Monitor
CBCP
JUNE 12 - 25, 2017 VOL 21, NO. 12
Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma leads the distribution of relief goods and other basic necessities to Marawi evacuees at the Vaminta village in Opol, Misamis Oriental, June 2, 2017.
CARL CABARABAN/CONTRIBUTOR
Cardinal calls for interreligious
dialogue to counter fundamentalism
By Roy Lagarde
A LEADING Church
leader has urged more
interreligious dialogue
(IRD) to help end all forms
of fundamentalism and
terrorism in the country.
Cardinal Orlando Quevedo of
Cotabato said that IRD is not
something optional but what the
country increasingly needs amidst
the ongoing fighting in Marawi City.
3 bishops seek Supreme Court
intervention on martial law
Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo and Mother Adelaida Ygrubay, OSB, lead in
filing a petition before the Supreme Court asking it to require both houses of Congress
to follow the Constitution and convene in a joint session and review the martial law
declaration in Mindanao, June 7, 2017. ROY LAGARDE
AT least three Catholic
bishops have joined a petition
asking the Supreme Court to
compel Congress to hold
a joint session and review
President Rodrigo Dutertes
martial law in Mindanao.
The petition was filed on
June 7 by Manila Auxiliary
Bishop Broderick Pabillo and
Mother Adelaida Ygrubay,
OSB, along with several
student council leaders.
All we are asking is for the
Overseas Pinoys launch Rosary brigade for Marawi crisis
WITH growing concern for the
ongoing crisis in Marawi and various
incidents of violence in the country,
Filipinos overseas launched an
online Rosary brigade to ask Holy
Marys intercession for peace in the
country.
We, Pinoys, all over the world,
as brethren in Christ, should unite
and multiply our prayers, to ask
the Most Holy Trinity, through
the intercession of Our Lady of
the Holy Rosary, convinced that
CBCPMONITOR@AREOPAGUSCOMMUNICATIONS.COM
PROTAGONIST OF TRUTH, PROMOTER OF PEACE
C1
The Cross
A Supplement Publication of
KCFAPI and the Order of the
Knights of Columbus
B1
ALL CHRISTIANS ARE
UNITED BY THE BLOOD
OF THE MARTYRS
When youre
Christian but
cant tolerate
others
perspectives
With the tragic reality of Religious leaders, educational on the rise because of the crisis in
terrorism, IRD has become more institutions and churches have to Marawi City besieged by the Maute CONVINCED youre always
imperative and indispensable, effectively address the deep-seated terror group. right? This is a red flag,
Quevedo said. biases, prejudices and erroneous Many especially those outside warned Manila Archbishop
He said that it is the task of religious beliefs beginning with the Marawi. And when they hear the Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle
religious leaders to address the young, Quevedo said. stories of evacuees, their prejudices during his annual Pentecost
root causes of terrorism, including While it may not be possible to rise, said Quevedo. recollection, on June 4 at the
prejudices that often erupts in social dialogue with terrorist themselves, The first cardinal from Mindanao Smart Araneta Coliseum.
disputes and violence. their religious scholars could also emphasized the need to educate When you can no
Such role of correcting erroneous convince them of their erroneous Christians to stop anti-Muslim hate. longer stand someone
beliefs and eradicating or at least Quranic interpretation, he said. And I say, let them live and get who thinks differently,
reducing prejudices through exposure in two, three weeks with it means something,
informal and formal education even Anti-muslim hate Muslims in Cotabato for instance, said the prelate to some
in ordinary day-to-day dialogue of The cardinal earlier said that he said. 6,000 attendees from lay
life. anti-Muslim prejudice seems to be Interreligious / A6 organizations, religious
communities, schools, and
seminaries.
Muslim leaders condemn desecration According to Tagle, once
a person wants conformity
of Marawi cathedral in all aspects, that person
wants nothing but a very
subtle dictatorishp because
MUSLIM leaders have a genuine community has
branded as un-Islamic the space for diversity and in the
desecration and burning of Church that diversity comes
St. Marys Catholic cathedral from the Holy Spirit.
by a Islamic State-linked
group in Marawi City. One body, many gifts
The National Ulama Expounding on the theme
Conference of the Philippines One Body in Christ, Tagle
said the destruction of said: Unity and diversity are
religious icons and items not opposed to each other.
used in Mass by the Maute Sometimes, we think that
terrorist group were acts to be united, things have to
that deserve the strongest be uniform. We should have
condemnation. the same style, the same
Let it be known to all preferences.
that Islam commands all Muslims pray at the Golden Mosque in Quiapo, Manila on the first day of Islams
holy month of Ramadan, May 27, 2017. ROY LAGARDE He likened it to a family
Muslims even in war time to that thinks it will be united
SC to order Congress to hold protect places of worship, to the countrys only Islamic the regions highest Islamic if all its members like ube
a joint session as provided the Ulama said. city. authority, also deplored the ice cream.
in the Constitution, Pabillo The Muslim clerics In a strong statement, incident and called it evil. On the contrary, explained
said. said that the incident was ARMM Governor Mujiv The Regional Darul Ifta Tagle, the Holy Spirit, the
He said that the joint a blatant disrespect and Hataman said the actions strongly condemns the Spirit of unity, makes the
session is necessary to find disregard of the teachings of the Maute group killing of Christians, the different members one Body
out, once and for all, if a of Islam. were inhumane and burning, destroying and but that unity comes through
martial law is necessary in They do not represent unacceptable. desecrating of the church in diversity, the diverse gifts.
the entire Mindanao. Islam but enemy of Islam, These terrorists are Marawi City, it said. Here, he draws inspiration
The purpose of the joint they said. nothing but hypocrites who According to them, the from St. Paul who compared
session is for the facts to come The Autonomous Region in undermine the true essence incident was perpetrated to the Church, the Body of
out behind the declaration of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) of Islam, he said. They are arouse hatred between good Christ, to a physical body,
martial law, he said. also criticized the local terror the worst of the creation. Muslims and Christians in noting how each part
Intervention / A7 group that brought violence The Regional Darul Ifta, the region. (CBCPNews) uniquely plays a role for the
health of the entire being.
Our body cant be made
up of just eyes That would
the Immaculate Heart of Mary to also for the Philippines and the Rosary daily for these intentions, be scary. When you ride a
whom God entrusted the peace in world in general, for the change of said Arjonillo, describing the bus, the person beside you
the world, will hear the prayers hearts of the sowers of violence, and initiative. is made up just of eyes, it
of her children, said Fr. Rolando to relieve the suffering of innocent People from all over the world, also cant be that one is just
Arjonillo, a Filipino priest assigned people, so that persons of different not only Filipinos, have already all nose, explained Tagle in
in Seville, Spain. creeds would live in peaceful co- responded our appeal, said the Filipino, with his signature
The priest, as the administrator of existence. priest, sharing some of their humor.
the Catholics Striving for Holiness For this, we set up an international messages: The set-up is not just
website and Facebook page, together Holy Rosary brigade to encourage From Mauritius: Holy Mother ridiculous, said the prelate,
with other Filipinos in Spain, Filipinos abroad to follow closely Mary, please cover the Philippines but impossible. Actually,
launched a worldwide appeal for the situation in Marawi and in other with your protective mantle. [the body] will not survive if
Filipinos to pray not only for the parts of the Philippines and to seek From a Filipino in Saudi Arabia: its just all nose or eyes. That
resolution of the Marawi crisis but recourse to Our Lady by praying the Crisis / A7 Perspectives / A6
A2 WORLD NEWS June 12 - 25, 2017 Vol 21, No. 12 CBCP Monitor

