•A3 Solid priestly identity

essential as secularism
•B1 ‘There is a great
need of priests
•C1 The CROSS
A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI
grows, Pope tells priests that speak of God’ and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

Philippine health sector Namfrel bids goodbye to

dying, says doctors’ alliance
A FEW days ago, news reports quoted former
Health Secretary Jaime Galvez-Tan saying that
there are 200 hospitals in the country had ceased
its operations, while 800 more are now partially
close due to the lack of health personnel.
Most of these hospitals are in the Visayas
and in Mindanao, and majority of them are
either run by the local government units or the
national government itself.
Almagro Community Hospital in Western
Samar, the Capul Municipal Hospital, Tangkil
Municipal Hospital, Pangutaran District Hos-
Dying / A6
quick count
SAYING that the poll body is ‘not interested,’ the
National Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel)
finally gave up its application to become citi-
zens’ arm of the Commission on Elections.
Namfrel officials said it decided to withdraw
their plan to be accredited for the May 10 local
and national elections because their fight is
going nowhere.
“It’s obvious that the Comelec is not inter-
ested in Namfrel’s assistance,” said Jose Cuisia
Jr., head of the poll watchdog which pioneered
the parallel quick count in the country.
March 15 - 28, 2010 Vol. 14 No. 6 Php 20.00 Quick count / A6

Protest mounts over

condom promotion
By Roy Lagarde
NOW it’s the lay people speaking.
In an apparent show of disgust over the government’s
aggressive campaign for condom use, more people are
coming out in the open to protest the State’s pro-contra-
ceptive policy.
In Manila and Cebu City, various groups and concerned parents took the
streets to protest what they call government’s ‘immoral propaganda.’
The health department is currently under an aggressive campaign to pro-
mote the use of condoms and pills to avoid unwanted pregnancies and stop
the spread of HIV/AIDS.
The government estimates that in 2009 there were around 4,400 cases in
the country with 126 new ones in January alone.
The rallies in different parts of the country break the impression that contra-
ception is only a fight between the government and the Catholic hierarchy.
In Cebu City, a group of doctors, parents, students and professionals are
still vehemently opposed to condom use, despite the health department’s

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

ambitious HIV/AIDS prevention campaign.
In a protest rally through Cebu streets on March 16, demonstrators
called for a total ban on condom advertising to protect children from early
exposure to sex.
Dr. Josef Bullecer, national director of AIDS-Free Philippines, said that the
promotion of condom use to combat the dreaded disease was an “immoral
and misguided weapon”.
A mother distributes anti-condom flyers during a protest rally by a group of parents in front of the Department of Health’s (DOH) main office in Manila, March
Condom / A6 12. The demonstrators also slammed the agency’s promotion of condoms and pills to stop spread of AIDS and unwanted pregnancies.

CBCP head
warns clergy off Anti-mining groups question
partisan politics
IN the face of
slowly rising
politics in
mining consultation in Palawan
ENVIRONMENTAL advocates representing indigenous peoples, farmers, pro-mining longtime Mines and Geosciences Bureau director, now DENR
the “pulpit”, women, youth and elderly from affected communities have denounced the chief Horacio Ramos, who is determined to fast-track all mining applications
Tandag Bish- public scoping consultation recently conducted by two mining companies and process before the Arroyo Administration ends,” added Garganera.
op Nereo in Palawan. Artiso Mandawa, National Coordinator of Ancestral Land/Domain Watch
Odchimar Amid accusation of bribery and collusion with the Department of Envi- (ALDAW), said the joint consultation was an obvious attempt to rush the
w a r n e d ronment and Natural Resources (DENR), anti-mining groups slammed the issuance of the environmental compliance certificate (ECC) to mining com-
his clergy
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

highly irregular joint public consultation by MacroAsia Corporation and panies to fully operationalize their operations.
a g a i n s t Ipilan Nickel Corporation (INC) at Barangay Mambalot, Brooke’s Point, He said the joint consultation demonstrated irregularities that should not
overtly par- Palawan on March 13. be taken lightly by authorities and stakeholders.
tisan preach- “This process relentlessly favors mining companies, which share the ex- “Originally, people were informed that a separate public consultation of
ing. penses in the conduct of a joint public consultation, limits the time for public MacroAsia and INC will be facilitated. The mine projects of MacroAsia and
As Elec- scrutiny or inquiry for each proponent, breeds questionable stakeholders INC are both located in Brooke’s Point and to a certain extent the proponents
tion Day representation and has an irregular and confusing social acceptability stan- have the same affected areas such as Barangay Ipilan but this should not be
approaches, dard procedure,” said Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of Alyansa the basis for the joint consultation,” said Mandawa.
w i t h l o c a l Bishop Nereo Odchimar Tigil Mina. Earlier, INC conducted a consultation with local government units but
and national positions up for grabs, Odchimar has Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) is an advocacy group on environmental and failed to get social acceptability from the barangays of Ipilan, Maasin, Mam-
sent a circular to all his priests and the religious not human rights issues and people’s movement, composed of more than 80 balot and Calasaguen, Mandawa said.
to express support for political candidates. organizations from mining-affected communities and civil society organiza- The law provides that a mining company should allow an interval of one year
The circular warns explicitly the church’s role tions nationwide. before it can conduct another consultation with concerned stakeholders.
of becoming instrument for unity could be at risk “How DENR allowed this joint public consultation of MacroAsia and INC “We fear that INC is riding with MacroAsia’s consultation with the attempt
if the rule is violated. came no surprise to us knowing that this happened under the leadership of Anti-mining / A6
Odchimar, currently the president of the

Davao will have Vote for Life; Cebu, Vote God

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines
(CBCP), said that under Canon Law, clerics are
forbidden from playing “an active role in politi-
cal parties.”
He said the Church has clearly defined laws
for priest in dealing with partisanship and
politics.
The soft-spoken prelate also cautioned his priests
against candidates’ “political gimmicks involving
church leaders and other people whom they think
are effective and capable of doing such.”
Odchimar, a Canon lawyer, advised fellow pas-
tors to mind what they say or do, and make sure
they will not be misunderstood.
Exception
The CBCP head said priests can only break the
non-partisanship rule when a political figure or
group opposes divine laws and principles.
But as far the Diocese of Tandag is concerned,
the situation does not require Church to engage
in partisan politics.
AFTER the Davao Archdiocesan Committee on
Evangelizing the Electorate (DACEE) launched
its “Kay Kristo Ako, Sagrado Akong Boto”
campaign, it is also planning to intensify this
by producing a new campaign slogan “I VOTE
for LIFE”.
The “I VOTE for LIFE” campaign is similar to
the Vote God campaign which was launched in
the Archdiocese of Cebu through the initiative of
the Circles for Discernment for Elections (CiDE).
Gagmayng Kristohanong Katilingban (GKK)
Coordinator Fr. Pete Lamata said that there is a
sense of urgency to launch the “I VOTE for LIFE”
in order to guide the electorates in making an
enlightened choice this coming election.
In Cebu, Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal said
the Vote God campaign will further help out in sus-
taining political awareness among the electorate.
“Vote God initiative complements what we have
been undertaking on a sustained basis through
our Cebu Citizens Involvement and Maturation
in People Empowerment and Liberation (C-
CIMPEL),” he said.
Vidal has also thanked and blessed the CiDE for
their initiative to continually educate the people
for the coming elections.
The prelate has earlier reminded the public to
exercise their voting responsibilities efficiently.
In a report, Vidal said candidates unconsciously
invoke God in their decisions whether to run or
not to run.
“If we are going to consider all the declarations
we have heard so far from candidates about God’s
will for them, we get the impression that God is as
confused as our electorate on whom to side with
this coming elections,” he said.
But Vidal cited “God is not God if He confuses
us for He is the God who gave us our reason so
that we may think with clarity. He is the God
who gave us our conscience so that we may act
righteously.”
The campaign challenges every Filipino
Christian to use their conscience in casting their
votes while urging candidates not to practice
vote buying.
It also aims to raise awareness among those
who need discernment in choosing the country’s
next leaders for the 2010 May elections.
This is also in response to the clarion call of
Pope Benedict XVI to evangelize politics. (Mark
S. Ventura w/ Kate Laceda)

Women’s groups dismayed on demeaning ad

“In our prudent discernment, concrete situation
in the diocese does not warrant a justifiable devia-
tion from this general principle,” said Odchimar.
IN celebration of Women’s Month, In an open letter addressed to gov- serious or widespread offense against SPA-St. Scholastica, Citizens Disaster
Moral judgment leaders of various organizations in the ernment authorities and private institu- generally accepted moral, social or Response Center and Gabriela among
While priests are discouraged to actively take Philippines condemned what they de- tions, the signatories led by Rotea pro- cultural standards or offend public others. (Melo M. Acuña)
part in partisan politics, the Church must not scribed as “the utilization of women in tested the “deplorable use of a woman’s sensitivities.”
abandon its competence in passing moral judg- demeaning advertisements” includ- body in advertisements that in effect The provision further
ment, Odchimar added. ing the one which was published in a reduce it to a mere commodity.” stated “Advertisements
In other words, he also said, while the lay faithful national broadsheet last March 3. She said the advertisement not should not depict or exploit
are urged to engage in political activity, pastors can Catholic Bishops Conference of the only tries to sell the product but persons as sex objects.”
teach moral principles and issue moral guidelines Philippines’ Office on Women’s Ex- “subliminally promotes a mentality The letter was also signed
regarding political activity but cannot engage in ecutive Secretary Zenaida V. Rotea, that actually insults the consumer’s by representatives from the
partisan politics. MD said the advertisement supposed intelligence.” Association of Major Reli-
Illustration by Bladimer Usi

“It must be admitted, though, that sometimes to advertise a mobile phone but “uses In a separate interview with CB- gious Superiors in the Phil-
even teaching moral principles is actually in- a woman with her legs spread wide CPNews, Rotea cited Article IV ippines, National Council
terpreted by some as partisan politics because open.” of the Advertising Code of Ethics, of Churches in the Philip-
of actual circumstances; nonetheless we have She added that the mobile phone particularly a provision in its Section pines, Religious of the Good
to contend ourselves with it,” Odchimar said. was “strategically placed between” 1 entitled Presentation which states Shepherd, Batis-AWARE,
(CBCPNews) the model’s legs. “Advertisements should not cause Institute of Women Studies,
 World News
CBCP Monitor
A2 Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010

Vatican: Pope was ‘completely

extraneous’ to Munich sex
abuse decision
VATICAN CITY, March 13, 2010—Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy See's Press Office,
released a statement on Saturday morning in which he made three "observations" regarding sexual
abuse by people and in institutions of the Catholic Church. He also addressed dismissed as unfounded
attempts to link the Pope to a decision to transfer a priest found to have committed sexual abuse when
Benedict XVI was Archbishop of Munich.
The first of the three "observations" made by Fr. Lombardi was to point out that the "line taken" by
the German Bishops' Conference has been confirmed as the correct path to confront the problem in its
different aspects.
Fr. Lombardi included some elements of the statement made by Archbishop Robert Zollitsch at a
Friday press conference following his audience with the Pope. The Vatican spokesman highlighted
the approach established by the German bishops to respond to the possible abuses: "recognizing the
© blogs.reuters.com
truth and helping the victims, reinforcing the preventions and collaborating constructively with the
authorities—including those of the state judiciaries—for the common good of society."
Fr. Lombardi drew attention to Archbishop Zollitsch's affirmation, without any doubts, of the expert
opinion that the vow of celibacy of the priest has no relationship to cases of pedophilia.
He also reaffirmed that the Holy Father supports the German bishops in their plan and that this
approach could be considered "useful and inspiring" to other episcopal conferences in similar situa-
tions.
Secondly, Fr. Lombardi referred to the interview given to Avvenire by the "promoter of justice" from
the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Monsignor Charles Scicluna, who explained in detail
the norms of the Church for investigating cases of sexual abuse of minors.
The Vatican spokesman highlighted the most important element of the interview: that the Church has
in no way promoted hiding the crimes, but has put an "intense activity" in motion to confront, judge
and punish them in an appropriate manner "within the framework of ecclesiastical ordinance."
He also wrote that it is important to note that special attention was given to these themes when
Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict, was the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine
of the Faith.
"His line has always been that of rigor and coherence in confronting even the most difficult situa-
tions," added Fr. Lombardi.
The final observation Fr. Lombardi made was that a recent communique from the Archdiocese of Mu-
nich answers questions about a priest who was found guilty of abuses after being transferred from Essen
to Munich, where Cardinal Ratzinger was archbishop at the time. The communique, he stressed, shows
that the archbishop was completely "extraneous" to the decisions made after the abuses were verified.
"It's rather evident that in recent days there are those who have sought—with a certain tenacity, in
Regensburg and in Munich—elements for personally involving the Holy Father in the questions of the

abuses. For every objective observer, it's clear that these efforts have failed," he stated.
The Vatican spokesman concluded by reaffirming that "despite the tempest," the Church sees the
course to follow "under the sure and rigorous guide of the Holy Father."
Fr. Lombardi concluded by expressing his hope that the process might help all of society to "take
charge" of improving ways to protect and form children and youth. (CNA)

Pontiff cleared of reassigning pedophile priest

VATICAN CITY, March 14, 2010—It was not the then Cardinal
Joseph Ratzinger, Archbishop of Munich and Freising, Germany,
who gave a new pastoral assignment to a pedophile priest at the
beginning of the 1980s.
A communiqué issued Friday evening by the Vatican press office
clarified claims by a German newspaper, Süddeutsche Zeitung,
which implicated Benedict XVI in the reassignment of a pedophile
priest, while the former was archbishop of Munich.
The article wrote "about a priest of the Diocese of Essen with a
history of sexual abuse, who transferred into the Diocese of Munich
in Bavaria and who, after a period of treatment, was given a pastoral
assignment during the time when Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was
archbishop."
The Vatican note referred to a press release published by the Arch-
diocese of Munich and Freising that "explains the facts, for which the
diocesan vicar general of the time, Father Gerhard Gruber, assumes
'full responsibility.'"
The Archdiocese of Munich explained that the current vicar
general, Monsignor Peter Beer, put together a team to study the
procedures adopted in the past in confronting the accusations of
sexual abuse attributed to clergy during the 1980s.
This team made it known that a priest—whose identity was not
revealed but who is simply referred to as "H"—at the request of the
Diocese of Essen, was received into the Archdiocese of Munich to
undergo therapy in January of 1980.
Studying the dossier, the archdiocesan team determined that the
priest received psychotherapeutic treatment as a result of his having
had sexual relations with boys.
In 1980, the note continues, the decision was made to permit the
priest to stay in a rectory at the end of his treatment.
"This decision was made by the archdiocese", which was headed
by Cardinal Ratzinger at that time. But rather than follow through
with this decision, the archdiocese explained, "the vicar general at
the time assigned 'H' to pastoral ministry in a parish in Munich
without any restrictions."
This provision, therefore, was not the work of Cardinal Ratzinger,
who a short time later, on November 25, 1981, was nominated pre-
fect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith by Pope John
Paul II.
Sentenced
The priest was then removed from his ministry in 1985 when the
diocese became aware of the accusations of sexual abuse against him
and of the fact that he was at the center of a judicial inquest.
In June of 1986, in fact, the district court of Ebersberg gave him an
18-month suspended prison sentence and fined him for the sexual
abuse of minors. He was also ordered to undergo psychotherapeutic
treatment.
From November 1986 to October 1987 the presbyter was chaplain
in a nursing home. Afterward he was assigned to a parish in Garch-
ing on the basis of two elements: the relatively light sentence given
him by the court and the help offered to him by the psychologist
who was treating him.
Since the 1986 sentence, no charges of sexual abuse have been
made against the priest.
On May 6, 2008 he was removed from his position as parish ad-
ministrator in Garching. In October of that year he was reassigned
to pastoral work in tourism and barred from having contact with
children, young people and altar servers.
A dossier prepared at the request of Archbishop Reinhard Marx,
head of the Munich Archdiocese since 2008, confirmed that he was
not to be given parish ministry.
The former vicar general, Father Gruber, himself stated in the
communiqué that "the reassignment of 'H' to pastoral work was a
grave mistake."
He continued: "I assume full responsibility for this action. I deeply
regret that this decision allowed crimes to be committed that in-
volved young people and I ask forgiveness from all those who have
been harmed." (Zenit)

Liturgical vestments sent to Haiti Pope presented with letters

to revive liturgical life of imprisoned priest
VATICAN CITY, March 12, 2010—Benedict XVI was presented
MADRID, Spain, March 12, 2010— stricken country. The priest noted with a volume that compiles, for the first time in Italian, the cor-
In response to a request by the that several religious goods stores respondence of Blessed Aloysius Stepinac, a Croatian cardinal
Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti for assis- responded immediately, send- martyred in 1960.
tance in rebuilding and organizing ing their donations directly to the The Pope received this Italian-language volume, “Lettere dal
liturgical life in the country, various churches in Haiti. martirio quotidiano” (Letters of Daily Martyrdom), Wednesday
bishops in Spain have donated and Fr. Garcia added that a box of during the general audience.
sent “almost 100 chalices, ciboria, rosaries from Rome was mailed The Pontiff called the initiative “extraordinary” as he received
patens and numerous liturgical to Archbishop Auza. They will be the book containing 180 letters written during the period of the
vestments.” distributed to seminarians in Port- cardinal’s imprisonment by the Communist authorities in former
© www.nysenate.gov

According to a press release, the au-Prince. Yugoslavia.

request for assistance was made
by Nuncio to Haiti, Archbishop
Bernardito Auza through the NGO,
“Messengers of the Peace.” Arch-
bishop Auza met with founder and president
of the NGO, Fr. Angel Garcia and communi-
cated his request to the dioceses of Spain.
Fr. Garcia also urged listeners of his ra-
dio program on COPE Radio Network to
donate liturgical items to the earthquake-
The statement then noted that the
donations from the Spanish bishops
“will be personally delivered to
Archbishop Auza by Fr. Julio Millan
Medina, president of “Messengers of the
Peace” in the Spanish region of Andalusia,
during his trip to Haiti on March 13. (CNA)
The volume was presented to the Holy Father in Paul VI Hall
by Monsignor Alberti Di Chio of the Archdiocese of Bologna and
Luciana Mirri, an expert in Eastern theology and spirituality, who
were in charge of the edition, together with Luciano Lincetto,
director of the Catholic Promotion Publishing Association.
“The Holy Father was very happy because of the extraordi-
nary contribution that these letters make to the Year for Priests,”
Lincetto explained to ZENIT.

Catholics pray for peace after Prelate speaks of He also said that “the volume has been sent to all the bishops of
Italy” and that they hope to “send it, with the help of Providence,
to a great number of priests.”

Lahore bombings abuse scandal at UN During the meeting, Lincetto informed Benedict XVI of the launch-
ing of a new Italian Catholic newspaper, “La Via” (The Way).
Giving a blessing to the project, the Pontiff said with a big
LAHORE, Pakistan, GENEVA, Switzerland, March 12, 2010—The Holy See's permanent smile: “We need it.” (Zenit)
March 15, 2010— observer at the Geneva offices of the United Nations said the Church
is trying to "definitively resolve" the problem of sexual abuse of

Teachers in Lenten vow to

Catholic churches in
Lahore are praying for minors by priests and other Church leaders.
peace after Friday’s "There are no excuses" for this behavior, Archbishop Silvano Tomasi

‘Save Mother Earth’

deadly bombings said Wednesday in an address to the 13th session of the Human Rights
which saw 60 killed Council on the rights of children.
© www.ucanews.com

and 100 injured.
Seven small explo-
sions hit the Punjab
provincial capital on
March 12, hours after
twin suicide attacks killed bystanders and eight soldiers at a
major bus stand.
The incident has been regarded as the biggest militant attack
in the country this year.
The buildings damaged in the attacks included five houses
rented by nine Catholics families. The ceilings collapsed injuring
35 people and destroying furniture.
The affected Catholics are presently living under tents near
the blast site. During a Mass held for the victims on March 14,
catechist Lazar Yousaf told about 50 people, including victims
and their relatives: “The Lord has saved you and blessed you
with a new life. You can take comfort in his blessing.”
Father Abid Habib, regional coordinator of the Justice and
Peace Commission of the Catholic major Religious superiors
condemned the blasts. “This is sickening, the innocent continue
to be victims of terrorists and the government seems unwilling
Lahore / A7
Echoing Benedict XVI, the prelate said the sexual abuse of minors
is an "odious crime." CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh,
Vatican Radio reported that Archbishop Tomasi pointed to the March 15, 2010—Spurred on
Pope's "very clear condemnation of sexual violence against chil- by concerns over the effect of
dren and youth," to which the Holy Father has added "the religious climate change on Bangladesh,
dimension, reminding that abuse is also a grave sin, which offends school teachers in Chittagong
God and human dignity." diocese have vowed to help
The Holy See representative noted how abuse violates the physi- protect the local environment
cal and psychological integrity of minors, "with destructive conse- and save “Mother Earth.”
quences." “God has a plan for the planet,
"Protection from sexual aggression is high on the list of priorities which are the laws of nature. We
for all ecclesiastical institutions, which struggle to put an end to this are breaking these natural laws Bishop Lawrence Subroto Howlader
grave problem," he affirmed. for our own comfort and are thus facing challenges,” said Holy Cross
The archbishop said the "Catholic community continues its efforts Auxiliary Bishop Lawrence Subroto Howlader of Chittagong.
to resolve this problem definitively." The prelate was the keynote speaker at a Lenten seminar at-
"Those guilty of these crimes are immediately suspended from the tended by 90 Catholic school teachers from 10 Church-run and
exercise of their functions and treated according to the civil norma- other schools in the port city.
tive and canon law," he explained. The daylong “Saving Mother Earth” program was organized
The prelate also proposed that the prevention of these crimes is the by the Diocesan Education Commission in St. Joseph’s Oratory
truest priority, and prevention requires "education and promotion at St. Placid’s High School on March 13.
of the culture of respect for the human rights and dignity of every “Lent is a time of prayer. We should focus our prayers for the
child, especially through the use of effective methods in contracting Earth / A7
school personnel." (Zenit)
 News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010
A3

Solid priestly identity essential as

secularism grows, Pope tells priests
VATICAN CITY, March 12, 2010—Pope Benedict met with priests
and bishops participating in an international theological convention
on Friday and spoke with them on the importance of understanding
what it means to be a priest. This awareness of their identity is all
the more important as secularism advances and some try to reduce
the priesthood to being almost a ‘social worker.’
Speaking of priestly identity in the modern “policentric” context,
which often fades our idea of identity, “it is important
clearly to bear in mind the theological specificity of
ordained ministry, in order not to surrender to the
temptation of reducing it to predominant cultural
models,” the Pope began.
In the presence of “widespread secularization which
progressively tends to exclude God from the public
sphere and from the shared social conscience, the priest
often appears ‘removed’ from common sense,” Pope
Benedict said, adding that it’s often a result of “the
most fundamental aspects of his ministry.”
For this reason, he explained, “it is important to
avoid a dangerous reductionism which, over recent
decades... has presented the priest almost as a ‘social
worker,’ with the risk of betraying the very Priest-
hood of Christ.”
Reacting to this dangerous reduction of priestly
the two thousand years of history, the greatness, sanctity, culture
and piety which the Priesthood has given the world, reaches our
own day.”
In the times in which we live, he continued, “it is particularly im-
portant that the call to participate in the one Priesthood of Christ in
ordained ministry should flower from the ‘charism of prophecy.’”
“There is great need for priests who speak of God to the world
and who present the world to God; men not subject to ephemeral
cultural fashions, but capable of authentically living the freedom
that only the certainty of belonging to God can give.”
“Today,” said the Holy Father, “the most necessary prophecy is
that of faithfulness” which “leads us to live our priesthood in com-
plete adherence to Christ and the Church.”
Priests, said the Pope, cannot forget about this fundamental as-
sociation with God which “is the right framework in
which to understand and reaffirm, also in our own
time, the value of celibacy which in the Latin Church is
a charism imposed by Holy Orders” and “an expression
of the gift of the self to God and to others.”
“The vocation of priests is an exalted one, and remains
a great mystery even for those of us who have received
it as a gift.”
He continued saying that the “limitations and weak-
nesses” of priests “must cause us to live and safeguard
this precious gift with great faith, a gift with which
Christ configured us to Himself, making us participants
in His mission of salvation.”
“Dear priests,” the Holy Father concluded, “the men
and women of our time ask us only to be priests to the
full, nothing else.
“The lay faithful will be able to meet their human

© www.flickr.com/photos/jkurittu
identity, the Pope proposed understanding the priest- needs in many other people, but only in the priest will
hood by looking at it as the Church sees the texts of they find that Word of God which must always be on
the Second Vatican Council, using a “hermeneutic of his lips, the Mercy of the Father abundantly and gra-
continuity.” tuitously distributed in the Sacrament of Penance, and
In the same way, the Pope explained, “there appears the bread of new life.”
to be a need for a hermeneutic that we could describe as Five hundred priests and 50 bishops attended the
‘of priestly continuity,’ one which, starting from Jesus two-day convention from March 11 - 12 at the Pontifical
of Nazareth, Lord and Christ, and passing through Lateran University in Rome. (CNA/EWTN News)

Priests must promote confession, show

people God’s mercy, pope says
VATICAN CITY, March 11, 2010—Priests today
are challenged with the task of drawing the faith-
ful back to confession and assuring them that
© pope2008.typepad.com
their true repentance will be met with mercy and
compassion, Pope Benedict XVI said.
In an address to several hundred young
priests, Pope Benedict
said March 11 that "we
must return to the con-
fessional" not only as
a place to confess sins
and receive absolu-
tion, but also as a place
where "the faithful can
find mercy, counsel and
comfort, feel loved and
understood by God."
The pope addressed
some 700 priests at the
conclusion of a March
8-12 course designed to
develop their skills as
Priests are called on to educate their flocks in
the "radical requirements of the Gospel" and help
them resist "the mentality of this world" and make
choices that take courage and are sometimes un-
popular, the pope told the group.
The times are difficult, he said, and marked by
"a hedonistic and relativistic mentality that cancels
God from peoples' lives." This mentality makes it
difficult to "distinguish good from evil and develop
a proper sense of sin."
Priests must be particularly good examples in
their lives so that Catholics will understand their
own sins and find the courage and desire to seek
God's forgiveness, he said.
During the course, Archbishop Gianfranco Gi-
rotti, regent of the Apostolic Penitentiary, spoke to
the priests about the challenges and the complex
situations that confessors are required to handle.
He reminded them that the church seeks to help
rate from the new spouse for various reasons, the
confessor could suggest that refraining from sex
and transforming the relationship into one of
friendship might open the way to the possibility
of partaking once again in Communion.
He also said confessors must be careful with
the psychological states of penitents; if they find
themselves with someone with serious problems
they should not "try to be a psychologist," but
rather seek expert help.
Archbishop Girotti warned that in the case of
repeat offenders, who don't show even a mini-
mal intention to change, absolution must not be
granted. However, the priest must be very patient
because a conversion is always possible, he said.
Showing that there is a better way to live is al-
ways the job of a priest, especially as an antidote
to increasing hedonism and selfishness in contem-
porary society, said Archbishop Fortunato Baldelli,

confessors; the course
was offered by the Ap-
ostolic Penitentiary, a
Vatican court that han-
dles issues related to the
sacrament of penance.
"even in situations that are humanly so difficult
that they seem to have no solution."
Among these situations is the plight of divorced
Catholics who, if they remarry, are no longer al-
lowed to take Communion. Archbishop Girotti
said that in those cases, if the person cannot sepa-
who heads the tribunal as major penitentiary. "It's
the duty of the confessor to open the consciences
of people and make them understand the needs
of others, showing them that doing so won't take
anything away from them, but will make them
richer." (CNS)

Groups slam Tampakan Ecumenical labor group releases

info-video for automated polls
copper-gold mining project
MANILA, March 4, 2010—Environ- forces created to protect the Xtrata–SMI “Mining severely endangers lives,
mental groups on Thursday said the investment,” added Garganera. livelihoods and the environment, which
Tampakan mining venture in South "We are not surprised by the deci- is our national and natural security. It
Cotabato create environmental devas- sion of the RDC and RMDC to highly is unfortunate that the local develop-
tation and will further induce conflict favor the TCGP. For many years they ment council lacks the clear vision for
in the area. have closed their eyes to the bitter truth a perpetual means of livelihood that
The national anti-mining alliance that Xtrata-SMI’s mining venture has will ensure the balance between devel-
Alyansa Tigil Mina said the Tampakan brought endless conflicts in the area. opmental needs and the environment,"
Copper-Gold project (TCGP) dubbed In fact, the people are now living in said Tabaranza.
by the Regional Development Council fear knowing that they will soon be Meanwhile, a multi–sectoral coali-
© sourpolitics.wordpress.com

