projects were introduced into reality. It was under pable hands of the CICM.
and evolution of the Church left many par- were appointed for universities abroad, by the missionaries in or- his administration that Among the various semi-
Church in the Philippines, ishes without a priest. Baguio while the other Lambrech (1895-1978) did der to improve the situa- eight rural hospitals and CICM/ P10
Southville / from p1
“The government’s action is in a In the statement, Drona said: cisco Duque last September 8 to take a
Laiko / from p7
World War III. coconut, corn, cassava and sugar
snail pace. We hope that they will ac- “They came from danger zone for we serious attention into the water, drain-
• Transportation costs for com- cane for biofuel production is a
celerate the pace of work,” said Fr. fully know what is life in ‘home along age, electricity and indoor pollution
merce and industry will become potential problem which is now
Rene Eriga, the social action director da riles’ but their life in the relocation issues Southville.
prohibitive and the power being deliberated upon by the Bi-
of the Diocese of San Pablo. site in Southville may become a ‘death The letter called for medical and
needed to generate electricity— cameral Committee. The mandated
The government has been asked zone’ if not properly and adequately environmental teams “in light of the
to heat the homes during winter 1% addition of biodiesel to diesel
to respond to the basic needs of the attended to.” reported occurrence of skin diseases,
or to cool during summer, will fuel will require 70 million liters of
relocatees in their “dismal conditions” He urged Vice-President Noli de diarrhea and other ailments among
be scarce and may no longer be biodiesel. To produce this, copra
that had dragged on for many weeks Castro who is concurrent chair of the some of the relocated railway dwellers
accessible to millions of poor and coco food applications will
with insufficient progress. Housing and Urban Development Co- purportedly due to the poor environ-
households. have to be reduced from the present
It is not the first time that priests ordinating Council, to immediately act mental health conditions in the area.”
How will these potential prob- yearly harvest by 224 million coco-
and bishops have expressed displea- on the basic requirements of potable UPA said at least six children have
lems be addressed by the free nuts, the needed quantity to pro-
sure over the performance of the au- water, electricity, waste disposal and a already succumbed to dengue but
world? By the Philippines in par- duce 70 million liters of CME; i.e.,
thorities and sought fixing of respon- health center in the relocation site. some 20 children were confirmed in-
ticular? An immediate doable an- 1% of our yearly consumption of
sibility for various lapses. Similarly, the Urban Poor Associ- fected but survived the disease.
swer is to reduce our dependence 70 billion liters of diesel oil. Two
Even during earlier statements, San ates (UPA) is also upset with the way As early as September, after one
on fossil fuel and to develop our years from now, the 10% addition
Pablo bishop Leo Drona had warned things are going on, adding that the child died of dengue, UPA tried sev-
own renewable sources of energy. of ethanol to gasoline will require
that if problems are left unsolved, it has recent dengue outbreak in Southville eral times to bring the issue of increas-
Aside from harnessing more solar 105,000 hectares to plant the quan-
the potential to put the health condi- that claimed at least six lives could have ing number of dengue cases to the at-
and wind power, in order to pro- tity of sugar cane needed to pro-
tions of other people at risk. been prevented had the authorities tention NHA.
vide security for our future energy duce 340 million liters of ethanol.
The pace of action remained tardy bothered to respond to calls for medi- Southville residents complained
needs, we have to use plant-based As of last census, there were only
and the same old excuses continued cal and sanitation teams. of manholes filled with stagnant water
sources of energy, mainly for pro- 380,115 hectares planted to sugar
to be extended for the delays in imple- UPA said at least 17 non-govern- teeming with mosquito larvae. (Miami
ducing biodiesel and ethanol. The cane in the Philippines.
mentation. ment groups wrote to Health Sec. Fran- Ebilane)
corollary effect is reducing green- The discovery that the lowly
house emissions directly mitigat- tuba-tuba (jethropa) fruit-bearing
New Apostles / from p1 Antipolo Diocese / from p1 ing the harmful effects of radical shrub, as a source of oil for
come good and to do good, a time a gambling. Don’t teach young granted to the CPC believing that climate change. biodiesel production will somehow
change, to renew, transform, to be born people to gamble.” said business “will contribute to the What is biodiesel? The fol- ease the need for coconuts for the
again and to have a new life,” he said. Reyes said a casino will surely vast development” of their town. lowing terminologies are used to production of biodiesel. Jethropa
He also encouraged delegates to bring great harm to the people. “Our message is clear that we mean the same – coco-diesel, coco- planting will utilize lands that are
internalize the prayers, reflections, lec- “Businesses have collapsed are against it. If they will not listen biodiesel, coco-methyl ester idle, barren and unproductive for
tures and interaction from the event. because of casino gambling. Jobs to these people, I think their days (CME). It is a product obtained by planting corn, cassava or sugar
The four days of the meeting will in- have been lost. Families have been (in their positions) are numbered,” the chemical reaction between co- cane. There are 2 million hectares
clude hymns, times of prayer, Eucha- broken. Graft and corruption have said Ynarez. conut oil and wood alcohol or in Northern Mindanao eyed for
ristic celebrations and conferences. been committed in offices due to With almost 3,000 people who methanol. Although not known to planting jethropa (tuba-tuba). Three
The Bishops’ Conference of the losses in gambling. And in some joined the protest, the governor most of us, the airline industry’s kilos of tuba-tuba seeds will pro-
Philippines started celebrating Na- cases, deaths and suicides have re- said, Cainta officials should think aviation lubricant is derived from duce one liter of crude unprocessed
tional Youth Day back in 1986 as a way sulted,” he said. again with their decision. coconut oil which until now has oil. This will be a boon to poor farm-
of implementing its preferential The casino is a venture of the But because Pagcor is under no better substitute. ers whose lands are unproductive
apostolate for children and youth. Creative Pacific Corporation (CPC) the authority of the President, The proposed Biofuels Act for planting food crops.
From 1987 to 1990, the annual encoun- and will be operated by the Philip- Reyes said the ace is still in Arroyo’s mandates the mixing of 1 % CME The framers of the Biofuel Act
ter was held in Manila. Since 1991, pine Amusement and Gaming Cor- hands. to diesel fuel for the first 2 years realize the need to separate the plan-
however, National Youth Day has been poration (Pagcor). The bishop said they are still starting from the effectivity of the tation for commercial sugar produc-
celebrated in different dioceses of the Casino’s opponents have also hoping Arroyo will heed their call law and 2% CME thereafter. In the tion and that for ethanol produc-
country. (AsiaNews, with reports asked the local government officials to stop the casino operations. case of gasoline, the Act mandates tion. As the need for more ethanol
from Neela Duallo) of Cainta to withdraw the permit it (CBCPNews) addition of 5% ethanol in the first increases while the supply is lim-
two years and 10% thereafter. The ited, specially considering that Ja-
Pope Names / from p1 Guimaras / from p1 technology of manufacture of pan is the biggest market in this
Basilan; and the Apostolic Vicariate these biofuels is well-known region, the sugar cane farmers for
of Jolo. Residents of Guimaras Island other 600 people remain. The latter throughout the world. Philippine biofuel production may earn more
Benedict XVI has also trans- who were forced to flee after a mas- will be able to return home only scientists completed their study in per hectare of land while the farm-
ferred Bishop Sergio Utleg, until now sive oil spill, have started return- when all areas stricken by the oil manufacturing ethanol from molas- ers devoted to planting sugar cane
bishop of Ilagan in Isabela, to the ing home after nearly three months. spill have been cleared of toxicity. ses sometime in 1976 during the for confectioner’s and table sugar
Diocese of Laoag in Ilocos Sur. The spill contaminated coastal vil- Shortly after the spill, Manila’s first oil crisis at the same time that may not earn as much. Conversion
Utleg, 63, was ordained priest at lages and poisoned local flora and health department sent several medi- Brazil scientists started their re- of sugar cane lands for
the age of 24 and appointed Bishop fauna. cal teams to the island to treat 329 search on ethanol production. Af- confectioner’s sugar to that for
of Ilagan, when he was 53. Around 300 persons left people who complained of health ter 30 years Brazil manufactures 16 ethanol production may again in-
The last ordinary of Laoag was evacuation centres in Nueva problems. Among the symptoms: billion liters of ethanol yearly sup- cite tenant uprising in Sugarlandia.
Bishop Ernesto Salgado, who became the Valencia and went home, said the skin irritations, respiratory prob- plying 20% of the world’s require- This potential volatile situa-
Archbishop of Vigan in February of 2005. mayor of Iloilo, Diosdado Gonzaga. lems, stomach aches and nausea. ment. The Philippine scientists tion will affect our small communi-
There was no bishop appointed The disaster happened on 11 Guimaras residents are cur- were not given support by the ties in the parishes, the BEC’s. It
for Kidapawan and Ilagan. This August when an oil tanker cap- rently seeking to limit the environ- government hence the study behooves all lay leaders and the
means that the two dioceses remain sized off Guimaras Island: around mental damage caused by the spill. stopped. (Even today the DOST Church as a whole to study and
“Sede vacante” until new appoint- 10% of the ship’s cargo of two mil- The Filipino Coast Guard has ap- has the lowest budget allocation monitor these fuel change scenario
ments are made. lion litres of oil leaked, affecting a pealed for “for chicken feathers given by Congress—only 0.3% of affecting our agricultural man-
No date has been set either for 200km coastal stretch. and human hair” to soak it up. The the 2007 budget). power in the same way that we are
the installation of Valles as Arch- Gonzaga said that following tanker, said to be resting on the While the technical aspect of now addressing the effects of the
bishop of Zamboanga, or for the in- the disaster, the evacuees found seabed, has been described as “an producing these fuels is not a prob- 1995 Mining Law on our Indig-
stallation of bishop Utleg as Bishop refuge in provisional shelters in the ecological time bomb” by environ- lem, the use of our food crops like enous People.