Vatican Briefing Polish bishops see continuity between

t

For Pope Francis, consolation require an

open heart
Amoris laetitia, Familiaris consortio
Consolation is never self-reliant, Pope Francis said KRAKOW, Poland The
during Mass on Monday, noting it is only possible pastoral care of families
to receive the Lords encouragement through was one of the key areas
another. No one can console himself, no one of discussion for Polands
and whoever tries to do it ends up looking into the bishops in their latest plenary
mirror staring into the mirror and trying to make assembly, which focused
oneself up, said the Pope during his June 12 Mass on continuity between the
at the chapel of the Vaticans Casa Santa Marta. teaching of St. John Paul II
The experience of consolation, which is a spiritual and Pope Francis.
experience, always needs someone else in order to The bishops understand
be full. (CNA) that the Church thinks in a
linear way; its not a change of
Laity, gender ideology shared concerns for teaching, but it is in one line,
Pope and Panamas bishops Fr. Pawel Rytel-Andrianik,
World Youth Day wasnt the only topic on the spokesman for the Polish
agenda for Panamas bishops during their meeting bishops conference, told
with Pope Francis this week: they also touched on the CNA June 9.
role of the laity and the dangers of gender ideology In Familiaris consortio
both key topics for the universal Church. Archbishop and Amoris laetitia you have
Jos Domingo Ulloa Mendieta of Panama, president one line in terms of teaching The Polish bishops hold their plenary assembly in Zakopane, June 6, 2017. ELIZA BARTKIEWICZ/BP KEP
of the Panama bishops conference, told journalists on the family, he said, noting
June 8 that gender ideology is really being pushed that a large chuck of the first Pope Francis 2016 laetitia is the same teaching in Amoris laetitia, particularly
in Panama, and was a major talking point in their day of their June 6-7 plenary apostolic exhortation as Familiaris consortio. on the need to welcome
meeting with Pope Francis. Lets say something focused on the progress of Amoris laetitia, on love in The bishops, he said, these couples and encourage
that in other media doesnt sell so well: gender guidelines for the application the family, was also a focus constantly call for a new their participation in parish
ideology is demonic, Archbishop Ulloa said. It of Amoris laetitia regarding of discussion at the bishops approach to these people to life, so that they dont feel
wants to break with the reality of the family and it the pastoral care of families assembly. The document has try to include them into the stigmatized or ostracized.
does so by getting in so softly that we dont realize in general, as well as couples been the subject of varied life of the Church, in the light Fr. Rytel-Andrianik said
it. (Elise Harris/CNA) in irregular unions. reception and interpretation, of Amoris laetitia and in the the bishops appreciate,
According to the official particularly regarding the light of Familiaris consortio very much, Amoris laetitia,
Suffering will come, but encounter it with communique issued after the pastoral care of divorced- 84. and see it as a treasure of
prayer, Francis advises plenary assembly, the main and-remarried persons. In paragraph 84 of the Church that builds on
During Mass on Friday, Pope Francis urged idea guiding discussion of The sticking point is whether Familiaris consortio, St. Familiaris consortio.
Christians to more prayer and hope, especially the issue was that Familiaris Amoris laetitias eighth John Paul II said that the Although the Polish bishops
during the difficult times, instead of finding consortio and Amoris laetitia chapter, on accompanying, increase in the number of have yet to publish official
pleasures in vanity. He reflected on the suffering are in the same line, with discerning and integrating divorced couples who have guidelines for the application
endured in the Book of Tobit--blindness, exile, this linear understanding of weakness, has opened the entered into new unions is of Amoris laetitia, as some
strained marriages which tempted Tobit and Sarah these documents in terms door for divorced persons a problem which must be other bishops conferences
to desire death; but rather than giving into despair of Church teaching. who have remarried, and faced with resolution and have, Fr. Rytel-Andrianik
they committed themselves to prayer and hope. The Polish bishops, who without taking on the duty to without delay. said the guidelines are in the
This is the attitude that saves us in bad times-- typically meet three times a live in complete continence, I earnestly call upon final phases of revision, and
prayer. Patience--because both of them are patient year in plenary assemblies, to receive reconciliation and pastors and the whole should come out sometime
with their pains. And hope--that God will listen to us held their latest gathering in Communion. community of the faithful to in autumn.
and help us tide over these bad moments, said the Zakopane, nearly 70 miles Some, like Robert help the divorced, and with In addition to the
Holy Father at the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta south of Krakow, to mark the Spaemann and the four solicitous care to make sure application of Amoris laetitia,
June 9. (CNA) 20th anniversary of St. John cardinals who submitted that they do not consider other key issues discussed
Paul IIs visit to the town. dubia to Pope Francis themselves as separated from during the plenary were the
Women play a key role in interfaith dialogue, Falling within the 100th regarding the exhortation, the Church, for as baptized new pastoral program for
Pope says anniversary of the Fatima have maintained Amoris persons they can, and indeed the Church in Poland for
Pope Francis said women have an essential role Marian apparitions, the laetitia is incompatible with must, share in her life, he the coming year, liturgical
to play in interreligious dialogue given their natural plenary was also meant to Church teaching; and others, said. questions, and cooperation
ability to build relationships and fraternity, making honor the centenary. like Cardinal Mller, prefect Going on, St. John Paul II with the state when it comes
their involvement necessary in all areas of society. On the first day of the of the Congregation for the said these couples should to protection of minors.
Today more than ever its necessary that women are plenary the bishops renewed Doctrine of the Faith, that it be encouraged to listen to Specifically, discussion on
present, the Pope said June 9. Woman, possessing the Act of Consecration of has not changed the Churchs the word of God, to attend abuse prevention focused
special characteristics, can offer an important the Church in Poland to the discipline or teaching. the Sacrifice of the Mass, on adjusting ecclesial law
contribution to dialogue with her ability to listen, to Immaculate Heart of Mary, Still others, like Norbert to persevere in prayer, to to match an amendment
welcome and to generously open herself to others. which was originally made Ldecke and the Maltese contribute to works of charity to the states penal code
Francis spoke to members of the Pontifical Council Sept. 8, 1946, by Cardinal episcopal conference, read and to community efforts in that will go into effect in