(RDC) and the Regional Mineral De- relocated,” said Jean Marie Feraris, tion of various groups working for
velopment Council (RMDC) as their team leader Legal Rights and Natural climate justice and is campaigning
flagship project is a “bad business that Resources Center (LRC) – Davao. for the pull out of Xtrata–SMI in the
will put lives of the people in South “We would really like to challenge region—SOCSKSARGENCAN (Cli-
Cotabato in danger due to the environ- the RDC and RMDC to go to the af- mate Action Now) spokesperson Sr.
mental threats.” fected communities and listen to the Susan O. Bolanio, OND expressed her
ATM national coordinator Jaybee sentiments of the indigenous peoples. sentiments on the possible rationale of
Garganera said the TCGP lies within Their decision to back the TCGP as RDC and RMDC’s endorsement on the
the watershed areas, wherein an esti- the region's flagship project would mine project.
mated 20,000 hectares of sustainable not result to mutual benefits. It will “Is this RDC recognition and en-
farmlands would be threatened by the only lead to cultural ethnocide," she dorsement of SMI as the flagship of the ANTIPOLO CITY, March 5, 2010—The Also included in the roster of conve-
environmental impacts of mining that also said. region’s development not self-serving Ecumenical Institute for Labor Educa- ners of WE-Watch were church-based
will jeopardize South Cotobato’s local For his part, HARIBON executive considering that Governor Dominguez tion and Research (EILER), Inc., with the labor institutions and other organiza-
economy and food security. director Blas Tabaranza said it is ironic who is its chairperson is at the same time support from the European Union, has tions that advance the workers’ rights
The project also encroaches the an- that the government recognizes extrac- connected with the Dominguez family launched an info-video teaching the Fili- and welfare.
cestral homes of the B’laan indigenous tive activities such as mining as a flag- involved with the business interest of pino workers how to vote this coming The video is available on the WE-Watch
community, he claimed. ship project. SMI? Did he not have the professional May 10 elections using the automated website, http://www.we-watch.net.
“T he pr esen c e o f decency to abstain from electoral system (AES). Meanwhile, WE-Watch and EILER
the Xstrata-Saguittar- the deliberation on this Called the “Five Easy Steps sa Pag- have also set-up a 24-hour text hotline
ius Mines, Inc (SMI) matter,” said Bolanio. boto sa AES,” the four minute and 37- that voters can report incidence of
in South Cotabato has Bolanio added, “that second video provides the 34 million fraudulence and other irregularities in
its environmental and the real stakeholders workers adequate information on how the conduct of the polls: for SMART
socio-political implica- are the broader commu- to cast their vote using the AES. subscribers - 0929-3361581; for GLOBE
tions what put the lives nity—indigenous peo- In a statement, EILER Executive – 0915-6701434; and for Sun Cellular –
of people in South Co- ples, other barangays, Director Joselito Natividad said that 0923-5320142.
tabato in grave danger,” the neighboring towns, the info-video is a part of the program
said Garganera. etc.—whose natural en- under the Workers’ Electoral Watch AES does not guarantee fraud-free
“The people of South vironment and well be- (WE-Watch) project with the funding elections
Cotabato will continu- ing of future generation from the EU. On the other hand, Natividad ex-
ously live in fear, espe- are put to risk because The said alliance is composed of more presses doubt about the credibility
cially with the presence of the mining presence than 50 workers’ unions and federa- of elections even though it is already
of the 27th Infantry Bat- of this company and tions representing key industries in the automated.
talion who are strength- not just the selected few country such as telecommunications, “We in the Philippine labor sector
ening the barangay de- community who directly banking, pharmaceutical, manufactur- are not against the automation of
© CBCP / NASSA

fense system (BDS) in benefited from Sagit- ing, and electronics. this important tool of governance,
the area. The BDS is tarius in terms of jobs “The primary goal of the alliance is to nor are we traditionalists rejecting
the local translation of and other short-lived safeguard the 34 million workers’ vote,” technological advancement in the
the investment defense Balatoc Mines, Benguet benefits”. (CBCPNews) Natividad said in a statement. Automated / A6
A4 Opinion CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010

Illustration by Bladimer Usi

EDITORIAL

The condom alibi

SOME people at the health department maybe aptly portrayed,
wrongly or rightly, to be on a rampage in condom promotions—
which include public distribution of the rubber in bus terminals
on Valentine’s Day, spinning media hype, gathering support
from celebrities and operating public relations, among others.
And this, not to mention the costly mobilizations of women
militant groups.
And there’s the alarming statistics to boot. The Department
is now brandishing a pandemic of 4,400 cases of HIV/AIDS
infections in 2009 and 126 more in January this year. But why
only now after years of silence? And where’s the pandemic? In
the early 1990s it was more realistic, or say believable, when
Sarah Jane gave a face to warm bodies. In 2007, Dr. James Chin,
former head of a World Health Organization Global program on
Aids unit from 1987-1992, noted in an interview that “the AIDS
‘pandemic’ is not as widespread as it is often portrayed, and not
even in large parts of Africa, where rates of infection with Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) vary widely.”
Be that as it may, but worth noting is the comparative study
between the Philippines and Thailand. In 1987 the Philippines
had more HIV/AIDS cases (135) than Thailand (112). In a span
of ten years during which Thailand promoted a national policy
of 100% condom use, the later shoot up to 1,106,000 cases while
the Philippines had a cumulative incidence of 2,965.
Indeed, the condomization of Thailand was a trap. Dr. C. Michel
Roland, Editor of Rubber Chemistry and Technology of the
U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Washington D.C. reported a
couple of years back the inherent defects of rubber latex condoms
that range between 5 and 70 microns. The HIV virus is about
0.1 microns in size—which is 60 times smaller than a syphilis
bacterium and 450 times smaller than a single human sperm.
But of course, scientists and the technocrats of the health
department know this. In fact the health secretary has admitted
of late that condom use is not at all foolproof. But why the
insistence? One can only surmise that the condom program has a Oscar V. Cruz, DD
covert political and economic agenda in the face of an accusation
against the UN for blowing up the AIDS pandemic in order to ‘Being warned is
being forewarned’
create a market for the AIDS prevention program that benefits the
pharmaceutical companies in billions of dollars. The Philippines
having one of the lowest rates of AIDS infection in the world is
Views and Points
a very fertile ground for provoking a market stimulus.
FOR a start, let it be herein clearly stated that this expression of specialized ballots, from the detailed instruction of the voters to the
There is no denying that billions of dollars for HIV/AIDS sincere concern and manifestation of reservation on the forthcom- technical training of those serving as election deputies—all these by
prevention as a result of the hype has created a new industry— ing 10 May 2010 National Elections are first and foremost meant for themselves do not promise easy and smooth election process.
an industry that is now bent on enlarging its market through the attention and consideration of the common people in general, Yet, this is not even making mention of practically a hundred and
spreading the HIV/AIDS panic. The same maybe said of the the ordinary young people of the land in particular—with special one rationally foreseen errant factors such as in terms of ghost voters,
UN’s hype of the bird and swine flu to pandemic proportion interest and big urgency in conjunction with the simple Christian the ready and capable surreptitious professional cheaters, the inter-
which according to scientific circles where viruses that were Faithful in the Church who sincerely love God and their neighbors, vention of private armies of politicos, the active presence of rebellious
man-made which therefore were not as lethal as the UN made and who honestly want the good of their country and the welfare groups plus the proliferation of hoodlums who are in fact but paid
it to be. At the end of the story, millions of dollars set aside by of the people, irrespective of their color and creed. goons with guns for political motives. All of these could eventually
First World countries wastefully spent for vaccines resulted in Thus goes this distinct warning with all sincerity and good will. bring about a markedly serious social disorder in the country which
huge gains for pharmaceutical companies and their lackeys in Would that it were superfluous if not downright ridiculous. The if unchecked, might lead to much worst scenario.
governments. warning in order for all those really concerned so that these are thus Hence, together with all Filipinos of good will, let the CBCP Epis-
If one needs really to be serious about stemming the spread of accordingly forewarned, can be thus gently yet truthfully that the Na- copal Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace (ECSA-JP)
the virus, the experience of other countries is worth emulating. tional Elections can be anything but peaceful and orderly. Such being in close solidarity and collaboration with its affiliates all over the
The Director of the AIDS Prevention Research Project at the the case, it is not altogether improbable that the said political exercise ecclesiastical jurisdiction in the country, be prepared to act in decid-
Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, could in effect bring about social unrest—specially from the Class B to edly quenching the possible social conflagration that the forthcoming
Edward C. Green writes in his book entitled Rethinking AIDS Class D of the socio-economic spectrum of the Philippine society. electoral exercise could bring about—with much prayers and good
Prevention: Learning from Successes in Developing Countries, For some time now and for one reason or another, there are dis- wishes that such would not happen at all. The task would certainly
“The large medical solutions funded by major donors have had turbing bad news of one kind or another about the loudly acclaimed not be easy to undertake. But those thus concerned in the Church,
little impact in Africa, the hardest hit by AIDS. Instead, relatively and proudly proclaimed first fully automatic elections in the country. with the task of social action and the work for justice and peace,
simple, low-cost behavioral change program—stressing increased From the procurement of the delicate machines to the printing of would not act accordingly, then who would do it—and why?
monogamy and delayed sexual activity for young people—have
made the greatest headway in fighting or preventing the disease’s Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
spread.”
All told, the condom really is an alibi.
Affirm the truth
Love Life
Partiality for the poor KEEPING a column keeps me on my toes, Let us go through a few of these empty intelligent, more caring, more successful, more
especially when Sr. Pinky, FSP, our Associate promises or half-truths. Will using this sham- acceptable student? It will make you popular
THE Church has an Option for the Poor in the Field of Politics. Editor, reminds me that it is deadline again poo or hair conditioner or hot oil sachet make for a few hours maybe. Then what? You have
We have seen how political forces in our society are heavily for my next article. Here is a simple one that I your boyfriend touch your hair? And even if transferred the evil to how many more guys
tilted against the poor. As economic power is in the hands of the wrote for teens and that you, reader, can use for he touches your hair, is that a sign that your – degrading womanhood and making your-
elite, so is economic power. To help correct this imbalance “those the value formation of the youth you handle: relationship is getting deeper? Because that selves silly useless bums. Technology is there
who have less in life should have more in law.” But sadly many Human beings are born to tell the truth. If is what you actually want, right? It is not just to bring you to your Creator- Number- One-
laws and policies in our country favor the rich and the powerful babies are hungry, wet or uncomfortable – his touching your hair! OK, so deeper into Inventor. Not to destroy minds and lives.
to the detriment of the poor. When the moment of truth comes, they cry and squirm around their crib. If they what? Physical intimacy leading to sexual As Fr. Henri Nouwen says in his book Life
those who hold the reins of political and economic power look are satisfied, comfortable and happy, they intimacy? Is that what you really want at of the Beloved, “The world tells you many
exclusively to their own interests. are quiet or they smile and coo or fall asleep. this time of your teen life? Do you know each lies about who you are, and you simply have
Examples abound but we cite just these few: the watering down They express what they feel and experience. other more now by such behavior? Enough to be realistic enough to remind yourself of
of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, the growing But as months and years go by, we see that for you to sustain a wholesome, Godly, open this. Every time you feel hurt, offended or
number of exemptions from the Program, the primacy given to these same babies begin to hesitate and pre- relationship? I say Godly—because your rejected, you have to dare to say to yourself –
big business over the small farmer, the maintenance of family tend in order to conform to what others feel friendship should bring both of you closer to these feelings, strong as they may be, are not
political dynasties that lord it over the poor. Pro-poor many and think in order to be accepted. God. If it draws both of you away from the telling me the truth about myself. The truth,
politicians are definitely not despite their protestations. Thus the I am not saying that we should be blurting One who gave you your life and the people even though I cannot feel it right now, is that
Church’s mission to renew and transform our political institutions out our feelings and our thoughts whatever and around you, including your “friend”, then I am the chosen child of God, precious in
and activities: Unless the Church pursues this mission, politics whenever we want to. Balancing awareness forget that relationship as it will surely bring God’s eyes, called the Beloved from eternity,
will continue to militate against the poor. between what we perceive others think and feel you harm. And I say “open”, because your and held safe in an everlasting embrace.”
with what we do feel and think is important as going out together, chatting on the phone, Watch out that you are not escaping into
The clear teaching and example of Christ is for every Christian we live in a community. We do not live alone. spending so much load on texting each other, material things, fun and pleasure because of
believer to be pro-poor and for the Church to have an option for And since we live and are influenced by such of chatting on the internet—should be known your hurts and feelings of rejection.
the poor (PCP-II, 312-14; see CFC, 1187-89). To realize this a manipulative, controlling and power-hungry by the people who are responsible for you at This might mean an examination and a
Gospel imperative of option for the poor, the Church must labor society, we need to keep unmasking and dig- this time of your life—namely your parents or change of our MAPS—Mindsets, Attitudes,
to try evangelizing and transforming our country’s politics, its ging into what is real and what is pretence. guardian. Again, I say, if you keep it secret— Practices, in order to get to cross the GAP to
institutions, relationships, values and behavior so that politics Otherwise, it will destroy us, just as catering to you are in for much disappointment. our God: arrive at our Goals, Aspirations and
will work preferentially for the poor. the instant promises of convenience, popular- And what about the guys? What are you Passion. Aren’t these what truly matter? Are
– Pastoral Exhortation on Philippine Politics, 1997 ity, comfort and fun has inflicted so much harm into? Will that porno cell phone display or you going to begin now? Go tell the truth
and depression among our youth. pass-around naked images make you a more and keep affirming it!

Fr. Roy Cimagala

www.cbcpmonitor.com
cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net Perverting our subjectivity
Candidly Speaking to subjectivism
A RECENT news item reports that the UN, with heavy support from councils today are enacting reproductive health decrees, obviously
the current US government headed by Barack Obama, is adopting riding on a bandwagon, following a global pied pier that dangles a
Pedro C. Quitorio the resolutions of the 1995 UN women´s conference in Beijing that lot of money and support.
Editor-in-Chief gives women absolute right over their body. But how else can we explain the irrationality of their position when
It said that in that UN meeting, abortion was not anymore an issue. it can open the floodgates to everyone claiming absolute rights not
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos It was a foregone conclusion, a shoo-in, accepted by the majority of only for their body, but also for anything they like? If the women
Associate Editor Feature Editor the members and not deserving any further discussion, thanks to the now can do anything with their body, who can stop the men also
rousing speech of its main global proponent Hillary Clinton. to do the same, the adolescents, the children, the different groups
Melo M. Acuña Laarni Bergado Women can now do anything with their body, a doctrine meant to also to do the same?
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor be the basis for women´s right to abortion, among many other things. It´s true that we all are free, and because of that we are subjects
The same thinking is behind the global promotion for reproductive of our own actions, conscious of them and responsible for them too.
Roy Q. Lagarde Ernani M. Ramos health, safe sex, same-sex union, etc. That´s the reason we have subjectivity. That´s because we think, we
News Editor Circulation Manager
This is a great cause for concern, and even for alarm. That this per- choose, decide, love or reject, orient our actions to some goal, etc. In
Laurence John R. Morales Marcelita Dominguez verted reasoning has gone up to the level of the UN indicates that not short, we are responsible for our actions.
Layout Artist and Online Editor Comptroller only human, but also some super-human or sub-human forces are at But that subjectivity, by the very nature of our being persons
work. I don´t think this is just a usual social or cultural phenomenon, who think and are free and responsible, necessarily leads us to be
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Com- a purely human affair. There are spirits behind this development. connected with others, let alone, with God who is supposed to be
munications Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and We cannot remain passive in the face of this disturbing phenom- our Creator, the Author of everything, of what is right and wrong,
business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila.
enon. Here in our country, some prominent voices echo the same sen- what is good and evil.
P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO.
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. timents. They are public officials and even university presidents. Our subjectivity can´t help but enter into the dynamics of intersub-
ISSN 1908-2940 A senator now running for president openly batted for safe sex. jectivity. Our life is always a life of sharing, of inter-personal relation.
In fact, many of our candidates mouth similar mantras. Many city Speaking / A5
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010
Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD
Pastoral Companion
“WE share because we care!” This was one of the favorite proverbs of
Atty. Mordino Cua, who passed away on Feb. 22, 2010, at the age of
81 in Cagayan de Oro City. In many ways, the saying also epitomizes
the life of Atty. “Mords” Cua, a volunteer coop leader for more than
half a century and acknowledged as one of the founding fathers of the
cooperative movement in Mindanao and the rest of the country.
I first met Mordino Cua in 1968-70 when he would occasionally
invite me together with foreign and Filipino students of the South
East Asia Rural Social Leadership Institute (SEARSOLIN) to visit his
training center in his home along Burgos street. This center came to be
called the Southern Philippines Educational Cooperative Center.
In many ways, SPECC was the continuation of a dream that
started with Mordino’s student days at the Ateneo de Cagayan in
the late 40’s to 50’s and his association with Fr. William Masterson,
S.J. Recalling his college education, he would write: “I imbibed from
the Jesuits the following: (a) a good philosophy of life, which is ‘to
be a person for others’…; (b) a rich education that emphasized the
quest for excellence despite the drawbacks; and (c) a prayerful life
and a spirituality rooted in work for justice.”
This driving force was harnessed in Mordino’s life-time involve-
ment in building up cooperative structures. He became a founding
director of The Ateneo Cooperative Credit Union in 1954, the first
credit coop in Cagayan de Oro. This coop eventually expanded its
membership beyond the Ateneo campus and was renamed the First
Community Credit Cooperative (FICCO), now one of the largest
“millionaire” coops in Mindanao.
Other coop institutions that Atty. Cua co-founded included the
Oro Cooperative Credit Union in 1956, SPECC in 1966, Credit Life
Mutual Benefit Services (or CLIMBS) in 1967, the country’s first
coop insurance company, and NATCCO (known now as the Na-
tional Confederation of Cooperatives) in 1977. In the same year, he
also acted as the planning chairman for the 4th Asian Credit Union
Training Conference in Seoul, South Korea, which gave birth to the
Asian Confederation of Credit Unions (ACCU).
Opinion
Tribute to a Coop
pioneer
In his autobiographical “My Cooperative Journey,” Mordino
recalls the years of turbulence under martial law in the 70’s when
the government blocked the registration of any privately-initiated
venture using the name cooperative. Thus was born the Mindanao
Alliance of Self-Help societies (MASS), using the phrase “self-help
societies” in lieu of the word “cooperative.” As part of the Marcos
regime’s harassment, Mordino himself, with the treasurer and
cashiers of SPECC, were arrested in November 1975 and flown to
Camp Crame.
Looking back on those years, Mordino notes the dismal failure
of the government-imposed straitjacketing of all coops under the
Samahang Nayon program. On the other hand, NATCCO with its
more than 1,700 primary coops has grown tremendously with as-
sets now measured in several billions of pesos. In the aftermath of
the EDSA I People Power revolution, Atty. Cua co-authored with
Senator Aquilino Pimentel, Jr., the book, “The Cooperative Code
of the Philippines (R.A. 6938) and the Cooperative Development
Authority Law (R.A. 6939).” This established the guidelines for the
government’s support for privately-initiated cooperatives.
And yet, going beyond the numbers, Atty. Cua notes how the
coop movement may be losing its original spirit with the omission
of its intensive educational and training program. “Before we can
even hope to effect a meaningful change in the lives of the poor,”
he stresses, “there must be a change in their outlook, in their way of
thinking.” He further notes that other countries like Korea have set
up masteral programs in cooperatives and their coop movement has
grown about 30 times more than ours. Should we not also dream “of
giving our school system a cooperative face”? he asks, challenging
the next generation of coop leaders.
Mordino’s coop journey has ended. But he has left behind a multi-
faceted trail which in the words of a close associate reveals “a won-
derful person, a loving father, a remarkable dynamic leader, in some
aspects a controversial figure (who is a leader who is not?), a loyal
and caring friend, an educator, and a deeply spiritual person.”
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola, SSL
A5
Jose B. Lugay
Laiko Lampstand
The first agenda—
‘Fight corruption!’
THE presidential campaign has reached fever pitch. The dif-
ferent election surveys are fuelling the newspaper headlines,
that presidential candidates 1 and 2 are rated as tie, explaining
that a variation of 2 points in a survey is within the statistical
margin of error. One of the promises of candidates to attract
more voters is to vow that when elected, he/she will fight
corruption, the evil of Philippine society today that makes
the rich richer and the poor poorer—all because of power and
greed. These different issues are bannered in the May 8–13,
2010 front pages:
- Abad: The Liberal Party remains confident that their “mes-
sage of change and freedom from corruption will hold sway in
the end and that the voters will make the right decision come
this May election.”
- Gordon: “We have to be wary of these paid surveys ...We
must not let these surveys take away our right to choose who
among the candidates is the most capable to be the next presi-
dent... We have to put in mind that it is the record of service,
the track record and not the surveys that matter in choosing the
next leaders of our country.”
- Senator Pangilinan: “Despite being the first candidate to
run in the presidential derby, and an unprecedented ad buy of
over one billion pesos since November of last year, Sen. Villar
continues to fall short of his ultimate objective—that of overtak-
ing Sen. Noynoy “
- Salceda: Rich also became richer. “My biggest frustration
as a presidential adviser is that 34 quarters on uninterrupted
expansion in the past nine years did little to reduce poverty
and the number of poor people.” This is a subtle way of say-
ing that the money spent for investment projects benefited the
rich investors and not the great number of poor people. These

Random thoughts
SOMEONE recently reminded me to share
stories of how God is changing our country,
one person and one group at a time.
I recall an incident when I was in my final
year in college. Out of the blue, a thought
comes to me to purchase a notebook and call
it “random thoughts on cluttered wisdom.”
Nothing came out of that notebook.
Now more than 30 years later, I will once
more share my random thoughts, this time
with individuals who, in one way or another,
are making the Dilaab journey with me.
*****
I still recall his stare: they were from in-
credulous, even suspicious, eyes. I could not
blame him; after all, what was this priest who
was speaking before candidates to the May
2010 elections really trying to achieve?
My friend was one of 24 candidates from
the town of Barobo, Surigao del Sur who at-
tended the discernment integrity recollection
for candidates last 16 and 20 February. This
was the longest recollection so far, all of one
and a half days. The parish priest and his
assistant really did a good job in convincing
them to “waste” time. After all, the gathering
did not bring in voters or the media. It was a
sacred space for listening to God.
On the Sunday after the recollection, the
Teresa R. Tunay, OCDS
candidates signed a meaningful covenant at
the 6 am mass.
My friend was now smiling.
*****
Our Roman Catholic bishops have called
on the faithful to be involved in “principled
partisan politics.” What do they mean?
I got part of the answer during a recent
recollection for candidates in Tagbilaran.
While being members of the same Charis-
matic community, the candidates came in
different political colors. They adopted the
term being promoted by CiDE: candidates
have “co-candidates,” not political oppo-
nents. While still a long way from eradicating
political violence, this language moves away
from the Maguindanao syndrome.
Some of the participants in the recollection
were no strangers to violence. One was happy
to note that his name had to do with “life”
(“vita”). “One day several years ago,” he said,
“I was a political candidate in our town and I
was part of this group that was ambushed.”
He then showed us his tell-tale scars.
“While I was down,” he continued, “I still
managed to call upon God to save me.”
He now runs as an independent and, with
very little resources, is unafraid since he feels
it is God who is calling him to serve.
Spaces of Hope
We pray for the safety of all our candi-
dates.
*****
When I was a little boy, I had the typical ten-
dency to choose my food. My father had a very
effective way of dealing with this defect.
He would fire up my imagination by
telling me that each food group actually
played a critical role in the defense of my
body. Rice granules, for instance, were foot
soldiers ready to engage minute enemies.
Eggs were aircraft carriers. Tomatoes were
grenades. Bananas were submarines. So on
and so forth.
His approach was indeed convincing. This
was my first exposure to a communication
plan that changed behavior because it en-
tered the world of its target audience.
Dilaab is blessed with very committed
volunteers from the world of communica-
tions. They advise us on how to focus on a
single message and that less is more. They
have been with us in our defining moments
as a movement.
Jesus was a great communicator. He used
images that people understood and he em-
bodied their deepest aspirations.
Elections 2010 offer an opportunity to
evangelize politics.
businessmen are the mall owners, the favored construction
companies, the foreign investors in mining and manufacturing
enterprises for export.
- Campaign managers see to it that the party’s candidates
attend all presidential fora especially if the invitation comes
from a “captive” vote-rich organization. It is hoped that ac-
cepting the organizer’s invitation would mean assurance of
getting the votes as dictated by the organization’s leader. For
their absence in the presidential forum set by Pastor Apollo
Quiboloy in Davao City last March 9, the self-styled ‘Son of
God’, measured Aquino and found him wanting. He decried
Villar’s absence as ‘unfair’.
Just recently one of the candidates said he will no longer
attend any forum since it takes time away from direct contact
with more voters in the provinces, specially the vote-rich D
and E voters. Whatever campaign strategy these candidates
use, it is a fact that they will need funds to proceed with the
campaign. On the same week, Vice-Presidential candidate of
Lakas-Kampi-CMD, Ed Manzano was observed to have been
absent in the campaign sorties of his presidential candidate,
Gibo Teodoro, for lack of funds from the party to support his
campaign. The presidential candidates have now spent the fol-
lowing amounts: P64 million for G. Teodoro, P67.3 million for
R. Gordon, P87 million for Noynoy Aquino, P88 million for J.
Estrada and P1.31 billion for M. Villar from Nov. 1, 2009 to Mar.
2, 2010, – an amount almost equal to the TV ad expenditures
of his 4 rivals as mentioned. While Villar claims that he spent
his own money for the ads, the rest of the candidates got funds
from party contribution, that is, from vested interests which
must be paid back by the candidate once elected to office. These
are the debts that must be repaid. How? From commissions of
government contracts!
A World Bank study of the “Anatomy of Graft and Corruption
in the Philippines” revealed the following examples of corruption
scandals committed by high government officials:
- The case of the P7 million in Euro dollars laundered by top
PNP Generals, held for questioning by the Russian immigration
authorities after attending the Interpol General Assembly in
Moscow in 2008.