of Laoag. (CBCP News) city of Nueva Valencia, where an- mentalists. (AsiaNews)
© Ettore Ferrari/epa/Corbis
ing or formation stage because a erating the banana or pineapple
lot of them do not persevere. plantations. It may not be very
Maybe out of 20, only about 7 of visible to the public eye, but there
them make it to ordination. But are reports about this problem be-
you know, for me, even if they cause a lot of families cannot af-
don’t make it to the ordination, I ford to send their children to
don’t look at it as a waste of school but instead let them work
money because, for sure, these in the plantations. Lastly, we are
individuals have already imbibed also continually firming up on
Your Eminences, bequeathed to us. They are also an and the mention that you made, Car- the lofty ideals or values from other programs which we already
Venerable Brothers in the Episcopate encouragement to the Church to dinal Tomko, to the “Federación their seminary formation, which have like our literacy program
and in the Priesthood, spread Christ’s love in every social Mundial de la Adoración they can use in the future as fam- among the tribal communities in
milieu and to witness to it Nocturna”, enables me to recall how ily men. If they will work in the the hinterlands.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, unhesitatingly. helpful the rediscovery of Eucharis- government or be involved in
Moreover, ever since your tic Adoration is for many Christians. business, at least they can use Is it not that the Church’s en-
YOUR visit gives me great plea- praiseworthy Pontifical Committee In this regard, I am pleased to the values they have acquired gagement in politics is also part
sure and I greet you all with affec- was established, its proposed goal think back to my experience last year from their seminary formation. of the social concern agenda?
tion. In the first place, I greet Cardi- is “to make ever better known, loved with the young people in Cologne What do you think?
nal Jozef Tomko, whom I thank for and served Our Lord Jesus Christ in on the occasion of World Youth Day, On the subject of lay empower- Yes, I do believe it is part of
expressing your common sentiments his Eucharistic Mystery, the centre and in St Peter’s Square with the chil- ment or participation in the the Church’s social concern. The
and for telling me about your Ple- of the Church’s life and of her mis- dren preparing for their First Com- Church, how is it being realized People’s Initiative, for example,
7
nary Assembly, which has been tak- sion for the world’s salvation”. munion accompanied by their fami- in your diocese? is a political issue but
ing place in the past few days. Each one of these Eucharistic lies and catechists. Oh yes, we have a at the same time we are
I cordially greet the Members of Congresses therefore represents a How great is humanity’s need to- very strong lay leader- involved in it simply be-
the Pontifical Committee for Interna- providential opportunity to solemnly day to rediscover the source of its ship program, which we cause the manner
tional Eucharistic Congresses and show to humanity: “The Eucharist, hope in the Sacrament of the Eucha- call Alagad program. which they have col-
the National Delegates who have a gift of God for the life of the world”, rist! I thank the Lord because many We train new recruits lected the signatures, to
taken part in this Meeting in order to as the basic text for the upcoming parishes, as well as celebrating Holy twice a year. They are some extent, is rather
prepare together for the upcoming Congress says. Mass devoutly, are educating the faith- empowered to do para- not in line with the
49th International Eucharistic Con- This Document was presented ful in Eucharistic Adoration, and I liturgical work or minis- Church’s teaching. The
gress. It is scheduled to take place
in Quebec in June 2008.
during your Meeting by Cardinal
Marc Ouellet, Archbishop of Que-
hope also in view of the upcoming In-
ternational Eucharistic Congress that
try in the absence of a
priest in different bar-
QUESTIONS Church’s teaching is
that the freedom of man
I next greet the representatives bec, to whom I address a special this practice will continue to spread. rios, sitios and local should be respected. In
of the Local Preparatory Committee greeting. Not only those who have Dear brothers and sisters, as chapels. Some of them go into the case of the People’s Initia-
of this great ecclesial event, as well the opportunity to take part in per- you well know, the next Post- developmental type of work like tive, they collected signatures
as the small but significant group of son but also the various Christian Synodal Exhortation will be dedi- giving lectures on sustainable ag- even if people were not given ad-
Adorers of the Eucharist. communities who are invited to join cated to the Eucharist. It will present riculture and some are even serv- equate information, or that
You come from various parts of it in spirit will be able to benefit from the suggestions that were made at ing as a kagawad in the barrio. people’s freedom were not re-
the world and the purpose of your the special graces that the Lord will the last Synod of Bishops, dedicated So, while being a lay leader in their spected in the sense that it was
Meeting is to prepare for this Inter- dispense at the International Eucha- precisely to the Eucharistic Mystery, parish, they also put their values accompanied with a hidden threat
national Eucharistic Congress: a cel- ristic Congress. and I am sure that this Document will in their work as kagawad. Re- like saying ‘if you will not sign,
ebration of special importance to the In those days, the Catholic also help the Church to prepare and ally, this is one area where we em- something will happen’, or also
whole of the Church. As Cardinal world will keep the eyes of its heart to celebrate with interior participa- power our laity. with some promises like ‘if you
Jozef Tomko has just recalled, it con- on the supreme mystery of the Eu- tion the Eucharistic Congress that sign, things will become better for
stitutes a unanimous response of the charist in order to draw from it a new will be taking place in June 2008. Do you think the laity would you’. In a sense, there is a moral
People of God to the Lord’s love, apostolic and missionary impetus. From this moment, I entrust it to rather be more effective in evan- dimension in such an issue, and
supremely manifested in the Mys- This is why it is important to prepare the Virgin Mary, the first and incom- gelizing in their secular field or we try to address the moral di-
tery of the Eucharist. oneself well and I thank you, dear parable adorer of Christ in the Eucha- arena? mension. If people must partici-
It is true! The Eucharistic Con- brothers and sisters, for the work rist. May Our Lady protect and ac- Definitely. They should be pate, they must have the freedom
gresses that take place from time to you are carrying out to help the company each one of you and your more involved in areas where they to sign or not to sign on the basis
time in different places and on dif- faithful on every continent to under- communities and make the work you are probably prepared more. For of adequate information, not just
ferent continents are always a source stand ever better the value and im- are doing fruitful, with a view to the example, in politics. It is really a sketchy information, and without
of spiritual renewal, an opportunity portance of the Eucharist in our lives. important ecclesial event in Quebec. place for lay people. But many of coercion or threats. That is
to become better acquainted with Furthermore, the presence For my part, I assure you of my our church’s lay leaders, who are against human dignity. So, in our
the Blessed Eucharist, which is the among you of several representa- remembrance in prayer and warmly not only professionally but also part, as much as we can, we edu-
most precious treasure Christ has tives of the Adorers of the Eucharist bless you all. morally qualified, do not want to cate our people in the diocese
run for political positions because about it even if this thing of col-
In andOut / from p6 they think it is dirty…there is lot lecting signatures has been done
of corruption. But I think this is too fast and too soon. In this
tributed to three stewards (Mt. 25/14- provides inspiration, guidance, mo- sure our public officials, and those the place where they should be case, hence, the Church’s social
30), the dishonest manager (Lk. 16/1- tivation and power for a life of total who would like to be in the position more involved in order to evan- concern mandate of morally en-
13), the rich man and Lazarus (Lk. 16/ commitment to God and service to of governance in our country. We gelize. You see, there are even gaging in politics should come to
19-31). St. Paul sums up his under- one’s neighbor. Stewardship fits in have not gotten rid of injustice, cheat- good people like members of faith play.
standing of stewardship: “What do very well with human relationship. A ing, dishonesty, graft and corruption communities who could easily run
you have that was not given to you? steward is not an isolated individual. in our culture of election and gover- for mayors, but they do not like How is your program on evange-
And if it was given, how can you He is a member of a household, a fam- nance. No act of Congress, no deci- to, maybe because they are afraid lization and catechesis?
boast as though it were not?” (I Cor. ily, a community, a political group, a sion of the Supreme Court can fully that if they run they will not win Well, we have an Institute of
4/7). A good steward is characterized business institution. He is a genuine make any one “a good steward.” True considering the kind of politics Catechesis that serves the whole
by his faithfulness and loyalty to the member of the community to the ex- and genuine stewardship can take we have. diocese. Volunteer catechists go
master and owner, by his business tent that he responds to his duty both place only when a person has a “sense there for their initial training and
acumen and personal discipline, by within and outside the community. of God” and thus makes his personal What about the Philippine continuing formation. This is the
his productivity and resourceful- Stewardship includes related values, covenant with him as his Master, and church’s social concern agenda? Institute that takes care of the
ness, and by his being accountable such as, cooperation, co-responsibil- has a “sense of altruism” and thus How is the status of your catechetical program of the dio-
to both the master and to the people ity, partnership, collaboration, interde- makes a personal commitment to his diocese’s social concern pro-
he has been put in charge over. pendence, solidarity and subsidiarity. neighbors as truly his brothers and gram and activities? 7 Questions / P13
In our life today, stewardship This is how we would like to mea- sisters.
Editorial
“Lord, make me a channel of your peace... where there is hatred,
let me bring your love... where there is injury, your pardon.”
Gambling Operation is
Exploitation
The exploitation of people is one of the worst
social evils especially so in countries that are
economically depressed and bleak. Talk about
the Philippines and how serious the evil of gambling
is in this country.