for Interreligious Dialogue, headed by Cardinal August Hlond of Warsaw and ambiguities in Amoris laetitia favor of justice, to bring up July, introducing a strict
Jean-Louis Tauran, who are gathered in Rome for Gniezno at the Jasna Gora as opening the way to a new their children in the Christian legal obligation to report
their annual plenary assembly. (Elise Harris/ shrine in Czestochowa. pastoral practice; or even faith, to cultivate the spirit immediately incidents of sex
CNA) The renewal of the (e.g., Rocco Buttiglione, and practice of penance and abuse or consensual sex with
consecration, especially in the Cardinal Christoph thus implore, day by day, a minor to the appropriate
Combat the worlds elitism with inclusion, centenary year of the Fatima Schnborn of Vienna) as a Gods grace. Let the Church authorities.
Pope encourages youth apparitions, Fr. Rytel-Andrianik progression in continuity pray for them, encourage In terms of the new pastoral
Pope Francis participated in a Google Hangout said, is very, very important for with the teaching of St. John them and show herself a program for 2017-2018, the
on Friday with youth from around the world, the life of the Church in Poland. Paul II. merciful mother, and thus year will be dedicated to the
emphasizing that everyone has meaning, even In fact, more than 70 percent As for the Polish bishops, sustain them in faith and Holy Spirit and the sacrament
though the world will try to exclude certain people. of all parishes in Poland have Fr. Rytel-Andrianik said hope. of Confirmation, according to
Combatting a world which promotes elitism and a special devotion to Our Lady they agreed that what Pope Pope Francis expressed the Polish bishops official
exclusion, the Pope said June 9, you have a of Fatima. Francis wrote in Amoris much of the same sentiments website. (CNA)
meaning, everyone has meaning, you have a
meaning, it is in your hands to discover the meaning
I have in life, what I am like, with the potentiality
Venezuelas bishops: President Maduro starves his people into submission
that you can and how to give this meaning to VATICAN CITY After a last-minute
others. The hangout, Pope Francis third time for meeting with Pope Francis Thursday
the meeting, was organized for the inauguration of to discuss the dire situation of their
a new Vatican office of the Scholas Occurentes, a country, Venezuelas bishops said they
world-wide initiative in schools to encourage social have his full support in facing the trials
integration and the culture of encounter through of a regime they say oppresses its people
technology, arts, and sports. (CNA) to maintain power.
The government has as a goal to
Pope dedicates June to praying for an end to maintain power at the cost of the life
the arms trade of any person at all costs, Archbishop
Pope Francis has been a consistent and vocal Diego Padrn Sanchez of Cumana told
personality in condemning the arms trade and journalists June 8.
urging world leaders to do the same, and he raised Not only this, but the government has
his voice on the issue again in his latest prayer video. the desire, the will, the scope, to have a
Published June 2, the video begins showing two submissive, silent people that doesnt
world leaders sitting at a table to sign a join-accord, protest, he said. And to ensure that this
exchanging copies of the agreement to sign while happens, society must be made up of a
Pope Francis says that its an absurd contradiction people who have no food, no medicine Pope Francis meets with members of the Venezuelan bishops conference at the Vatican, June 8, 2017. LOSSERVATORE
ROMANO.
to speak of peace, to negotiate peace, and at the same (and) which spends every moment
time promote or permit the arms trade. Is this war trying to resolve daily problems. simple, fraternal and relaxed. The Pope and social and economic upheaval. Poor
or that war really a war to solve problems, or is it a A people that is oppressed, suffering asked questions, and the bishops were economic policies, including strict price
commercial war for selling weapons in illegal trade, and sick doesnt have the strength to able to answer freely. controls, coupled with high inflation
and so that the merchants of death get rich? he asks, raise itself in revolt against anyone, The Pope is very well informed rates, have resulted in a severe lack of
as images of explosions and gunfire interchange he said. on the situation, the archbishop said, basic necessities such as toilet paper,
with frames of the leaders shaking hands dripping Archbishop Padrn spoke to a group explaining that Francis himself said milk, flour, diapers and medicines.
with blood. (Elise Harris/CNA) of journalists after the leadership of the he receives a daily update on what is The socialist government is widely
Venezuelan bishops conference met going on. blamed for the crisis. Since 2003, price
Pope Francis warns against flattery and with Pope Francis and other Vatican Francis voiced his closeness to controls on some 160 products, including
deceit officials earlier that morning. the bishops and the people who are cooking oil, soap and flour, have meant
Pope Francis said that truthfulness is the weapon The meeting was not planned in suffering, the archbishop said, recalling that while they are affordable, they fly
against the temptation of hypocrisy, which destroys advance, and was not included in the that Francis was very moved by the off store shelves only to be resold on the
the community with lies and flattery. The hypocrite weekly schedule sent out by the Vaticans description of some of the cases theyve black market at much higher rates.
is capable of destroying a community. While Secretariat for Communications. witnessed in recent days. The Venezuelan government is known
speaking gently, he ruinously judges a person. He Announced just days before, the Venezuela is currently undergoing to be among the most corrupt in Latin
is a killer, said the Pope during his homily at Mass conversation was squeezed into the a humanitarian emergency in which America, and violent crime in the
June 6 at the chapel of the Vaticans Casa Santa Popes agenda before his meeting with fundamental necessities are inaccessible country has spiked since Maduro took
Marta. Pope Francis reflected on the Gospel passage the Panamanian bishops, who are in and many, including children, die due to office.
in which the Pharisees and Herodians, who tried Rome for their ad limina visit, and a the lack of basic foods and medicines. The regime is known to have
to ensnare Christ with his words, began by flattery. meeting with Nigerias bishops. The country has been ruled by a committed gross abuses, including
The hypocrite always uses language to flatter, said During the meeting, Archbishop socialist government since 1999. In the violence, against those who dont
the Pope, explaining that they will exaggerate the Padrn said they discussed the ongoing wake of Nicolas Maduro succeeding share their political ideologies, and
truth, feeding into ones vanity. (CNA) crisis in the country, and that the Hugo Chavez as president in 2013, are accused of taking many political
conversation was very cordial, very Venezuela has been marred by violence prisoners. (CNA)
CBCP Monitor June 12 - 25, 2017 Vol 21, No. 12 A3