Messianic colors - Extradition of Joc-joc Bolante, former Department of Agricul-

…and that’s the truth!
THE Transfiguration story never fails to fascinate me. It leads me to
a multi-faceted reflection that can run the gamut from the mystical to
the mundane. Right now, when local mass media show our country
becoming increasingly “politicized”, the image of Jesus’ clothing
turning “dazzling white” reminds me of my answer to people who
ask me whom I’m voting for president.
I was incredulous when even comfortably settled Pinoys in Swit-
zerland curiously sought my opinion recently on the presidentiables.
You would think that—being productively employed, having an
active social life, and enjoying well-appointed homes—they’d be
the least concerned about politics back home, but yes, they wanted
to know, because the negative press about the Philippines abroad
implies that the country is fast going to the dogs and we need a
messiah to save us. So they actually asked me pointblank if I was
for yellow, orange, green, etc.) I grinned and said I’m for white,
case closed. As far as I know, no presidentiable wears white, so that
takes care of the secrecy of my vote, hah!
In the time of brilliant Roman writer, statesman and orator Marcus
Tullius Cicero (106-43 BC), candidates for election wore white togas.
In fact, the word “candidate” comes from the Latin candidatus which
means “clothed in white.” Candidates for election in ancient Rome
wore white to signify their purity—or at least the cleanliness of their
intentions to serve the public.
Today, in the Philippines, presidentiables and their followers
wear green, red, orange, yellow, like identifying flags. Colors are
loaded, they’re not just pretty symbols of political ideals or loyalty to
a candidate. Are the presidentiables’ colors then meant to represent
something? Wonder how they choose the colors they choose.
Yellow may mean courage and optimism (sunny yellow), but it
could also mean a warning (yellow traffic light), cowardice (“yellow-
bellied”) or sensationalism (“yellow journalism”).
Red may stand for so many things, like love (the ubiquitous Val-
entine hearts), martyrdom (color of blood), danger (red flag, traffic
light), communism (Red Guards) or blood in one’s hands (that’s
Speaking / A4
No one, no group can claim to live by himself or by themselves. No
one, no group can be absolute authors of the laws to govern us. No
one, no group can be a law to himself or themselves.
You do that and you immediately get into trouble. You will lapse
into the world of subjectivism, a parody of our subjectivity. You will
simply be tossed to and fro in an ocean of relativism where without
absolute guide your survival will just be a matter of brute force and
violence and other forms of inhuman and unfair justice.
Our individuality is not meant to freeze into individualism and
isolationism. A recluse, unless he is one due to ascetical reasons, and
an asocial or anti-social person are always an anomaly.
And this is what the UN seems to be promoting now. It seems it
has not learned its lesson after it has burned its fingers with its rash
self-explanatory).
Orange, the color of citrus juices (take note, diet fanatics), sunsets
and eastern monks’ robes (some Buddhists and Krishna followers),
is supposed to be the color of wellness and healing—but it could
also be a crazy mix-up of bad yellows and reds, get it?
Green could represent many positive things, like growth (new
leaves and green thumbs), a clean diet (“Finish your veggies!”), a
healthy environment (as in golf lawns?), safety (green traffic light);
but it could also mean envy and jealousy (green-eyed monster), or
inexperience, naivete and gullibility (greenhorn).
Pardon me if I miss other colors—is any presidentiable wearing
Lenten purple, sky blue, lavender, fuchsia brown or pink? (They say
candidates would never wear brown because it’s boring, or pink be-
cause it’s the color of indecision, reserved for males undergoing sexual
identity crisis. Joke, joke!) If there are other presidentiable colors,
maybe they should advertise more to get noticed. (Ouch!) Whatever
the color, why do candidates choose them? Are they basing their plat-
forms on the meaning of their standard colors? Don’t you think they
owe us an explanation somehow—otherwise voters would rely on their
own perceptions, like some people who actually say they will vote for
the green candidate because green is the color of prosperity (greenback,
green card, Sto. Niño in green robe holding a green pouch).
Seriously, do colors really mean so much to the voters that they
will choose the country’s savior according to color preferences? I for
one wouldn’t vote according to color, nor for a “candidatus” simply
because he/she wears white. (Some politicians look good in white,
so they wear it, but remember whitened sepulchers?)
In the Transfiguration, Jesus’ “face changed in appearance and His
clothing became dazzling white” while He was praying. Repeat:
while He was praying. Praying for Jesus is oneness with the Father.
Total surrender to the Father’s will. To my mind, no public servant
can ever be one with the Father in the way Jesus was and is. And
that is why—for me—no presidentiable can ever, ever, ever be a
messiah. And that’s the truth.
support of the global warming issue, now largely discredited by
scientists worldwide. It´s declaring women to be a law to themselves,
detached from an absolute standard.
We cannot remain passive here. This development is a call to ac-
tion. We have to understand that our life will always be some kind
of warfare, not only in the personal level involving internal and
spiritual situations, but also in the global level.
For Christian believers, this battle will always be a war of peace
and love, of truth, justice and charity. But just the same, the unavoid-
able aspects of warfare will always be there—the cut and thrust, the
discussion and arguments, the effort to clarify and win followers
through their heart and mind, dialogue, patience, understanding,
mercy, etc. We have to be ready for all these.
ture Undersecretary for his P728 million fertilizer scam.
- Senator M. Villar axed by his colleagues in the Senate on the
allegation of double insertion in the C-5 extension road project
budget.
- The controversial ZTE-NBN (National Broadband Network)
deal by retired Comelec chair, Benjamin Abalos.
It further states that graft and corruption in the Philippines are
not a monopoly of the high and mighty; it has become endemic
in all walks of life – from city hall officials giving the public a
run-around before issuing the necessary permits, to multi-million
commissions for big national projects.
What is corruption? Corruption is defined by World Bank as
“the abuse of public office for private gain.” Transparency In-
ternational (TI), the leading NGO in the global corruption effort
explains that “Corruption involves behavior on the part of the
officials in the public sector, whether politicians or civil servants,
in which they improperly and unlawfully enrich themselves or
those close to them, by the misuse of the public power entrusted
to them.”
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) defines corruption as the
“abuse of public or private office for personal gain. It is useful to
differentiate types of corruption in terms of its scale:
Grand corruption—typically involves senior officials, major
decisions or
contracts for the exchange of large sums of money.
Petty corruption—which involves low level officials in the pro-
vision of routine services or goods and small sums of money;
Systemic corruption—which permeates an entire government
or ministry;
Individual corruption—more isolated and sporadic;
Syndicated corruption—elaborate systems are devised for
receiving and disseminating bribes;
Non-syndicated corruption—in which individual officials
may seek or compete for bribe in an ad hoc and uncoordinated
fashion.
The simplest explanation for the existence of corruption is
human greed. The examples of the types of corruption commit-
ted daily in the Philippines, if subjected to the criteria set by the
World Bank, is too numerous to count. One specific example
that appears in this week’s headline is the accusation of Senator
candidate, Teofisto Guingona, Jr.:
“The so-called crocodiles or corrupt government officials are
raking in millions of dollars on commissions on rice importa-
tion.” Total imports this year will reach a total of 2.45 million
metric tons (49 million 50kg bags). A rice importer interviewed
by ABS-CBN’s Anthony Taberna claimed that there used to be
a commission of $25 -$30 per metric ton. It has now increased
to $80-$100 per metric ton.
Isn’t this a grand and systemic corruption? Will the winning
presidential candidate of the May 10 election fight corruption
within the government system as his first agenda? He needs all
our prayers and help to succeed in this fight.
 Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010

CBCP official urges authorities to

act vs narco-politics Arroyo told to leave a legacy
of transparency
AN official of the Catholic Bishops’ Confer- to pose a significant national threat. A CATHOLIC bishop called on President Arroyo to leave a legacy
ence of the Philippines (CBCP) called on In its 2010 International Narcotics Control of transparency in government before her term ends in June.
the authorities to ensure that drug money Strategy Report, it said that with the upcom- Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo urged Arroyo to
will not influence the result of the May 2010 ing May 10 elections, there is fear that drug ask his allies in the administration-dominated Congress to pass
elections in the country. money supporting candidates may affect a bill that would give the people right to information of all gov-
CBCP Media Office Director Msgr. Pedro election results. ernment transactions.
Quitorio expressed fear Tuesday that drug PDEA is leading the fight against illegal Citing the country’s growing poverty, Pabillo said he is not
money might end up in the campaign kitty drugs, but its head Gen. Dionisio Santiago sure of what could be Arroyo’s legacy to the country.
of politicians. complained of the “inconsistent laws” apply- But it’s not yet too late, he said.
It’s not enough, he said, that the Philip- ing to the arrest of suspects and prosecution “One thing that she can do is to pass the freedom to information
pine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) of drug cases. bill that could help foster transparency and good governance.
would only identify those candidates receiv- At the same forum, Santiago, in particular, That could be her good legacy,” Pabillo said.

© Pinky Barrientos, FSP / CBCP Media

ing money from drug traffickers for their lamented the failure of arrests and prosecu- The bill seeks to promote the state policy of full public disclo-
campaign. tion of because of legal technicalities. sure of all its transactions. Information may be obtained through
“Authorities must also make arrests and He said the agency also cannot fully imple- a request submitted to the concerned agency either personally,
file cases against them,” Quitorio said at ment its mandate to combat the illegal drug though mail or other electronic means.
“The Forum,” a media discussion organized trade because of lack of finances and other The measure, Pabillo said could help minimize, if not eradi-
by the Catholic Media Network (CMN) and deficiencies. cate, the massive corruption in the government which continue
CBCPNews. “We know what is going on but there are to plague the country.
Earlier, the US State Department reported things which we can’t accomplish on our Last month, various civic groups and media practitioners have
that the Philippines’ drug problem continues Msgr. Pedro Quitorio own,” said Santiago. (CBCPNews) asked the House of Representatives to ratify the bill as soon as
session resumes on May 31.
Condom / A1 The Senate ratified the reconciled version of the bill on Feb. 1,
Multi-million dollar industry of her administration on artificial family planning. but the Lower House failed to do so for lack of quorum on the
Bullecer, one of the protesters, said that they would continue Arroyo had been claiming that she is still for natural family plan- last day of the session on Feb. 3.
resisting condom use because it promotes underage sex and im- ning but the health department, so far, is doing otherwise. A similar action by the lawmakers in Congress is needed
morality. Mendiola said the fate of the promotion of contraceptives— before the measure is transmitted to Arroyo for final approval.
“We are here to bring our sentiments. Condoms, in the first place, considered one of the most contested issues among Church leaders Lawmakers are currently on a recess for the electoral campaign
are never proven to prevent HIV,” he said. and State officials—still lies in the hands of the chief executive. period. (CBCPNews)
“In fact, [in] countries whose government openly promotes condoms,
one can see skyrocketing cases of HIV/AIDS instead,” he said. HIV network
According to Bullecer, most of the protesters against condom distri- The Catholic Church is willing to help the government combat Dying / A1
bution present themselves as concerned parents and taxpayers who rising HIV infections in the country but denounce role of condoms pital, Siasi District Hospital and Panamao District Hospital in Sulu,
are against the DOH’s “anti-Catholic, and immoral propaganda.” in its fight. and the Sergio Osmeña District Hospital in Zamboanga Del Norte
“Condom is a multi-million dollar industry. This is a battle now Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo said AIDS is a tragedy are among the 200 hospitals that have ceased its operations because
between the concerned citizens and taxpayers versus DOH,” said that cannot be overcome by money alone and neither through the of lack of health personnel; while the Calbayog District Hospital,
Bullecer. distribution of condoms. Gandara District Hospital, Basey District Hospital and Tarangnan
“What is important is the behavior change of the people that they District Hospital in Western Samar, the Malipayon District Hospital,
More rallies become responsible in their sexual life,” he said in an interview over San Jose District Hospital and San Andres District Hospital in Rom-
The rally in Cebu City came four days after another group of Church-run Radyo Veritas. blon, and the Jolo Provincial Hospital are only operating “partially”
parents brought the debate on condom use to the doorstep of the At the First National Catholic Forum on HIV/AIDS held recently, due to same reason.
Department of Health main office in Manila. Pabillo also led the creation of a network, composed of religious
As of press time, another major rally is being prepared by the congregations and organizations, to fight the disease. The State itself, aggravates the problem
country’s biggest fraternal organization of Catholic men. The Church had a big role to play in stopping the spread of the “It’s the government to blame for the Philippine health sector’s
Organizers said hundreds of members of the Knights of Columbus disease, said Pabillo who chairs the National Secretariat for Social woes,” says the militant alliance of physicians, Health Alliance for
are expected to attend the “Walk for Life” from Intramuros to Rajah Action (Nassa) of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philip- Democracy (Head).
Sulayman Park in Malate, in Manila. pines (CBCP). “The implementation of “backward” health policies by the
Last March 12, around 60 members of the Alliance of Concerned He said the network is composed of health experts from various Macapagal-Arroyo administration triggers the massive closure of
Parents against Condoms slammed the DOH’s pro-contraceptive Catholic hospitals, community workers and religious leaders. health facilities and pushes health workers to go abroad, instead of
policy, saying that there’s no such thing as safe sex.” The bishop said the network is also willing to collaborate serving the Filipino patients,” said Dr. Geneve E. Rivera, Head’s
They also called on the government to implement measures that with government agencies in their fight to stop the spread of the secretary-general, in a statement.
do not offend “morality” to stop the spread of HIV and avoid un- disease.
wanted pregnancy. “We need to help each other because the government cannot do More nurses are going abroad
“The use of condom is another way to promote free sex,” said Jose this alone. The church also has its obligation like teaching moral In 2008 data of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administra-
Rufo Fernandez, one of the protesters. values,” said Pabillo. tion (POEA), the State’s institution that is taking care of the labor
During the rally, protesters distributed flyers, reading “There’s no Assisting AIDS victims while undergoing treatment and giving export, reveals that professional nurses and caregivers constitute
such thing as safe sex” to pedestrians and motorists. livelihoods are among the goals of the advocacy group, he said. the 6.8 percent of the deployed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)
The group vowed to initiate more rallies in other parts of Metro The forum was attended by the Department of Health’s Epidemi- that year.
Manila in the coming days, saying the public needs to know the real ology Chief Dr. Eric Tayag and UN-AIDS country coordinator Ma. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Country Cooperation
score about the contraceptive policy. Teresa Maries Bagasao. Strategy (CCS) brief states that 70 percent of nursing graduate opt
Tayag, in his presentation, reported the DOH’s data of the rising to work overseas, making the Philippines the biggest supplier of
Ban prostitution HIV cases in the country and the government’s response to it. nurses.
Another protester Alice Mendiola called on the government to Bagasao said the creation of the Catholic network on AIDS “comes The CCS also revealed that certain big hospitals have been losing
close down short-time motels and ban prostitution in the country. at the right time”, saying that such cases in the country have reached an average of 10-12 nurses a month since 2001, and health staff reten-
She said it’s ironic that the government flaunts its anti-HIV campaign at an “alarming” level. tion remains an enormous challenge for the Philippines in order to
and yet tolerate major venues which cause the disease to spread. She said the UN-AIDS understands that religious leaders can play achieve the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
“Why do they have to promote condoms that have been proven an important role.
to be ineffective in the battle against AIDS in other countries,” “We can do something about it. We will support this network Curriculum tailored for labor export
Mendiola said. so that we will be able to comprehensively address the problem,” The 2006 World Health Report (WHR) published by the WHO
The protesters also called on President Arroyo to clarify the stand said Bagasao. reveals that the Philippine nursing curriculum is really designed
for labor export.
Anti-mining / A1 “The Philippines, as part of a larger policy to encourage worker
to bypass this restriction with the help of vironmental Legal Assistance Center (ELAC) Fr. Joseph Cacacha, parish priest of Our migration, has been training health workers, especially nurses, for
DENR,” Mandawa said. legal officer Atty. Edward Lorenzo said Lady of Lourdes, also criticized the joint export for many years—they constitute 76% of foreign nurse gradu-
Meanwhile, those who attended the mining companies have already consulted consultation by mining companies saying ates in the United States, for example,” observes the WHO.
consultation were given P200 each as an the people of Brooke’s Point three times and their strategy only showed they wanted to
incentive. Mambalot barangay captain Ad- thrice they failed to get the people’s nod on rush the process to their advantage. Setbacks
erna Erlinda Edep, a pro-mining advocate the project. “The term of known pro-mining Mayor While the WHO sees health workers’ migration is a positive de-
admitted the mining companies did so to The mining companies’ proposed area of Cesareo R. Benito Jr. is about to end and these velopment in terms of skills training and development, as the nurses
encourage attendance. operation falls in “core zone” area, inside mining companies fear that they will have and doctors bring home new skills and methods they have acquired
“It is really shameful how these mining the newly-declared Mt. Mantalingahan a more difficult time to get the social license abroad, it has also its setback.
companies manipulate our people with Protected Landscape (MMPL) where mining they need and/or LGU support in the next The WHO said, when large numbers of doctors and nurses leave,
bribery. With the impacts of El Niño caus- is not allowed. administration,” Cacacha said. the countries that financed their education lose a return on their
ing prices of food to rise, poor people easily Lorenzo said the law prohibits mining at At least 2,000 anti-mining advocates from investment and end up unwillingly providing the wealthy coun-
succumbed to the Php 200.00 offer,” added Brooke’s Point because it will encroach on concerned barangays in Brooke’s Point tries to which their health personnel have migrated with a kind of
Mandawa. areas under maximum protection defined have attended the public meeting spear- “perverse subsidy.”
Palawan NGO Network Incorporated under the Strategic Environmental Plan for headed by ALDAW Network to discuss However financial loss is not the most damaging outcome of the
advocacy officer Beth Maclang said more Palawan (Republic Act 7611). the issue. Diaspora of health workers but the impact of it in the sector itself.
than 3,000 people attended the joint public “Ninety per cent of the mining operations ALDAW, an advocacy-campaign network “When a country has a fragile health system, the loss of its work-
consultation. are situated in ‘core zones’—areas above of Indigenous Peoples jointly constituted force can bring the whole system close to collapse and the conse-
“We fear that they will use this number 1,000 meters in elevation, virgin forests or by NATRIPAL (United Tribes of Palawan) quences can be measured in lives lost. In these circumstances, the
to declare a successful consultation without primary growth forests, areas with steep and BANGSA PALAWAN PHILIPPINES calculus of international migration shifts from brain drain or gain
taking into account the real stand of major- gradient (above 50% slope), and critically (Indigenous Alliance for Equity and Well- to “fatal flows”,” the WHO report said. (Noel Barcelona)
ity of people’s strong opposition to mining,” threatened/endangered habitats of rare being), held the discussion in cooperation
Quick count / A1
Maclang said. endangered species or habitats of Palawan with the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, PNNI,
But affected communities showed their local endemic species of flora and fauna,” ELAC and other environmental groups. Namfrel’s co-petitioner is the National Secretariat for Social
strong opposition to the mining projects. En- added Lorenzo. (Pinky Barrientos, FSP) Action–Justice and Peace (Nassa) of the Catholic Bishops’ Confer-
ence of the Philippines.
Automated / A3 Both organizations earlier vowed to bring the case up to the Su-
country’s political institutions. What we are against is the pre- minder that it can happen in the coming election. It is an undeniable preme Court for the Comelec to allow them to conduct or be involved
cipitate manner with which the automated election system (AES) disaster for the automated election if it truly materializes. However, in the manual audit and external parallel count.
is being deployed, and the propagation of the falsehood that the possibility of hacking rears two faces--from the side of those who Cuisia said all they want was to help the Comelec in ensuring ac-
automation in itself reduces or even eliminates electoral fraud,” just want to prove that they can re-program an otherwise impervious curacy and fairness in the country’s first automated elections.
Natividad said. system and those who want to win the elections in any which way The poll body has already assigned the Parish Pastoral Council
This is notwithstanding Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) they want,” said Factolerin. for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) as its official citizens’ arm in the
assurance that the technology to be used in the national polls is Factolerin explained that the simplest hacking method is the national and automated polls.
“hack-free.” DDoS or the distributed denial of service that can be done by any Namfrel also revealed it would no longer do its quick counts
Contrary to Comelec’s claims, computer expert Romeo C. Fac- ordinary computer programming student back in the 80s and still because the automated polls promise results in 2-3 days.
tolerin said, there is no such “hack-free” technology. pose a significant threat in today’s web 2.0 system. Cuisia said Namfrel and Nassa, through its Bantay ng Bayan
In an interview with CBCP News, he said that the Precinct Count “If the automated election procedure relies on a web based ballot (BnB) program, would instead focus on monitoring the Comelec’s
Optical Scan (PCOS) can be cracked or “hacked.” counting and data collection, the hacker using DDoS can simply performance and the credibility of the election results and other
“Hacking is simply re-programming or re-configuring a com- paralyzed the server, thus denying any access. Votes cannot pass “critical aspects of the election process.”
puter’s system to bend it the way the hacker wants it to be. In through the main system, thereby cannot be counted. This “freezing” Namfrel said the BnB reports will be given before and after the
simple terms it is a way to make the computer program obey a of server could take longer, hours, days, weeks depending on the elections. On May 10, it will release two reports in the morning and
certain command away from the facilitator’s original intention,” hacker and the ability of the server to “unhack” itself,” Factolerin in the evening based on data from election sources and documents
Factolerin said. furthered. as well as information from its volunteers.
“Manipulation of the election program and the re-configuration of In a press briefing on Friday, BnB released its first report on
Hacking: an omen of fraudulent elections? the system could spell fraud, unless the hacker only wants to prove Comelec’s preparations, expressing alarming concerns about the
Last January, retired Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Oscar V. that he hacks just for the sake of his self-esteem. Otherwise, if the country’s preparedness for its first ever automated elections.
Cruz has warned the public about the possible failure of elections as program or the system is compromised, the image that it suggests They also noted that the Comelec appeared behind its schedule
five government websites were already hacked. This, according to is clear—fraudulence. It is very hard on the part of the Comelec to of deadlines and deliverables and that the poll body was lenient to
Cruz, can be considered as “big bad omen of things to come about prove that there is no cheating that transpired if in the first place the delays incurred by Smartmatic TIM Corp., the automated elec-
the forthcoming national automated elections.” their system had experienced hacking, but of course we can expect tions supplier.
Factolerin seemed to agree with the 75-year old prelate’s “pre- they will not tell this to the public,” he added. “Deadlines are not being enforced and the required levels of ac-
monition.” Factolerin urged the Comelec to further educate the public and curacy have not been attained in the pilot tests,” the group said.
“It may look like a coincidence, but it establishes a horrifying re- ensure them that they can trust the AES. (Noel Sales Barcelona) (CBCPNews)

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010
Briefing
Cebu archdiocese supports Vote God campaign
CEBU CITY—The Archdiocese of Cebu has expressed support
for the Vote God campaign that was launched through the
initiative of the Circles for Discernment for Elections (CiDE)
March 9, at the Betania Retreat House in Cebu City. Arch-
bishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal said the campaign will further
help in sustaining political awareness among the electorate.
(Kate Laceda)
Thousands protest vs Ayala watershed mining
ZAMBOANGA CITY—Some 10,000 farmers, teachers and
church workers marched in peaceful protest along seaside
streets of this city recently to raise their opposition against a
proposed mining project in Zamboanga’s Ayala Watershed.
Residents and anti-mining advocates had been opposing the
government’s issuance of permit to Rigid Aggregates Mining
Corporation (RAMC) to undertake mining activities within the
watershed area. (CBCPNews)
Only 16% of labor force to benefit from wage hike
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—Only 16 percent of the total la-
bor force in the country will benefit from any legislated wage
increases, the chairman of the Philippine Chamber of Com-
merce and Industry (PCCI) said. Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis Jr. said
that of the total work force of the country, only 16% are in the
“formal” sector while the 84% are in the “informal” sector.
(Bong D. Fabe)
Mindoro Oriental gears for clean, honest polls
CALAPAN CITY—Concerned citizens here are set to join
the fun-run and Alay Lakad Para sa Mindoro and the peace-
covenant signing on March 20. “This is a step in the right direc-
tion for various sectors working together to assure everyone
of clean, honest and pro-environment election,” thus said Fr.
Andy Peter Lubi, lead convenor of the Mindoreño Movement
for Good Governance. (Fely Sevilla)
Prelate says prayer still important to attain clean polls
KORONADAL CITY—Marbel Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez
emphasized the importance of prayer especially in attaining
honest, orderly, credible and clean 2010 national and local
elections. The prelate said the people should not cease from
praying especially during this time when election is getting
nearer. “Everyone should pray because without God, we cannot
do anything and if we want to be successful in our endeavors
we must pray together,” he said. (CBCPNews)
Eco group pushes for sustainable lifestyle
QUEZON CITY—The EcoWaste Coalition is now pushing for
the promotion of sustainable lifestyle marked by active ecologi-
cal concern and responsibility. The group said that sustainable
lifestyle also means no to open burning of garbage. He said
open burning can cause damage to the human and ecological
health as well as to the properties and can also worsen the
flaming heat of summer. (Kate Laceda)
Prelate sees importance of dialogue in Basilan
ISABELA CITY— Prelature of Isabela Bishop Martin Jumoad
stressed the significance of furthering dialogue in the province
of Basilan, a predominantly Muslim area. He said that there is a
need to continue dialogue between Muslim and Catholic lead-
ers to maintain the peace in the province. (Melo M. Acuna)
Liturgy confab held to deepen Lenten celebration
MAKATI CITY— Manila’s Archdiocesan Liturgical Com-
mission held a liturgy conference which aimed to deepen the
commemoration of Lent. The event was held on March 8 at the
San Carlos Pastoral Formation Complex in Makati City which
was also intended to help the clergy in their preparation for the
Holy Week and the Easter Triduum. (Kate Laceda)
KAIROS-Canada demands release of Morong 43
ANTIPOLO CITY— Support from different ecumenical
groups has been pouring for the detained 43 health workers
in Morong, Rizal. KAIROS, a Canadian Ecumenical Justice
Initiative, demands from the Philippine government to im-
mediately release the Morong 43, which has been reportedly
tortured—physically, emotionally and psychologically. (Noel
Sales Barcelona)
Earth / A2
sufferers of climate change so they can adapt to the changing situation.
Lent is a time of fasting, which leads us to the spirit of sacrifice and not
to use things harmful to the environment,” Bishop Howlader added.
By the end of the event, which also included panel discussions, teach-
ers vowed to show a stronger commitment to saving natural resources
and protecting the environment in their localities from pollution.
Holy Cross Brother Prodip Placid Gomes, principal of St. Placid’s
High School said developed countries were not the only ones to be
blamed for climate change. Countries like Bangladesh also have to
accept some responsibility.
“We also contribute to climate change by wasting natural resources
and power, such as water, electricity and gas,” Brother Gomes said.
The Lenten season inspires us to confess our guilt and to change our
ways which then makes it possible to enlighten the students, he said.
Maria Alo Palma, a nun from Our Lady of the Missions (RNDM)
congregation and headmistress of St. Scholastica’s Girls’ High
School said that she will instruct her students not to waste water in
washrooms and toilets.
Greeta Grizel Gonsalves, a teacher from St. Placid’s School vowed
to reduce the use of electricity, gas and water at home for her Lenten
sacrifice.
Joseph Dias of St. Scholastica School said he will stop using non-
biodegradable materials. (UCAN)
May They Be One Bible Campaign
The Valentine’s Day Fun Run for a Bible in Batangas continues to run its course through Bible distributions.
The event, dubbed “Run for One”, which took place last February 14, was sponsored by the Youth for
Christ, Batangas chapter, working under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Jauod, Most Holy
Rosary Parish, Archdiocese of Lipa. Proceeds of the event went to buying 500 May They Be One Tagalog
Bibles which will be distributed on the 3rd week of March to select recipients. MTBO Bible distributions
will be as follows: 50 Bibles for the Archdiocese’s Youth Commission c/o Rev. Fr. Dakila Ramos, 100 for
Gawad Kalinga families, 100 for the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Padre Garcia, 100 for Our Lady of the Most
Holy Rosary Parish, Rosario, 50 for the Immaculate Concepcion Parish, Batangas City and 100 Bibles for
inmates of the Batangas Provincial Jail attending the Christian Life Program of CFC.
“Anything other than the moral force of the Bible will fail” (Chief Justice Reynato Puno)
Target No. of Bibles for Distribution for 2010: 200,000 cps.
No. of Bibles Distributed in February 2010: 14,472 cps.
No. of Bibles Distributed (Jan & Feb 2010): 24,841 cps.
Bible Distribution by Languages for Jan-Feb 2010 - Tagalog (11,540 cps.), English (3,689 cps.), Bicol (526 cps.), Cebuano (520 cps.), Hiligaynon (2,087 cps.),
Ilocano (4,463 cps.), Pangasinense (2,016 cps.)
No. of Bibles Distributed (from Jan 2009- Feb 2010): 103,953 + 24,841 cps. = 128,794
Parishes/Communities served in 2010: 102
Coverage of Bible Distribution for April-June 2010 based on order forms received: Naval, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Digos, Pagadian, Pampanga, Ozamis,
Butuan, Dipolog, Southern Leyte, Borongan
Total Funds Needed for Printing and Transport of Bibles in 2010: P30M
MTBO Prayer in Cebuano
M – amahimo kaming mahigugma sa imong pulong O Diyos
T – udloi kami sa paminaw ug pag-puyo sa imong pulong
B – endisyoni kadtong magpakaydap sa imong pulong
O – Ginoo, abliha ang aming kasingkasing na mahimo kaming
magihatagon aron ang uban maka-angkon og Biblia.
Diocesan News
A7
Whistleblower’s
kin still at a loss
LEGAZPI CITY— Now that He also said medium-
the body of whistleblower sized projects are being
Wilfredo “Boy” Cimanes uploaded in their websites.
Mayor was finally laid to rest, “In some instances when
his family are still facing a projects cost over P10 mil-
blank wall as to the identities lion they are published in
of the perpetrators and the national broadsheets,” he
motives of his killing. added.
Cherry Mayor, Boy’s wid- Azurin said the late “Boy”
ow who took over as Baran- Mayor renewed his license
gay Captain of Tagas, one of to pursue his construction
Daraga’s residential villages, business but has not bagged
said she still has to find out any contract with Albay’s
who were responsible and Second Engineering Dis-
discover the motives behind trict.
the killing of his husband even
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media
if the police assured to conduct Recollections
thorough investigation . Legazpi City Mayor Noel
“Several angles pointing Rosal said he has known
to the motives of killing have “Boy” Mayor since his
surfaced but these are still to schooldays.
be investigated,” she said. Interviewed by CBCP-
Mayor said she last saw her Wilfredo “Boy” Cimanes Mayor News, the three-term city
husband on February 19 and executive said the late whis-
talked to him last by phone on Feb. 26. tleblower was a close friend of his father, a former DPWH official.
The widow said she was supposed to visit her whistleblower-hus- “They used to play poker together at our home making me a close
band in Manila last Feb. 27 but failed to travel for some reasons. friend until I became city mayor,” Rosal said.
“I learned he (Boy) visited Archbishop Oscar Cruz at the CBCP be- Although they seldom met, he said they continued to be friends
fore he was shot dead,” she said, adding that she learned her husband and talked about his activities including cockfighting and his con-
was preparing some documents about ghost public works projects. tracts with DPWH.
However, the widow said she doesn’t know the details because He said he never had dealings with Mayor until he got killed. He
her husband was “secretive” until after his exposé. added the late contractor opted to do business with the Department
Asked if she’s satisfied with the way the Philippine National Po- of Public Works and Highways.
lice is handling the investigation, Mayor said she hopes there will In a related development, Legazpi Bishop Emeritus Lucilo Qui-
be no whitewash. ambao said concerned citizens should identify the “ghost projects”
“I have not been given the spot report on the fatal incident or the which was supposed to be exposed by Mayor had he not been fatally
autopsy report and all I know have been reported in the papers and ambushed last Feb. 28.
television,” she said. Quiambao believes Rizaldy Co’s Sunwest Construction and De-
“I can only hope authorities would pursue an honest-to-goodness velopment Corporation has nothing to do with the killing.
investigation and pursue all angles to solve the crime,” she added. “I know the family very well, Church-oriented,” the prelate said. He
referred to “Zaldy” as a good ex-seminarian. He added he also knows
Ghost projects Zaldy’s brother Christopher who maintains a low profile in business.
Albay’s Second District Engineer Manuel Azurin said they have “They are very peaceful people and they have no inclination to
enough safeguards or measures to prevent ghost projects. harm anyone,” he said.
Azurin, an officer of the DPWH for 42 years, said legislators’ proj- Though Bishop Quiambao was not Zaldy Co’s formator, the prel-
ects funded by their development or pork barrel funds which they ate said he knows no “black record” whatsoever.
implement, are being watched by barangay captains. He added Zaldy could have been a priest assigned to minister
He said school buildings up for construction are being closely to Catholics of Chinese origin in the diocese had it not been for the
monitored by teachers, school principals and Department of Educa- seminarian’s decision to leave the seminary to be with his sick father
tion officials. and attend to their family business. (Melo M. Acuña)
Prelate dares gov’t to fast track justice
to Maguindanao massacre victims
KORONADAL CITY—The Bishop of Marbel province. “Sino ‘yon, may prueba ba? Kung may-
called on the government to fast track the in- Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez expressed roon, parusahan mo,” he said. He added if
vestigation and prosecution of the accused in disgust over the snail-paced efforts of the there’s no proof, there is a presumption of
the Nov. 23, 2009 massacre in Maguindanao government to bring justice to the victims, innocence.
their immediate families and the accused. “How will you prove ARMM Governor
The 71-year old prelate said it is easy to ac- Zaldy Ampatuan’s involvement?” he asked.
cuse but may be hard to prove them in court. He added it is the government’s duty to
“Do not accuse unless you have proofs,” prove the ARMM governor and his other
as he called on everyone not to resort to col- relatives’ participation.
lective accusations and judgment on all the He called on government authorities to
accused in Maguindanao massacre. engage in “very serious, straight, specific and
He said every objective individual should detailed” investigation. He added had the
look for premises and “hold one’s judgment” government listened to his opinion, the cases
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media
until the formal inquiry is over. should have been for murder rather than
Gutierrez said one should look for a ma- rebellion which may not stand in court.
jor premise for the issue and the premise is Gutierrez said the Diocese of Marbel has
“Thou shalt not kill.” A minor premise gets also extended moral and financial assistance
into the picture which is Andal Ampatuan, to the victims who were from his ecclesiasti-
Jr. was reported to have led his men in the cal province which includes two towns in
Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez massacre. Sultan Kudarat province. (CBCPNews)
NGCP official on the power shortage: ‘Please pray for rain’
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY— “Please pray in Mindanao. only P6.58 per kilowatt hour against Cebu’s
for rain.” “You have to pray that God will send more P7.22/kWh and Metro Manila’s P9.32/kWh.
This was the call issued not by a Catholic rain to the right places,” he said. “What we [users] pay does not reflect the
priest or Muslim imam but by an executive Calabio’s call for prayer followed the true cost of power; we should be paying
of the country’s biggest company tasked Catholic Church’s Oratio Imperata (man- more,” he said.
with delivering safe and reliable electricity datory prayer) for rains during every mass. Mindanao has lower power rates com-
throughout the Philippine archipelago. “For everything to be normal, the water in- pared to other regions in the country because
flow must be at 120 cubic meters per second. of 51 percent of its power supply is depen-
Prayer What we have now is only 30 cubic meters dent on water.
That is the prescription of Edgardo Cal- per second,” he said. NGCP transmits electricity to various
abio, regional corporate executive of the “We have to pray for rain,” he stressed. power utilities in the country from the Na-
National Grip Corporation of the Philippines Aside from praying for rain, the Davao tional Power Corporation (NPC), which op-
(NGCP), to the worsening power shortage City-based Calabio also urged the govern- erates the hydro-power plants in Lanao del
ment to make invest- Sur (Agus Power Plant Complex) and Bukid-
ments in the power
sector in Mindanao
non (Pulangi Power Plants Complex).
The NPC’s hydro-power plants generate
attractive to inves- 70 percent of Mindanao’s power supply. And
tors by adjusting that alone is “a blessing and a curse,” he said,
the island’s power explaining that because of lower rates, no one
rates. is investing in the power sector in Mindanao.
“Adjust the rates, “Mindanao is a peculiar grid. There is so
if you would like to much hydro-power so we have lower rates.
entice investors to But it is a blessing and a curse. We have
come in; reflect the lower rates, but no one is putting up power
true cost of power,” plants because they cannot recover their
he said. investments,” he said, adding: “We have to
Average power decide: low rates without power, or higher
rate in Mindanao is rates with power.” (Bong D. Fabe)
Lahore / A2
to fight them. They are trying to evade their responsibility and are
blaming foreign involvement,” he told UCA News.
The Capuchin priest said the Church is “praying that terrorists
change their ways and find peaceful solutions to their problems.”
Father Habib was speaking on the sidelines of a service marking
Support the May They Be One Bible Campaign and help bring God’s Word to more the second anniversary of the death of Chiara Lubich, founder of
Filipino homes. Your contribution of at least P150/month will enable poor families to have
their own Bibles they can read, study and pray. For more Campaign info-visit, email or the Focolare movement.
call ECBA – Fr. Oscar Alunday, 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Mla. Telefax no. 5279386; About 300 Christians attended the March 13 service at the Sacred
ecba_cbcp@yahoo.com; www.ecba-cbcp.com; PBS-Mrs. Perry Cartera/Mrs. Juliet Rivera Heart Cathedral in Lahore.
at 890 UN Ave., Ermita Mla.; perry@bible.org.ph;juliet@bible.org.ph; www.bible.org..ph The recent spate of bombings in Lahore occurred less than a week
Tel. nos. 5215785/5267777 loc. 600, Fax No. 5215803; 09178590019 /09156727492 after the March 8 suicide bombing in front of the Special Intelligence
/09182802775 Agency’s office, which killed 14 and injured 89. (Zenit)
 A8 People, Facts & Places CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010