ISSN 1908-2940
Pursuing the Lost Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
Laik
Laikoo Lampstand Future Tidbits
THE Biofuels Act, a consolidation of House ponent of the Clean Air Act, Engineer Rafael
The People of God
• The sea level will rise by 30 feet and will
Bill 4629 and Senate Bill 2226 is scheduled Diaz, President of the Philippine Biodiesel submerge many of the 7032 islands of
for the Congressional Bicameral Commit- Association, Mr. Ernesto Ellis, Jr., COCAP the Philippines.
tee meeting this November. The new law
will be signed by the President in the fol-
lowing weeks. After the Implementing
Trustee, Mr. Fernando Corpus of the Sugar
Regulatory Commission and Mr. Mario
Marasigan, Director of the Department of
• The climate change has made the phe-
nomena of El Niño and La Niña appear in
predictable patterns resulting in more
and the Bishop
Rules and Regulations will be completed in Energy were the experts who propounded destructive typhoons on one hand and
3 month’s time the mandate to mix biofuels on the cause and effect of too much de- IT is amazing how simple events as the announcement of a
desertification of fertile lands, on the transfer of assignments could trigger a series of realizations.
in this ratio: 1% cocodiesel to diesel fuel pendence on fossil fuels and the benefits other hand.
and 5% ethanol to gasoline, will start. In of now using renewable energy resources. This happened to me some time last October 17, 2006, when
• The supply of fossil fuel and its products, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines called me up by
effect, there will be less fossil fuels burned The discussion included all sources of diesel and gasoline, will dwindle at a
to run our transport vehicles. feedstock for the production of biodiesel, phone relaying to me the decision of the Holy Father to
much faster rate. This is attributed to the transfer me to the Diocese of Tagbilaran. Drilled for so long in
What is the significance of this law? namely, coconut oil, palm oil, oil from seeds fuel demands of industries in the United
How does it affect the economy? The sugar of jethropa (tuba-tuba), hanga-hanga, rape the value of obedience, I acceded to the Holy Father’s order
States, Europe and the new industrializ- without comprehending at that moment the full impact of my
industry? The corn, coconut and cassava seed (canola), even from used cooking oil. ing countries notably India and China .
farmers? What are the potential problems Corn, cassava, sugar cane and sweet sor- ready consent. But not for long. It soon dawned on me.
Regrettably, no country has fulfilled their Left alone after the call, I started seeing the implications
facing these farmers? To answer all these ghum were identified as the main feedstock promised target to reduce greenhouse
questions, the Concerned Citizens Against for the manufacture of ethanol. of the transfer unfolding before my gaze its stark reality. I
emissions in accordance with the Kyoto began to realize the full import of what a diocese is. In law it
Pollution led by its founding chairperson, These were the facts highlighted by Protocol.
Ester Perez de Tagle held a symposium at the speakers which everybody should is objectively and therefore coldly described as a portion of
• The supply of fossil fuel is finite and not the people of God constituted as a particular Church or a
the Ateneo University, Institute of Social know since this will affect our way of life in renewable.
Order last November 4. Due to the porten- the next two decades: community of the Christ’s faithful entrusted to a Pastor in a
• The time will come when the main suppli- definite locality. As such parting would not be that heavy.
tous effect of the burning of fossil fuels to • The continued use of fossil fuel will accu- ers of oil in the Middle East—Iraq, Iran,
man’s future in this planet, many environ- mulate greenhouse emissions. Together But the Church of Christ in the Eastern part of Samar is not
Saudi Arabia will control world economic just a cold organizational system or a group of baptized
mentalists came to attend the symposium, with deforestation, these two activities security. This is termed by Thomas Fried-
namely, key representatives of the NGOs, of modern man directly increase global Christians welded together through the Gospel and the Holy
man of Herald Tribune as Petro- Eucharist; organized to respond effectively to the divine call
the Academe, the government sector, warming. As a consequence, the North Authoritarianism. Coupled with Islamic
priests and religious, and the business sec- Pole icecap melts, the glaciers in to holiness. The Diocese of Borongan is first and foremost
radicalism this becomes a greater threat the “waray-waray” people in Eastern Samar who through
tor. Greenland and Europe shrivels, and the to world peace—conceivably leading to
Congressman Nereus Acosta, the pro- permafrost in Siberia recedes. the sacrament of baptism and the celebration of the Holy
Laiko / P4
Eucharist were called together to a pilgrimage, to a spiritual
journey that has to be undertaken in the province where the
Melo M. Acuna rising sun is first seen.
Scorecards
This is a portion of the people of God, men of flesh and
Issues and Concerns blood, of deep emotions and sensitive feelings, persons who
are capable of forming their own spiritual vision and spin-
ning out social dreams backed up with their own assumed
ÃN có nhai, nói có ngh)´ is a Vietnam- leaving for abroad reached to a high of ing pad for its “liberation” forces. Rest mission and self-induced commitments, group of individu-
ese proverb which simply says “Think almost 3,000 a day. According to Philip- and recreation was either at Subic or als who are proud of their own language, customs, culture,
today and speak tomorrow.” pine Overseas Employment Administra- Angeles City in Pampanga. It was in way of life. For nineteen years I have journeyed with this
Government drumbeaters are at it tion figures, this is simply 8% more than April 1975 that the Americans opted to people; I have been happy with them, comfortable with their
again. The country’s economic growth that of previous year’s average. It ap- leave Saigon giving the North Vietnam- behavior and way of living, one with them in their dreams,
can no longer be ignored as international pears most of our workers wish to earn ese leaders and troopers what’s left of their frustrations and disappointments, in their prayers and
rating agencies have upgraded the more at the shortest possible time. South Vietnam. It was in 1986 when they hope for a better tomorrow in Christ. Now, with the impend-
country’s status from a sorry status Vietnam, which happens to be our launched their “Renewal” program and ing transfer I realize that I am leaving the people whom I
some months ago to what some people neighbor, ravaged by bitter fighting for started the ball rolling. A couple of months have learned to love and cherish.
described as highly acceptable. Inter- decades will open its doors to foreign lead- after President Corazon Aquino assumed The people of God concept is introduced by the Sec-
ests charged from foreign borrowings will ers as host to APEC leaders this 18th and power, we were buying rice from Vietnam. ond Vatican Council to describe the Church, for it conveys
now be reduced. 19th of November and the World Trade All is not lost. We’re a bit ahead of the foundational structure of the Church as a social struc-
It has also been said it will take some- Organization as its 150th member country. Thailand and Chinese Taipei, according ture. It points out the nature of the members that compose
time for ordinary people to benefit from a It is interesting to note Vietnam to APEC statistics. We’re lagging be- it, defining, that is, their radical equality. Baptism is the
much better economy as it takes time for (8.4%) is second to China (10.2%) in hind Singapore and Russia and Korea, source of this equality, endowing to all the same dignity, the
the “fruits” to trickle down to the greater terms of economic growth last year com- Malaysia and Indonesia. Who would same rights and duties, the same means of salvation and the
majority. I’ve heard this line since I joined pared with our very own 5.0% according ever think Vietnam would overtake our same faith, conscious at the same time of their responsibility
Veritas in 1994 when the administration to the real GDP growth in APEC member very own country, touted to be America’s for the common purpose of the entire Church on the spiritual
then boasted of the country was slowly economies. Its growth in agriculture has closest ally in Asia for the past 60 years? level. All are Christ’s faithful.
but surely achieving a “Tiger economic significantly changed the economic en- Maybe had the Americans left us on To gestate, nurture and look after the constant growth
status.” And all we heard was a purr and vironment in what was formerly part of our own, we could have prospered ear- and maturity of this people of God, Christ instituted the
nothing more. French Indochina, along with its being lier. Yes, the Americans are back in Viet- sacrament of ordination, by virtue of which those who are
Still, the government hopes to get host to modern industries. However, nam, not as Green Beret soldiers but ea- called and properly formed are configured to Christ the head
more foreign investors into the country. Intel got into the picture along with ger businessmen. Well, we’re still hosts of the Church, endowing in them the power to perform His
However, it is sad to know international Honda motorcycles which hopes to to American troopers in never-ending threefold functions for the sanctification and governance of
businessmen are seriously considering produce a million bikes next year military exercises geared to what has been the Church. Through this configuration of service, the prin-
Vietnam after China. Pro cha-cha groups simply for their domestic market. In the said as “inter-operationability.” ciple of equality among the members is not eroded. Rather,
would say we really have to amend the Philippines, we are now satisfied with the What’s wrong with us? Will some- the principle of variety is established. It is true that by virtue
constitution to make us more attractive hand-me-downs from Subic and other one please take time to clearly explain of the sacrament of order the ordained ministers are config-
to businessmen. Again, it’s the people freeports. where we are? Don’t you find the ured as essentially, and not just in degree, different from
that matters and not the system. The Philippines during the height to Vietnamese proverb a probable key to those who are not ordained. They have acquired the three-
Against this backdrop, Filipinos the Vietnam War was America’s launch- success? fold ministerial functions of Christ, participating in His
priestly, kingly and prophetic offices. Their configuration to
Christ is a configuration to act in the name, and sometimes in
Oscar V. Cruz, DD
Graft and Corruption the person, of Christ the head of the Church. But they re-
main of the same dignity with the rest of Christ’s faithful.
Vie ws and P
iews oints
Points Again and Again
At this juncture, it is helpful to emphasize the harmoni-
ous conjoining of these two principles. The principle of
equality needs the principle of variety for the people of God
will not grow to full maturity without the close pastoral care of
GRAFT and Corruption seem to have in the public sector. The serious and dedi- graft and corruption in the government? the Bishop and his priests. On the other hand, the principle of
become an expertise of the present Ad- cated cleansing work in the government Is the amount in fact used by the Admin- variety needs complete acceptance of the concept of radical
ministration. This observation becomes was said to have immediately began in istration as an excuse precisely to fund equality, for the reason that its existence is precisely to be of
more evident and eminent especially be- earnest with coordinated efforts of dif- its many and different graft and corrup- service to the priestly, kingly and prophetic people of God.
fore, during and even long after elections. ferent government agencies. tion practices? In the event that there is Hence, as the people of God can only grow and develop
In effect, there is no day nor occasion in But surprise, surprise! Or is it? The an iota of truth in the alleged malversa- properly when it is entrusted to its proper Pastor; so the
the country that is not accompanied by Transparency International just recently tion of the fund, this would be the height Pastor can only grow and properly develop when it is faith-
suspicions and talks of graft and corrup- came up with the finding that there is now of hypocrisy, the summit of deception. fully extending its priestly ministry to the particular people
tion especially so when the government in fact even more graft and corruption in The people are poor. Many of them of God entrusted to his care. It is within this concept that
has a hand therein. Rightly or wrongly, Philippine Government. In effect, in its are starving. Some of them die for lack of Canon 369 defined the diocese as: “a portion of the people
there already seems to be a popular ten- latest report, the country as a whole sunk medicine. Millions leave the country to of God, which is entrusted to a Bishop to be nurtured by
dency of identifying the present Admin- lower in ranking as far as honesty and find a living. Women are violated and him, with the cooperation of the presbyterium, in such a way
istration with graft and corruption. integrity in government transactions are children are exploited. There are those that, remaining close to its pastor and gathered by him
The truth is that even the national concerned. Translation: graft and corrup- who even sell their kidneys. through the Gospel and the Eucharist in the Holy Spirit, it
leadership itself repeatedly and publicly tion accompany government dealings all Where have all the money gone? constitutes a particular Church. In this Church, the one,
acknowledges the big curse of graft and over the land even more during these Who pocket much of the direct and indi- holy, catholic and apostolic Church of Christ truly exists and
corruption in government. For this rea- times! rect taxes paid by the rich and poor alike? functions.”