Empowering Bajaus and their culture

MALUSO, Basilan A congregation
and their partners are doing
something in this part of the country
to em-power the least of all their
brothers and sistersthe Bajaus.
The Care for Nomads and Bajaus
in the Philippines (CNBP) has been
doing an annual gathering to know
the plight of the Bajaus in Basilan,
Sulu and the Zamboanga Peninsula
for 10 years already.
Headed by the CNBP president,
Bishop of Jolo Angelito Lampon,
CNBP together with the Claret
Samal Foundation Inc. (CSFI) of the
Claretian Missionaries has helped
many Bajaus fulfill their dreams of
finishing college and securing jobs
to help their families.
As the organization helps in the
preservation of the Bajau culture,
including their way of life, their
dances, and their identity, the CNBP
wants participants of their annual
gathering to experience the life and
culture of the Bajaus.
10 years in the making
For 10 years, CNBP has become
an avenue for partners to become
more aware of the plight of the
Bajaus and the threats to their
culture and identity while building
camaraderie as they visit different
Bajau communities where they learn
and relive some traditions that are
on the verge of fading from memory.
When we visited the Teheman
Bajaus perform a traditional dance to showcase their fast-disappearing culture. CLARET SAMAL FOUNDATION, INC.
community in Maluso, Basilan,
some of the participants said that
they have seen the practices of
Bajaus that have been gone for
decades already. They said that
they used to do the practices when
they were not yet integrated to
other communities, said Wendy
Paro-jinog, the program in-charge
of CSFI which is also the secretariat
of CNBP.
She added that the gathering on
May 12 to 14 in Maluso, Basilan has
been an opportunity to show-case
the Bajau community in Teheman,
Maluso, which has kept their
practices away from the influ-ences
of other tribes and settlers.
The three-day gathering, which
also includes some cultural
presentations and talks from
different speakers reflected on
the theme: Empowering Bajau
Communities: Strengthening
of Bajau Identi-ty, Dignity and
Cultural Preservation.
Restoring Bajau dignity
The Claret Samal Foundation
Inc. has been helping the Bajaus
in Basilan for 20 years since its
crea-tion.
Fr. Martin Ele, CMF, director of
CSFI, said the foundation has seen
the progress of the Bajaus in Maluso
in Basilan, saying that they do not
see Bajaus begging there.
This is a concrete scenario that
Bajaus have their dignity as humans
and they can become some-body in
the community. They can become
teachers or staff of companies or
organizations like CSFI, said Ele.
The Bajaus here are attending
schools and dont beg for coins,
he said.
Rowena Nulaji, 28, a preschool
teacher in one of the Bajau schools
handled by CSFI said poverty has
never been an obstacle for her to
finish school and land a job as a
teacher to her fellow Bajaus.
If you really want it and if you are
persistent to reach your dreams, you
will surely find a way. I remember
the time when I was in Grade 6 until
college that I have to sell snacks
just to support my studies and help
my parents, shared Nulaji, adding
that she never felt ashamed of doing
so but said she did not want her
younger siblings to have the same
experience.
Sr. Teresita Ante, DC, who
handles a Bajau community and
pre-school in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
said the Bajaus have preserved their
culture despite their neighboring
communities progress.
Its good that the Bajaus have
attended school and some have
integrated themselves in the
society. I hope they will still be
proud of their identity as Bajaus
even if they will become achievers
in the community, said Ante.
(John Frances Fuentes/
CBCPNews)

This cloistered nun Could priests be incardinated into ecclesial movements?

got her doctorate in VATICAN The last meeting
of the head of dicasteries of
the Roman Curia took place
aerospace engineering last May 29. Among other
issues, the meeting discussed
the possibility of priests being
incardinated directly into
ecclesial movements rather
than into a diocese.
Pope Francis made the
issue a central topic of his
regular meeting with the head
of dicasteries, though these
kind of meetings usually
deal with topics related to
the government and the
organiza-tion of the Roman
Curia.
Via incardination,
a member of the clergy is
placed under the jurisdiction
of a bishop or, in the case of
a religious, an ecclesiastical
superior.
EPISKOPAT NEWS
possibility of in-cardinating
its own priests.
The incardination problem
in fact leaves open several
questions: if a priest is
directly incardinated in the
movement, will he refer to
a bishop or to the leader of
the movement? And what
happens if the leader is a lay
person?
Cardinal Gerhard Mller,
prefect of the Congregation
for the Doctrine of the Faith,
said at a book presentation
June 1 that the incardination
issue is not about building
parallel Churches. It is rather
a matter of working together.
We are called to a further
Bishop of Marbel Dinualdo Gutierrez challenged three newly-ordained priests to help
those who are addicted to drugs, saying the Church has failed in helping them that reflection, being very careful
is why the drug problem has become a big menace in the Philippines. BRENDA P. MILAN not to lose the Churchs
sacramental structure.
had to find a balance between Pope Francis reiterated Cardinal Mller hinted