Church lawyers to tackle personal

ordinariates in national convention
THE Canon Law Society of the Philippines (CLSP) is set to discuss
personal ecclesiastical jurisdiction in its upcoming 18th national
convention on April 12-15 at the Elijah Spirituality Center in the
Diocese of Tagbilaran.
Departing from its original theme focusing on Tria Munera Christi,
in celebration of the Year for Priests, convention organizers will instead
discuss a topic of study on personal ecclesiastical circumscriptions.
The CLSP executive committee’s change of convention topic
came at the heels of the publication of the Apostolic Constitution
Anglicanorum coetibus by Pope Benedict XVI, providing for the
eventual erection of Personal Ordinariates for communities coming
from Anglicanism, who wished to come into full communion with
the Catholic Church, while retaining some elements of their tradition
which are compatible with Catholic doctrine.
Together with a set of Complementary Norms, this Papal legisla-
tion in effect provided for the constitution of yet another form of
inadequacy of the territorial hierarchy where they are deployed.
Resource speaker for the convention will be Professor Eduardo
non-territorial ecclesiastical jurisdiction. Baura, who will deliver three conferences on the subject. He has
It can be recalled that John Paul II had erected the first Personal published extensively regarding the topic of the present CLSP Na-
Prelature (Opus Dei) in 1982, through the Bull Ut sit, and provided tional Convention.
for the erection of Military Ordinariates in 1986, through the Ap- Baura holds Doctorates both in Canon Law and Civil Law from the
ostolic Constitution Spirituali militum curae—both of which are University of Navarre. He is a full professor at the School of Canon
phenomena of non-territorial ecclesiastical jurisdiction. Law of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, where
Of late there have been other groups of Catholic faithful that have he was the Dean for two terms, from 1999-2007.
increasingly made it clear that the traditional territorial circumscrip- He has also collaborated with several Roman Congregations and
tions have become inadequate, as in the case of refugees, migrant is a Consultor of the Congregation for Bishops.
workers, sailors, and Catholics of non-Latin rites. The four-day convention will be held in a spanking new facility within
Closer to the Philippines, there are the millions of OFWs who need the Toloto Seminary grounds, built by the diocese through the initiative
to be pastorally attended to by the Philippine hierarchy, given the of Bishop Leonardo Medroso. (Fr. Jaime Achacoso/CBCPNews)

Contributed photo

Contributed photo
Elijah Spirituality Center Professor Eduardo Baura

Pro-Life observes ‘Day of the Unborn’ on March 25

IN an effort to promote a culture
of life, love and peace as well
as give voice to the voiceless
aborted babies whose chance
to life has been snuffed out
prematurely because of abor-
tion, Pro-Life Philippines
Foundation, Inc. is commemo-
rating a “Day of the Unborn” on
March 25.
©
The annual event has been con- www.p
rol
ceived by Pro-Life Philippines to cre-
ate deeper awareness among the public
of the evils of abortion and put a stop on the
practice.
In a press release, Pro-Life said
the activity is also a way express-
ing grief for the innocent aborted
babies who never had the chance
to see “the splendor of God’s
creation,” and “never felt the
warmth of their mother’s embrace
and father’s protection.”
It also hopes the occasion would
ife.
org “serve as an awakening to those who
.ph
view abortion as a way out of pregnancy
instead of a blessing of a new life.” event and offer their prayers in memory of the
On March 24, the eve of commemoration, a babies who never had the choice to be born.
“Light a Candle for Life Ceremony” will be held “The increasing rate of abortion today has
at the Monument for the Unborn, in Plaza Miranda become a path towards moral decadence and
fronting Quiapo Church. The activity will begin devastating psycho-spiritual effects on the lives
after the 6 p.m. Mass at the Basilica of the Black of the aborted women, the men involved, and the
Nazarene. abortion providers,” it further said.
Earlier, Archbishop Paciano Aniceto, Chair of Pro-life office provides access numbers for
the Episcopal Commission on Family and Life, anyone who wishes further information in all its
has issued a letter to dioceses all over the country activities and services. It can be reached at 733-
to encourage their parishes to celebrate the Day of 7027, telefax 734-9425; 0919-2337783; email life@
the Unborn on March 25. prolife.org.ph, or visit www.prolife.org.ph. (Pinky
Pro-Life Philippines urged the public to join the Barrientos, FSP)

Paris prelate notes CBCP’s CBCP holds seminar on pastoral

efforts for Filipino migrants
THE auxiliary bishop of Paris has learned one beautiful thing from
the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Com-
counseling for women in crisis
THE Office on Women of the Catholic of abortion and the appropriate care and
mission on Migrant and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI) especially in Bishops Conference of the Philippines pastoral counseling that should be given to
their efforts of protecting the welfare of Filipino Migrants. (CBCP-OW) has convened its first those who have undergone abortion.
According to Fr. Edwin Corros, Executive Secretary of ECMI, seminar on pastoral counseling for About 185 school guidance counselors
Paris Auxiliary Bishop Eric de Moulin-Beaufort knew more about women and girls in crisis on March 10 representing the 24 towns of Plaridel have
the works of ECMI as a coordinating body of the ministry to the at the St. James the Apostle Parish in participated in the seminar.
Filipino communities overseas. Plaridel, Bulacan. At the end of the seminar, the participants
“He also learned about the CBCP’s response and concerns affecting The seminar was meant to educate have committed themselves to join the pro-
the OFWs and their families left behind,” the priest added. the guidance counselors on how they gram of the CBCP Office on Women in coun-
Corros also said that they have laid down the different programs could help in the advocacy of the OW seling their respective students, Rotea said.
and services of the commission for the local churches. in pastoral counseling of women and Giving seminars is just one of the pro-
“I explained that the work of the commission concentrates more girls in crisis. grams of the CBCP-OW in furtherance of
Contributed photo

on the families left behind, considering that children of migrants are Resource speakers of the seminar its apostolate on caring for the women and
growing up with absentee parents,” he said. were Sr. Pilar Versoza, CBCP Project girls in crisis.
The Auxiliary Bishop visited the CBCP-ECMI to strengthen the collabo- Director of Pastoral Counseling for The CBCP-OW has also established ten
ration of the “sending and receiving churches” of Filipino migrants. women and girls; Dra. Zenaida Rotea, model centers for Women in crisis with the
ECMI is a social arm of CBCP which aids Filipino migrants and Dr. Zenaida Rotea, executive secretary of the Office on
Women of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines
Executive Secretary of the CBCP Office end in view of helping women and girls who
their families left behind through their various projects. speaks to participants on how to counsel women in crisis on Women and Nellie O. Santos. are experiencing different kinds of abuses.
Moulin-Beaufort is joined by Fr. Gil Apuli, chaplain of the Filipino during a pastoral counseling seminar held recently. Versoza has presented concrete cases (Kate Laceda)
community in Paris and Elpidio Caimoy, coordinator of the Filipino

CBCP continues to help Haiti victims

Pastoral Council.
Apuli said at least 40,000 documented Filipinos are currently
working in France and Filipino chaplains are based on cities like
Paris, Marseilles and Nice. THE Catholic Bishops Confer- Legazpi, Tagum, Boac, Bangued,

Markings
“The Filipino chaplaincy in Paris has been in existence for more ence of the Philippines (CBCP) Novaliches and Alaminos.
than two decades now,” Corros said. (CBCPNews) has recently wired $48,809.00 to He said he expects more dio-
the Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti ceses will remit their contribu-

Catholic congress focuses on Archbishop Bernardito Auza for

mental retardation
THE Catholic Bishops Confer-
ence of the Philippines (CBCP)
Some of the participants of
the congress were the indi-
the earthquake victims of Haiti.
Msgr. Joselito C. Asis, CBCP
Assistant Secretary General and
Assistant Treasurer said the do-
nations came from the Catholic
faithful in response to CBCP Pres-
tions in due time. It will be
recalled that the 2nd National
Congress of the Clergy held
January 25-29, 2010 in Pasay City
also donated one million pesos
CELEBRATING. Sr. Ma Speranza Alejandro, Sr. Ma. Fides Reboldal and
for Haiti victims.
Sr. Ma. Charitas Reforeal, golden jubilee of religious profession among
the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master; March 25, 2010. His Eminence
© www.flickr.com/photos/47375982@N03

Episcopal Commission on Health
Care (CBCP-ECHC) has recently
conducted a Catholic Congress
that gives emphasis on the dig-
nity of mentally retarded indi-
viduals last February 27 at the
Paco Catholic School Manila.
Among the matters that were
discussed were the effects of hav-
ing a special child in the family;
ways to cope up with their prob-
lems and ways to educate special
children especially that of the
mentally challenged persons.
The congress also encouraged
the parents and other members
of the family to understand
their children’s situation and to
keep believing in God.
“We are encouraging the
families to accept the situation
of their children and they should
have faith in God and never lose
hope,” the organizers said.
This year’s theme of the con-
gress was “Look Carefully, Act
Mercifully.”
viduals/organizations that
are advocates for the special
children such as the Sped Cen-
ter in various areas; Hospicio
de San Jose; NOH-School for
Crippled Children; Divine
Mercy Mobile Center; Down
Syndrome Association of the
Philippines (DSAPI); Special
Children Educational Institu-
tion (SCEI); Ang Anghel ng
Pag-asa; St. Luke Medical
Center; Ortho-Pedagogical In-
stitute; Free Believers in Christ
Inc.; Antipolo Persons with
Disabilities Federation and
other schools that have special
education courses.
ECHC is a social arm of the
Catholic Bishops Conference of
the Philippines (CBCP) that is
committed to serving and help-
ing the physically and mentally
challenged persons through
various programs and activi-
ties such as the recent catholic
congress. (CBCPNews)
ident’s appeal to the country’s
86 ecclesial provinces. A second
collection was held in all Sunday
Masses last January 24, 2010.
“We have already sent the
funds to Archbishop Ausa with
the request to hand-over the cash
to the Conferencia Episcopal de
Haiti (Episcopal Conference of
Haiti) which is composed of the
Archdioceses of Port-au-Prince
and Cap-Haitien and the Dioceses
of Anse-a-Veau et Miragoane, Fort
Liberte, Hinche, Jacmel, Jeremie,
Les Caves, Les Gonaives and
Port-de-Paix.
It will be recalled that Auza,
who hails from Talibon, Bohol,
called on generous individu-
als and institutions worldwide
to assist Caribbean’s poorest
country in the aftermath of the
earthquake that killed hundreds
last January 12, 2010.
Asis said the amount came from
the Archdioceses of Caceres and Jaro
and the Dioceses of Cubao, Daet,
Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales led the thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebra-
tion on the Solemnity of the Annunciation at the Divine Master Convent,
Antipolo City. The congregation of the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master
is one of the five religious congregations and five secular institutes, also
known as the Pauline Family, founded by Blessed James Alberione.
INAUGURATED. A new chapel for the Sancta Maria Mater et Regina
Seminarium community, February 14, during the first visit of Papal
nuncio Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams to the Archdiocese of Capiz.
The simple yet meaningful inauguration was attended by bishops,
clergy, religious, guests, benefactors, local government officials, par-
ents, faculty and staff, seminarians and lay faithful from 35 parishes
Caritas Manila under Fr. Anton and chaplaincies. Bishops who concelebrated include Bacolod Bishop
Pascual has already sent $50,000.00 Vicente Navarra, San Carlos Bishop Jose Advincula (first rector of SM-
last February 11 through the papal MRS), Romblon Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc and Capiz Archbishop
nuncio. The amount came from Onesimo Gordoncillo. Kalibo Administrator Father Ulysses Dalida was
Caritas Manila’s funds and dona- also present. In a two-and-a-half-hour mass highlighted by the rite of
blessing, the Nuncio noted in his homily that the chapel and every
tions from various parishes and chapel is “a place of refuge, a meeting place with God of our life.” On
benefactors. February 10, 2004, the cornerstone of the chapel was laid inside the
For its part, the CBCP-NASSA five-hectare lot of the seminary donated by Mr. Catalino Mabasa, Jr. in
under its Chairman Bishop Brod- Sitio Bangbang, Brgy. Cagay, Roxas City, while the construction of the
erick Pabillo will also send $10,000 seminary building was on-going. The chapel, then estimated to cost 6
million, according to Mother Thomas del Rosario, OP, project engineer,
generated from Alay Kapwa was funded by benefactors, local and abroad, donors, and the faithful
funds and a number of dioceses. of the archdiocese and was completed and blessed this year on the
Pabillo earlier released a circular occasion of the tenth founding anniversary of the seminary. SMMRS
addressed to Social Action direc- which formally opened on July 14, 1999, was a brainchild of Archbishop
tors nationwide to campaign for Gordoncillo who turns 75 this year.. At present, the seminary commu-
donations for Haiti earthquake nity is home to seven priests and 69 seminarians (60 philosophy and
9 theology students). (Sem. Dedert Duarte)
victims. (Melo M. Acuña)

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010
‘There is a great need of
priests that speak of God’
Address of Pope Benedict XVI to the participants of the International Theological
Conference on “Fidelity of Christ, Fidelity of the Priest” organized by the
Congregation of the Clergy, March 12, 2010
Dear Cardinals,
Dear Brothers in the Episcopate and the
Priesthood,
Distinguished Audience,
I AM happy to meet with you on this
particular occasion and I greet you all
affectionately. I address a particular
thought to Cardinal Cláudio Hummes,
prefect of the Congregation for Clergy,
and I thank him for the words he
addressed to me. My gratitude to the
whole dicastery, for the commitment
with which it coordinates the many
initiatives of the Year for Priests, among
them this Theological Congress, on the
subject: “Fidelity of Christ, Fidelity of the
Priest.” I am delighted with this initiative
that witnesses the presence of more than
50 bishops and over 500 priests, many
of them national or diocesan leaders of
the clergy and of permanent formation.
Your attention to topics referring to
the ministerial priesthood is one of the
fruits of the special Year, which I wished
to convoke precisely to “promote the
commitment to interior renewal of all
priests, so that their evangelical witness
in the world of today is more intense
and incisive” (Letter for the celebration
of the Year for Priests).
The subject of priestly identity,
object of your first day of study, is
determinant for the exercise of the
ministerial priesthood in the present
and in the future. In an age such as
ours, so “polycentric” and inclined to
blur any type of conception of identity,
considered by many contrary to liberty
and democracy, it is important to have
very clear the theological peculiarity of
the ordained ministry and not yield to the
temptation to reduce it to the prevailing
cultural categories.
In the context of widespread
secularization, which progressively
excludes God from the public sphere
and, by tendency, also from the shared
social conscience, the priest often seems
“strange” to common opinion, precisely
because of the more fundamental
aspects of his ministry, such as being
a man of the sacred, removed from the
world to intercede in favor of the world,
constituted in that mission by God and
not by men (cf. Hebrews 5:1).
For this reason, it is important to
overcome dangerous reductionism that,
in past decades, using categories that
were more functional than ontological,
Pastoral Concerns
has presented the priest almost as a
“social agent,” running the risk of
betraying the priesthood of Christ
itself. Just as the hermeneutic of
continuity is increasingly revealed as
urgent to understand in an appropriate
way the texts of the Second Vatican
Council, similarly an hermeneutic seems
necessary that we could describe “of
priestly continuity,” which, starting
from Jesus of Nazareth, Lord and Christ,
and going through the 2,000 years of
the history of grandeur and holiness, of
culture and piety, which the priesthood
has written in the world, arrives at our
days.
Dear brother priests, at this time in
which we live it is especially important
that the call to participate in the one
priesthood of Christ in the ordained
ministry flower in the “charism of
prophecy”: There is a great need of
priests that speak of God to the world
and that present God to the world; men
not subject to ephemeral cultural ways,
but capable of living in an authentic
way that liberty that only the certainty
of belonging to God is in conditions to
give. As your Congress has pointed out
well, today the most necessary prophecy
is that of fidelity, which, starting from the
fidelity of Christ to humanity, will lead
through the Church and the ministerial
priesthood to live one’s priesthood in
total adherence to Christ and to the
Church. In fact, the priest no longer
belongs to himself but, because of the
sacramental seal received (cf. Catechism
of the Catholic Church, Nos. 1563;1582),
is “property” of God. This “being of
Another” must be made recognizable
by all, through a clear witness.
In the way of thinking, of speaking,
of judging the events of the world,
of serving and loving, in relating to
persons, also in the habit, the priest
must draw prophetic strength from
his sacramental belonging, from his
profound being. Consequently, he must
have every care to subtract himself from
the prevailing mentality, which tends to
associate the value of the minister not
to his being, but only to his function,
thus not appreciating the work of God,
who influences the profound identity
of the person of the priest, configuring
him to himself in a definitive way (cf.
Ibid., No. 1583).
The horizon of the ontological
belonging to God constitutes,
© Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media
moreover, the appropriate framework
to understand and reaffirm, also in our
days, the value of sacred celibacy, which
in the Latin Church is a charism required
for Holy Orders (cf. “Presbyterorum
Ordinis,” 16) and is held in very great
consideration in the Eastern Churches
(cf. CCEO, can. 373). That is authentic
prophecy of the Kingdom, sign of
consecration to the Lord and to the
“things of the Lord” with an undivided
heart (1 Corinthians 7:32), expression
of the gift of self to God and to others
(cf. Catechism of the Catholic Church,
No. 1579).
Hence, the vocation of the priest,
which continues being a great mystery
also for those of us who have received
it as a gift, is sublime. Our limitations
and weaknesses must lead us to live
and protect with profound faith that
precious gift, with which Christ has
configured us to Himself, making us
participants in his salvific mission. In
fact, comprehension of the ministerial
priesthood is linked to the faith and
calls, ever more strongly, for a radical
continuity between the formation of the
seminary and permanent formation. The
prophetic life, without compromises,
with which we will serve God and the
world, proclaiming the Gospel and
celebrating the Sacraments, will foster
the coming of the Kingdom of God,
already present, and the growth of the
People of God in the faith.
Beloved priests, the men and women
of our time do not only ask that we be
thorough priests and no more. The lay
faithful will find in many other persons
what they humanly need, but only in
the priest will they be able to find that
Word of God that must always be on
their lips (cf. “Presbyterorum Ordinis,”
4); the mercy of the Father, which is
lavished abundantly and free in the
sacrament of reconciliation; the Bread
of New Life, “true nourishment given
to men” (cf. Hymn of the Office on
the Solemnity of Corpus Christi of the
Roman rite).
Let us pray to God, through the
intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary
and of Saint John Mary Vianney, to be
able to thank him every day for the
great gift of the vocation and to live our
priesthood with full and joyful fidelity.
Thank you all for this meeting! It gives
me great pleasure to impart to each one
the apostolic blessing.
B1
Veneration of the
Crucified Christ
THE journey of Lent ends with the Easter Triduum, initiated by the celebration
of the Coena Domini Mass. During the Triduum, Good Friday which is
dedicated to the celebration of the Lord’s Passion is eminently suited for
the “Adoration of the Holy Cross”.
Popular piety tends to anticipate the cultic veneration of the Cross.
Throughout Lent, every Friday is observed, since very ancient times, as a
commemoration of the Lord’s Passion and the faithful easily direct their
devotions towards the mystery of the Cross.
They contemplate the crucified Savior, they sense more easily the great suffering
which Jesus, the Holy and Innocent One, suffered for the salvation of mankind.
They understand his love and the effectiveness of his redemptive sacrifice.
The various and numerous devotions to the crucified Christ acquire a
special significance in those churches dedicated to the mystery of the Cross
or where authentic relics of the true cross are venerated. The “invention
of the Cross” in the early fourth century, and the subsequent diffusion
throughout the Church of particles of the true Cross, gave notable impulse
to devotion to the Cross.
Devotions to the crucified Christ contain many elements usually found
in popular piety: hymns and prayers, acts such as the unveiling and kissing
of the Cross, processions and blessing with the Cross. These can lead to the
development of pious exercises often containing many valuable formal and
material elements.
Devotion to the Cross, however, sometimes requires certain enlightenment.
The faithful should be taught to place the Cross in its essential reference to the
Resurrection of Christ: the Cross, the empty tomb, the Death and Resurrection
of Christ are indispensable in the Gospel narrative of God’s salvific plan. In
the Christian faith, the Cross is an expression of the triumph of Christ over
the powers of darkness. Hence, it is adorned with precious stones and is a
sign of blessing when made upon one’s self, or on others or on objects.
The Gospel texts of the Passion are especially detailed. Coupled with a
tendency in popular piety to isolate specific moments of the narrative, this
has induced the faithful to turn their attention to specific aspects of the
Passion of Christ, making of them specific devotions: devotion to the “Ecce
Homo”, Christ despised, “crowned with thorns and clothed in a purple
cloak” (John 19, 5), and shown to the multitude by Pilate; devotion to the
five sacred wounds of Christ, especially to the side of Christ from which
flowed blood and water for the salvation of mankind (John 19, 34); devotion
to the instruments of the Passion, the pillar at which Christ was scourged,
the steps of the Praetorium, the crown of thorns, the nails, the lance that
pierced Him; devotion to the Holy Shroud.
Such expressions of piety, often promoted by persons of great sanctity,
are legitimate. However, in order to avoid excessive fragmentation in
contemplation of the mystery of the Cross, it is always useful to emphasize the
whole event of the Passion, as is the case in biblical and patristic tradition.
Reading of the Lord’s Passion
The Church exhorts the faithful to frequent personal and community
reading of the Word of God. Undoubtedly, the account of the Lord’s Passion
is among the most important pastoral passages in the New Testament.
Hence, for the Christian in his last agony, the Ordo untionis informorum
eorumque pastoralis curae suggests the reading of the Lord’s Passion either
in its entirety, or at least some pericopes from it(136).
During Lent, especially on Wednesdays and Fridays, love for our Crucified
Saviour should move the Christian community to read the account of the
Lord’s Passion. Such reading, which is doctrinally significant, attracts the
attention of the faithful because of its content and because of its narrative
form, and inspires true devotion: repentance for sins, since the faithful see
that Christ died for the sins of the entire human race, including their own;
compassion and solidarity for the Innocent who was unjustly condemned;
gratitude for the infinite love of Jesus for all the brethren, which was shown by
Jesus, the first born Son, in his Passion; commitment to imitating his example
of meekness, patience, mercy, forgiveness of offenses, abandonment to the
Father, which Jesus did willingly and efficaciously in his Passion.
Outside of the liturgical celebration of the Passion, the Gospel narrative can
be “dramatized”, giving the various parts of the narrative to different persons;
or by interspersing it with hymns or moments of silent reflection.
Via Crucis
Of all the pious exercises connected with the veneration of the Cross,
none is more popular among the faithful than the Via Crucis. Through this
pious exercise, the faithful movingly follow the final earthly journey of
Christ: from the Mount of Olives, where the Lord, “in a small estate called
Gethsemane” (Mk 14, 32), was taken by anguish (cf. Lk 22, 44), to Calvary
where he was crucified between two thieves (cf. Lk 23, 33), to the garden
where he was placed in freshly hewn tomb (John 19, 40-42).
The love of the Christian faithful for this devotion is amply attested by
the numerous Via Crucis erected in so many churches, shrines, cloisters,
in the countryside, and on mountain pathways where the various stations
are very evocative.
The Via Crucis is a synthesis of various devotions that have arisen since
the high middle ages: the pilgrimage to the Holy Land during which the
faithful devoutly visit the places associated with the Lord’s Passion; devotion
to the three falls of Christ under the weight of the Cross; devotion to “the
dolorous journey of Christ” which consisted in processing from one church
to another in memory of Christ’s Passion; devotion to the stations of Christ,
those places where Christ stopped on his journey to Calvary because obliged
to do so by his executioners or exhausted by fatigue, or because moved by
compassion to dialogue with those who were present at his Passion.
In its present form, the Via Crucis, widely promoted by St. Leonardo da Porto
Maurizio (1751), was approved by the Apostolic See and indulgenced (137),
consists of fourteen stations since the middle of seventeenth century.
The Via Crucis is a journey made in the Holy Spirit, that divine fire which
burned in the heart of Jesus (cf. Lk 12, 49-50) and brought him to Calvary. This
is a journey well esteemed by the Church since it has retained a living memory
of the words and gestures of the final earthly days of her Spouse and Lord.
In the Via Crucis, various strands of Christian piety coalesce: the idea of
life being a journey or pilgrimage; as a passage from earthly exile to our true
home in Heaven; the deep desire to be conformed to the Passion of Christ;
the demands of following Christ, which imply that his disciples must follow
behind the Master, daily carrying their own crosses (cf Lk 9, 23).
The Via Crucis an apt pious exercise for Lent
The following may prove useful suggestions for a fruitful celebration of the
Via Crucis: the traditional form of the Via Crucis, with its fourteen stations,
is to be retained as the typical form of this pious exercise; from time to time,
however, as the occasion warrants, one or other of the traditional stations
might possibly be substituted with a reflection on some other aspects of the
Gospel account of the journey to Calvary which are traditionally included
in the Stations of the Cross; alternative forms of the Via Crucis have been
approved by Apostolic See(138) or publicly used by the Roman Pontiff(139):
these can be regarded as genuine forms of the devotion and may be used as
occasion might warrant; the Via Crucis is a pious devotion connected with
the Passion of Christ; it should conclude, however, in such fashion as to
leave the faithful with a sense of expectation of the resurrection in faith and
hope; following the example of the Via Crucis in Jerusalem which ends with
a station at the Anastasis, the celebration could end with a commemoration
of the Lord’s resurrection.
Innumerable texts exist for the celebration of the Via Crucis. Many of them
were compiled by pastors who were sincerely interested in this pious exercise
and convinced of its spiritual effectiveness. Texts have also been provided
by lay authors who were known for their exemplary piety, holiness of life,
doctrine and literary qualities.
Bearing in mind whatever instructions might have been established by
the bishops in the matter, the choice of texts for the Via Crucis should take
a count of the condition of those participating in its celebration and the
wise pastoral principle of integrating renewal and continuity. It is always
preferable to choose texts resonant with the biblical narrative and written
in a clear simple style.
Veneration / B2
B2 Updates CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010