son, at its own initiative even, the present Question: Where are the 2 billion Why is graft and corruption still much When the Diocese of Borongan, Eastern Samar, was
Administration came up with the brilliant anti-graft and corruption funds? How is alive and thriving well in this country? entrusted to me as its Bishop some nineteen years ago, I
idea of setting aside the amount of no such a big funding allocation being spent Where is honest and upright governance? was conscious of my task in inserting myself to the life,
less than two billion pesos to lessen if under the baton of the national leader- When shall this sunny nation eventually
not totally eradicate graft and corruption Tidbits / P12
ship itself? Why is there now even more see the sun of hope and promise rise?
the youth that was evident as the “Best of the Islands: Flaunt…
young people spontaneously ap- Color… Evangelize…”, each eccle-
plauded his words of challenge and siastical region prepared a presenta-
encouragement, gave him standing tion that celebrated the cultural di-
ovations and came to him to kiss his versity of the country’s islands.
ring, shake his hand and have their The evening of November 10
pictures taken with him. In his hom- (Day 3) started solemnly as the del-
ily at the Mass in Csite3, as he ex- egates returned to their respective
pounded on the theme, he encour- hosting parish churches for the Holy
aged the youth to be strong in their Hour. The evening ended with the
faith and be constant in their hopes Parish Night, each parish celebrat-
that must be deeply anchored in their ing and honoring the delegates and
faith in Jesus Christ. He challenged their foster families in its unique way.
the delegates to bring the NYD spirit Paying homage to the Sto. Nino, the
to their respective places of origin, Eternal Youth …
to become living witnesses of the NYD 2006 was launched on
Gospel. January 15, 2006, the feastday of the
The afternoon of Day 2 saw the Sto. Niño and as Providence willed
delegates breaking into four or five it, NYD culminated at His Shrine on
smaller groups per Csite to participate November 11 (Day 4). So off the del-
in tracks and conferences on various egates went for the 2.5 – 3 kilometer
topics: Ecumenism and Interreligious Pilgrim Walk to the Shrine, each with
Dialogue, Youth in the Culture of Ab- a partner for an Emmaus experience.
JaM na!
sence, Music Ministry, Call to Holi- They have come from the plain, walk-
NYD 2006
ness, Pro-Life, Servant Leadership, ing via busy thoroughfares, amidst
Christian Sexuality, Youth Ministry, malls and varied sights and sounds.
Corruption, Child in the Media, Youth As they began the trek uphill to the
sa Davao . . .
in the Basic Ecclesial Community, Shrine, the pace slowed down,
Justice and Peace and Integrity of breathlessness discouraged con-
Creation, Creative Gospel Sharing versing with companions, a canopy
and Dance Ministry. of trees provided a refreshing cool-
Speakers for the catecheses, ness . . . a palpable invitation to lis-
By Maria Riza A. Melliza tracks and conferences consisted of ten to that inner Voice.
four bishops from Mindanao, seven The Shrine was a refreshing
THE culmination of the Pilgrim Walk reflect on the theme, “Your word is a Campus as their Catechetical Site priests, two religious sisters, five sight to weary pilgrims with its roll-
on November 11, 2006 (Day 4) at the lamp to my feet and a light to my (Csite1 with color code, red); parishes laymen and a team from the dance ing terrain of green grass, mango
Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of path.” (Psalm 119:105). in the poblacion had the Holy Cross ministry. trees, quaint chapels and the view
Prague (or simply Shrine for the lo- On November 8 (Day 1), the del- of Davao College—Sta. Ana Campus Some youth leaders were pro- of majestic Mt. Apo at a distance.
cals) was reminiscent of part of the egates from all over the country were as their Catechetical Site (Csite2 with vided exposure to initiatives on in- The delegates ended their Pil-
verse in Rev. 7:9 which states, “Af- warmly welcomed in the 19 hosting color code, yellow); and parishes to terreligious dialogue and some con- grim Walk with a prayer with their
ter this I saw before me a huge crowd parishes by their foster families. Later the south had the Ateneo de Davao tributed work in the Gawad Kalinga co-journeyer in an Emmaus experi-
which no one could count from ev- in the afternoon, the Opening Liturgy UniversitY—Matina Campus as their Project. ence. As the last set of delegates en-
ery nation and race, people and was celebrated in 19 parish churches Catechetical Site (Csite3 with color The afternoon of Day 3 gath- tered the Shrine, confetti was show-
tongue…” as the delegates from each with 19 Mindanao Bishops presid- code, blue). ered the delegates in their respec- ered on the delegates as a gesture of
of the three (3) Catechetical Sites ing. Bishops Ongtioco, Dela Cruz Catecheses were held in the tive Csites to watch, reflect and share welcome to the Shrine from the City
started streaming in after going and Baylon, Chairperson of the Epis- mornings of Days 2 - 4 using the on the following: Government of Davao.
through busy thoroughfares and ne- copal Commission on Youth (ECY), Lectio Divina as an approach on the • Servant Leadership. A Ford Acad- It was with this disposition that
gotiating the steep slopes of Shrine were also present. The Opening Lit- following topics: Day 2 – God, the emy of the Arts play, “Goyong”, the Closing Liturgy was celebrated.
Hill. Indeed, it was breathtaking to urgy was followed by the Opening Father: the Source of True Light; Day on the life of the young hero Archbishop Capalla was the presider
see all 6,000+ delegates in their red, Program which was organized by 3 – Jesus, the Son of God: the Eter- Gregorio del Pilar. with nine (9) other bishops and more
yellow and blue backpacks proudly each parish. It was this gesture of nal Light; Day 4 – God, the Holy • Tri-people of Mindanao Issues. A than a hundred priests
displaying their delegation banners welcome that Davao’s Archbishop Spirit: the Source of Truth. Performance of the Kaliwat The- concelebrating. The heart of
indicating representations from all Fernando R. Capalla envisioned as Inputs from the invited speak- ater Collective, a play within a play Archbishop’s homily was the invi-
over the Philippines. Including the Mindanao hosted NYD for the first ers were followed by individual re- titled Mindasilang depicting the tation for the young people to de-
2,000+ volunteers, the Shrine that time. The delegates’ attention was flection and group sharing. Each tri-people issues of Mindanao. sire for holiness of life which could
day was “lighted” by 10,000 watts of drawn to the warmth generated by group of 10 delegates had a faith • Understanding the Differently- only be achieved if Jesus would be
youthful energy. The Shrine was small Christian communities, charac- sharing facilitator who assisted them abled. A Down Syndrome Foun- Numero Uno in their life.
spectacular with the presence of the teristic and ubiquitous of the Church in their needs. dation, Inc. performance by per- NYD was not only for the del-
youth and complemented with ban- in Mindanao. Day 2 was graced with the pres- sons with Down Syndrome. egates to have a good time but also
ners all around the venue featuring November 9 (Day 2) brought the ence of the Papal Nuncio, Arch- The evenings of the NYD were a time to do good and become good.
saints who are models for the youth. delegates to their respective bishop Fernando Filoni who visited also a mix of experiences for the del- He shared the story of the Holy
The week that was . . . Catechetical Sites. Hosting parishes all three Catechetical Sites and talked egates. The Youth Festival was cel- Father’s visit to the United States of
They all came to the National to the north had the University of to the delegates. He exuded so much ebrated in each of the three Csites in America where the Pope met Rafael
Youth Day (NYD) 2006 in Davao to the Immaculate Conception—Bajada positive disposition and regard for the evening of Day 2 with the theme, NYD 2006 / P14
ent Renewal Programs for the differ- sic experience of the ASSIST minis-
ent Age Bracket of priests: The Resi- try geared for the Formators. In al-
dency Program for the Young Clergy most all the programs that the Com-
(1-5 yrs in the ministry); Value-Clari- mission on Clergy have given, it is
fication for the Junior Clergy (6-10 the importance of Human Formation
yrs in the ministry) and for the Se- that has surfaced and been identi-
nior Clergy “A Second Look at the fied as a need that must be addressed
Priesthood.” in the seminary formation. This par-
ticular need to be formed in the dy-
First National Congress of the namics of human formation was ex-
Clergy pressed by the 250 seminary Fathers
The biggest event/grace that who gathered in the Institute for
the Commission has witnessed and Seminary Fathers last 2005. Linking
given to the Philippine Church was up with the Commission on Seminar-
the historical FIRST NATIONAL ies is, therefore, a meaningful under-
CONGRESS OF THE CLERGY in July taking that can facilitate more under-
2004. Under the leadership and in- standing of the realities of the priests
spiration of Cardinal Gaudencio that can be properly addressed dur-
Rosales, and Ambassador Tita de ing seminary formation.