MUMBAI, India A
cloistered nun in India
came out of her convent for
an extraordinary reason:
to attend a graduation
ceremony for her doctorate
in Aerospace Engineering.
I had joined the religious
order after my final oral exam
last year, and this was the
first time I came out after
that. The rules of our order
forbid us from going out of
the convent, but I was given
special permission to attend
the convocation, Sister
Benedicta of the Holy Face told
Matters India last summer.
The 32-year-old nun
lives in a cloistered convent
Carmelite Monastery in
Pune, India.
Born in Kuwait before the
Gulf War, Sister Benedicta
studied at St Xaviers
Aside from dioceses and
religious institutes, only
personal prelatures and
ordinariates can incardi-nate
College in Mumbai and then priests.
earned a Masters degree Some ecclesial movements
in space science from Pune have been asking for some
University, located 90 miles time to have priests directly
from Mumbai. incardinated.
She earned her PhD from The request of the
the Defense Institute of movements is based on the
Advanced Technology in fact that there are priests
Pune. According to Matters whose vocation is born and
India, her doctoral work in the nurtured within a specific
field of aerospace engineering ecclesial movement.
involved scramjet engines, According to their
which are used mainly for argument, these priests
hyper-sonic vehicles and should not be bound to
space vehicles. a diocese, and should be
Sister Benedicta had always free to live their vocation
felt a call to the consecrated within the movement,
life, but made the decision to moving from place to place
become a nun after attending according to the needs
a spiritual retreat in Pune. or the requests of their
She finished her doctorate particular movement.
studies before telling her Under the current
family that she wanted to situation, bishops and the
enter a cloistered convent. priests of movements who are
(CNA) under their jurisdiction have
the movements charism and
the needs of the diocese.
During the May 29
meeting, Pope Francis largely
listened, and did not express
an opinion. Howev-er, his
thought may be deduced
from his recent words in
other contexts.
At a meeting on April 27
with Catholic Action a
movement founded in Italy
150 years ago the Pope
said the movements charism
is profoundly incarnate in
the here and now of every
diocesan Church, and that
it takes on true vigour by
responding to, and making its
own, the pastoral out-reach
of each diocesan Church.
Nor can you be like those
groups that are so universal
that they are not based
anywhere, answer to no one,
and are always on the lookout
for what they suits them
wherever they go, he told
them.
the importance of dioceses a
month later, during his May
27 visit to Genoa.
Speaking with the clergy
and religious of the city,
Pope Francis underscored
the importance for charisms
of staying attached to the
concrete realities of a diocese
or project.
While a congregation might
be universal in the sense
that it has houses throughout
the world, the concreteness
of involvement in the diocese
helps give the order roots,
allowing it to remain and also
to grow as they see different
needs come up, he reflected.
The incardination of
priests to movements would
have a significant impact on
such groups as the Focolare
Movement, Communion and
Liberation, Canao Nova, or
Shalom.
Some have speculated that
the Neocatecumenal Way
might also benefit from the
at the possibility of a
communion of movements.
The need, however, is to
make it evident that priests
are of the Church and not of
the movements. Otherwise,
the same movements risk to
remain closed to the universal
Church.
Referring to the
possibility of a community
of movements, Cardinal
Mller talked about charis-
matic movements, which
can enrich the Church with
their spirituality, with the
tradition of the ter-ritories
they live in, with choosing
a certain spirituality. This
spirituality must anyway
favor the Church. It must not
be stuck in the temptation to
stay within a group, to build
a too much enclosed and
selective identity. Masses
are not private. They must
be open to all Catholics.
(Andrea Ga-gliarducci/
CNA)

Could US tax reform drive down charitable giving?

WASHINGTON D.C. As President
Donald Trump and Congress get
set to undertake tax reform, some
are concerned that Republican
tax proposals could lead to drastic
reductions in charitable giv-ing.
I dont think that it was intended,
by any means, that they want to
harm charitable giving, Brian
W. Walsh, executive director
of the Faith & Giving Coalition,
told CNA of research that claims
GOP tax reform proposals could
give Americans less incentive to
make tax-deductible charitable
donations. Religious charitable
groups like Catholic Charities, USA
are coalition members.
Yet, he added, unintended
consequences can be just
as damaging as those that are
intended.
Walsh referred to two Republican
tax proposals for his claim
Trumps proposal released in April,
and another blueprint by House
Republicans last summer.
Both feature two policies,
doubling the standard deduction
and decreasing the highest marginal
tax rate from 39.6 percent to 35
percent.
Taken together, these would
decrease charitable giving, including
giving to religious institutions, by as
much as $13.1 billion (4.6 percent),
research by the Independent Sector
predicted.
One reason why this might be,
the report explained, is that most
Americans use the standard deduc-
tion on their taxes because it usually
offers them a better rate of return
than itemizing their deduc-tions.
Charitable giving, if written off on
ones taxes, is part of the itemized
deductions.
If the standard deduction is
doubled, therefore, even more
Americans would take advantage of
it and fewer taxpayers would choose
to itemize their deductions. This
could disincentivize charitable giving.
Religious organizations could see
the highest drop in charitable giving
under these proposals, the research
claimed, as much as a 4.7 percent
decrease.
There remains on Capitol Hill
some fuzzy assumptions that
religious givers dont pay any
atten-tion to their tax bills, Walsh
explained, adding that if they have
the ability to give more, and the tax
code allows them to do so, theyre
likely to do so.
Doubling the standard deduction
could bring economic relief to
households, The Faith & Giving
Coalition concedes. So rather than
simply scrapping the proposals, the
President and Congress could instead
extend charitable tax deductions to
everyone, and not just itemizers.
That, the report added, erases
that $13.1 billion deficit and could
actually increase charitable giv-ing
by as much as $5 billion.
This could decrease tax revenue,
Walsh admitted, but in his estimate
the change would be small, less than
one percent.
Such a policy would be fairer,
he said, than the proposed one,
because it would enable more
lower-income households to make
charitable donations.
Those who tend to be in the lower
to lower-middle income classes
who dont itemize today, they
right now dont get any tax relief
for their charitable deductions,
he said. Expanding the charitable
deduction to everyone would help
lower-income households get the
same tax relief for their chari-table
deductions that people who are in
the higher income brackets get.
And this scenario is advantageous,
he argued, because charities do the
best work of serving the poor and
taxpayers are further empowered to
reward those which do the best job.
The money remains in the hands
of individuals who can determine
whos doing the best job providing
services to the impoverished, the
homeless, and other needy people,
Walsh explained. (Matt Hadro/
CNA)
A4 OPINION June 12 - 25, 2017 Vol 21, No. 12 CBCP Monitor