Commemorating Saints in Lent

Catholic associations
and partisan politics
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina
Apostolorum university, answers the following query:)

Q: Several questions have arisen at a seminary regarding

the proper way to commemorate the saints during privileged
seasons, such as Lent. I was wondering if you could lay out the
proper or at least suggested ways in which this can be done for
the Liturgy of the Hours, the Mass itself, and if the office (for
example, morning prayer) is combined with the Mass.—R.C., By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, by ecclesiastical authority. and direct private associations exercise such freedom, however,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. J.C.D. §3. No private association according to the prescriptions of they are to take care that their
of the Christian faithful in the their statutes. actions are imbued with the
A: During Lent all memorials of saints, whether obligatory Church is recognized unless Such autonomy, therefore, is not spirit of the gospel and take into
or optional, are deemed “commemorations” and their It is election year once more, and its statutes are reviewed by absolute, as provided by c.232: account the doctrine set forth by
celebration is more limited than in other times. In all cases, an old question has again come competent authority. §1. Although private the magisterium of the Church;
their celebration is optional even for memorials that would be to the fore: the involvement of the associations of the Christian but they are to avoid proposing
obligatory outside of Lent. Church in politics. Granting that b) Public Associations. Can.301: faithful enjoy autonomy in their own opinion as the teaching
The applicable norms for Mass are found in the General the Hierarchy itself should not be §1. Competent ecclesiastical accord with the norm of c.321, of the Church in questions which
Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) No. 355: involved in partisan politics, the authority alone has the right to they are subject to the vigilance of are open to various opinions.
“a. On the weekdays of Advent from 17 December to 24 following questions have been asked: erect associations of the Christian ecclesiastical authority in accord In effect, every Christian
December, on days within the Octave of Christmas, and on the 1) Can Associations of Christian faithful which set out to teach with the norm of c.305, and are faithful—but most especially a
weekdays of Lent, except Ash Wednesday and during Holy Faithful—either Public or Private— Christian doctrine in the name subject to the governance of the Catholic layman—has the right
Week, the Mass for the current liturgical day is to be used; but engage in partisan politics? 2) If of the Church or to promote same authority. to engage in partisan politics,
the Collect may be taken from a memorial which happens to Public Associations of Christian public worship or which aim at §2. It is also the responsibility without such right being limited by
be listed in the General Calendar for that day, except on Ash Faithful cannot engage in partisan other ends whose pursuit by their of ecclesiastical authority, while the Ecclesiastical juridic ordering,
Wednesday and during Holy Week. On weekdays of the Easter politics, can Private Associations of nature is reserved to the same observing the autonomy proper to except in accord with c.227.
Season, memorials of Saints may rightly be celebrated fully. Christian Faithful do? ecclesiastical authority. private associations, to be watchful If an Association of Christian
“b. On the weekdays of Advent before 17 December, the §2. Competent ecclesiastical and take care that their energies are Faithful were as a body to
weekdays of the Christmas Season from 2 January, and the THIS is indeed a thorny issue that authority, if it judges it expedient, not dissipated and that their exercise engage in partisan politics, then
weekdays of the Easter Season, it is possible to choose either has been discussed in ecclesiastical can also erect associations of of their apostolate is ordered toward the corporate position would
the weekday Mass, or the Mass of the Saint, or the Mass of circles repeatedly. What is novel the Christian faithful in order the common good. unduly infringe on the individual
one of the Saints whose memorial is observed, or the Mass of is the way it is being asked to attain directly or indirectly The aims of associations of right of the members of the said
any Saint listed in the Martyrology for that day.” now. The concrete application other spiritual ends whose faithful have to be not only association to maintain their own
Therefore, to commemorate, for example, St. Cyril of is of course quite obvious: accomplishment has not been consistent with but also relevant partisan political orientation. In
Jerusalem, whose March 18 feast almost always falls during Can the Couples for Christ or sufficiently provided for by the to the fundamental pretension other words, if an Association of
Lent, only the proper collect or opening prayer is used. All the the Knights of Columbus—for efforts of private persons. of the Ecclesiastical Juridic Christian Faithful were to have
rest is taken from the current weekday: the readings, prayer
over the gifts, preface, prayer after communion, and proper
antiphons. Violet vestments are used and not white or red as
is usual with the saints.
If a saint has the category of solemnity or feast, for example,
St. Joseph or St. Patrick in some countries, then it is celebrated as
normal with vestments of the corresponding color, the recitation
of the Glory and, on solemnities, the Creed. The readings and
the Liturgy of the Hours are those proper to the feast.
On Ash Wednesday and during Holy Week and the Easter
Octave, all celebrations of saints are excluded.
Regarding the Liturgy of the Hours, the General Introduction
to the Divine Office says:
“Memorials During Privileged Seasons
“237. On Sundays, solemnities, and feasts, on Ash Wednesday,
during Holy Week, and during the octave of Easter, memorials
that happen to fall on these days are disregarded.
“238. On the weekdays from 17 to 24 December, during the octave
of Christmas, and on the weekdays of Lent, no obligatory memorials
are celebrated, even in particular calendars. When any happen to fall
during Lent in a given year, they are treated as optional memorials.
“239. During privileged seasons, if it is desired to celebrate the
office of a saint on a day assigned to his or her memorial:
“a. in the office of readings, after the patristic reading (with
its responsory) from the Proper of Seasons, a proper reading
about the saint (with its responsory) may follow, with the

© Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media

concluding prayer of the saint;
“b. at morning prayer and evening prayer, the ending of the
concluding prayer may be omitted and the saint’s antiphon
(from the proper or common) and prayer may be added.”
Later are some specific norms for special seasons:
“247. In the office for Sundays, solemnities, feasts of the Lord
listed in the General Calendar, the weekdays of Lent and Holy
Week, the days within the octaves of Easter and Christmas,
and the weekdays from 17 to 24 December inclusive, it is example—issue a mandate for
never permissible to change the formularies that are proper or its members to push for the
adapted to the celebration, such as antiphons, hymns, readings, candidacy of a specific person or
responsories, prayers, and very often also the psalms. party? The pertinent provisions
“252. Everyone should be concerned to respect the complete cycle of Canon Law on this issue can
of the four-week psalter. Still, for spiritual or pastoral advantage, the be summarized as follows.
psalms appointed for a particular day may be replaced with others
from the same hour of a different day. There are also circumstances 1. Existence and Nature
occasionally arising when it is permissible to choose suitable psalms of Associations of Christian
and other texts in the way done for a votive office.” Faithful
Thus, if morning prayer is united to Mass, then there is no
change in the office at all on a commemoration. Everything would In the Church there are
be taken from the day except the saint’s collect at Mass. associations distinct from institutes
As seen above, it is possible to change the psalms of the day of consecrated life and societies of
while maintaining the proper Lenten antiphons. Making use apostolic life, in which the Christian
of this option requires careful discernment and a liturgically faithful, either clergy or laity, or
literate community able to both understand the reason for the clergy and laity together, strive
change and easily navigate the Book of Hours. by common effort to promote a
more perfect life, or to foster public
worship or Christian doctrine, or
to exercise other apostolic works,
namely to engage in efforts of
evangelization, to exercise works
of piety or charity and to animate
the temporal order with the
Christian spirit (c.298, §1).
2. There are Two Kinds
of Associations of Christian
Faithful:
a) Private Associations. Can.299:
§1. The Christian faithful are free,
by means of a private agreement
made among themselves, to
establish associations to attain the
aims mentioned in c.298, §1, with
due regard for the prescriptions
of c.301, §1.
§2. Such associations are called
private associations even though
they are praised or recommended
§3. Associations of the Christian
faithful which are erected by
competent ecclesiastical authority
are called public associations.
The distinction between public
and private associations of faithful,
therefore, stems neither from the
nature of their ends, nor even
from the degree of supervision
or control of the competent
ecclesiastical authority over their
actuations, but rather in the way
do they come about:
— Public associations of faithful
are erected by the competent
ecclesiastical authority.
— Private associations of
faithful are established by mutual
agreement of private individuals,
and then praised, recommended
or recognized by the competent
ecclesiastical authority after
reviewing their statutes.
3. Autonomy of Associations
of Christian Faithful
The Code of Canon Law is
quite clear in stating the sphere
of autonomy of such associations
of Christian faithful:
a) Public Associations: Can. 315.
Public associations on their own
initiative can begin undertakings
in keeping with their character,
and they can direct them in accord
with their statutes, but under the
further direction of the ecclesiastical
authority mentioned in c.312, §1.
b) Private Associations: Can.
321. The Christian faithful guide
Ordering: the salvation of souls.
Can.298, §1 specifies this when
it establishes that the faithful
in such associations strive by
common effort: (i.e., individually
they can freely do other things
on their own)
* to promote a more perfect life;
* to foster public worship or
Christian doctrine;
* to engage in efforts of
evangelization;
* to exercise works of piety or
charity and
* to animate the temporal order
with the Christian spirit.
4. Can associations of Christian
faithful engage in partisan
politics?
The point may be raised that
engaging in partisan politics
might fall under the heading of
the canonically recognized aim of
Associations of Christian faithful
to animate the temporal order
with the Christian spirit (c.298,
§1). After all, such evangelizing
action is indeed what is proper of
the Church as a whole, and more
specifically of its lay faithful.
However, such an
interpretation would unduly
compromise a fundamental
right of every Catholic faithful—
autonomy in temporal affairs—
laid down in c.227: Lay Christian
faithful have the right to have
recognized that freedom in the
affairs of the earthly city which
belongs to all citizens; when they
an official position as regards
partisan politics, then its members
would have to toe that line;
hence, the individual members
would not have the freedom to
follow their own party leanings,
if they are to remain in good
graces within the Association.
This would be tantamount to the
Association, proposing their own
opinion as the teaching of the
Church in questions which are
open to various opinions (c.227).
Conclusion
The right of the individual
Christian layman to autonomy
in temporal matters (including
partisan politics) is recognized in
the Canonical Order. Such a right
is as fundamental as the Right to
Religious Freedom of the citizen
under the Law of the State.
In other words, just as it would
be unjust for a State institution
to actively promote a purely
religious position, it also would be
equally unjust for an Ecclesiastical
institution (e.g., Association of
Faithful, whether public or private)
to corporately foster a specific
political partisan position.
This is the reason why after all
these years the Catholic Church
has always resisted resorting to
what others have touted as the
Catholic vote.
(This article originally appeared
on CBCP Monitor, Vol.11, No.5,
March 5-18, 2007.)

Veneration / B1
The Via Crucis in which hymns, silence,
procession and reflective pauses are wisely
integrated in a balanced manner, contribute
significantly to obtaining the spiritual fruits
of the pious exercise.
The Via Matris
As Christ and Our Lady of Dolors were
associated in God’s saving plan (Lk 2, 34-35),
so too they are associated in the Liturgy and
popular piety.
As Christ was the “man of sorrows” (Is
53, 3) through whom it pleased God to have
“reconciled all things through him and for
him, everything in heaven and everything
on earth, when he made peace by his death
on the cross” (Col 1, 20), so too, Mary is “the
woman of sorrows” whom God associated
with his Son as mother and participant in his
Passion (socia passionis).
Since the childhood of Christ, the Blessed
Virgin Mary’s life was entirely lived out under
the sign of the sword (cf, Lk 2, 35). Christian
piety has signaled out seven particular
incidents of sorrow in her life, known as the
“seven sorrows” of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Modeled on the Via Crucis, the pious
exercise of the Via Matris dolorosae, or
simply the Via Matris, developed and was
subsequently approved by the Apostolic
See(140). This pious exercise already existed
in embryonic form since the sixteenth
century, while its present form dates from
the nineteenth century. Its fundamental
intuition is a reflection on the life of Our
Lady from the prophecy of Simeon (cf. Lk 2,
34-35), to the death and burial of her Son, in
terms of a journey in faith and sorrow: this
journey is articulated in seven “stations”
corresponding to the “seven dolors” of the
Mother of Our Savior.
This pious exercise harmonizes well with
certain themes that are proper to the lenten
season. Since the sorrows of Our Lady are
caused by the rejection of her Son (cf. John
1,11; Lk 2, 1-7; 2, 34-35; 4, 28-29; Mt 26, 47-56;
Acts 12, 1-5), the Via Matris constantly and
necessarily refers to the mystery of Christ as
the suffering servant (cf. Is 52, 13-53, 12). It also
refers to the mystery of the Church: the stations
of the Via Matris are stages on the journey of
faith and sorrow on which the Virgin Mary
has preceded the Church, and in which the
Church journeys until the end of time.
The highest expression of the Via Matris
is the Pietà which has been an inexhaustible
source of inspiration for Christian art since
the middles ages.
(This is lifted from the Directory on Popular
Piety and the Liturgy, Principles and Guidelines,
issued in 2002 by the Congregation for Divine
Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments)
 Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010
B3

Election 2010
Pastoral Letter of the Archbishop and Bishops of the Manila Metropolitan Ecclesiastical Province
ON May 10, 2010, the Filipino people
will freely choose their leaders whom
they expect to serve them, and whom
they will hold accountable for their
service to people in the Republic of the
Philippines. Freedom in an election
means no physical coercion, nor is threat
or money used to influence or to buy
votes. Excessive campaign expenses
in the past did not augur good and
responsive governance.
In choosing leaders, the electorate
should carefully study and match the
traits of candidate with the needs and
issues disabling the country today.
Two major and perennial issues
haunting the country are poverty and
government’s graft and corruption,
with such destructive mutuality, that as
corruption increases, poverty worsens.
Responsible voting, like stewarding
one’s vote, begins with conscientious
citizens meeting in serious groups,
studying the traits needed for responsible
leadership and weighing the candidates’
claim for personal integrity.
Among those candidates scrutinized
by these groups of discerners will be
God-fearing persons, who are moral,
not given to vices, reverent of life and
its deserved decency, consistent true
friends of the poor, ever protective of
the integrity of creation (friend of world
ecology), simple and humble, and who
are good examples for responsible
Filipino citizenship.
These groups of conscientious citizens
will not only scrutinize candidates and
weigh their personal choice and options;
they should also become groups of
praying citizens who ask the Lord’s
guidance for their choice. Needless to
say, like the entire country, we should
all pray for a peaceful election and a
unified people before, during, and after
the election.
May the Lord and His Mother bless
and protect our country, because they
know that as a God-fearing nation, we
also love our people.
God love and bless us all!
The Archbishop and Bishops of the
Manila Metropolitan Ecclesiastical
Province:
+ GAUDENCIO B. CARDINAL ROSALES
Archbishop of Manila
+ GABRIEL V. REYES
Bishop of Antipolo
An International Call for
+ HONESTO F. ONGTIOCO
Dialogue and Peace
Bishop of Cubao
+LUIS ANTONIO G. TAGLE On the Occasion of the International Gathering of the
Bishop of Imus
+ DEOGRACIAS S. IÑIGUEZ Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Ministerial Meeting
Bishop of Kalookan of Interfaith Cooperation for Peace and Development in
+JOSE F. OLIVEROS
Bishop of Malolos Manila; March 16-18, 2010
+ANTONIO R. TOBIAS
Bishop of Novaliches
WE of the Inter-Faith Dialogue Forum (IFDF) Metro Manila, members of different
+JESSE E. MERCADO religions, especially Muslims and Christians, who are involved in different initiatives,
Bishop of Parañaque movements and programs of dialogue and peace in Metro Manila and other parts
+FRANCISCO C. SAN DIEGO of the Philippines, welcome the Special Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Ministerial
Bishop of Pasig meeting on Interfaith Dialogue and Cooperation for Peace and Development in
+LEO M. DRONA, SDB Manila on March 16-18, 2010.
Bishop of San Pablo This gathering is a sign of hope for the world and for us in the Philippines. It is
+ PEDRO D. ARIGO an acknowledgement of the importance of interfaith dialogue for the future peace
Vicar Apostolic of Puerto Princesa and development in the world. It is a great occasion to find in the faith experience
+EDGARDO S. JUANICH of different faith groups the right direction to work together for the common good.
We believe that the NAM meeting in Manila has to be vigilant to overcome the
Vicar Apostolic of Taytay
temptation by some sectors of society in many countries which use religions and
+ LEOPOLDO S. TUMULAK faiths as a new form of “colonization” in the world, where the “alignment” and as-
Military Ordinary sociation with a specific religion in these areas of the world may cause the spread
+FRANCISCO M. DE LEON of fear and perpetuate forms of violence.
Auxiliary Bishop of Antipolo Inter-Faith Dialogue is dedicated to exploring possibilities of peace and devel-
+BERNARDINO C. CORTEZ opment based on the concept of love of God and love of neighbor. This element of
Auxiliary Bishop of Manila love is well expressed in the recent open letter to the Christian leaders of the world
+ BRODERICK S. PABILLO, D.D. from 138 respected Muslim scholars of 42 countries and reaffirms that dialogue is
Auxiliary Bishop of Manila a form of love that needs to be rediscovered not only by Muslims and Christians
but also by all religions. We believe that the NAM meeting is a great occasion to
develop this concept and foundation for peace and development.
March 14, 2010, Fourth Sunday of Lent We believe that inter-faith dialogue is basically a spiritual experience based
on the faith of all of us who claim to belong to a specific religion and it is a concept
valid also for those who claim not to belong to any religion, but move with sincere
desire to work for the common good. Thus, there is no “secular” concept of INTER-
FAITH DIALOGUE. A real inter-faith dialogue starts from a genuine understanding
of faith expressed in life in a form of spirituality or style of life consistent with the
faith that one believes in.
Guided by this understanding of Inter-Faith Dialogue, we the members of IFDF
have agreed to share with you some of the basic concerns that we hope the NAM
meeting will take into consideration and find the proper channel to implement:
1. The NAM countries are urged to secure freedom of religion, convinced
that each culture can benefit from any expression of religion that offers a sincere
contribution for the common good in society. In this connection the NAM countries
have to be vigilant against any form of violence and “imposition” of religious practices
and culture elements that are against the common principles of Human Rights.
2. The NAM countries are invited to give special attention to education on Inter-
Faith Dialogue as an important element for peace and development, encouraging
different sectors of society to harmonize theory and praxis of inter-faith dialogue
based on sincerity, sensitivity and solidarity.
3. The NAM countries know the importance of media and we hope that the
media will project positive messages that encourage inter-faith dialogue in a way that
will give proper space to all, especially those who work for better relations between
majority and minority faith groups present in the different NAM countries.
4. The NAM countries are invited to deeply evaluate the many types of vio-
lence arising from different conflicts and study new approaches on non-violence
in order to preserve just peace in their countries, so that a government does not
pursue peace only with “liberation fronts” or other groups who claim their rights
with violence but also give attention to civil society, encouraging them to express
© Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media

their claims with peaceful means.

5. The NAM countries are invited to develop other peaceful and creative pro-
active approaches, giving proper attention to the voice of the poor and the indig-
enous people who claim their ancestral lands; respect for minority; and vigilance
over some politicians and other sectors whose vision of life is very far from the
real meaning of the inter-faith dialogue for peace and development.
We know that the world situation is tested with many issues often bigger than
the power of any one country to solve, issues like global warming and other world
issues difficult to find solutions for . But we believe that we can find a way to the

Shepherding the Flock in View of the 2010 Elections
A Circular Letter for the Priests, Religious and Lay Faithful in the Diocese of Tandag for 2010 Elections
Dear Priests, Religious and Lay
Faithful:
Elections are on the air. One could feel
the election mania as candidates, both
local and national, make their moves
to gain grounds on the post they are
running. Candidates may possibly resort
to “political gimmicks and strategies”
involving people whom they think are
effective and capable of doing such. This
of course is within the ambit of “partisan
politics” (Partisan politics may be
described as a formal endorsement and/
or actively campaigning for a particular
candidate or party).
In this context of “partisan politics”
I, being the bishop of this diocese, feel
the responsibility of guiding the flock
entrusted to me by our Lord Jesus Christ,
more particularly my priests, and the
religious.
What the universal church teaches
In our journey as a Church towards
holiness, let this be our guide: “The
Church, by reason of Her role and
competence, is not identified with any
political community nor bound by ties to
any political system…If anyone wishes
to devote himself to the ministry of God’s
word, let him use the ways and means
proper to the Gospel, which differ in
many respects from those obtaining from
earthly city (Gaudium et Spes, #76).
In an apparent explicit reference to
this article the Post-Conciliar Document,
Ultimis Temporibus of 30 November
1967, stated: “In circumstances in
which there legitimately exist different
political, social and economic options,
priests like all citizens have a right
to select their personal options. But
since political options are by nature
contingent and never in an entirely
adequate and perennial way interpret
the Gospel, the priest… must keep a
certain distance away from political
office or involvement. In order that he
may remain a valid sign of unity and be
able to preach the Gospel in its entirety,
the priest can sometimes be obliged to
abstain from the exercise of his own right
in this matter… Leadership or active
militancy on behalf of any political party
is to be excluded by every priest unless, in
concrete and exceptional circumstances,
this is truly required by the good of the
community, and receives the consent of
the bishop after consultation with the
priest’s council and, if circumstances call
for it, with the episcopal conference.”
(Sec. 7, no.2: Secular and Political
Activity in the Ministerial Priesthood).
What the Holy Father says
Pope Benedict XVI clearly stated in
his first encyclical: “The Church cannot
and must not take upon Herself the
political battle to bring about the most
just society possible… a just society must
be the achievement of politics, not of the
Church” (Deus Caritas Est, #28).
What the Canon Law says
In Canon 287 #2, ecclesiastical law
stipulates that Clerics are not to play
an active role in political parties…
unless, in the judgment of the competent
ecclesiastical authority, this is required
for the defense of the rights of the Church
or to promote the common good.
What the PCP II says
While admitting that nowhere in the
Constitution can be found a provision
that prohibits Clergy and Religious
from partisan politics, as a general
rule the opposite is true in Church’s
laws and traditional wisdom. They
are considered the symbols of unity
in the Church community. “Pastors
are also the foci of unity in the Church
communities of all levels and for them
to take active part in partisan politics,
with its wheeling and dealing that it
entails would tend to weaken their
teaching authority and destroy the unity
they represent and protect.” (PCP-II
343-344). In our prudent discernment,
concrete situation in the diocese does
not warrant a justifiable deviation from
this general principle.
Must the Church distance herself
from politics? The pertinent words of
St. Bernard of Clairvaux to the pope of
his time come to mind. He said: “Don’t
think of yourself to be the successor
of (Emperor) Constantine; you are not
the successor of Constantine, but of
Peter. Your fundamental book is not the
Code of Justinian but Holy Scripture”.
Does not Jesus Himself in the Gospel
said: “Give to the Emperor what is the
Emperor’s and God what is God’s?”
It is worthy to note that an association
linked to the Church (even if it does
not have the canonical status of private
association and is created in virtue of
the right of the faithful to associate
in Church) cannot participate in
the partisan politics, according to a
consultant to the Pontifical Council
for the Laity, Fr. Luis Navarro, JCD.
In case, a member or leader of such
association decides otherwise, and be
a candidate or openly campaigning for
a candidate or party, he or she has to
resign temporarily. Pastors are urged
to strictly observe this matter in their
respective parishes.
Politics in the widest sense is the
dynamic organization of society for the
common good. As such it calls for the
responsible active participation of all
citizens (cf. Congregation for Religious
and Secular Institutes, Religious Life and
Human Promotion, 1980, #12). It is in this
sense that the Church must be involved in
politics. That while PCP-II clearly prohibits
the clergy and religious to actively take
part in partisan politics, the Church must
not abandon its competence in passing
moral judgment, the very core in carrying
out Christ’s mission. Politics has moral
dimension. It may hurt or benefit people.
It can lead to grace or to sin.
Concretely, priests, religious and lay
people, i.e., the Church “must be involved
in area of politics when Gospel values are
at stake (PCP II 344). The Second Plenary
Council of the Philippines drew up a
clear delineation of roles in the Church’s
participation in politics:
1. Bishops, priests and religious,
commonly identified as the “Church”
must refrain from partisan politics,
avoiding especially the use of the
pulpit for particular purposes, to avoid
division among the flock they shepherd
(PCP II, art. 28, #2).
2. Lay men and women must
participate more actively, with singular
competence and integrity, in political
affairs, (PCP-II 348); must help civic
conscience of the voting population and
work to explicitly promote the election to
public offices of leaders of true integrity
(PCP II, art. 28 #1).
In other words, while the lay
faithful—as individuals not members
of association—are urged to engage
in political activity, and can, with full
freedom, participate in partisan politics;
pastors can teach moral principles
and issue moral guidelines regarding
political activity but cannot engage in
public politics. It must be admitted,
though, that sometimes even teaching
moral principles is actually interpreted
by some as partisan politics because of
actual circumstances; nonetheless we
have to contend ourselves with it.
With much love and care for the Church,
I remain,
Sincerely yours in Christ,
+NEREO P. ODCHIMAR, DD, JCD
Bishop of Tandag
10 March 2010
solution and the NAM meeting is part of this positive effort that we hope will help
many to overcome fear and division. This is possible if we deepen the importance
of inter-faith dialogue, free from vested interest, but guided by a proper understand-
ing of the centrality of God in the world and our mission to help each other in our
common desire to work together for peace and development.
On behalf of the Interfaith Dialogue Forum-Manila (IFDF-Manila),
FR. SEBASTIANO D’AMBRA, PIME
Convenor
Let Democracy Reign in Our Land
A Call to the PMPI Partners and the Filipino People
WE, members of the National Coordinating Committee of the Philippine Misereor
Partnership, Inc. (PMPI), representing more than 300 NGOs, POs and Church-
Based Organizations, together with our Bishop-Convenors, collectively call on our
partners to fulfill our responsibility in renewing the political order by embarking
on the process of discernment as we actively engage ourselves in the Philippine
elections in May 2010.
The coming elections are important breakthrough because for the very first time
we will conduct a nationwide automated election system (AES) for local and national
positions. We welcome the poll automation with expectation that the electoral process
will not only be faster but hopefully, more credible and transparent. We strongly
believe that to ensure political stability in our country, we need to have fair, honest
and peaceful election. We also consider the election as a good opportunity to bring
about the needed political transformation toward a comprehensive social, economic,
and political change. Today more than ever, we need to strengthen our democratic
institutions in order to pursue reforms that will contribute to effective governance
and address the issue of poverty and unmitigated graft and corruption.
While we acknowledge that the coming electoral exercise offers opportuni-
ties for positive change, we are also alarmed by the uncertainty and threats to
the meaningful exercise of our electoral process. We are particularly concerned
with the vulnerability of the automated election system for manipulation, fraud and
wholesale cheating. The haste and lack of transparency in testing the readiness
and trustworthiness of the AES, combined with the low level of trust in the Com-
mission on Elections, create further doubts and apprehensions, resulting to a grim
forecast of post election scenario. Moreover, the prevailing culture of traditional
politics continually characterized our electoral landscape, like the proliferation of
private armed groups, blatant over-spending in campaigns, maintenance of political
dynasties, election-related violence, patronage politics, among others.
Echoing the challenge of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines,
we join the call to renew our political order. Concretely, our call for principled and
transformative politics entails creating a governance structure that pursues the
common good, promotes justice, practices preferential love and service for the
poor, and works for the empowerment of the people (2nd Plenary Council of the
Philippines, no. 351).
For this coming election, we commit ourselves to participate, be vigilant and
be involved in transforming our society:
* We call on our partners (NGOs, POs and Church groups) to be involved in
principled partisan politics to pursue the agenda or platform for sustainable and
integral development, poverty alleviation, ecology protection, promotion and protec-
tion of human rights, among others.
* We also call on our networks to initiate or assist in the conduct of voters’
political education emphasizing the universal values of common good, servant-
leadership, truth and solidarity.
* We call on the government, particularly the Commission on Elections, to
ensure maximum transparency in the conduct of automated election process.
* We call on our citizenry to protect the sanctity of the ballot by actively volun-
teering in poll-watching and other activities to ensure clean and honest election
Adopted unanimously, this 3rd day of March 2010, Legazpi City, by National
Coordinating Committee of the Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc. (PMPI), rep-
resenting more than 300 NGOs, POs and Church-Based Organizations.
NATIONAL COORDINATING COMMITTEE
Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc. (PMPI)
 Features Social C
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010