Villa who helped extensively in the The last concern of the Com-
preparation leading to the events, mission is to conduct another train-
CATECHISM ON THE
their elected political representa- Is this why the Bishops say that our
tives should take a stand” (PCP-II, political culture is negative?
pp. 279-80). Yes, the bishops, said that the
political “system is shot through and
What is meant by a “politics of pay- through with opportunities for cor-
ruption, influence-peddling, and the
Religious / from p3
7 Questions / from p5
(Vice-Chair), Br. Briccio Baynosa, Christ our brother. The assembly the Visayas assembly to lend his Visayas where the Brothers are
FMS (Secretary), and Br. Rodolfo concluded its proceedings with the support. The La Salle Brothers present, the Visayas Brothers cese. The professional catechists,
Sazon, OCD (Treasurer). Eucharistic celebration presided by sponsored the use of Balay deemed it best to divide themselves who have obtained their BSE de-
The Brothers of Luzon and of Bishop Lucilo Quiambao, DD, who Kalinungan. into three sub-regions, namely, gree major in religious education,
the Visayas simultaneously held affirmed the vocation of being a Two bishops graced the Negros, Panay and Cebu. The become religion teachers or cat-
their assemblies on Oct. 27-29, Brother in the Philippine Church. On Visayas assembly. CBCP President Brothers also shared about their echists in the elementary schools.
2006, in the cities of Legaspi and the third day, the Brothers enjoyed and Jaro Archbishop Angel congregations’ practices and chal- We must admit however that
Bacolod, respectively. the sights and sounds of Lagdameo, DD, delivered the key- lenges in vocation promotion and we’re yet lacking in the number
Bicolandia. note speech where he gave a brief formation. of catechists—who at present are
Luzon The LARB officers for 2005- history of the religious lay broth- mostly elderly ladies—compared
2008 are Br. Raymond D. Callo, SDB erhood. He quoted from PCP II, National Federation to the number of elementary
The Luzon Brothers gathered (Chairman), Br. Gabriel Pestano, SJ Perfectae Caritatis and Vita schools in our parishes.
at the Bethlehem Pastoral and Hu- (Vice-Chairman), Br. Ricky Laguda, Consecrata. Archbishop The National Federation of
man Resource Development Cen- FSC (Treasurer), and Br. Stephen Lagdameo ended with a challenge: Religious Brothers in the Philip- What about your media evangeli-
ter of the Diocese of Legaspi. Tan, OSA (Secretary). LARB is “In the light of Vatican II…are you pines (NFRBP) will celebrate its zation program? And what is your
Eighty-one Brothers from 21 Con- noted for its common apostolate, now better able to assess your pro- Silver Jubilee in 2010. It will be held perception about the secular me-
gregations attended the said As- the Kuya Center, which has been phetic impact or prophetic re- at its place of origin, the Holy Fam- dia?
sembly. Their theme was “The Pas- serving street children for 16 years. sponse? Our people are challeng- ily Retreat House in Cebu City. The We have our radio station in
sion to Be Brothers Today.” ing you to be prophetic witnesses newly re-organized Visayas Broth- the diocese. It has a very good
The Assembly started its pro- Visayas by your ‘being religious’, by who ers will be the host of this national signal. It’s the only link the
ceedings on the first day with the you are and not simply by what gathering. Before 2010, however, Church has with the peoples or
revision of the By-Laws to make The assembly of the Visayas you do or say.” The other bishop the Religious Brothers will still communities in the mountains.
LARB more responsive to contem- Association of Religous Brothers was Most Rev. Patrick A. Buzon, have a national convention to be Our broadcast programming is re-
porary times. On the second day, (VARB) was a special one because SDB, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese held in Davao City in 2008. ally good, it’s fully laden with val-
the Brothers tackled the theme it was dubbed as a “resuscitation” of Kabankalan. He celebrated the The other officers of the ues and formative programs. Re-
through big and small group shar- of the organization which in recent concluding Eucharist. The Broth- NFRBP are Br. Raymond Callo, SDB garding the secular media…well,
ing and activities. The Brothers ar- years has been fledgling. Under the ers watched a video clip where (Vice Chairman), Br. Erwin Sayson, we don’t have any competition at
ticulated their own dreams as leadership of Br. Romualdo Abulad, Imus Bishop Luis Antonio Tagle SC (Secretary), and Br. Ricky all with them. We have very good
Brothers starting with their own SVD (Chairman), Br. Carlo Bacalla, spoke of the essential place of reli- Laguda, FSC (Treasurer). They relationship. But I think some-
vocation stories. These dreams SDB (Vice Chairman), Br. Roland gious experience in the beginning, were elected during the national times they are not accurate in re-
were shared and listened to in the Pontevedra, SVD (Secretary), and the sustenance and the fruition of convention in 2005 at the Capuchin porting the news, particularly
context of their being Brothers to- Br. Jose Bart Cancio, OSJ (Trea- any vocation. This made Bishop Retreat House, Lipa City, Batangas. those that concern the Church.
day. The sharing created an oppor- surer), twenty-seven Brothers from Tagle the “third” bishop to grace That convention was participated Not perhaps because they have
tunity to celebrate with one an- 13 Congregations gathered at Balay the Visayas assembly. in by 161 Brothers representing 35 any bias against the Church but
other the person who is the driv- Kalinungan, University of St. La Reorganization was the main congregations. (with reports from maybe simply because of lack of
ing force for Brothers to be in a fra- Salle, Bacolod City. National Chair- agenda of the Visayas assembly. Br. Raymond Callo, SDB and Br. conscientiousness or profession-
ternal relationship with humanity: man Br. Amado Ancla, CFA, joined And due to the many islands in the Romualdo Abulad, SVD) alism in their work.
Message from His Eminence, Cardinal Oscar Andres Rodríguez (life of worship, and
diakonia ( life of service).
Among these, leiturgia,
volunteers.
7. From the sharing of our
sisters and brothers from
Maradiaga to the Participants in the Roundtables on the Social being the summit and
source of the life and ac-
Churches that have suf-
fered persecution we have
tivities of the Church (cf.
Responsibility of Canadian Mining Companies Overseas SC 10), rightly holds pre-
eminence.
come to the realization that
the celebration of the lit-
urgy especially the Eucha-
and forests? In short, should society organizations to de- vantage of the weak legisla- 2. The liturgy is a powerful rist is able to sustain and
political and commercial ends mand stricter regulation, more tion in our countries, behave moment of encounter strengthen the faith and
be at the centre of and the driv- rigorous monitoring, more re- in an unethical and irrespon- with Jesus in which his offer spiritual comfort to
ing force of human relations? sponsible and transparent sible manner that fuels corrup- story comes alive through the faithful.
The above dilemma is not practices, are a sign that we can tion, environmental degrada- the readings of Scripture,
an economic one, nor an envi- no longer continue to adhere tion, pollution of our natural With deep gratitude we
preaching, and the cel- acknowledge the work of mis-
ronmental one, it is eminently solely to the logic of the busi- resources, and social divi- ebrations of the Sacra-
ethical, as it brings us face to ness market that operates on sions in our communities. sionaries in this part of Asia
ments and liturgical who, inspired by the Holy
Cardinal Oscar Andres Rodriguez Maradiaga face with the need to review the principle of “the less in- We cannot continue with feasts. Hence, the lan- Spirit, heeded the call of Christ
not only the rules and prac- vested, the greater the profits.” ambivalent policies where guage and symbols of the
IT is with hopeful anticipation tices of trade in the natural re- We must move towards what we build with one hand, to “Go and preach the Good
liturgy should be acces- News to all nations.” Under
that we learned of the initia- sources sector, but also to re- a vision of Corporate Social we destroy immediately with sible to the assembly that
tive of the Canadian Govern- view the level of stewardship Responsibility, which cannot the other. It is time to review the guidance of the same Spirit
celebrates it. we commit ourselves to con-
ment and various national so- and responsibility with which be reduced to corporate market and trade rules and to
cial sectors to reflect on the we care for natural resources voluntarism alone but must be complement them with values 3. Since the mission of the tinue the work they have be-
social responsibility of Cana- when considering this ques- complemented by a social re- of solidarity, justice, sub- Church is to welcome all gun in the name of Jesus.
dian mining companies oper- tion through a lens of social sponsibility regulated by the sidiarity, and shared respon- to Christ’s embrace, the That in all things God
ating overseas. We trust that and international solidarity. state and international orga- sibility in our actions and in liturgy—which is prima- may be glorified.
this initiative will translate into We must also evaluate nizations. the future of humanity.
measures and policies that will whether the commodities pro- Such a redefinition is ur- It is also necessary to
lead to a greater regulation of duced through the exploitation gent, as the depletion of natu- adopt regulatory mechanisms
the latter in order to guaran- of natural resources, in particu- ral resources has been sub- that guarantee that these in- Tidbits / from p7
tee our people full enjoyment lar those of a limited and non- stantially accelerated partly dustries are made responsible ways of living, behavior, lan- Bishop; nor is it just the
of their rights to a healthy en- renewable nature, justify the because of the growing de- for their actions and behavior guage and custom of the journey of the Bishop apart
vironment, environmental economic, environmental and mand for precious minerals. not only in the countries Estehanon. It is only by be- from the people of God. It
sustainability in the compa- social costs that are generally The investigation and where they operate, but also ing opened to them, vulner- has to be the joint journey
nies’ operations and a signifi- borne by the communities and development of new tech- in their countries of origin and able and totally transparent of the Estehanon and myself
cant contribution to develop- nations who produce these nologies for the exploitation in the corresponding interna- to them can I fully fulfill the their Bishop. With this
ment for our peoples. commodities, and who, para- of mineral resources which are tional bodies. commitment of shepherding critical realization I was
In this context, the accel- doxically, nearly always live in also compatible with conser- Today, the message of the them. At the start of my mis- gradually inserted into the
erated environmental degra- conditions of greater poverty vation and preservation of the Latin American Bishops at the sion with them I have tried rhythm of the life of the
dation and depletion of non and vulnerability than those balance of eco systems is in- Fourth Episcopal Meeting in to nurture them with the Estehanon. I have been
renewable natural resources, communities and nations for creasingly urgent. Santo Domingo, has a particu- Word of life and the Holy journeying jointly with them.