EDITORIAL

Public disposal of seized illegal drugs

IT is certainly not a secret that the government law enforcement
agencies have in fact seized, duly recorded and kept safe a
formidable amount of prohibited drugs from all over the country.
Upon confiscation, they were duly marked, identified and
supposedly left for the safe-keeping of the government agencies
concerned.
How much dangerous drugs were seized specially since the
incumbency of the present administration? What is their total
worth as of this writing? Where are they placed for safekeeping
and who are in-charge of seeing to it that not a single sachet of
which is missing? Perhaps, it is about time for the general public
to know certain particulars thereof, specially as to their total
quantity as well as their total worth. More importantly, it is about
time as well that the particulars--kind and quality, the quantity
and cost and other pertinent particulars of all the deadly drugs
seized so far--are made known to the general public.
But in addition to the above proffered agenda, perhaps it is time

ILLUSTRATION BY BLADIMER USI

for the government to show the general public in a given date,
time and place, the honest-to-goodness utter destruction of all
the said illegal drugs so far seized before, without forgetting the
fact that their seizure continues day and night, 24/7. It might be
also for the good name of the public authorities concerned and
the rightful appreciation of the general public, if the following
were observed precisely on the occasion of the said drug disposal:
First, have a general account of the illegal drugs seized such as
in conjunction with its kind, total quantity and worth. Second,
have certain knowledgeable or expert private individuals certify Church relationship Views and Points
that the dangerous drugs about to be done away, are genuine
in nature, right in a quantity and correct in valuation. Third, with Muslims Abp. Oscar V. Cruz
accommodate all the people desirous of personally witnessing
the drug destruction on the previously predetermined date, time
and place.
Everybody is counting the fallen since the governments
The plan of salvation also includes of bombs, the loss of limbs and lives Terrorists. Yes, they bear different
sanctioned war on drugs started. But there is a seeming silence
regarding the count of prohibited drugs that have already been
those who acknowledge the Creator, have somehow become the rule in a names as well as various initials. But
seizedand where are they kept. In the past, there was a public in the first place amongst whom are place where Mus-lims and Christians they are one in subjugating others
impression that drugs were recycled and, after some bureaucratic the Muslims; they profess to hold the live together, it might be good to take through various cruel ways and deadly
magic, find their way back to mega drug traders inside and faith of Abraham, and together with cognizance of the above Church teaching means as well.
outside the country. Unless the backend of the war on drugs is us, they adore the one merciful God, that forwards the following more salient Three: Let it be likewise well noted
transparent the change that the present dispensation is aiming mankinds judge on the last day. (CCC and pro-found, more realistic and that downright criminals--murderers,
at will all be a sham. No. 841, LG 16) practical truths: kidnappers, thieves and other gross
Murdering drug users wont provoke change. Rooting out their One: The standing fact is that in violators of Criminal Law--are found
suppliers and destroying the illegal drugs to smithereens will. THE above-cited citation specifically in the region concerned where Martial among people of different beliefs and
conjunction with the Muslims cannot Law is made binding, the Muslim and sects, Muslims and Christians includ-ed.
Well always have the poor be more formal and official, considering
that it is an instructive pronounce-ment
Christians live as neighbors, practice
their re-spective faith and interact as
In other words, crimes are authored by
individuals considered to be affil-iated
made by no less than the Catechism Filipinos. So it is that as they enjoy with this or that belief. So it is that if
CHRIST himself said so. You always have the poor with you,
of the Catholic Church echoing a dec- sufficiency and peace together, together Muslims are not all good and up-right
but you will not always have me. (Mt 26,11) In other words,
we will always have the poor because in the end we all are the
laration from no less than Lumen as well they suffer the difficulties and people, neither are all the Christians.
poor. We are all in need of God. Thats what makes us all poor Gentium. The key and signal teaching needs brought about by dissent and war This is sad but true. Criminal acts are
and hopefully struggling to attend to that most important need. there-in affirmed and promoted is in their place. This is not saying that not exclusive either among Muslims or
That said, we cannot deny the obvious fact that according to concretely about the Muslims whom they are one in faith. But one they are Christians.
some human standards and criteria, we have some people who the Church categorically affirms as one in adoring the one and the same true So it is that strictly speaking, it would
are considered poor and others considered rich. This distinction with the Catholics in acknowledging and Divini-ty. be downright wrong to claim or believe
should not be lost in our mind and should trigger in us the desire adoring one and the same God from the Two: So it is that some Christians and that the difference of faiths in that
to do what is appropriate. first to the last days of the world. This Muslims alike get hurt, become muti- part of Mindanao--or in other places
Thus, we have to understand very well the true meaning of the is not saying that the Muslims are all lated and even lose their lives not really in the country for that matter--is the
slogan often mouthed by many people today that we should give saints--but neither are the Catholics all on account of their respective beliefs but fundamental and/or primary cause
preferential option to the poor. This policy or pastoral thrust living saintly lives. rather due to this and that particular of honest-to-goodness war. Rather,
which, doubtless, is very sublime, should not deteriorate into During these difficult days when group of individuals who--moved by it is basically anti-human ideologies
some unnecessary and dangerous social division and conflict the Rule of Law--the norm of reason intense anger and consuming hatred-- with their anti-human constitutive
among ourselves. and eth-ics--is suspended and when make a living by killing others. So it is elements that cause rebellions, wars
Despite our differences, we have to care for one another. We the firing of guns and the dropping that they are called and are known as included.
should be responsible for one another. We have to give what
everyone needs out of justice and charity, without getting lost
in the priorities proper to us. Thats because, in the end, we are Worship in an age
all brothers and sisters, all children of God! And Thats The Truth
Our differences should rather trigger the dynamics of greater
love and unity, not of division. They should invite and encourage Teresa R. Tunay, OCDS of distractions
us to be more understanding and compassionate with one Part 3
another the way Christ was understanding and compassionate
with everyone. Our common, universal and absolute need is
God, and we just have to learn how to give or show God to ARE we really losing more and techie who learned to play employed as a computer About a month later,
one another. All our other needsmaterial, economic, health, more young people to other com-puter games at age three, programmer he finally Ronnie started to hear Mass
etc.are secondary to this and should serve as occasions and faiths? How many mothers even before he was taught mustered enough courage in a mall chapel or else-where,
instruments to meet our need for God. have you heard bemoaning to read. During Mass at his to approach the parish and sometimes, he admits, he
We have to be very wary of certain ideologies that water down the fact that the older their parish church he would notice priest to call his attention would for convenience also
our need for God, or at least distort it, by getting entangled in teenaged children get the (and later be annoyed by) the to the flawed projection. He join his for-merly Catholic
their priorities, giving exaggerated attention to the material farther away they move from prayers and songs projected even volunteered to train cousins who kept on inviting
aspects of our life at the expense of our spiritual and supernatural Church? Wanting to know on the overhead screen parishioners assigned the him to their charismatic
goals. and understand more of besides being poorly laid task. The parish priest merely ser-vices. Ronnie would tell
The material and economic aspects are definitely important, the world around them, and out, he said, the texts were said, Is that so? Ill tell the me, I still hear Mass there
but it would be wrong to pursue them as the ultimate need for emboldened by peers of like often at least two lines late. one in charge and Ill let you occasionally as its the nearest
man. Detached from its objective relation to God, the Creator, mind, young people begin to Sometimes the operator in his know. Ronnie gave the church to our house. Things
these aspects have no other way but to get into trouble. Not question tradition, and when confusion would move the text priest his cell phone number; havent changedmaybe
that by making God the ultimate need, there will be less
the Holy Mass to them feels backward instead of forward, no call came after two its been the same operator
concern for the material, economic and other human needs
more like an obligation than groping for the correct slide weeks, a month, six weeks over the years, although the
we have. Quite the contrary. Our concern for them would in
fact be enhanced.
a sacrament that serves no without success until the song And so he called up and assigned priest is different
We have to be wary of certain currents of thought that, no deep pur-pose in their life, or prayer was over. What reminded the priest about his now. Its so sad. It wasnt
matter how subtly done, tend to put into conflict our material they start to lose interest. was causing the distracting observation and offer. The just a question of annoying
and natural needs with our spiritual and supernatural needs. This is a rather fragile state error? Was the operator priest replied, Huh? I told overhead projectionthe
We somehow should follow the example of Mary, that woman in their growth, when one sleepy, inattentive, texting, or them to do something about priests attitude struck me
who brought the precious ointment to Christ, in the sense of seemingly small hitch in the simply incompetent? it, havent they fixed it yet? as indifference, to me it
givingChrist the best that we have, whether material, moral or celebration of Mass is blown Ronnie endured this for Let me remind them again. was a lack of respect for
spiritual. out of proportion and serves over five yearshe was 19 No further discussion. the Eucharistic celebration
That would show how much we love him. And by loving him, to turn them off. Heres an when he first noticed it, Crestfallen, all Ronnie could and for the people attending
we would know how to love the others properly, a love that can example: Ronnie is a typical then at age 25 and already think was Seri-ously? Mass. (To be continued)
go all the way, without being afraid of any sacrifices involved.