Catechism on the C
Preface
This is a catechism on the
Church and Politics. As a
catechism, it does not aim to give
a comprehensive explanation of
Church doctrine on politics. It
simply aims to provide in an easy
question-and-answer format
some of the more important
church teachings relevant to our
political situation today.
It may be used by catechists,
diocesan/parish political
educators, or other pastoral
workers in forming the Christian
political consciousness of people,
especially at the grassroots
level.
If necessary, elaboration of
Church teachings on Politics
may be obtained from the usual
Catholic resources, such as
Church documents, especially
the Vatican II document, The
Church in the Modern World, the
social encyclicals of Pope John
Paul II, especially Sollicitudo Rei
Socialis and Centesimus Annus,
moral theology textbooks, the
Apostolic Exhortation on the
Role of the Laity (Christifideles
laici), the recent Catechism
of the Catholic Church, and
a companion volume, the
Catechism for Filipino Catholics.
The other main documentary
sources for this Catechism are
the Acts and Decrees of the
Second Plenary Council of
the Philippines and the 1997
CBCP Pastoral Exhortation on
Philippine Politics.
May the Holy Spirit guide
the users of this brief catechism
so that they may truly be of
service in renewing our political
culture.
_____________
Abbreviations
GS Gaudium et Spes (The
Church in the Modern
World), 1965.
CCC Catechism of the Catholic
Church, 1994.
CA Centesimus Annus,
1991.
SRS Sollicitudo Rei Socialis,
1987.
PCP-II Acts and Decrees of
the Second Plenary Council,
1991.
PEPP CBCP Pastoral Exhorta-
tion on Philippine Politics,
1997.
CL Christifideles Laici, 1988.
RLHP Religious Life and Hu-
man Promotion
_____________
Part I: General
Concepts
1. What is politics?
a. Politics in the widest sense
is the dynamic organization of
society for the common good. As
such it calls for the responsible
active participation of all citizens
(cf. Congregation for Religious
and Secular Institutes, Religious
Life and Human Promotion,
1980, no. 12).
b. Politics may be described as
the art of government and public
service. Vatican II describes
politics as a “difficult and noble
art” (GS, 75). Its aim is to realize
the purpose of the State.
c. Politics is also used for
partisan politics, the competition
to win or retain positions of
governmental power. In this last
sense clerics and religious are
forbidden by church law to be
involved in (partisan) politics.
2. What is the purpose of the
State?
The purpose of the State is the
protection and promotion of the
common good. In general this
purpose is accomplished through
three tasks: (1) legislation and
administration of justice, (2)
promotion of the socio-economic
welfare and health, and (3) care
for cultural and moral concerns
or the fostering of good morals
(see Karl H. Peschke, S.V.D.,
Christian Ethics: Moral Theology
in the light of Vatican II, vol. II,
Special Moral Theology, 1987,
pp. 267-71).
3. What is the common good?
The common good is “the sum
total of social conditions which
allow people, either as groups
or as individuals, to reach their
Catholic Bishops’ Confe
fulfillment more fully and
easily” (GS, 26).
It consists of three essential
elements: (a) it presupposes
respect for the fundamental
rights of the human person
and the natural freedoms
necessary for the development
of the human vocation; (b) it
requires the social well being
and development of the group
itself, i.e., whatever is needed
to lead a truly human life such
as food, clothing, health, work,
education, and culture should
be accessible to each one; (c) it
requires peace, i.e., the stability
and security of a just order (cf.
CCC, 1907-09). These social
conditions are obtained through
social justice.
4. What is social justice?
Social justice is sometimes
called the justice of the common
good. It demands proportionate
share in the fruits of economic
cooperation and equitable
distribution of the wealth
of a nation among different
social classes. It also imposes
obligations of mutual relation on
different social groups, e.g., the
better to assist the poor so that
they can live in a manner worthy
of human beings. Social justice
condemns such situations as
“excessive economic and social
disparity between individuals
and peoples” (GS, 29), the
concentration of wealth in the
hands of the few, and excessive
profits.
5. What principles are the
bases for the development of
the social order?
The social order and its
development “must be founded
in truth, built on justice, and
enlivened by love: it should
grow in freedom towards a more
humane equilibrium” (GS, loc.
cit.). This means that individuals
and groups should practice not
just private morality but also
social morality which governs
the relationships between
individuals and society. Some
examples of the exercise of

social morality would be the just Church’s mission in politics?

payment of taxes, integrity and
accountability in public office,
rejection of graft and corruption,
the care of the environment.
6. What is the political
community?
The political community
consists of persons, social
groups and organizations, their
institutions and structures that
are necessary for directing or
ordering society towards the
common good. The common
good is the full justification,
meaning, and source of the
political community’s specific
and basic right to exist (GS, 74).
Within the political community
is public or political authority
which “must be exercised within
the limits of the moral order and
directed toward the common
good.”
7. What moral and religious
principles guide politics?
The Bishops of the Philippines
enumerated the following truths
to guide politics (see PEPP, pp.
34-38): (a) human dignity and
solidarity as the first principle of
politics; (b) the common good as
the goal of political activity; (c)
authority and power as a divine
trust for service; (d) autonomy
and mutual collaboration
between the Church and the
political community.
_____________
Part II: The Relationship
between Church, State
and Politics
8. What is the basis for the
The main reasons why the
Church has a mission in politics
are the following:
First, because politics has a
moral dimension. Politics is a
human activity. It may hurt or
benefit people. It can lead to
grace or to sin.
Second, because the Gospel
and the Kingdom of God call the
Church to political involvement.
To proclaim the gospel to all
creation necessarily includes
evangelizing the political world.
Moreover, at the center of Jesus’
mission is the proclaiming of
the Kingdom of God. But the
Kingdom of God calls us to
repentance and renewal (Mk.
1:15). This call to renewal
is addressed likewise to the
political field.
Third, because the mission of
the Church of integral salvation
involves the political sphere.
Integral salvation is the salvation
of the total person, soul and body,
spiritual and temporal. This is
why Jesus not only forgave sins
but also healed people from
sickness. The Church must
likewise bring the healing grace
of salvation to the temporal,
including political, sphere.
9. Are there other reasons why
the Church must be involved
in politics?
Yes, there are. Another reason
is because salvation of the human
person is from personal and social
sin. We know that in the political
field, social sins unfortunately
abound, such as graft and
corruption, “dirty politics” of
“guns, goons, and gold”, deceit

EDITOR’S NOTE:
Starting this issue until May this year,
we are devoting these pages, B4 and
B5, for political education. By next
issue, we will be serializing a matrix
of platforms of Presidentiables. Send
feedback, articles and ads by email
to: cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net
Concerns Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010
B5

Church and Politics

erence of the Philippines
Prayer for the
The relationship of the Church
to the State has been described
by the Philippine Bishops as
one of “critical collaboration”
good of all and of each individual Peter himself disobeyed the
because we are really responsible order of authorities and said
for all” (SRS, 38). It includes a “We must obey God rather
love of preference for the poor, than men” (Acts 4:19). This is

National Elections
O Holy Spirit,
You are in our midst, You dwell in us.
We praise and thank you.
As we face national elections once again,
Fill us with the strength and courage
To liberate, to heal
and renew our country.
Enlighten our minds.
Fill us with wisdom
To select dedicated and competent
political servant-leaders,
Filled with integrity, and committed to
the good of each and of all,
Especially the poor.
Direct and lead us
That we might bear
the light of Jesus our Hope
And remove the darkness
of our political life.
Breathe new life into our body politic.
Eliminate all corruption and dishonesty.
Transform us.
Enliven us with the fire of your love,
So that with the prayers of the Blessed
Virgin Mary,
Our Mother and Model of Hope,
we may renew
© Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media
or “critical solidarity”.
14. What is the meaning of
“critical collaboration” or
“critical solidarity”?
Critical collaboration or
critical solidarity means that
the Church is one with the
State in promoting the common
good. Cooperation, solidarity—
positive support – has to be
given by the Church to whatever
the State may be doing for the
common good in accordance
with the Gospel. But the church
must have a critical sense in
providing such collaboration.
It should denounce whatever is
not in accord with the Gospel.
15. What vision of human
dignity and solidarity does the
Church contribute?
The Church contributes to the
political order her vision “of the
dignity of the person revealed in
all its fullness in the mystery of
the Incarnate Word” (CA, 47).
This vision includes the truth:
that the human person has
been created unto the image of
God and has an eternal destiny
of unending happiness with
God; that, having fallen into
sin, the human person has
been redeemed by God and
absolutely needs God’s grace
for salvation; that Jesus Christ
is God-made-man who shows
by his human life how the
human person must live and
serve; that the equal dignity of
all human beings brings them
into solidarity in mutual love,
justice, and service.
16. What does “solidarity”
mean?
Solidarity is a moral and
social virtue. It is not a mere
hence, solidarity with the poor.
It is a commitment to achieve
social justice, development and
peace - and to achieve these by
peaceful means and by respecting
fundamental human rights.
Solidarity extends to the level of
relations between nations.
17. Must citizens obey political
authority?
Every human community
needs authority to govern it.
It is necessary for the common
good and the unity of the State.
It is required by the moral
order and comes from God.
When legitimately constituted
authority is exercised within
the limits of its competence and
in accord with the moral law, it
must be respected and obeyed
(PEPP, p. 37). This is why the
Scriptures enjoin obedience
to political authority. “Let
every person be subject to the
governing authorities. For there
is no authority except from God,
and those that exist have been
instituted by God. Therefore
he who resists the authorities
resists what God has appointed,
and those who resist will incur
judgment” (Rom. 13:1-2; cf. Pt.
2: 13-17).
18. Can citizens disobey
political authority?
While citizens are bound in
conscience to obey political
authority, they are not obliged to
obey commands that are morally
wrong. Political authority must
not be used contrary to the
moral law. This is why Vatican
II says: “It is legitimate for them
(citizens) to defend their own
rights and those of their fellow
citizens against abuses of this
authority within the limits of
the principle that impelled the
Filipino people to resist the
Marcos dictatorship and achieve
liberation through the peaceful
1986 EDSA Revolution.
19. Is it true that the Church can
work with any form of political
regime?
The measure of the Church’s
collaboration with a political
regime is the higher law of the
Gospel and the Kingdom of God.
The citizens of the State have the
power of choosing the kind of
political regime (e.g., democratic
or authoritarian, presidential
or parliamentary) they wish for
themselves to attain the common
good (GS, 74). In the light of the
Gospel and the Kingdom of God,
the Church can work with any
political regime as long as her
basic freedom to accomplish
her divine mission and to avail
of resources for this purpose are
not suppressed. But the Church
“cannot encourage the formation
of narrow ruling groups which
usurp the power of the State
for individual interests or for
ideological ends” (CA, 46).
20. What does the church expect
of politics in view of integral
development?
For the integral development
of the human person and of all
persons, the Church expects
politics to create structures
of “participation and shared
responsibility” (CA, 46), where the
basic freedoms and aspirations of
individuals are given full scope to
develop and grow. For example,
the Church would expect the
political community to remove
or at least reduce excessive socio-
economic inequalities among its
citizens. The Church would also

The face of our political world. spirit of camaraderie or team

spirit or some vague feeling of
This we ask through Christ our Lord. compassion or good will. Rather,
it is “firm and persevering
Amen. determination to commit oneself
to the common good, i.e., to the
the natural law and the law of
the Gospel.” This is especially
true “when citizens are under
the oppression of a public
authority which oversteps
its competence” (GS, 74). St.
expect that electoral processes
be truly democratic and fair.
Politics must, therefore, not be a
tool for the advancement of only
a privileged few.
To be continued next issue

and unprincipled compromises, her mission to evangelize, or

“politics of greed”. In the mind of if the Church were to violate
the Church, systems where such the Constitutional mandate
social sins have been imbedded of “separation of Church and
through constant practice are State.”
“structures of sin or structures
of injustice.” 11. What does “separation of
Still another reason is because Church and State” mean?
the Church has an Option for the Separation of Church and
Poor. In the Philippines, politics State is strictly defined in the
is heavily tilted against the poor. 1987 Philippine Constitution to
The poor often become in a real refer to two points: (1) that no
sense voiceless and powerless. religion may be established as
Laws are often passed that the official religion of the State;
merely support vested interests and (2) that the State may not
rather than promote the common favor one religion over others.
good of all. At the same time, the State shall
Finally, because John Paul II forever allow the free exercise
said that the concrete human and enjoyment of religion and
being living in history is “the shall not require any religious
way for the Church” (RH, 14; test for the exercise of civil
CA, 53-54). The temporal and or political rights (see 1987
spiritual development of the Philippine Constitution). The
total human person is the way by first point above is called the
which the Church accomplishes “non-establishment” clause.
the mission to proclaim the To be noted is the fact that
Gospel. We know very well nowhere does the Constitution
that politics can dehumanize prohibit Clergy and Religious
the human person and entrap from partisan politics. What
the person in sinful behavior or prohibits them from active
structures. involvement in partisan politics
In short, politics cannot claim is the Church’s own laws and
to be above or outside the traditional wisdom.
natural law and the moral law.
Politics has moral and religious 12. But should not Church and
dimensions. Therefore, the State collaborate with each
Church has to be involved in other?
the political world. Yes, because Church and State
both work for the common good
10. Is not the Church’s and for the good of every person.
involvement in politics They have to respect each other’s
“political interference”? legitimate independence or
“Political interference” takes autonomy and each other’s way
place when the Church involves of achieving the common good
itself in politics in a way that and the total development of
is not justified by her mission every human person. Precisely
or when such involvement is because of this unity of mission,
against the Constitution. But the Church and State have to
mission of the Church requires collaborate with each other.
her, for instance, to denounce
political attitudes, behavior and 13. What is the mission of the
structures that run counter to Church regarding the political
the Gospel and to the Reign of order?
God or that militate against the The Church has the duty of
common good and the integral proclaiming the Gospel “to all
salvation of the human person, creation” (Mk. 16:15) and “to
especially of the poor. Also in restore all things under Christ”
accord with her mission is for the (Eph. 1:10). This means that the
Church to issue moral guidelines Gospel must “influence every
regarding the qualifications of phase of life, every stratum of
political candidates. It would society” (PEPP, p. 26), including
be “political interference” if the the political sphere. In fact it is
Church were to be involved in the duty of every Christian—to
way that is not in keeping with transform politics by the Gospel.
 Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010

The suffering of the innocent righteous One

By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo,
SThD
THE passion stories are so central to all
the synoptic gospels (Mark, Matthew
and Luke) that these, not without
reason, have been described as passion
narratives with an introduction. (By
passion narrative we mean the sections
of the canonical gospels which recount
the last days of Jesus, beginning with
his entrance to Jerusalem and ending
with his crucifixion, death and burial.)
But although they basically agree in
the general outline of the story of the
passion, yet they differ in many details
and in their theological emphases. This
year, we read the passion narrative
according to Luke (22:14-23:56), whose
unique features are the lack of any formal
night hearing (22:54) and a separate
Passion Sunday – Year C (Luke 22:14-23:56); March 28, 2010
understand that these accusations were
false. In an episode which is found only
in Luke, Herod declared Jesus innocent
(23:6). Jesus’ innocence runs like a
refrain in the utterance of Pilate: “I have
examined him in your presence and
have no charge against him arising from
your allegations. Neither has Herod
who therefore has sent him back to us;
obviously, this man has done nothing
that calls for death” (23:14b-15; see also
23:4,22). One of the criminals crucified
with him likewise recognized Jesus’
innocence: “We are only paying the
price for what we’ve done, but this man
has done nothing wrong” (23:41). When
Jesus expired, the centurion, having seen
what had happened, exclaimed: “Surely,
this was an innocent man” (23:47). Of
course, in Luke’s Gospel, more than
innocence is implied here—Jesus is the
righteous one (cf 23:50; 20:21).
innocent, righteous one (Ps 69:21). Of
course, Jesus accepted his suffering and
death as the will of his Father: “Father,
into your hands I commend my spirit”
(Luke 23:46). This was part of the plan
of God (24:43, 46). He was faithful to the
end, dying as God’s righteous Son.
Despite the fraudulence involved in
the trial and the travesty of justice, Jesus
never harbored any ill feeling toward
those who brought him suffering and
death. When during his arrest at the
Mount of Olives, his companions asked
whether they would use sword, he said
“Enough!” He even healed the high
priest’s servant whose ear was cut off
(22”49-51). On the contrary, he continued
to offer the mercy of God: “Father,
forgive them; they do not know what
they are doing” (23:34). Such an attitude
on the part of Jesus is consistent with
his teaching on loving one’s enemies,

hearing before Herod (23:6-11). But its
theological interest lies, among others,
in presenting Jesus as the innocent
righteous one who suffers and extends
God’s mercy until death.
That the innocent suffers is one of
the enigmas of human life. That the
guilty should go to jail, suffer and
even die for his crime is logical as it is
moral. But for the innocent to suffer
for a crime he did not commit—that is
beyond human understanding. Reason
does not provide any basis for it. That
is why it is beyond comprehension
why Jesus should undergo his passion.
The Jewish leaders, according to Luke,
lodged three accusations against Jesus:
subversion, opposition to the payment
of taxes to Caesar, and claim to kingship
(23:2). The plot, of course, makes us
Innocent though he was, Jesus was
made to suffer and die. Luke portrays
Jesus as a rejected prophet, which he
already indicated in the pericope on
Jesus’ visit to Nazareth (4:16-30). In the
passion narrative, soldiers taunted him
to prophesy (22:64). Herod and his guard
treated him with contempt and insult
(23:11). At the crucifixion, Jewish leaders
kept jeering at him, soldiers made fun
of him, one of the criminals blasphemed
him (23:35, 36, 39) and the crowd called
for his death (23:21). Now fulfilled was
what the prophets foretold: “He was
counted among the wicked” (Isa 53:12).
Here, Jesus is depicted as the suffering
servant of Yahweh, the innocent servant
who suffers on behalf of many, and the
reference to the drinking of the sour
wine implies that he was the suffering
www.ephesians.files.wordpress.com
on prayer for those who maltreat him
(6:27-28) and on forgiveness (17:4). Even
the criminal who was crucified with him
received compassion: “Today, you will
be with me in Paradise” (23:43). Clearly,
Luke portrays Jesus as the embodiment
of God’s mercy, the One who took the
initiative in the work of reconciliation
between God and man, and between
man and his fellow man. course, the invitation exacts a high is what is distinctively Christian.
Far from being meant as an objective price for discipleship. For in this A costly demand, it is true, but not
account of what actually transpired, way of following Jesus, one has to go impossible. This, however, requires a
Luke’s passion story is intended to beyond an ethic solely based on the Ten deep spirituality whereby one follows
present a Christology that invites Commandments. To forgive and pray no longer his own will, but that of the
the Christian reader to participate in for those who hate us, freely to suffer for Father, and really serves people. It
the salvific event. Unlike Simon of them even though one is not conscious assumes that one has been touched by
Cyrene had to be forced to carry the of any guilt, to repay injustice with the Spirit, which enables him to empty
cross (23:26), the disciple follows the absolute pardon, to seek their salvation himself of his own desires, wants and
way of faithfulness and forgiveness when one is being condemned—and needs, if only for the sake of others,
voluntarily and from the heart. Of still be consistent in all these—that especially the scum of the earth.

Bishop Pat Alo Our New Life in the Risen Christ

ENCOUNTERS An Easter Vigil Reflection
By Bishop Jose C. Sorra, hearts yearning for the source of
life, our hearts longing for truth.
Noynoy’s
D.D
And Jesus is the Truth in person,
drawing the world to Himself”
IT is said that man lives by symbols. (p. 3, no. 2).
one’s self to the Will of God—with
no If’s and But’s.
Abraham obeys God literally
to sacrifice his one and only son,
Isaac. Here both Abraham and
Signs of the Empty Tomb.
The Bribe Money. On the other
hand, Matthew tells us: That the
guards of the tomb went to report
all that had happened to the chief

predicament Without them man will die. Just

like the life-giving symbols of love;
without them man/woman will
psychologically or emotionally
THE article in the Philippine Daily Inquirer starve for affection and literally
die. Similarly, Christian symbols
(March 5, 2010) on A2, second front page titled are the life of our Christian faith;
Noynoy Eases Up on RH Bill seems to show he without them faith may weaken
misunderstands the Church’s position. He says: and die, too.
The truth of the Paschal Mystery
“If they have unwanted children that they cannot is indeed rich with images or
take care of, I think I will err in favor of the child symbolisms, and becomes more
that will not be attended to rather than the criticism intelligible to listener by the use
of symbolic language.
I will get from the more conservative elements As we celebrate the dark night of
of my Church.” A direct question to Noynoy is: Easter Vigil, we see several images
“Is that real love or concern for a child when you or symbols of our Christian faith.
Let’s then take them up one by one
eliminate his chance to live just because you think
to understand their meaning and
his parents will not be able to take good care of appreciate better the Christian
him or her?” truth they symbolize.
It only goes to show the superficial perception Darkness. The dark night of the
Easter Vigil celebration begins in
he has of the point in question. The fact that you total darkness (all lights out even
will find it hard to attend to or rear the life that inside the church), while building
you give birth to as the normal fruit of sexual love a bonfire to be blest outside
the church. And here Darkness
does not mean you have the right to terminate life symbolizes Sin, committed by our
or block the normal course of a life that will be First Parents, who had plunged
conceived through sexual union. Whether actual the entire humankind and the
whole universe of creation into
or potential life, it is not moral to terminate life. total darkness and chaos.
If this mindset is allowed to escalate, life will But Darkness also
tend towards extinction. You heard already the symbolizes Death which, by
His compassionate love and
expression “the graying of Europe ”—i.e. where mercy, God has confronted with
parts of Europe or other places for that matter, Light—thus, enabling man’s
people disseminate the use of contraceptives and passage from Death to Life—as
symbolized on this night by the
permit abortion, the growing number are the
newly blest fire piercing through
old people, the young generation disappearing. the darkness of night.
This contradicts the design God made at creation The big Candle blest by the
when he ordered: “God created man in the image fire, so-called Easter or Paschal
Candle, represents our Risen
of himself, in the image of God he created him, Lord that shines on the light and
male and female he created them. God blessed splendor of His Resurrection.
them, saying to them, ‘Be fruitful, multiply, fill He is the “New Pillar of Fire”
which now leads God’s New
the earth and conquer it’” (Gen. 1:27-28). People, Christ’s Church, out of the
We are pro life. If people become permissive Darkness of Sin into the Promised
because of the money offers by the anti-life agencies New Life in Grace (Sambuhay,
April 7, 2007).
that manufacture condoms and contraceptives Fire and Light. From that “New
and similar abortifacient devices that promote Pillar of Fire,” Christ shares with
sex immoralities or marital infidelities, then God’s us the Light of Truth to guide us
the way through the dark unto
word is true indeed: “The love of money is the the New Life – giving us the
root of all evils” (1 Tim. 6:10). The final evil will assurances of His words: “I am
be the destruction of the nation—because life is the way, the truth, and the life.”
And symbolically, too, we get a
man’s first right. God alone is the Alpha and the share of that Light with our little
Omega, the owner of life and death. candles lighted from the Easter
Noynoy doesn’t seem to capture the nature of Candle, as we process through the
darkness into the church.
the Catholic Church when he refers to conservative
As His Holiness, Benedict
elements in the Catholic Church. It’s not a matter XVI, explained in his Apostolic
of being conservative or progressive but what the Exhortation, Sacramentum
official teaching of the Church is. The Church Caritatis: “What does our soul
desire more passionately than
has held this unchanged position throughout truth? Each of us has an innate and
centuries, in spite of dissenting views from within irrepressible desire for ultimate
and without. If it’s wrong, why has it grown as and definitive truth. And the
Lord Jesus, “the way, the truth,
the biggest religious denomination? and the life” (Jn 14:6), speaks to
our thirsting, pilgrim hearts, our
The Liturgy of the Word. Once
everybody is settled inside the
church, the long readings of the
Word of God from the Books of
the Old and the New Testaments
follow. Ordinarily, there are nine
readings taken from the Books of
Genesis, Exodus, the Prophets,
the Letter of St. Paul and the
Gospel.
Only by the Light of the Paschal
Candle. All these are read only by
the Light of the Paschal Candle to
symbolize that all these readings
– in fact, the whole of the Holy
Scriptures – would not have
any meaning at all unless read,
interpreted and understood only
in the Light of the Paschal Candle
representing the Risen Christ.
Symbolically, too, just before
the readings, all have to put out
the light of their little candles to
listen in faith to the Word, reflect
and understand it – but only in
the light of our Divine Master’s
teachings as handed down to us
through His Church.
Abraham. Take, for example,
the second reading from Genesis
about Abraham. God promises
the old man Abraham (75) to
become a father of countless
children. He believes, why?
Because he needs God for the
promise. He is then making use of
God or his relationship with God
(religion) for his own purposes
and vested interest. His religion
may still be called “natural
religiosity.” And it is still “Self-
centered” – not yet God-centered
or supernatural.
Finally, Abraham gets the
promised son, Isaac. He is the
flesh of his flesh – the key to the
fulfillment of his dreams. But God
isn’t yet finished with Abraham.
God tells him to give up or
sacrifice his Isaac. Abraham is in
a dilemma, in great crisis of faith.
But then Abraham obeys and
gives up his only son, Isaac. So
then now Abraham has nothing to
lean on, except on God’s Word. At
this point, Abraham arrives at the
stage of authentic FAITH whose
heart is its centeredness on the
WILL of God. His relationship
with God (religion) is now rooted
in doing the will of God’s plan,
not his.
Let’s ask ourselves: What level
is our own faith at this point
in time? Is it still anchored on
“natural religiosity”, or still on
“self-centeredness”? When we
try to do God’s plan, do we really
give up our own ISAAC? What
do you think is your own Isaac
or Isaac’s that the Lord is asking
you to let go and let God?
Mere trust and confidence
in God is not the heart of faith;
rather, it is the total surrender of
Isaac represent or prefigure God
the Father and His Son: Abraham
in absolute faith and trust in
God’s word, never hesitates to
sacrifice his only son, Isaac, in
utter obedience to God—thus,
prefiguring God the Father
Himself who did not spare His
only Son from offering His life to
the death for the redemption of
humankind from the evil of sin.
Exodus. Exodus is about the
Chosen People of God, Israel,
who escape from a life of slavery
in Egypt and are pursued by the
Egyptians. God allows His people
to go through the Red Sea but
drowns the enemy. This salvation
by waters of the sea recalls our
own baptism in Christ, by which
we pass from our Egypt’s Slavery
of Sin on to the New Life in Christ
and in Freedom as Children of
God.
Against the image of the People
of God passing from the Egypt
of Slavery to the Promised Land
of Freedom must be our radical
determination in faith to move
away, too, from our Old Life
centered on Self to the New Life
rooted and centered on Christ.
St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans
puts this truth even more clearly
when he wrote: that our baptism
into Christ Jesus was our burying
with Him through baptism into
death, so that just as Christ was
raised from the dead… we, too,
might live in newness of Life in
Christ.
The Gospel reading puts the
whole narration of our salvation
history even from a much clearer
and more concrete perspective—
ushering us listeners to arrive at
the peak point of fulfillment of
God’s Saving Word in the actual
Resurrection of Christ from the
dead to us life.
According to St. Luke (Cycle
C), at daybreak the women went
to the tomb … and when they
entered, they did not find the body
of the Lord Jesus… And two men
said to them: “Why do you seek
the living among the dead? He
is not here, but has been raised
…” And the women remembered
His words. And immediately
thereafter, the amazed women
went to announce all these things
to the eleven and to all the other
disciples; however, the Gospel
tells us, that to the apostles their
story sounded like nonsense and
they did not believe.
Not even Peter himself,
who also ran to the tomb, bent
down and saw the burial cloths
alone, went home incredibly
dumbfounded … For Peter and
the other disciples, except for
John, and all the other disciples
could not simply believe in the
priests who took counsel with the
elders to bribe the soldiers with
a large sum of money with the
instruction to tell the people that:
‘His disciples came by night and
stole him while we were asleep’ …
The soldiers took the money and
did as they were instructed. And
this story has circulated among
the Jews to the present day.
Christ’s Enemies Believed.
Ironically, Christ’s enemies were
then the very ones undergoing a
kind of conversion into believing
in the self-evident testimony of
the Empty Tomb. So far, theirs
was one most credible testimony
to Christ’s Rising from the dead,
coming, as it did, not from His
own friends but from His very
own enemies.
Christ’s Resurrection Is the
Unshakeable Foundation of Faith.
A lot of people around the world,
including the Jews themselves,
have a sincere admiration for
the Person of Jesus and for His
teachings. And yet they would
beg off becoming Christians.
Even a good person like Mahatma
Gandhi, who had drawn a great
part of his inspiration from
Christ’s Sermon on the Mount,
never became a Christian. Why?
All because they could not simply
believe that Christ rose from the
dead after three days, even as He
had foretold it. To them, Christ’s
rising from the dead was just too
good to be true.
But unfortunately for them,
because this is the core, the
foundation, of our Christian Faith
upon which Christianity stands or
falls. As the Apostle Paul teaches
with stark clarity: “If Christ has
not been raised … empty is your
faith” (I Cor 15:14).
The Appearance of Jesus to His
Disciples. John, the Evangelist,
tells us that on the evening of
the first day of the week, when
the doors were locked where the
disciples were, Jesus came and
stood in their midst and said
to them: “Peace be with you!”
After had said this, He showed
His hands and his side. And the
disciples rejoiced when they saw
the Lord.
Then and only then did the
apostles, including the doubting
Thomas, believe, and the historical
realityoftheResurrectionconfirms
the constancy of the Apostles’
testimony and witnessing
through severe threats and trials.
And at the end of the day, they
themselves paid the supreme
price of their lives. All of them,
except for John, died a martyr’s
death witnessing to the historical
Truth of the Risen Christ.
The New Birth in Christ was
Our New / B7