compelling nations to debate whom they are produced. No less vital is the pro- lar relevance: ¨There can be no Eucharist, the sacraments And then, without my
the existing tension between In recent years, this di- motion and adoption of ethi- market economy that is inno- and the prayers of the suspecting it, the request of
environment and the expan- lemma has been more in evi- cal norms in trade and aid re- vative and at the same time Church as demanded of me the Holy Father came loud
sion of trade, need to be ad- dence in the context of the ex- lations between countries of socially just, without a solid by my office. But, I soon and clear: go to the Diocese
dressed. Behind the efforts of ploitation of precious mineral the North and South. commitment from the whole of found out and discovered of Tagbilaran. That defi-
the WTO and other initiatives resources, such as gold and Trade treaties must be society and all its players to that the words of God and nitely cuts my pastorship
are a number of questions: silver, through modern tech- accompanied by ethical solidarity through a judicial the sacraments can only be with the Diocese of
Can natural resources be con- niques that lower extraction agreements and codes in or- framework that guarantees effectively passed to the Borongan, my pilgrimage
sidered tradable goods? costs, while causing signifi- der to resolve the current con- the value of the human per- people when their realities to with the Estehanon. Soon, I
Should natural resources be cant environmental impacts tradictions that occur when son, honor, respect for life, save have first to pass have to be inserted into the
traded in the same way as any and risks that are not always on the one hand, world or re- just distribution of the earth’s through the weak flesh of life and faith of the people of
other commodity? Do all natu- possible to mitigate or neutral- gional summits adopt policies resources, and a real concern the Pastor; that people can God in the Diocese of
ral resources have a hierarchi- ize throughout the exploita- of environmental protection for the poorest.¨ (Santo only be nourished by the Tagbilaran. It would be
cal value in function of their tion period by the companies and conservation, that are Domingo, Conclusions 195.) Word and the sacraments, if another journey of faith,
uses and their contribution to engaged in these activities. later made operational by aid the Bishop himself is effec- 10sanother promise to keep,
the fulfillment of human The increasingly fre- programs, while at the same Respectfully, tively nourished by them. further miles to go. Hence-
needs? Can we consider ethi- quent conflicts in different time, high tech industries that OSCAR ANDRES, Conversion, journey to- forth my faith life depends
cal the extraction and exploi- parts of the world between generate or increase levels of CARDINAL RODRIGUEZ, wards holiness of life is not on my being inserted into the
tation of mineral resources, at mining companies and af- social and environmental vul- MARADIAGA, S.D.B just the journey of the people of God in the Diocese
the expense of other re- fected communities, as well as nerability are promoted. These Archbishop of Tegucigalpa, people of God apart from the of Tagbilaran.
sources, such as fresh water the growing efforts of civil same industries, taking ad- Honduras, Central America
Death Zone”
Greetings of hope and love in the Lord! Saints praise God forever. Since the origin of
On October 16, 2005 the Catholic Church All Saints’ Day in the East in the fourth cen-
in Capiz issued the second Pastoral Letter tury and in the West in the eight century, this
expressing strong opposition to the holding Solemnity has nothing to do with witches and
(A Pastoral Statement to urge concerned au- the relocation site in Southville, Cabuyao may of the so-called “ASWANG FESTIVAL” witchcraft. The Responsorial Psalm of All
thorities to respond to the HUMAN NEEDS of become a “DEATH ZONE”, if not properly and slated on October 28-30, 2005. It was the sec- Saints’ Day: “Lord, this is the people that
The Southville Housing Project Relocatees at adequately attended to. As of today, there are ond year the said festival was celebrated for longs to see your face,” speaks about our
Cabuyao and the People of god of the Diocese over 7,500 marginalized families relocated, suf- reasons ranging from tourism through chang- desire to meet, neither somebody nor some-
of San Pablo to be aware of such situations) fering from the following dismal conditions: ing “the negative notion of Capiz being an thing evil, but rather God who is all Good.
1. In close proximity to their residential aswang haven and turn it into an advantage” God’s goodness is reflected in Jesus
THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Phil- houses is a six-hectare mixed waste dump into eclipsing “the aswang impression with Christ who became incarnate to ennoble each
ippines declared this year as the “YEAR OF separated by mere barbed wire fencing. the world class-quality of Capiz’ seafood one of us. Jesus Christ identified himself with
SOCIAL CONCERNS.” “Relocatees have to bear the nauseating products and warm captivating hospitality of every person, including the very least, to give
DEUS CARITAS EST, the first Encyclical foul smell coming from the eight year old the Capiceños.” These remarkable ends of us life and not to show death. Jesus says: “I
letter of Pope Benedict XVI serves as a litmus dump. They complain of breathing prob- the Aswang Festival could not fully justify came that they may have life and have it to
test for our church in the field of her Social lems and respiratory ailments, which might the shaming of the Capiceño identity and dig- the full” (Jn. 10:10). And so to every race, to
Apostolate. Indeed, the church must not close be traced to the airborne pollution emanat- nity in the face of national imagery. every citizen, to every faithful, to every
her eyes to the social realities of our time—we ing from the dump. They also fear that harm- On the one hand, much as the organiz- Capiceño for that matter, God has given an
must see God in our neighbor and how can we ful bacteria and chemicals from the leachate ers of the festival would wish to erase the eternal dignity with definite rights and duties.
see Him? Pope Benedict XVI states “No one and surface run-off are being dispersed aswang image impressed on the Capiceños, The COMPENDIUM OF THE SOCIAL DOC-
has ever seen God and love cannot be com- throughout the neighborhood, via flood- the festival itself, on the other hand, has be- TRINE OF THE CHURCH states that “the field
manded, if anyone says I love God and hates waters, due to poor drainage.” come an occasion of constant ridicules and of human rights has expanded to include the
his brother, he is a liar, for he who does not The Social Action office which I com- jokes on the dignified personality of rights of peoples and nations: in fact, what is
love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love missioned to look after the condition of Capiceños. Through the years, Capiz has pro- true for the individual is also true for the
God whom he has not seen. The unbreakable relocatees based on the interview of people duced distinguished luminaries in different peoples” (n.157).
bond between love of God and love of neighbor from Makati at Block 17, alleged that six fields of works and endeavors. They were As the Philippine Church celebrates this
is so closely connected to the other that to say children had already died because of this hardworking Capiceños who carved names YEAR OF SOCIAL CONCERNS, the Church
that we love God becomes a lie, if we are closed condition. Living near dumps and landfills for themselves and made Capiz proud of her cannot neglect to voice out about the rights
to our neighbor or hate him altogether. Love of is kin to trashing their hope for a humane sons and daughters. It deeply hurts to know of people and their relation to the common
neighbor is a path that leads to the encounter and secured future. “Studies in Canada and that some Capiceños nowadays deny their good. While some members of the political
with God and that closing our eyes to our neigh- USA have shown an increase incidence of province of origin and birth because of a nega- community in Capiz uphold the rights of the
bor also blinds us to God.” (DCE # 16) cancer, including lung, bladder, liver, stom- tive perception boosted by a festival. They sim- organizers of the Aswang Festival, the same
It is in this spirit that I, as pastor of our ach, breast, cervix, and prostate cancers ply want to avoid becoming a laughing stock members of the political community should
diocese, will never be renege on our pastoral for those who are living in the aforesaid in cities and provinces, here and abroad. also respect the rights of other Capiceños who
duties about inhumane conditions of the conditions. Women living near disposal It has been observed that the Aswang are against the Aswang Festival, as justice
Southville Housing Project Relocatees in sites showed increase risk of infants with Festival presents the evil characters in cun- demands. And this is a delicate task for public
Cabuyao. They are our brothers and sisters birth defects such as eye/ear anomalies, ning ways. By giving new looks through fan- authority. The CATHECHISM OF THE
affected by the rehabilitation of the North rail chromosome abnormalities, heart and neu- tastic and colorful costumes to evil charac- CATHOLIC CHURCH states that “to ensure
and South rail Linkage Project. They are the tral tube defects.” ters like the “tikbalang,” “amamanhig,” the common good, the government of each
urban poor settlers living along the railways 2. The P50,000.00 allocated to each family can “sigbin,” “tik-tik” or “kapre,” they appear country has the specific duty to harmonize
of Tondo, Paco, Makati, Muntinlupa and only buy materials for the roof and wall of cool and innocent. Yet, these mythical fig- the different sectoral interests with the require-
Cabuyao. They came from the “DANGER the house. ures can become dangerous once they enter ments of justice” (n. 1908). The Philippine Bish-
ZONE” for we fully know what is a life living in 3. Many from the Cabuyao railway area were into the psyche of the Capiceños and interi- ops, in their Pastoral Exhortation: BUILDING
a “HOME ALONG DA RILES” but their life in not relocated at Southville. orly form part of the culture of Capiz. They A CIVILIZATION OF LOVE exhort us to fos-
From Danger / P15 can sink deep into the social consciousness ter “a sense of patriotism and of being respon-
of many Capiceños as well as non-Capiceños sible for our country.” Applying this principle
PRESS STATEMENT with devastating and lasting effects. Since to our province, should we not be respon-
culture crisscrosses practically every aspect sible for Capiz? While the clergy should take
DOPIM Bishops and Clergy Position of life in society and is verbalized and ritual-
ized through religion, further negative effects
the responsibility morally, the laity should lead
socially and politically in the social transfor-
Against the Libel Suit to DOPIM Committee on Mining Issues (DCMI) of the aswang image can enter into the rebel-
lious psyche of many Capiceños. Culture and
mation of our province. We acknowledge and
thank the members of the Catholic Church and
religion are closely connected. Evil images other people of goodwill who express oppo-
WE the Clergies of the Archdiocese of Ozamiz, accused to have spread lies to the public.
are perceived through cultural beliefs as vari- sition to the Aswang festival through other
Dioceses of Dipolog, Pagadian, Iligan and the Now, Bishop Jose R. Manguiran of the
ous faces of the devil who needs to be ex- creative and counteractive activities. Surely,
Prelature of Marawi located in the North-West Diocese of Dipolog (also DCMI Bishop-in-
pelled through prayers and blessings. their initiatives and works have values.