The concern for

Monitor
CBCP Candidly Speaking
accountability Fr. Roy Cimagala

PROTAGONIST OF TRUTH, PROMOTER OF PEACE

YES, we should all have an abiding and then encouraging others to do the We need to smash the thought that
Pedro Quitorio concern for accounting everything that same, in the context of the families, what we are and what we have are
Editor-in-Chief we are and that we have. We just cannot schools, parishes, offices, etc. just our own. That is a thinking that
go on with our life as if we are not an- We always have to remember that is completely false, that stands on no
Nirvaana E. Delacruz Ronalyn Regino swerable to anybody, especially to God, what we are and what we have are not objec-tive foundation. It needs to be
Associate Editor Design Artist from whom we all come and to whom self-generated but are always given to corrected drastically and urgently.
we all belong. us one way or another, if not by some- Sad to say, it is a thinking that is quite
Roy Lagarde Mercedita Juanite This is an indispensable part of one or by some other institution and prevalent these days. And so we need
News Editor Circulation Manager
our life, an unrelinquishable duty to authority, then by God ultimately. to be constantly reminded of this truth,
perform. Our problem is that many Yes, we are always answerable to because we always tend to ignore if not
Kris Bayos Marcelita Dominguez
Features Editor Comptroller still are ignorant of this duty, and of some people in varying ways and openly deny it.
those who al-ready know about this, the degrees. These people can be our We have to be most aware of where
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the Areopagus tendency is to take it for granted or to parents, teachers, friends, neighbors, we come from, what dignity and
Communications, Inc. with editorial and business offices at
Ground Flr., Holy Face of Jesus Center & Convent, 1111 do it badly or to avoid it if always given public officials, etc. In the end, we are status we are given, what duties and
F. R. Hidalgo Street, Quiapo, Manila. Editorial: (632) 404 - the chance. all answerable to God who has given us responsibilities are entrusted to us, etc.
2182. Email Address: cbcpmonitor@areopaguscommunications.
com, Business: (632) 404 - 1612. ISSN 1908-2940. We need to find a way of instilling this everything, starting with our life and all And lets remember that we need to
duty in everyone, starting with oneself the endowments that go with our life. Candidly Speaking / A6
CBCP Monitor June 12 - 25, 2017 Vol 21, No. 12 OPINION A5

A war not so far

By the Roadside Collection Box
Fr. Eutiquio Euly Belizar, Jr. SThD Fr. Jerome R. Secillano, MPA