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010
Reflections on Pope John Paul II’s Memory and Reconciliation
By Fr. Theodore Mascarenhas,
SFX
“Mercy resides in God; deeds are in men.”
(Filipino Proverb)
I HAVE been asked to devote this final
part to Memory and Reconciliation in
reference to the Indigenous Peoples
as this is the tenth anniversary of the
DocumentonMemoryandReconciliation
issued as per the wishes of Pope John
Paul II. Let me begin with a quote from
the Document itself in which Augustine
observes against the Pelagians: “The
Church as a whole says: Forgive us our
trespasses! Therefore she has blemishes
and wrinkles. But by means of confession
the wrinkles are smoothed away and the
blemishes washed clean. The Church
stands in prayer in order to be purified
by confession and, as long as men live
on earth it will be so.”
I have already explained that there
is often a complaint from indigenous
peoples the world over and perhaps
maybe also from the indigenous peoples
in the Philippines, that the Catholic
Church also did not give the indigenous
peoples their due especially in instances
when it identified itself with colonizers.
In some instances the cultures of the
indigenous peoples were looked on
with disregard and not respected or on
the other hand maybe they were not
given their due importance. The crucial
question that needs to be asked is whether
the present day Catholic Church is
responsible for the “historical mistakes”
of the past and to what extent and if so,
how can she wash away the blemishes.
Let me try and analyze some of the
highpoints of the document in order to
set up a road map for us today.
Purification of the memory
The document calls for a purification
of the memory and by its very title
offers some hints regarding this
purification. The title is “Memory and
Reconciliation”. Therefore, the memory
of the one who suffered the hurt, as well
as the one who inflicted the hurt needs to
be purified. The purification has to lead
to reconciliation. Reconciliation means
we become one: as it wipes of divisions,
clears up misunderstandings and
reinforces unity. “This purification aims
at liberating personal and communal
conscience from all forms of resentment
and violence that are legacy of past
faults through a renewed historical
and theological evaluation of such
events”. What the Church is calling for
is to look again at History not simply
to evaluate single events or a series
of events but rather to reevaluate the
values, ideologies and attitudes that
fostered these faults. Obviously, we
look at the past neither to accuse (on the
part of the one who suffered the hurt)
nor to defend or wash off our hands
from responsibility (on the part of one
accused of the faults). The real point is
not digging up skeletons from the past
because the re-evaluation is not intended
to add up to the resentment on the part
of peoples who suffered, nor to give
them a cocky superiority, nor to inflame
passions, nor to become victims of self
pity, nor to arouse a spirit of revenge.
For this would not be Christian.
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Features
On the other hand, this historical,
theological evaluation should not also
be an eyewash. It would be unfortunate
if the Catholic Church looked at the past
again and simply said, “we did nothing
wrong”. It is true that the responsibility
of the present-day Catholic Church may
be practically minimal and in fact in many
aspects may have even been made up for
and yet, a purification of the memory
is a must for reconciliation. For, as the
Filipino proverb says, “the pain of the
little finger is felt by the whole body”. On
the other hand, the indigenous peoples,
on their part too, need a purification of
the memory, of the hurts and wounds of
the past for a complete healing or else,
they may end up sulking like the brother
in the parable of the prodigal son who
refused to be part of the reconciliation
of the prodigal son and may have thus
risked sinning himself.
So a historical reevaluation requires
courage and humility without being
humiliating for anybody. Similarly
the inflicting of new wounds will not
wipe out existing wounds. We do not
dig up past wounds to relive them, but
the operation should be rather like a
healing surgery, where the wounds are
treated as per the need. If a wound can
be bandaged with medicine in it, so be
it. But if a wound is to be opened up to
be cleaned, and cured, it may be painful
and we may have to do it.
A purification for future growth
There is a story of a native American
grandfather who was talking to his
grandson about how he felt… He said,
“I feel as if I have two wolves fighting
in my heart. One wolf is the vengeful,
angry, violent one. The other wolf is
the loving, compassionate one.” The
grandson asked him, “Which wolf
will win the fight in your heart?” The
grandfather answered, “The one I feed.”
The document reminds us that the
purification of the memory “is based
on the conviction that because of the
bond that unites us to one another in
the mystical body, all of us though not
personally responsible and without
encroaching on the judgment of God,
who alone knows every heart, bear the
burden of the errors and faults of those
who have gone before us”. St. Paul’s
example to the Corinthians in discord,
of the parts of the body and their honour
and role and the way it works comes
very much to mind. If one part of the
body feels the pain, the whole body
feels the pain.
In a real reconciliation the whole body
will be led to a genuine growth. The
Catholic Church is the home of diverse
cultures and sensitivities and it is only
through mutual respect and sincerity
of purpose that the Church can fulfill
its mission of proclaiming the gospel
to the ends of the “earth”. As the MR
points out, “the purpose of the very act
of ‘purification of memory’ undertaken
by believers” is the “glorification of
god, because living in obedience to the
divine truth and its demands leads to
confessing, together with our faults, the
eternal mercy and justice of the Lord”.
The MR warns that the remembrance
of the scandals can become an obstacle
to the church’s witness today, and
the recognition of the past faults of
the Church’s sons and daughters
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of yesterday can foster renewal and
reconciliation in the present.
Reconciliation between whom
The document makes it clear that the
Church whose social structure is at the
service of Christ which vivifies it for
the building up of the body, and which
“embraces her sons and daughters
of the past and the present, in a real
and profound communion,, is the sole
mother of grace, who takes upon herself
also the weight of the past faults in order
to purify memory and to live in the
renewal of the heart and life according
to the will of the Lord”. This happens
on the model of Christ who has taken
upon himself the sins of the world. The
final goal if that everyone may advance
on the path of truth, fraternal dialogue
and reconciliation.
The first jubilee of the Council
was given the theme “renewal and
reconciliation” by Paul VI who in
his Apostolic Exhortation Paterna
cum benevolentia made it clear that
reconciliation should take place first of
all among the faithful of the Catholic
Church.
The MR is clear that in social sins “the
imputability of a fault cannot properly be
extended beyond the group of persons
who had consented to do it voluntarily,
by means of acts or omissions, or through
negligence”. However the wounds
inflicted by past faults often persist and
need to be healed.
Since the Church is a living society
spanning the centuries, her memory is
not constituted only by the apostolic
tradition but it is also rich in the variety
of historical experiences both negative
and positive which she has lived. In
large part, the church’s past structures
her present.
The Church, holy as it maybe is
touched by sin in its corporate as well
as individual parts and needs to purify
herself.
An actual evaluation and the way to
the future
Among the past faults explicitly
mentioned by John Paul II in Tertio
millennio adveniente, is also the one
concerning “the methods of violence
and intolerance” used in the past to
evangelize. The MR reminds that in a
Historical investigation and theological
evaluation, “maximum attention be
given to the elements of differentiation
and extraneousness between past and
present. In particular, when one intends
to judge the possible wrongs of the
past, it must be kept in mind that the
historical periods are different, that the
sociological and cultural times within
which the Church acts are different, and
so, the paradigms and judgments proper
to one society and to one era might be
applied erroneously in the evaluation
of other periods of history, producing
many misunderstandings.
Persons, institutions, and their
respective competencies are different;
ways of thinking and conditioning
are different. Therefore, responsibility
for what was said and done has to be
precisely identified, taking into account
the fact that the Church’s request
for forgiveness commits the single
theological subject of the Church in the
variety of ways and levels in which she
(Given Name) (Middle Name)
is represented by individual persons
and in the enormous diversity of
historical and geographical situations.
Generalization must be avoided. Any
possible statement today must be
situated in the contemporary context
and undertaken by the appropriate
subject (universal Church, Bishops of
a country, particular Churches, etc.).”
Also important is that the Historical
investigation and theological evaluation
is not taken keeping only the present
interests in mind.
The MR then confesses that “Another
sad chapter of history to which the sons
and daughters of the Church must return
with a spirit of repentance is that of the
acquiescence given, especially in certain
centuries, to intolerance and even the
use of force in the service of truth. This
refers to forms of evangelization that
employed improper means to announce
the revealed truth or did not include an
evangelical discernment suited to the
cultural values of peoples or did not
respect the consciences of the persons to
whom the faith was presented, as well as
all forms of force used in the repression
and correction of errors.”
The Church as an example
The MR points out that the steps taken
by John Paul II to ask for pardon for the
faults of the past have been understood
in many circles as signs of the Church’s
vitality and authenticity, such that they
strengthen her credibility. The asking for
pardon has also helped the Church in
correcting false and unacceptable images
of herself, especially in those areas in
which, whether through ignorance or
bad faith, some sectors of opinion like
to identify her with obscurantism and
intolerance. The MR goes on to add that
“The requests for pardon formulated
by the Pope have also given rise to
positive emulation both inside and
outside the Church. Heads of state
or government, private and public
associations, religious communities
are today asking forgiveness for
episodes or historical periods marked
by injustices.”
Love is the key
According to MR, Love is the Key in
dealing with the issue of memory and
reconciliation. It reminds that in the
new testament, “the disciple is invited
to forgive the one who offends him
“seventy times seven,” even if the person
may not ask for forgiveness (cf. Mt 18:21-
22). With regard to someone who has
been injured by another, Jesus insists
that the injured person should take the
first step, canceling the offense through
forgiveness offered “from the heart” (cf.
Mt 18:35; Mk 11:25), aware that he too is
a sinner before God, who never refuses
forgiveness sincerely entreated.”
The Document explains that even the
jubilee year in Lev. 25 aimed at healing
between tribal groups, the preservation
of the social fabric of the People of God
and the restoring of independence even
to the smallest families of the country.
The task before us
“It wasn’t until we got over the self pity
that we were able to accept suffering as
a part of our life with Christ. A man or
woman reaches this plane only when he
or she ceases to be the hero.” (Corazon
Our New / B6
made possible for us through
and in Jesus’ saving death and
resurrection, and takes place in
and through our being united to
Him in His Paschal Mystery.
A theologian once said that to
be saved from our radical self-
centeredness, we need an equally
radical self-transformation—at
the core of our being, because the
wound that was inflicted by Sin
has affected us in the depths of our
being, meaning: ONTOLOGICAL
(Being); hence, the healing must
be equally in the depths of our
being. What is needed then is
nothing less than a change of our
being—an ontological change,
which only a power from above
can do.
Thus, the Lord’s word: “Unless
a man is born from above …
Unless a man is born through
water and the Spirit, he cannot
enter the kingdom of heaven”
(Jn 3:3ff)
Becoming a Christian then
B7
© Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media
Aquino)
As already mentioned earlier, we
need a purification of memory on both
sides. The Indigenous peoples cannot
be engulfed in self-pity. Nor can the
rest of the Church remain passive to
the hurt that the indigenous peoples’
communities may suffer. An honest
evaluation with the intention of healing
is a must.
It is true that in the past there has
often been a lack of respect for traditions,
considering them backward and not
worthy of consideration even to the
extent of being considered worthy of
elimination and eradication. But then
it could also have been the question of
ill informed prejudices or an inordinate
zeal to spread Christianity. Many actions
were undertaken without malice but as
per the theology of the past. This does not
mean we do not take responsibility for
what happened. We are still responsible
for what went wrong. The church in the
Philippines has taken some steps. The
setting up of the ECIP is one right step
taken already 35 years ago. What may
be necessary is that this commission
tries and identifies whether violence was
done to indigenous peoples or hurt was
caused to them, as also to individuate
as to which indigenous community
this was done. Since generalizations
are mostly ambiguous and may not be
helpful, it would be better to identify the
source and the method of the hurt and
more importantly whether the memory
or effects of the hurt are actually present
in the community.
The Church could also set up concrete
steps for the evangelization of cultures
and the inculturation of the faith,
which keep in mind the preservation
of the identity and uniqueness of the
Indigenous peoples’ groups. Mutual
respect is a must in any effort for
intercultural dialogue.
In the field of education, how can we
work an educational pattern where our
youth from the Indigenous populations
can participate in modern progress
and benefit from academic excellence
while reinforcing their belongingness
to the community and reinforcing their
traditional positive values.
Can we stand by the indigenous
peoples as they face the effects of the
globalization winds in regard to their
ancestral domains, their cultural identity
etc. especially through self-help groups?
Again how can they be made part of the
progress without being destroyed?
Your Excellencies, I have tried to offer
some concrete suggestions towards the
end. However what needs to be kept
in mind is that the Church does not
function as a political organ. Its main
task is evangelization and in this task
cultures and cultural identities become
prominent areas of work.
The Pontifical Council for culture
is with you in all your efforts for the
Indigenous peoples and we would like to
stay in contact with you, so that we can
continue spreading the Gospel and its
message of Faith Hope and Charity.
(Fr. Theodore Mascarenhas, SFX of the
Pontifical Council for Culture delivered
this piece during the seminar that preceded
the CBCP Plenary Assembly last January
2010 at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center
in Manila.)
is not a matter of a change in
mentality, attitude, psychology,
values or morality. The New
Life involved is really NEW—not
just the OLD LIFE renewed,
renovated, or improved—but
with a new Principle of Life—the
SPIRIT. “A new heart I will give
you, and a new spirit I will put in
within you; and I will take out of
your flesh the heart of stone and
give you a heart of flesh” (Ezech
36:26).
Faith in the New Life of the
Risen Christ. Unbelieving people
would usually rationalize or
justify their unbelief in the Risen
Christ – waving it aside as “It’s
just too good to be true.” But,
true believers, with authentic faith
and strong conviction, rejoice to
proclaim, over and over again:
CHRIST HAS DIED! CHRIST
IS RISEN! AND CHRIST WILL
COME AGAIN! ALLELUIA!
And, indeed, it’s just too good
to be false!
 B8
The movie is based on the
reports of Wall Street journalist,
Geeta Anand in 2004. It
follows the struggles of John
Crowley (Brendan Fraser), a
pharmaceutical executive on the
rise, whose 8-year-old son and
6-year-old daughter have been
diagnosed with Pompe disease.
His greatest dilemma is that
this rare genetic disorder with
no known cure will eventually
spread to his children’s vital
organs and kill them at a young
age. But John will not give
up and lose his children so
easily. He meets Dr. Robert
Stonehill, (Harrison Ford), a
rustic University researcher
who has discovered an enzyme
that could possibly cure Pompe
disease. The bulk of the plot
focuses on John’s struggle to
build a foundation, then run
a bio-tech company and try to
work with Dr. Robert in spite of
personality clashes.
The plot is easy to follow and
develops quite predictably.
The script has a tendency to be
too syrupy and weepy at times
and has a prolonged focus
MAC en COLET
Buhay Parokya
Entertainment
Moral Assessment
 Abhorrent
 Disturbing
 Acceptable
 Wholesome
 Exemplary
on the melodrama. But still
Jacobs and Vaughan manage to
create a captivating movie. The
performances of Fraser, Ford and
Russell are solid and genuine.
The camerawork is clean and
the editing is tight. Technically,
the movie is more than good but
not necessarily great. Overall,
the movie succeeds in evoking
sympathy for a father battling the
odds to save his children.
The movie is strong in its
message about family. John’s
efforts are commendable and
Aileen’s (his wife) support for
him despite the uncertainty of the
situation is inspiring. Another
strong point of the movie is its
message of hope and acceptance
of God’s will. Accepting one’s
fate, no matter how painful, is
a sign of humility and complete
trust in His providence. The
movie would have been perfect
if the element of prayer or faith
were also highlighted as source
of courage and strength in
overcoming his ordeal. It would
be best for parents to remind their
children that in real life, faith and
spirituality play a major role in
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 – March 28, 2010
Technical Assessment
 Poor
 Below average
 Average
 Above average
 E
xcellent
Title: Extraordinary Measures
Cast: Brendan Fraser, Harri-
son Ford, Keri Russell
Director: Tom Vaughn; Pro-
ducers: Carla Santos
Shamberg, Michael Sham-
berg, Stacey Sher
Screenwriters: Robert Nelson
Jacobs, Geeta Anand
Music: Andrea Guerra
Editor: Anne V. Coates
Genre: Drama
Cinematography: Andrew
Dunn
Distributor: CBS Films
Location: USA; Running Time:
105mins.
Technical Assessment:
½
Moral Assessment: ½
CINEMA Rating: For viewers
14 and above
sustaining a person through his
pain and struggles.
The emotional stress of the
movie might not be suitable for
very young audiences. Although
it does have a strong positive
message, parents might feel
uncomfortable to have their
children sit through all the yelling
and crying in the movie.
Ni Bladimer Usi Nang mapatalsik sa puwesto Title: The Red Shoes
ang mga Marcos noong 1986, Cast: Marvin Agustin, Nikki
pinasok ng mga taong-bayan Gil, Lisa Lorena, Techie
ang Malacanang. Kabilang dito Agbayani, Tirso Cruz
ang batang si Lucas (Marvin III, Iwa Moto
Agustin) na nagnakaw ng Director: Raul Jorolan
isang pares ng sapatos na pula Writer: James Ladioray
Producer/ Distributor: Tony
ni Imelda Marcos. Ibinigay Gloria/Unitel
niya ang kanang pares sa Running Time: 110 minutes
kanyang ina (Lisa Lorena) na Location: Manila
nagluluksa sa pagkamatay ng Genre: Drama, Romance
kanilang padre de pamilya Technical Assessment:
(Tirso Crus III) at ang kaliwang 
kapares naman ay ibinigay niya Moral Assessment: ½
sa kanyang unang babaeng Rating: For viewers 14 and
minahal na si Betina (Nikki above
Gil). Sa kanilang paglaki ay
magiging magkasintahan sina Lucas at Betina ngunit sila’y
magkakahiwalay bunga ng matinding di-pagkakaunawaan
na mag-uugat sa pagtataksil ni Lucas. Samantalang ang ina
naman ni Lucas ay panay ang pagkonsulta sa mga ispiritista
Look for the images of Pope upang makausap ang kaluluwa ng kanyang amang natabunan
Pius XII, Archangel Michael sa ginagawang Film Center ni Imelda.
and Holy Water Font . Kakaiba ang kuwentong nais ihatid ng The Red Shoes.
(Illustration by Bladimer Usi) Nagawa nitong kilitiin ang imahinasyon ng manonood sa
pagkokonekta nito sa mga tunay na pangyayari sa ating
kasaysayan. Maayos naman ang pagkakalahad ng kuwento
bagama’t magulo sa kabuuan ang mensahe nito. Maganda ang
mga kuha ng kamera at ang mga lokasyong ginamit. Kitang-
kita na nag-uumapaw sa talinong artistiko ang mga nasa likod
ng pelikula. Maganda rin ang intensiyon nilang magbigay ng
panibagong putahe sa mga manonood ng pelikulang Pilipino.
Mahuhusay naman ang mga nagsiganap, yun nga lang,
bihira silang maramdaman bilang mga tunay na tao--dala ng
masyadong pag-ayos sa istruktura ng pelikula, lumabas na
pawang artipisyal at mukhang mga karikatura ang kanilang
mga karakter. Sayang, sapagkat kita naman ang sinseridad ng
lahat sa maayos na pagganap.
Sa simula pa lang ay problemado na ang pelikula sa
maraming usaping moral. Nariyan agad ang “romanticizing”
sa pagnanakaw ng isang bata. Bagama’t walang malisya sa
parte ng bata ang pagnanakaw, hindi nililinaw ng pelikula
kung ang pagnanakaw ay tama o mali. Maaari ding sinasabi ng
pelikula na hindi ito mabuti sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakitang
hindi naging maayos ang buhay ng pangunahing tauhan sa
kabuuan, subalit ang ganoong mga mensahe ay dapat na
dumating ng lubos na malinaw upang hindi nakakalabo sa
isipan ng nanonood. Umikot ang kuwento sa iba’t-ibang uri ng
pagnanakaw: pang-aagaw ng asawa, pagnanakaw ng sandali
ng pagtataksil. Nariyan din ang paniniwala ng ina ni Lucas sa
mga ispiritista at ilang mga pamahiin. Ipinakita namang ang
gawaing pagtawag ng kaluluwa at paniniwala sa ispirtista ay
hindi tama at madalas, ang mga ito’y pawang mga huwad.
Hindi rin mabuti na ipinipresenta ng pelikula na katanggap-
tanggap ang pagtatalik ng dalawang taong hindi naman kasal.
Mabuti na
nga lang
at wala
namang
hubaran at
malabis na
halikan na
ipinakita.
Nakaka-
bahala nga
lang na
baka isipin
ng mga
b a t a n g
manonood
na sapat
na dahilan
ang pagma-
m a h a l
u p a n g
humantong
s a
pagtatalik
a n g
relasyon.
Sa kabuuan
naman ng
pelikula ay
malinaw
ang pinaka-
mensahe
nito ukol
sa pagma-
m a h a l ,
pagpa-
patawad
at pagpa-
paraya.
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010
C1
A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI
and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

Awardees from Central Luzon Conquerors composed of Fraternal Counselors from Nueva Ecija and Pangasinan during the 33rd Annual Family Service Awards held from March 5-7, 2010 in Legend of Palawan Hotel, Puerto Princesa. The group, which
won the most number of delegation is led by Area Manager, Manuel L. Naldoza.

KCFAPI holds 33rd Fr. George J.

Willmann Family Service Awards
By Gari M. San Sebastian
THE Knights of Columbus Fra-
ternal Association of the Phils.,
Inc. (KCFAPI) celebrated its 33rd
Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J. Family
Service Awards last March 5, 6 and 7,
2010 at the Legend Hotel Palawan in
Puerto Princesa City. highest First Year Contribution Income of more than P18M. The list Eleno R. Sta.
The year 2009 so far had the most number of awardees from all of all the awardees and their area managers are as follows: Ana
over the archipelago. Celebration started from the Puerto Princesa
airport where the Knights of Columbus members with District FRATERNAL COUNSELOR OF THE YEAR Metro Manila
Warden Melencio Gener welcomed the group at the arrival area. Lauro Evangelista (Central Luzon Believers) Achievers
An orientation and briefing with house rules and tour advisory were Rolando P. De
provided by the Legend hotel representatives to the delegates during AREA MANAGER OF THE YEAR Villa
lunch. A free and relax mode with a side trip to a nearby market and Conrado S. Dator, Jr. (Southern Luzon Lakers) Armando E.
shopping center followed shortly and the awardees had time to buy Muyot
native delicacies and souvenirs. AREA MANAGER OF THE YEAR (RUNNER-UP) Jose Rolando
Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio, KCFAPI’s Spiritual Director and Director Efren M. Casupanan (Central Luzon Believers) G. Sanoria
of CBCP Media Office celebrated the Thanksgiving Mass on the day of Vicente G. Medeseo, Jr. Leonardo A. Hernandez
the Awardees’ arrival in Palawan, which was also the first Friday of the FRATERNAL COUNSELOR OF THE YEAR (RUNNERS-UP)
month in the season of Lent. While having dinner, the Palawan State Venancio F. Capiral – Southern Luzon Lakers Metro Manila Chancellors
University’s Sining Palawan Dance Troupe entertained the group with Eduardo V. Cruz – Central Luzon Believers Rodolfo C. Salcedo
their interpretation of cultural dances from all regions of the country. Maria Teresa G. De La Mota – Western Visayas Bulls Eduardo T. Buenaflor Jaime P. Lazaro
Antonio B. Borromeo, President of KCFAPI gave an opening Amado S. Miranda – Central Luzon Diamonds
message which signaled the start of the program. Bonifacio M. Morales – Central Luzon Believers Metro Manila Dragons
“The annual awards is the most awaited event in the lives of our Teofilo A. Samson – Southern Luzon Lakers Juan G. Castillo, Jr.
salesforce as the Association recognizes their accomplishments and Reynaldo Q. Segismundo – Northwestern Luzon Thunders Efren V. Mendoza
honor in extending remarkable fraternal service to our brother Metro Manila Excellence
Knights and families ” Borromeo said in his speech. WKRT Danilo T. Carungay
The Awarding ceremony was emceed by the writer and co-emceed Veronica C. Casupanan – Central Luzon Believers Virginia F. Del Pilar
by the Area Managers from various areas nationwide. The present- Hugo M. Goce, Jr. – Southern Luzon Lakers Northeastern Luzon Cavaliers
ers of the award were Patrocinio R. Bacay, Chairman of the Board; Joselito C. Guzman – Central Luzon Diamonds Gabriel T. Chocyagan
Antonio B. Borromeo, President; Ma. Theresa G. Curia, Executive Vice Rosa D. Hernandez – Metro Manila Chancellors Mauricio P. Pangda Pedro T. Domingo, Jr.
President and the deputies of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao namely Virgilio F. Matias – Metro Manila Chancellors Rogelio D. Oriel Marcelino T. Tabaldo
Alonso L. Tan, Dionisio R. Esteban Jr., and Sofronio R. Cruz. Crisencia R. Sanchez – Metro Manila Chancellors Lerio A. Cagampang
Central Luzon Conquerors had twelve awardees and recognized Danilo M. Tullao – Northeastern Luzon Cavaliers Northwestern Luzon Thunders
as the area with the most number of awardees. Metro Manila Chan- Angel F. Rivada
cellors was the first to attain their First Year Contribution Income CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Lorenzo D. Dufale, Sr. Mauricio V. Tolentino
(FYCI) target for 2009 and Central Luzon Believers garnered the Central Luzon Believers Aniceto B. Lozano
Diego DJ. Marquez
Ronando M. Rodriguez Southern Luzon Lakers
Joselito T. Enriquez Teodoro E. Rada
Luis F. Ferrer Angelito T. Lat Lauro E. Villamayor, Jr.
Ariston V. Francisco
Rodolfo N. Alongalay Southwestern Luzon Stars
Roberto V. Magtoto
Central Luzon Conquerors Ronnie L. Ayon Rodrigo B. Gorospe
Augusto Cesar C. Ventenilla Rufo S. Ilog Armando C. Ravina
Jeffrey Rey S. Guillermo
Purificacion N. Naldoza Central Visayas Aces
Jaime J. Dario Romualdo B. Montemayor

2009 KCFAPI Area Manager of the Year Nazario A. Timbresa

SOUTHERN Luzon Lakers Area Manager,
Conrado S. Dator, Jr. is the Knights of Columbus
Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc.’s
(KCFAPI) AM of the Year. He is the head coach of
all Fraternal Counselors of Southern Luzon which
covers the provinces of Laguna, Batangas and Que-
zon. Jun, as he is fondly called was able to face and
hurdle the challenges of the past year 2009. He is
one of the youngest KCFAPI Area Managers and
has been with the Order of the Knights of Columbus
for almost two decades. During which, he has held
Rene P. Cruz
Jose R. De Leon
Eastern Visayas Fighters
Ednar C. Padro Jocelyn D. Nabong
several positions such as the Grand Knight and
Rex E. Blanco
District Deputy and is presently the State Youth
Francisco L. Baluyot Western Visayas Champions
Director of Luzon Jurisdiction. He was born in Sta.
Rolando Y. Frany Wildy D. Devela
Cruz, Laguna and is an active member of Council
Francisco C. Ballesteros Awards / C2
4104. He started his career as a salesman and was
later invited to be a Fraternal Counselor and in less
than a year, he became the Area Manager for South-
ern Luzon. For ten years as an Area Manager, he has
proven himself to lead not just in his area but in all
2009 KCFAPI Fraternal Counselor of the Year
areas nationwide being a three-time Area Manager LAURO Evangelista of the to speak in front of a crowd,” who later were turned as his
of the Year (2002, 2007 and 2009) and has been a Central Luzon Believers is the Larry told in an interview. Even Benefit Certificate holders.
consistent runner-up in the past.. 2009 Knights of Columbus though he is a soft-spoken and “Hard work, determination,
Dator brought with his success several Fraternal Association of the humble person as what his col- and strong belief, are some
awardees in the FC of the Year Runners-up, Phils., Inc. (KCFAPI) Fraternal leagues would describe him, of my key success factors” he
Ted Samson and Ven Capiral; Willmann Counselor of the Year. It’s a Larry already landed in several added. Larry also shared his
Knights of the Round Table (WKRT), back to back title for Larry, as titles such as Chairman’s Circle, attitude towards success with
Jun Goce and Chairman Circle, Lito Lat, he is commonly called, who Willmann Knights of the Round an acronym, T.I.P.S. Treat all BC
Teddy Rada and Lauro Villamayor. hailed from a small town of Table (WKRT) and twice as FC of holders with humility, Industri-
“Being focused on my plans and Plaridel in the province of Bu- the Year, the highest title. ousness and integrity, Patience,
programs and being consistently in lacan; a teacher by profession, Evangelista had been a consis- Sense of responsibility leads to
search for new strategies towards bet- who later became the Fraternal tent awardee for seven years in a great accomplishments. He also
ter performance are some of the traits I Counselor of his Council. “I row since he started in 2002. One owes his success to his father,
continuously nurture in order to attain was quite hesitant to accept of the secrets of his success is his Emmanuel Evangelista, to his
my goal” he said. the role entrusted to me by the exposure in the activities of the supportive wife Cecille, their
Jun is married to Yan with their chil- members and officers of Plar- Order of the Knights of Colum- children Ces Lauraine and Marc
dren John Kurt and Camille. (Gari San idel Council because I know bus. He also established a good Emman, and to the Lord Al-
Sebastian) that I do not have the courage rapport with all its members mighty. (Gari San Sebastian)
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
C2 Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010

Chairman’s
Message
Patrocinio R. Bacay
FOR a number of years, we have known through counted among the best Fraternal Counselors and
the brilliance and wonder of the world of Science Area Managers. Truly, that choice was made with
that our genes are the constant elements in every the best intention to do their best not solely for their
cell of the human body responsible for the inherited personal recognition, but also to bring honor for their
traits handed down from generation to generation. families, garnering benefits too for other brother
This may be the determining factor how our lives knights and their families, ultimately helping KCFAPI
are coursed. This knowledge has formed a mindset in its journey to spread out countless benefits where
that maybe an advantage at times, unfortunately, they are most needed.
disadvantageous often times. But deep in our Chris- In our midst are brothers and sisters who have
tian heart and mind, we have always believed and determinedly made their choice, willing to labor
witnessed how we want our life to turn out will through sweat and blood if need be, to arrive at this
ultimately be determined by the choices we make, time in their life to witness the fruit of a right choice
with Divine Providence. A few issues ago, Time and hard work.
Magazine had for its cover story—Why Your DNA To our special and honored people tonight our
Is Not Your Destiny. I quote, “The New Science heartfelt congratulations. Thank you for giving our
of epigenetics reveals how the choices you make Order the chance once more, to enjoy this shining
can change your genes—and those of your Kids,” moment.
unquote.
My dear brothers and sisters, regardless of genes, (Chairman’s speech delivered during the 33rd Fr.
our honorees tonight have made their choice—to be George J. Willmann, S.J. Annual Family Awards)
President’s
Message
Antonio B. Borromeo
IT is with great pride to honor our 86 Annual Awardees on
the 33rd Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J. Annual Family Service
Awards held recently in Palawan knowing fully well the hard work and dedication each and
every one of them has poured out in 2009. The 86 awardees is the most number of sales force in
the history of KCFAPI with P125M in First Year Contribution Income (FYCI). Congratulations
to the two-time winner of the FC Awardee of the year, Bro. Lauro L. Evangelista of the Central
Luzon Believers, and 3 time-winner of the AM Awardee of the year, Bro. Conrado S. Dator of
the Southern Luzon Lakers. Special citation should also be given to the top grosser in FYCI of
P18.3M from the area of Bro. Efren M. Casupanan of the Central Luzon Believers and the AM with
the most number of FC awardees, Bro. Manuel L. Naldoza of the Central Luzon Conquerors.
We thank everyone who has made the awarding ceremonies a successful event especially
the respective families of the awardees who not only attended the ceremonies but were part
of it by way of their showmanship during the group presentations. We expect more talent
and higher production in the next annual awards.
This year 2010 comes as a new challenge for all of the Fraternal Counselors and Area Man-
agers. Our theme in 2008 of Unveiling Breakthroughs in Celebrating 50 Years of Fraternal
Service produced P103M in FYCI. For 2009, the theme was Sustaining Growth Through Forti-
fied Fraternal Service with total FYCI of P125M from a target of P105M. For 2010, the theme
is Get Everyone Achieve Records. We know that we have a bigger challenge to hurdle but
with everyone pitching in their best, this could be achieved.
Finally, we thank the Lord for his guidance all these years through the Holy Spirit without
which none of these will bear abundant fruit.