and Central part of Mindanao holding its 31st charge) together with Fr. Albert K. Bael and
Nowadays, evil characters have become However, the clergy and the laity together
gathering at Naomis Botanical Garden, Ozamiz some of the workers of the DIOPIM Committee
fashionable and invade the world of com- with the religious sisters can join together in
City from November 13-16, 2006 are worried on Mining Issues are currently facing a libel suit
merce. Their outfits can be very expensive. prayer for the common good of our province.
about the plight of the indigenous for exposing the alleged anomalies and
During the Aswang Festival, the participants We exhort then the Catholic faithful through
communities whose ancestral domain is irregularities committed by the TVI Resource
as well as by standers are sometimes merely the BECS, the different religious organizations
encroached by big-scale mining operations. Development Philippines against mining to
fascinated and amused by the spectacles of and movements, the various religious com-
As soon as their domain is being devastated affected communities of Canatuan, Tabayo,
evil characters unmindful of the negative im- munities in catholic Schools and convents,
by open-pit mining method the indigenous Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte. The libel suit
plications. Many are convinced these sights the youth communities, the different liturgi-
people are being deprived of their cultural rights. against the nine respondents were initiated by the
are just for fun. But are these not cover ups cal ministries and the seminarians to organize
Our country has suffered two envi- camp of the Canadian mining firm who have been
of evils with appealing wrappers? Will these PRAYER VIGILS in all parishes and chaplain-
ronmental disasters due to large-scale mining: accused by the Subanon people for currently
not contribute to the mentality that witch- cies in the Archdiocese in side the parish
the one of Marcopper Mining in Marinduque, operating their sacred ground against their wishes.
craft is no longer scary and dangerous? Do church or community chapel, and exposition
and that of Rapu-Rapu Mining at Albay. Until This situation is not far from the experiences
they not present the message that after all, the Blessed Sacrament for few hours on Oc-
now, no foreign mining firm operating in the of our fellow countrymen all over the country
witchcraft is harmless, not anti-God and not tober 27 and 28, 2006 the same day when the
Philippines employing open-pit method can who are subjected to different harassments just
anti-Christian? The manner of presentation Aswang Festival will be held in Roxas City.
guarantee protection to our environment and to silence them while advancing their aggressive,
greatly helps the increasing appeal and fla- We likewise exhort the Catholic faithful who
to the cultural rights of the tribal-Filipinos. destructive, and exploitative mining operation
vor of witchcraft to many people today. could not come to the parochial church for
Recently, the TVI Resource Development of transnational companies. We condemn the
Going back to the Bible, witchcraft is in- the PRAYER VIGILS to pray the holy rosary
Philippines, a Canadian Mining Firm based in curtailment of freedom to express what we
volved in the power of darkness. The olds (the joyful, sorrowful, glorious, luminous mys-
Calgary, employed a heartless, shameless believe to be the truth.
Testament warns: “Let there not be among you teries) in their respective barrio chapels on
demolition of the house of Mr./Mrs Floro/ We stand by and support the efforts of the
anyone who immolates his son or daughter in the same day mentioned above. We do be-
Manolita Galves in Mount Canatuan, Tabayo, DIOPIM Committee on Mining Issues headed
the fire, nor a fortune-teller, soothsayer, lieve in the power of prayer. Through prayer,
Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte. Employing by Bishop Jose R. Manguiran in denouncing
charmer, diviner or caster of spells, nor one who we express once again our strong opposition
armed men called SCAA (Special Citizen Armed the excesses of these mining companies and
consults abomination to the Lord” (Dt.18:10-11). to the Aswang Festival in a peaceful but sin-
Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary); the TVI fighting for the rights of the oppressed.
St. Paul writes: “It is obvious what proceeds from cere manner for transformation of hearts. The
ordered the demolition of the Galves house at We call on the administration of President
the flesh…idolatry, sorcery, hostilities…selfish COMPENDIUM OF THE SOCIAL DOCTRINE
about 11:30 midnight. The Galveses said the Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to listen to the cries
rivalries, dissensions, factions, I warn you, OF THE CHURCH says: “Prayer opens the
TVI had no court order for the demolition of of our marginalized and oppressed
those who do such things will not inherit the heart not only to a deep relationship with God
their residence. countrymen; to give them redress to their
Kingdom of God” (Gal. 519-21). but also to an encounter with others marked
The lot, on which the Galves house stood, grievances; and to stop curtailments of the
While witchcraft entices people to some- by respect, understanding, esteem and love.
is a portion of the ancestral domain title rights of the people to speak for the truth.
thing horrible and to the kingdom of dark- Prayer instills courage and lends support to
(CADT) of the Subanon tribe. The holder of In solidarity with the Subanon people and
ness, this is a far notion from the celebration all true friends of peace” (n.519).
the CADT is the ancestral leader by the name of their support groups who were harassed by
of the All Saint’s Day (November 1) and All May the Blessed Virgin Mary whom we
Timuay Jose “Boy” Anoy who allowed the the libel suit filed by TVI Canadian Mining
Souls’ Day (November 2) which, down honor during this month of the Holy Rosary
Galves family to put their house on the said lot. firm we affixed our signatures below.
through the centuries, celebrate the hope of intercede for us in our concern for justice and
Many of our people would choose to turn
In the name of the Lord Jesus, resurrection and the joy of the faithful who dignity! St. Therese of Avila, a woman of re-
to us instead, to seek redress for their
centered their lives on the beatitudes. All the form, pray for us!
grievances as a result of the destructive effects +BISHOP MANNY CABAJAR of the Diocese faithful departed are on the way to the king-
of the mining activities of transnational mining of Pagadian and 108 priests from the dom of light—the Holy City—where the im- RT. REV. MSGR. VICENTE F. HILATA, P.A.
companies operating in their localities. In coming Archdiocese of Ozamiz, Dioceses of Dipolog, mense multitude of Saints, sanctified by the Vicar General, Archdiocese of Capiz
to their aid, we brought their grievances to the Pagadian, Iligan and the Prelature of Marawi Lord, awaits them. This is the festival of God’s October 10, 2006
limelight of public opinion and for this we are November 14, 2006
Ar
Aree You W
You or
Wor ried?
orried?
about the covering, about the wrappings,
Bo Sanchez about the tag, about the color, about the
paint, about the hairdo, about how they
Avoid Potholes by Taking (Lk 12:22-34) smell—about the non-essentials that do
no touch the core of self?
Humps by Bp. Jose Manguiran, DD I admire those who do not have the
essentials—without eyes, without limbs,
THEY tell me that the aver- on drugs, your jewelry without arms, without feet and yet they
age speed of a car in Ma- doesn’t shine as brilliantly SOME are worried having no eye- posed to weather harassment. do not worry to death but instead they
nila is 25 kph. That’s cata- as before. glasses; but others have no eyes. Some Some are worried not to own a new dare to cross the border of nothingness
strophically slow. That’s Like potholes, prob- are worried having no handbag; but oth- ring; but others have no fingers; in fact and enter into as a new world of creativ-
just the speed of a turtle lems come suddenly. No ers don’t have arms. Some are worried they make rings as business; they also ity. What spirit transpires them into that
injected with steroids. one warns you they’re having no new pair of shoes; but others make one for the nose; they have only new world? They have the spirit of faith
Aside from traffic, coming. And your whole have no feet. holes (in the leprosarium). that transcends reason; they have the
there are two other things life goes kabloom and Some are worrying getting fat; they Some are worried that their cheek, love that overcomes hatred; they have
that make vehicles go slow: kablagblagblag... get anxious, dying to get trimmed; but once pinkish with youthfulness are now the hope that penetrates the dark.
Humps and potholes. But because of these others simply don’t have food; they get accumulating furrows of shadows; but They are the brave. They are inspir-
Between these two, kablooms, you’re forced to hungry thinning to die. others have no cheek, only bones. ers of the hopeless. They have no medal;
I’d rather choose humps. stop and think. You ask Some are worried having lost their Why do some people—maybe they have no ranks of major and general,
Especially those that fundamental questions, comb, having no shampoo; but others many—invest their time, effort, money, but anyhow, they are the undeclared he-
are painted bright yellow like, “What’s life all about? have no hair at all; his bald head is ex- even their life to worrying about their skin, roes.
and smooth on the curves, Where am I going?” Over-
with nice signs to tell us night, your hierarchy of val-
they’re coming. ues changes. The most im- NYD 2006/ from p8
But I don’t like pot- portant things in life—such Melendez who did not have same skill at “diskarte” to share the journey, to the Archdio- experienced being warmly wel-
holes, period. as your soul, your family, hands but rendered a beauti- the fruits of the NYD experi- cese of Davao, the City of comed and considered part of
They come in all sizes: your God—become pain- ful song while playing the gui- ence to other young people. Davao, to sponsors, foster not only a family but also of a
tiny Mickey Mouse holes fully obvious. And what tar using his legs and feet. Bishop Baylon also acknowl- parents, delegates, and the Christian community (i.e. par-
to nuclear bomb testing used to be so pressing and The challenge of the story edged and welcomed the ar- volunteers. A praise and wor- ishes, districts, zones, chapels,
craters. insistent and noisy, reveal was for each one present to rival of the popular City Mayor ship segment capped the cel- GKK/BEC), truly Mindanaoan.
And they never come themselves to be cheap. use for God’s glory what God of Davao, Rodrigo R. Duterte ebration. The response of families
announced. They just ap- Humps, on the other has given and from the read- as he approached the altar to Welcoming a young person is and communities with the lead-
pear when you’re one inch hand, are deliberately ings for the day, to practice personally welcome the del- a blessing … ership of their respective par-
away, and kabloom. And made. self-disciple and as the late egates to Davao City and to November 12 (Day 5) was ish priests was overwhelming.
kablagblagblag... By you. Pope John Paul II exhorted in deliver his message assuring dubbed “Suroy-suroy sa The response of volunteers
Life’s like that. You plan them out. WYD 1995, “be able to com- the delegates of his support Dabaw” but it was not just to under the leadership of Mr.