My only son, Archie—a gift from Godthat I would name my son, Arsenio III.
By Arsenio Isidro G. Yap
I went to the nursery and saw my son in a very
I WAS roused from my sleep by my wife Annie in horrible state. He was in an incubator; his breath-
the early morning of April 26, 1980. She told me ing was aided by an oxygen tank with dextrose
that her water bag has ruptured and she’s about to tubes attached on his head and another on one of
give birth to our first child although she was not his legs. It looked like he’s in terrible pain, so fragile
yet due for about two weeks. We hurriedly packed that at any moment, he would die.
some things for her needs and proceeded to the Five days later, my wife was ready to be dis-
hospital where she was seeing her doctor for her charged from the hospital. I asked the pediatrician,
pre-natal check-ups. what about our son? He told us to leave our son up
She was rushed to the delivery room immedi- to 30 days, to which we readily agreed.
ately upon arrival at the hospital. Hours passed I was again hopeful as the doctor was practically
and I have not received any news on my wife’s saying that my son could get better in 30 days. We
condition. It was already lunch time when I was visited our son everyday and there seemed to be
advised that my wife’s birth canal was only three no improvement on his condition. On the 30th day,
(3) cm and that she was not yet about to give birth we asked the doctor the real score about my son’s
since the birth canal should be ten (10) cm. for a condition. He could hardly express himself. We’re
normal delivery. receiving bits and pieces of information from the
I was getting worried because I brought my wife gibberish he was muttering about until I got the
in at around 4:30 a.m. Eight hours have passed picture and put words into his mouth. He reluc-
since her water bag broke and I do not know the tantly agreed to what I think he was saying.
effects of a prolonged dry labor. At two, I was told We told him we’re taking him home with or with-
stood up, steadied himself by holding on a wall Mary College in Aurora Blvd, Quezon City. He
and dashed across the room unaided. We were had only one penance for all their confessions that
overjoyed when we saw him do it. He acknowl- they pray for the safe and successful operation
edged our glee with a burst of laughter on his part of Archie. About a year later, one of the students
as if telling us that, “I told you so, I could do it.” chanced upon Bishop Pedernal and asked him
It was the most memorable Holy Week vacation how Archie was. The good bishop then told her
we ever had. that their prayers were answered and thanked her
We went to see one of his old doctors to show for the good deed.
her the improvements on our son Archie. She was We had him attend a special school for children
impressed by Archie’s development and confided like him until when he was about 20 years old, but
to us that she never expected our son to survive his mental condition hardly improved through the
the first year of his life. years. He’ll be thirty by April 26, in good health
At age 14, we consulted an orthopedist on the and in good spirit. He is our first born and the only
curvature of Archie’s spine. He suggested an boy among our five children.
operation to attach a metal brace on his spine in If you had experience what my wife and I did
order to prevent it from further deterioration. during the first year of his life and heard the doctors’
We asked if there’s another option other than an pronouncement on his fate and condition, you will
operation. He told us we could opt not to have never believe that Archie would still be alive today.
him undergo operation since the condition is not I pleaded for my son’s life and God gave him to us
life-threatening. We asked him to explain to us the as an inspiration and a source of strength in times of
scenario if we choose not to let him undergo the adversity. Archie is a gift from God to my family.
operation. He told us the spine

KC Philippines State Deputies

that they needed to induce my wife to give birth. At out a discharge order from him. He had no other would continue to deteriorate
4:30 p.m., I was informed that my wife has finally choice but to order the discharge of our baby. which would somehow affect
given birth to a baby boy, five pounds and fifteen We went around looking for a doctor who could his lungs and cause him to have

donate to Haiti victims

ounces, an ounce short of six pounds.
A few minutes later our baby was taken out
of the delivery room and brought to the nursery
ward. The baby seemed fine except that the head
is a little bit elongated. Fifteen minutes later
the anesthesiologist visited us and related to me
the events in the delivery room and how my wife
had a difficult time giving birth. She told me that
when the drug to induce birth failed, they literally
squeezed my wife’s tummy to force the baby out.
At around 6:30, two nurses from the nursery
ward came over and asked me what name would
I like to give to my son and I asked why? Finally,
one of them got enough courage and told me that
I need to give a name for my son so an emergency
baptism could be administered to him. I asked why
the need for an emergency baptism. With a sad
look on her face and showing a lot of sympathy,
the nurse told me in the most difficult way that my
son might not last the night. Then and only then,
did I realize that my son was dying. I told them
Awards / C1
somehow do something for my son. Different tests
were done on him including a CT-Scan which
showed that a part of his brain was not functioning
at all. Later on I found out that the brain damage
was caused by the lack of oxygen during delivery
and was not an inborn defect.
My son’s development was slow, he was unable
to walk nor stand at age three. He was moving
about on his butt, dragging himself to where he
wants to go. We consulted a physical therapist and
had him on a program to strengthen his limbs and
help him stand and walk with the aid of braces on
his legs. It was somehow successful. He learned to
stand, walk around with the aid of a walker or a
grab bar, but he could not walk without holding
on to anything that would steady him. He had the
mind of a 6 month old baby.
The situation remained the same until he was
about seven when some sort of a miracle hap-
pened. We were on a holy week vacation when
all of a sudden on a Good Friday he suddenly
difficulty in breathing.
We agreed on the operation so
he would not deteriorate and suf-
fer a slow death by asphyxiation.
When we first saw him after the
operation, I was brought to tears.
He was restrained in the middle
of circular metal framed bed
without any cushion, like being
suspended in mid-air.
He did not complain nor
showed any sign of discomfort,
despite his very difficult situa-
tion. I attributed this to the help
and prayers of Most Rev. God-
ofredo Pedernal, Bishop Emeri-
tus of Borongan Samar. While
Archie was being operated on,
Bishop Pedernal was hearing
confessions from the high school
students of Immaculate Heart of
EACH of the Knights of Columbus Philippines State Deputies
has donated to the victims of the recent earthquake in Haiti.
Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan, Visayas Deputy Dionisio R.
Esteban, Jr., and Mindanao Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz each
handed an amount of U$ 1,000 to the KC Supreme Council
as their contribution to the relief assistance of the Supreme
Council to Haiti.
The cash donation was personally handed by the three State
Deputies during their Mexico Trip for the Circle of Honors
Awarding Ceremony last February 15.
In their recent report, the KC Supreme Council has immedi-
ately donated $50,000 to the Catholic Relief Services for the Haiti
relief operations.
The Supreme Council then asked the Brother Knights and
their families to offer prayers for the victims of the catastrophe.
(KC News)

Central Mindanao Cowboys

Lorenzo E. Almelia Mary I. Labrador

Davao Eagles
Butch B. Ragoro

Northern Mindanao Goldies

Marteliano A. Alcontin Romeo L. Loquero
Emma M. Saclote

Southwestern Mindanao Fuerza con Amor

Jose Q. Tan, Jr.

The awards night ended with the Chairman’s message and toast
by Sir Knight Patrocinio R. Bacay.
The awardees were also treated to a whole day tour in the Un-
derground River, considered as one of the top nominees of the new
seven wonders of the world. Others opted an island hopping in
Honda Bay. Right after their trip, the “Kawangis ng Tribu,” a local
ethnic group performer glittered the theme night with their fire dance
and music from indigenous instruments. All of the participants wore
an inspiration from Indiana Jones movie, Jungle Safari costume. The
areas performed several numbers such as group singing, dancing,
or combination of both and even a short play. Central Luzon Con-
querors won the best group performance followed by Central Luzon
Believers and Southern Luzon Lakers. Rex Blanco of Central Luzon
Conquerors also won his third title as winner of Best Costume for
male and Angeli Salcedo of Metro Manila Chancellors emerged as
the winner of Best Costume for female. The judges were the family
members of the Board of Trustees with Msgr. Quitorio III as their
Chairperson.
Also present during the affair were KCFAPI Board of Trustees
headed by Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay and his wife, Dra. Gloria;
Vice Chairman Sofronio R. Cruz, President Antonio B. Borromeo,
Corporate Treasurer Antontio T. Yulo and wife, Concepcion; Cor-
porate Secretary Alonso L. Tan and wife Teresita; Board members
Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. and wife Fe; Jose D. Bacalanmo, Jr. and
wife Rolanda; Atty. Ramon E. Rodrigo and wife Gigi; Hospicio
T. Suralta, Jr. and wife Florencia; with Treasurer of Fr. Willmann
Charities and KC Philippines Foundation Dr. Ruperto Somera and
wife Dra. Ofelia. KCFAPI officers who assisted and supported
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES

the occasion were Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Cu-

ria, Executive Vice President; VP - Finance Mary Magdalene G.
Flores; VP - Fraternal Benefits Joseph P. Teodoro, VP - Informa-
tion & BC Holders’ Services Ronulfo Antero G. Infante, Manager
- Legal & Administrative Services Atty. Rizal V. Katalbas, Jr.,
Manager - Underwriting Carmelita S. Ruiz, Medical Consultant
Jaime M. Talag, Executive Secretary Annie M. Nicolas, Fraternal
Benefits Associate for Central Visayas Floralin C. Bohol, Jan Mi-
chael Dayrit and Jemwel Santillan of FBG and Roy Lagarde and
Dennis Dayao of the CBCP Media Office provided program and
technical support.
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010
C3

The Cross of Christ

inspires consolation and
charity amid tragedy
By Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson
ALL of us have been horrified in recent weeks by the scenes of death and destruction in Haiti, and mil-
lions have sought for a way to alleviate the suffering there. No doubt many homilies have been given
to help us understand how a loving God could allow such a tragedy. Yet, I was told, she prayed the rosary every day by holding the beads between her teeth.
One “explanation” in the United States came from a Protestant evangelist who stated that Haiti had
been “cursed” ever since its founders had “sworn a pact with the devil” to achieve the nation’s inde-
pendence from France. His comments, as one might expect, caused a storm of controversy.
Certainly, there is ample evidence in the Old Testament of nations being punished by God for idolatry,
and some Christians continue to look to this Old Testament history for explanations of world events.
However, Catholics today are more likely to look in a different direction to understand how God deals
with human sinfulness. And they need look no further than the crucifix above the altar in their church. God
has freely and lovingly united himself with human suffering in the sacrifice of his Son upon the cross.
Those evangelists who so often quote John 3:16 might also remember what is said in the next verse:
“God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might
be saved.”
The tragedy in Haiti is likely to have long-lasting effects, not only for the people who have lost loved
ones there, but for an entire generation that has witnessed its destruction. As such, it is important that
we get the right understanding of what has occurred.
Many news reports compare Haiti to the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in the U.S. Gulf Coast
region or the recent floods in the Philippines. There is one similarity that I think is worth pointing
out: In Haiti, as in the Philippines or on the Gulf Coast, there has been an outpouring of giving by the
members of the Knights of Columbus.
Haiti is today a test of our faith in God and our commitment to our fellow man. So far, Knights have
kept their commitment and have shown the true meaning of the first principle of our Order: charity.
In thinking about Haiti, I could not help but consider the work of St. Damien of Molokai, “the Leper
Priest,” who was canonized last fall by Pope Benedict XVI. Several years ago, I had the opportunity to
visit Molokai, Hawaii, and while visiting a church there I saw a photograph of an elderly woman taken
in the 1930s. She had lost her ears, nose, and all of her fingers and toes to leprosy. She was also blind.
Not long after that, I spoke to a missionary priest who mentioned that he had opened a home for
people suffering from leprosy. Each day as he celebrates Mass there, an elderly man, also blind from
the disease, says during the prayers of the faithful, “Father, God, thank you for all the good things you
have given me.”
Philosophers and theologians will continue to search for explanations concerning the problem of
suffering in the world. Perhaps the best answer, though, comes from those whose suffering goes be-
yond what we are able to imagine. These believers experience the reality that God has united himself
to them in their suffering.
In his homily during the canonization Mass of Father Damien, Benedict XVI said: “Jesus invites his
disciples to the total giving of their lives, without calculation or personal gain, with unfailing trust in
God. The saints welcome this demanding invitation and set about following the crucified and risen
Christ with humble docility. Their perfection, in the logic of a faith that is humanly incomprehensible
at times, consists in no longer placing themselves at the center, but choosing to go against the flow and
live according to the Gospel.”
Ultimately, this is the key to understand the events of Molokai and Haiti. And it will be the measure
of our response as Christians.
In Haiti, much of what we have seen is the response of neighbors helping neighbors—of brotherly
solidarity. There is no better way to rebuild a city, for, as Proverbs tells us, “A brother that is helped
by his brother is like a strong city” (Prov 18:19).
Vivat Jesus!

The Population Agenda KC Luzon to conduct

IT is kind of ironic that in this
holy season of Lent the country
is talking about things too far
off from the holy. Exactly three
days before the start of the 40-
day observance that opened
with Ash Wednesday, the De-
partment of Health commenced
doling out condoms in bus terminals and elsewhere.
It is also inclusive of this holy season that political candidates
in their sorties are bashing each other and campaigning at all cost
just to get a firm hold of political power that, as history will tell,
is actually bereft of commitment to the common good.
While we are supposedly a catholic country, the values that the
government and most of us are pursuing are far from Christian. The
condom distribution, for instance, is a scapegoat. What the health
department is telling people is that, we have to use condom in order
to stem the spread of HIV-AIDS. This, of course, is a deception,
because the condom does not prevent the spread of the virus, as the
experience of other countries will bear. When Thailand started dis-
tributing condom, the incidence of AIDS increased exponentially.
The greatest virus that condoms bring is the “virus” of promis-
cuity and permissiveness. A promiscuous person who is living in
a society that is permissive is a perfect multiplier of HIV-AIDS.
2010 Walk for Life
THE Luzon Jurisdiction of the
He or she will be indiscriminate in the use of sexual faculties that Knights of Columbus will con-
may thrive in fertile grounds such as: extra-marital sex, pre-marital duct its “Walk for Life” on
sex and same sex, among others. At the end of the day, one finds March 20, 2010. The walk is
out that the health department is actually encouraging the spread aimed to bring to public atten-
of the virus and not preventing it. tion that the Knights of Colum-
Truth to tell, the real issue is not the virus. It is population. bus values life and supports it in
The condom gambit, just like the RH Bill, is merely a part of an all stages of development, from
overarching agenda: the reduction of population at all cost. This conception to its final moments
scheme is heavily funded by foreign organizations that have been and will never waver nor grow
zealously working to reduce the population of third world coun- tired in their stand to Defend
tries in order to grip a global economic and political balance. But Life. As a matter of resolve, KofC
of course, the condoms and birth control pills is also a multibillion is taking this so seriously and
business of pharmaceutical companies that can make or unmake have even passed a resolution
politicians—just like drugs and gambling. to conduct this type of activity
At this holy Season of Lent we kneel down in prayer and on a yearly basis.
penance. We ask our Brother Knights to seek the intercession of Our This will be the second year in
Lady of Guadalupe to come to our aid and spare our country. a row that this type of activity will be held simultaneously in differ-
ent parts of Luzon as well as in the Visayas and Mindanao making
Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio it a nationwide advocacy of the Knights of Columbus in the three
KCFAPI Chaplain Jurisdictions.
The program will start with a concelebrated mass at 6 a.m. at the

KCFAPI employees volunteer

San Agustin Church to be officiated by Most. Rev. Honesto F. Ong-
tioco, DD, Bishop of the Diocese of Cubao and State Chaplain of the
Luzon Jurisdiction. This will be followed by a walk towards Rajah
Sulayman Park in Roxas Blvd. traversing Gen. Luna, then right on
P. Burgos and left to Roxas Blvd.
There will be a short program at the park wherein KofC will re-

at GK bayanihan build
EMPLOYEES of KCFAPI recently volun-
teered at the Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan
Build for the construction of five additional
houses at the KC GK Village in honor of
Supreme Knight Carl Anderson
The GK site is situated at Tungkong Mang-
ga, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. Everybody
was so excited to visit the area again to see
the seventeen houses and the Fr. Willmann
chapel previously built through Bayanihan
Challenges.
Volunteers donned in yellow and blue GK
Build shirts and buri hat helped the commu-
nity in clearing the area, filling the plant area
with soil and leveled the frontage of each
house. They also distributed meriendas for
all the workers.
A 3-foot Crucifix and Sacred Heart Image
donated by Bro. Ruperto Somera and Atty.
KCFAPI Board of Trustees:
Patrocinio R. Bacay, Chairman
Sofronio R. Cruz, Vice Chairman
Antonio B.Borromeo, President
Alonso L. Tan, Corporate Secretary
Antonio T. Yulo, Treasurer
iterate their stand on Pro-Life and how much they Value Life. The
Honorable Mayor of Manila, Alfredo S. Lim will not only grace
the occasion but will also be one of the speakers for the said event.
Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III, CBCP Media Director and Columbian
Squires State Father Prior; Dr. Ligaya A. Acosta, Executive Director
Francisco Tankiang of Human Life International-Asia and Bishop Ongtioco will also
were also brought to give their views on their stand.
the site. Both Brother An audio message of Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson will
Knights are members also be played during the event reiterating the Order’s firm stand
of the Board of Trust- to Defend Life and to thwart any move to destroy the sanctity of
ees of the KC Philip- Family as an institution, as the most basic unit of society and as the
pines Foundation. smallest church as defined by our Faith.
After the hard Bro. Alonso L. Tan, Luzon Deputy is calling all brother knights
work, the employ- not only in Metro Manila but all over Luzon to organize and join a
ees recited the ro- “Walk for Life” in their respective area of responsibility.
sary at the Fr. Will- All seven Dioceses of Metro Manila namely, Antipolo, Cubao,
mann Chapel where Kalookan, Manila, Novaliches, Parañaque and Pasig will be partici-
the Mother of Per- pating in this laudable project. They will be beefed-up by delega-
petual Help Icon is tion of brother knights from nearby Dioceses of Imus, Malolos, San
placed. Fernando, Pampanga and San Pablo. Columbian Squires from all
Schedule of turn- dioceses who will join in the walk will also participate together with
over of these houses other family members and friends.
to the intended ben- Other areas expected to conduct their own “Walk for Life” are Ba-
eficiaries is on April 10, 2010. Gawad Kalinga Project will be shown guio City, Tuguegarao City, San Pablo City and provinces of Tarlac,
A video presentation during the National Convention in Cebu Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur. (Arsenio Isidro G. Yap)
of the Foundation’s City. (Denise Solina)
You may contact KCFAPI through
State Deputies tour Mexico, our TEXT CONNECT INFORMATION
SYSTEM (TEXT BILIS)
Send to: 0917-825-KOFC or 0917-825-

met Supreme Council for

5632
Jose D. Bacalanmo, Jr., Member
Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., Member To register
Ramon E. Rodrigo, Member

achieving membership quota

Hospicio T. Suralta, Jr., Member
Founder Members Committee
HIS EMINENCE
Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales, D.D.
(Archbishop of Manila)
HIS EXCELLENCY
Nereo P. Odchimar, D.D.
(President, CBCP)
Fr. Jose Cecilio J. Magadia, S.J.
(Father Provincial, Society of Jesus)
Bro. Alonso L. Tan - Luzon Deputy
Bro. Dionisio R. Esteban - Visayas Deputy
Bro. Sofronio R. Cruz - Mindanao Deputy
Bro. Pedro M. Rodriguez, Jr.
(Vice Supreme Master)
Bro. Allan Nicolas C. Ouano
(Secretary - Visayas Jurisdiction)
Board of Advisors
His Eminence Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales, D.D.
Amb. Hilario G. Davide, Jr.
Teodoro O. Arcenas, Jr.
Edijer A. Martinez
Panfilo O. Pacubas, Sr.
Ma. Theresa G. Curia, Executive Vice President
Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III, Spiritual Director
THE Knights of Columbus Philip-
pines’ Deputies were awarded a visit
to Mexico for achieving the Supreme
Council membership quota for two
consecutive years.
Luzon Deputy Alonso Tan, Visayas
Deputy Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., and
Mindanao Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz,
with their ladies as well as their State
Membership Directors and their
wives went to Puerto Vallarta in
Mexico last February 14-20, 2010.
The three deputies were awarded
the Circle of Honors for having
reached the 100% increase in mem-
bership.
According to Tan, attaining the
100% increase is computed for every
jurisdiction.
On their first day, KC deputies
from different countries including
past state deputies, state member-
ship directors and former state
membership directors met for a
membership meeting to inform and
update each official of their current
standing on the program of the Su-
preme Council.
As a culminating activity, an
awarding ceremony was held at the
Marriott Casa Magna Puerto Vallarta
last February 18, 2010.
The three Philippine Deputies and
other State Deputies who reached
the quota were given a Circle of
Honor ring.
As of February 24, 2010, Luzon
Jurisdiction is on the 7th place with
5,928 new members; Visayas Juris-
diction on the 14th rank with 2,743
new members and the Mindanao
Jurisdiction on the 12th position with
3,289 new members for the Circle of
Honor 2009-2010. (KC News)
KCREG<space>FCCODE<space>PINCODE
<space>CONFIRM CODE
Example: KCREG 00000 123456 123456
To inquire allowance
ALLW<space>FCCODE
<space>PINCODE
Example: ALLW 00000 123456
To inquire for Submitted, Released & Paid BCs
SRP<space>FCCODE
<space>MMYYYY
Example: SRP 00000 012008
To inquire for the status of Benefit Certificate
BCINQ<space>ACCOUNT#<space>BIRTHDATE
Example: BCINQ 1002840 01061971
To text a particular Department
DEPTCODE<space>Your Name<space>Your Message
Example: To text Underwriting Department for follow-up
UND Juan Dela Cruz Follow-up application of Bro. Joel Garcia
DEPTCODE:
UND - for Underwriting
FBG - for FBG
FMAS - for FC’s Account
SERVICE - for BC Services
CORPSRV - for FADB
FGJWF - for Foundations

C4
Relief operations
keep going for Luzon
DESPITE intertwining concerns and the lapse of time that has passed
since typhoon Ondoy hit the country in September last year, the
Luzon Jurisdiction has never stopped helping brother knights that
have been victims of the worst tropical depression in memory.
Last February 20, 2010, the Task Force Typhoon Operation of the
Jurisdiction went to Our Lady of Light Parish in Cainta, Rizal to
distribute relief goods equipped with grocery bags, mineral waters
and boxes of used clothes.
Headed by Luzon State Advocate Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., State
Program Director Bonifacio B. Martinez, State Disaster Relief
Chairman Romulo B. Estrella and State Squires Chairman Jose F.
Cuaresma, the State Officers conducted relief operation for the 68
affected Brother Knights of Council 7844.
The operations team consolidated all their actions which included
the solicitation and distribution of relief goods to respond to the
needs of the victims of Ondoy and Pepeng particularly the members
of the Order.
Grand Knight Nicanor C. Felix assisted the State Officers during
the distribution.
Msgr. Arnel F. Lagarejos, parish priest of Our Lady of Light
Parish, conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to the Knights of
Columbus. (Kate Laceda)
KCFAPI Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia, President Antonio B. Borromeo,
Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay (2nd from right) and Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo during KCFAPI’s
courtesy call to the new Insurance Commissioner, former Justice Santiago Javier Ranada held
at the Insurance Commission office in U.N. Manila last March 4, 2010.
Knights of Columbus
Fraternal Association of the Philippines Inc.,
an established mutual benefits association is currently looking for:
Auditor
Underwriting Supervisor
Accounting Staff
BRO Staff – Loans, Maturities & Excess Payments
If you are dedicated, service-oriented, and have the promising potential to join us in our con-
tinuous drive to provide mutual aid, assistance and excellent service to our members. Kindly
send your comprehensive resume’ thru fax number 527-2244 or hand-carry resume’ with a
2x2 photo and transcript of records to:
KC Family... Our Concern
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FRATERNAL
ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES, INC.
Gen. Luna cor. Sta. Potenciana Sts.,
Intramuros, Manila
You may also call 527 – 2223 local 202 for queries and look for Ms. Kristianne.
The Cross
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 6
March 15 - 28, 2010
KCFAPI unveils
TOKCA winners
THE Board of Jurors has announced the eight winners of the
2009 Search for The Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards
as members.
The eight winners were chosen from 218 brother knights who
(TOKCA) during the regular meeting of the Board of Trustees by all measure excelled in their respective fields of endeavor.
held Friday, March 5, 2010 at Puerto Princesa City. (The complete list of nominees appeared in the Cross Supple-
The Board of Jurors is composed of Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio ment January 2010 issue)
III—CBCP Media Director as Chairman; Amb. Henrietta T. de The awardees of 2009 Search for The Outstanding Knights of
Villa—PPCRV Chairman; Prof. Felipe B. Alfonso—Executive Columbus Awards (TOKCA) can be seen on the table below.
Director of Ramon V. del Rosario, Sr. Center for Corporate The eight awardees will receive their plaques of recognition on
Responsibility of Asian Institute of Management; Patrocinio R. April 16, 2010 during the Dinner on the 8th Knights of Columbus
Bacay—KCFAPI Chairman; Antonio B. Borromeo—KCFAPI National Convention at the Waterfront Lahug Hotel.
President; Alonso L. Tan—Luzon Deputy; Dionisio R. Esteban, To all the Awardees and Nominees, we take our hats off after
Jr.—Visayas Deputy; and Sofronio R. Cruz—Mindanao Deputy your exemplary accomplishments. (Joseph P. Teodoro)
Luzon State Advocate Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr, together with State Program Director Bonifacio B. Martinez, State Disaster Relief Chairman Romulo B. Estrella,
State Squires Chairman Jose F. Cuaresma and KC Luzon Office Manager Nenita A. Casiño conducted relief operation for the 68 affected Brother Knights of Council
7844 last February 20 at the Our Lady of Light Parish, Cainta, Rizal. Grand Knight Nicanor C. Felix assisted the State Officers during the distribution. Although not
included in the picture, Msgr. Arnel F. Lagarejos commended the good deeds of the Knights of Columbus when he saw the relief goods distributed. (Nhets Casiño)
CHARTER PRESENTATION. Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan is shown presenting the Charter
Certificate of the new Sto. Niño de Calumpit Council 14876 in Calumpit, Bulacan last February 28,
2010. The Charter Certificate was awarded to Charter Grand Knight Florentino S. Tenorio in the
presence of Council Chaplain Rev. Fr. Jose Jay C. Santos and DD Rodolfo Y. Manumbas of District
M22 of the Diocese of Malolos, who later installed the Charter Officers. (Nhets Casiño)
The Knights of Columbus Frater-
nal Association of the Philippines
Inc., is an established and progressive
mutual benefits association operating
for 51 years, has been highly committed
to provide mutual aid and assistance
to its members and their immediate
families.
KC Fraternal firmly believes that the
continued progress and success of the
association depends to a great extent
on its human capital.
KC Fraternal also believes that
through training and a host of other
benefits if coupled with hard work, will
help employees and the association,
attain their goals and objectives.
In our continuous drive to provide
excellent service to our members, we
are currently on the look-out for indi-
viduals with promising potentials. He
must be dedicated, service oriented,
and willing to undergo training.
Our compensation and employee ben-
efits are comparable, if not better than
most companies of our same size and
nature of business. Any amount paid in excess of the contribution
due will be applied as payment to loan or
advance to next contribution due