When God wants you (And fight for them with mit to the highest ideals, ready and their well-being while in see the sights and enjoy the Dennis Villegas, NYD 2006
to slow down, He’ll send your life.) to change radically the false Davao City. Archbishop amenities but more of to be Steering Committee Chairman,
you potholes. But He can A quiet time for prayer values which have enslaved Capalla expressed his gratitude with the family in going to was equally overwhelming as
never give you humps, be- each day. so many young people and for the generosity and full sup- Mass, visiting significant sites Davao mobilized for NYD. In-
cause that’s something that Or Mass during lunch adults.” port provided by Mayor and eating a meal together to deed given the opportunity to
you should deliberately hour. After the post-commun- Duterte for NYD, from security, complete the Davao experience contribute and do something
make for yourself. (More on Perhaps a weekly ion prayer, Bishop Joel “Bong” traffic order, cleanliness… to before bringing the foster chil- good, the whole Christian
this later.) prayer meeting. Z. Baylon, Chairman, Episco- food. Bishop Baylon went on dren to the areas of conver- community comes together.
Potholes are the small A personal retreat ev- pal Commission on Youth ad- to further acknowledge and gence with their respective This is our Church and the
and big problems of your ery year. dressed the delegates picking- thank those who made NYD delegations for a tearful hug young are so blessed. They,
life. Humps are special up from Archbishop Capalla’s 2006 a reality and announced and farewell. too, have blessed us by their
When you have a times when you’ll ask the homily on NYD as a time to do that the next national celebra- Thousands of families visit (the delegates) and their
bleeding hangnail, an ex- very same fundamental and become good and not just tion of NYD will be in Luzon. and communities welcomed witness of service and commit-
pensive Italian shoe isn’t questions: “What’s life all to have a good time. He shared The evening ended with two or more delegates for the ment (the volunteers).
very beautiful. When your about? Where am I go- a discomforting but funny-in- the Youth JaM (JaM dubbed duration of NYD. The experi- They said: “ Amen! Praise
doctor tells you that you ing?” But this time, not the-end story whose lesson as Jesus and Mary) which fea- ence of welcoming and being and glory, wisdom and thanks-
have malignant cancer, because you’re forced to, was on “diskarte” (a word tured the NYD 2006 Csite ani- welcomed has showered giving and honor, power and
your Mercedes or BMW but because you want to. common among the young mators, local talents (among Davao with so much positive might, to our God forever and
suddenly lacks oomph. Take a lot of humps. loosely meaning “strategy”). them, Mr. Popong Landero), thoughts, words and actions ever. Amen!” (Rev. 7:12)
And when you discover Perhaps potholes Young people use so much and the Singles for Christ band that will linger for a long time. (Maria Riza A. Melliza, is the
that your teen-age son is won’t come as often. “diskarte” to get along with life. as NYD 2006 paid tribute to the To many, this is among the Chairperson, NYD 2006 Pro-
The challenge is to use the presence of Jesus and Mary in highlights of NYD. They have gram Committee)
CBCPMonitor
prostitution are rampant. intimate encounter with God, an en-
Name ___________________________________________ 11. The area becomes the hide-out counter which has become a com-
(Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name) of “hoodlums” from other places. munion of will, even affecting my feel-
12. Serious crimes happen, i.e. one ings. Then I learn to look on this other
night a couple riding their motor- person not simply with my eyes and
SUBSCRIPTION RATES
Mailing Address __________________________________ cycle was stopped by a resident my feelings, but from the perspec-
of Southville and raped the wife at tive of Jesus Christ. His friend is my
_________________________________________________ knifepoint in front of her husband. friend. Seeing with the eyes of Christ,
The CBCP Monitor is published Based on the above mentioned I can give to others much more than
Phone No.: _______ Fax No.: ______ E-mail: __________ finding my fervent prayers to the con- their outward necessities; I can give
fortnightly by the CBCP Media Of- them the look of love which they
fice, with editorial and business of- Mode of Payment cerned authorities are the following.
1. Complete rehabilitation of the crave” (DCE # 18).
fices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Check/PMO enclosed Cash Payment dumpsite and the enforcement of May Mary, the Mother and
Intramuros, Manila. PO Box 3601, (Payable to: CBCP Communications Development Foundation Inc.) vital pollution prevention mea- Model of the Poor, be our intercessor
in our quest to be in unity with our
1076 MCPO sures to minimize its adverse im-
least fortunate brothers and sisters.
• Domestic pacts on public health and the en-
______________________ vironment. For the whole Diocese of San
1 Year Php400.00 2. We say No to further expansions Pablo, on the occasion of the Blessed
2 Years Php 750.00 Signature of the Southville Relocation Virgin Mary’s Birth Anniversary, 8th
• Foreign: Asia Project. September, 2006.
PLEASE SEND TO:
1 Year US$ 55.00 3. Delist Laguna as further reloca-
CBCP Monitor, P.O. Box 3601, Manila, Philippines tion area. In Christ,
• All Other US$ 80.00 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines | Tel (632) 404-2182 • Telefax (632) 404-1612 4. We urge the national and local Most Rev. Leo M. Drona, SDB. D.D.
Or e-mail this at cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.com government specifically, the Bishop of San Pablo
APPOINTED. Bp. Sergio College to help in running the school. Thereafter, en-
Utleg, 63, as Bishop of rolment steadily increased by one grade level every
Laoag, by Pope Benedict year until the primary course (Grades 1-4) was com-
XVI, November 13, 2006. pleted. Finally in 1916, the grade school was fully
Before being transferred as recognized by the government. Fr. Carlos Van
Bishop of Laoag, he was the Ooteghem, the last CICM parish priest to serve PCS
THE new rector of the University of ing “morally upright” students aside Bishop of Ilagan, Isabela. managed the school from 1980-1984. He stayed on as
Santo Tomas (UST), Fr Ernesto from making them adept in their cho- Bp. Utleg was ordained as a coadjutor in the parish until his health prevented him
Arceo, OSP, has been officially in- sen field. priest at the age of 24 on from continuing his ministry. It was during his term
stalled to office at a ceremony inside “The best mentor develops March 30, 1968. He earned when the Karel Hall, Covered Court, Fr. Godofredo
UST chapel on November 9. positive values by showing good ex- his Bachelor in Philosophy and P.A.(Practical Arts) Bldgs. were constructed.
Leading the solemn rites was ample,” he said. at UST Central Seminary in 1963; Licentiate in Phi- After 72 years of dedicated service to the ministry
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Car- Arceo, the 94th rector of the uni- losophy also in UST Central Seminary in 1964; Bach- and education, the CICM missionaries (Congregatio
dinal Rosales who said that Arceo’s versity, is expected to continue elor in Theology at Gregorian University in Rome, Immaculati Cordis Mariae/Congregation of the Im-
appointment means serving as the UST’s tradition of orthodoxy and 1966; Licentiate in Sacred Theology Gregorian Uni- maculate Heart of Mary) turned over the manage-
“conscience and guide” of the uni- loyalty to the Church. versity Rome, 1968 and MA in Sociology at Fordham ment of the school to the Archdiocese of Manila in
versity. Established in 1611, UST is the University, New York, 1967. He was appointed as 1984. Bp. Teodoro Bacani was the first Filipino to
“The Catholic educator must oldest university in Asia Coadjutor Bishop: February 10, 1997 and ordained take over the parish and school after the Belgian CICM
teach, encourage, motivate and guide A prior provincial of the Philip- as Bishop on March 17, 1007 and became Bishop of missionaries. The population in PCS continued to in-
in the formation of right and true pine Dominican Province and rector Ilagan on July 26, 1999. Before becoming a Bishop, crease especially when Kindergarten 1 was introduced
Christian conscience necessary to of the UST Central Seminary, the new his assignments includes in 1971, Procurator, San in 1995. The start of Nursery Level was noted a year
harness morality, honesty and de- rector has a licentiate in Sacred The- Jacinto Seminary, Cagayan; 1971-1982, Social Ac- later. In 1996, Monsignor Domingo A. Cirilos Jr. re-
cency,” said Rosales. ology and a Masters and Doctorate tion Director, Archdiocese of Tuguegarao; 1973, Pa- placed Bp. Bacani as parish priest and director of the
During the ceremony, Arceo— in Philosophy from UST. rochial Vicar, St. Peter’s Cathedral Parish; 1973-1987, institution. Bishop Teodoro Bacani, presided the an-
a 50-year-old Dominican philoso- He also studied at St. Louis Uni- Parish Priest, Cordova, Amulung; 1977-1997, Chair- niversary mass on November 10, 2006. Joining him
pher—was given the ceremonial versity in Missouri, USA, and Gali- man, Commission on Social Action; 1987, Parish were former Paco parochial vicars led by MAPSA
rector’s robes and was greeted by lee College in Israel. Priest, St. Philomene’s Parish, Alcala, Cagayan; 1993, President, Msgr. Gerardo Santos, and Rev. Fr. Roy
members of the academic staff and Arceo’s four-year term will see Pastor, St. Peter Thelmo Parish, Aparri and Episco- Bellen, the newly ordained alumnus priest. The PCS
students before giving his rector’s him lead the bulk of preparations for pal Vicar, Vicariate of Aparri. As of now, Bp. Utleg is motto is “Noblesse Oblige”—Nobility Obligates—
address. the university’s 400th founding anni- the Chairman of CBCP’s Commission on Indigenous which means that because your nobility and dignity
Arceo underscored, in his versary celebration in 2011. (CBCP People. is great, so is your responsibility.
speech, the significance of develop- News)
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales led a mass at the Malate Church for Our Lady of Remedies fiesta
celebration on November 19. To intensify the fulfillment of Mary’s role in the Church, the parish set up last year Leo Reinier (left to right), Msgr. Nestor Cerbo, Zenas Lozadas, Cealwyn Tagle, and Atty. Jose Flores in a press
a ministry for children, an educational assistance program for 250 students, a strong prison ministry and a conference held at the Manila Cathdral last November 10 to formally announce the restoration of the Cathedral’s
vicariate Remedies Health Training Center. pipe organ and the holding of the first pipe organ festival on December 1 to 10.