IT has been a cruel war by all
accounts. And it is still raging, despite
governments assurances of finishing it
in a matter of days. But who is to tell if
it wont last some days or weeks more?
Who is to predict whether or not it
wont sprout again somewhere else in
Mindanao or the archipelago? We see
and hear reports from both visual and
print media in details sometimes too
graphic to watch or imagine. Marawi
in some respects has become a heap of
ruins, a phantom of Aleppo transported
from Syria. When anyone is tempted to
score the Marawi incident like a sports
game by going to the casualty counts on
each side, he suddenly realizes real lives
have been either lost or suspended in a
limbo of fear-filled uncertainty.
War is never a sport. It is a living
horror; a piece of hell. All it takes
is a little empathy to come to that
realization. I have often imagined myself
in the shoes of the hostages, not least Fr
Chito and his companions, and other
nameless, trapped civilians. And it isnt
too hard to guess the hope or horror
they have been going through just by
waiting--for rescue or death.
This war has brought out the worst in
people as well as their best. Terrorists
shooting people indiscriminately,
desecrating and destroying religious
images and articles at St Marys
Cathedral, ordering non-Muslims to
recite Muslim prayers before shooting
them to death, using civilians and
mosques as shields against military
attacks reveal the cowardly inhumanity
of the Maute groups and their foreign
allies. But we cannot miss the Muslim
individuals and families shielding,
hiding and saving Christian friends
and neighbors from exposure to the
terrorists and death, at times risking
their own lives to save others, Muslims
and Christians jointly giving relief goods
and services to war victims, civilian
rescue teams braving sniper bullets or
other life-threatening risks to locate and
bring out helpless victims to safety--all
these show that the forces of good are
not allowing evil to have the last say.
Such goodness can only point to the
good God at work in peoples hearts and
consciences.
It was especially both gut-wrenching
and moving to hear stories of heroism
and even martyrdom. A soldier, trapped
and surrounded by terrorists, asking his
commanding officer to bomb his location
so the terrorists (his tormentors) could
be stopped tugs at every patriots inner
core. But a police officers last act struck
me as perhaps a martyrdom as well.
Surrounded with hooded men who
ordered him to kneel and recite their
approved prayers, he refused to do so,
not giving up his Catholic faith. He was
summarily shot but by then he was able
to give the signal for his family and other
potential victims to flee to safety. To me
he should be recognized both as a hero
for helping to save others and a voiceless
martyr for holding on to his faith even
at the cost of death.
We in Eastern Samar are not too far
from Mindanao. The presence of Muslim
communities who have fled Mindanao
among us is proof of that. Inevitably the
question is raised as to the possibility of
a spillover of the Mindanao conflict into
our shores. That fear has to be addressed
by the government, the local Church and
the concerned communities themselves.
The horrors in one place should not be
transported to another.
But whatever the future holds, one
thing is beyond denying: There is a
war not too far inside us. It is a war
between good and evil. It is a war that
involves all human beings regardless
of religion, race or culture. Just as
there are those who choose the side
of evil even in the name of God, let
us always be clear that the real God
as taught by all religions cannot be
but good and the source of all good.
And we must extend our hands in
solidarity to true believers who are
genuine agents of good, not evil. As
Pope Francis urges those who face the
specter of terrorism, we must reject
hatred and seek solidarity.
This, I believe, is uncanny wisdom.
We must seek solidarity with victims of
terrorism; they need our compassion.
We must also seek solidarity with all
basically good members of the human
family; all the good in the world is
enough to defeat, with Gods help, evil
in some.
And isnt solidarity the secular face of
Communion?
Law enforcement and
human rights under the
Duterte administration
First of 2 parts
CRITICS of President Duterte are quick to compare the more
than 8,000 victims of extrajudicial killings (EJK) under
his watch with the victims of martial law under the Marcos
regime. They noticed how so much more swiftly bodies of dead
people piled up in the eleven months of Duterte presidency
than in the almost ten-year period of martial rule which
history books said could only account for a total number of
3,257 killed, majority of which were tortured, mutilated, and
dumped in the streets for public display.
Dutertes war on drugs is the clear catalyst for todays
sporadic killings that have victimized mostly the poor. The
Presidents bevy of supporters has seen nothing wrong with
the death of alleged drug users and peddlers, claiming it is a
strategy in the right direction, an effective means to cleanse
our society of the evils of illegal drugs.
Unfortunately, even the innocent became victims of this
cleansing. They are referred to as collateral damages whose
deaths could only move the President to say sorry and
nothing more to protect their kind. Unsympathetic, he
declared stoically that for as long as there are illegal drug users,
pushers, manufacturers, and protectors of drug syndicates,
killings will continue relentlessly and without let-up. Clearly,
the President is not deterred from employing this approach
even if threatened with cases of human rights violations and
crimes against humanity and at the cost of many lives.
The Presidents rhetoric couldnt be nobler to those who look
at the whole thing from the point of view of the goal which
his strategy seeks to achieve. Duterte wants a country free
of misfits, crooks, and criminals. Filipinos are not foolish to
not want a country like that. Problem is, he employs dubious

They could have
been saved
EVERYONE woke up to the
horror that was happening
at Resorts World Manila
(RWM), a casino-hotel in
Pasay City, just across the
NAIA Terminal 3. There was
shooting incident around
midnight inside the casino
area. By morning, police
authorities announced that it
was not a terroristic act, nor
was there any involvement of
ISIS; that a lone gunman was
involved; that he engaged
the police authorities in an
exchange of fire; that he went
to a room at the 5th floor,
burned himself and then
shot himself.
Police authorities earlier
reported no casualty. At that
time, there was fire inside
RWM and heavy black smoke
were coming out of the hotel.
Before noon that day, the
police made a shocking
report. They found piles of
bodies inside a comfort room
and in some parts of the
casino area. The bodies of the
victims were black, proof that
they died of suffocation due
to heavy smoke coming from
the fire at the casino area. The
casualties did not die from
the shooting incident. Body
count was 37, excluding that
of the lone gun man: 24 are
hotel guests, 13 are RWM
employees. Worst, the EXIT
sign is just 5 meters away
from where they died.
Days later, RWM released
the CCTV footage, from the
time the lone gunman named
Jessie Carlos alighted from a
taxi shortly after midnight.
He was able to enter the hotel
carrying heavy weapon and
a bag, ignoring the security
check. It was later learned
that the bag contained a
bottle of gasoline, which
he used to torch the casino
tables and carpets.
The incident in RWM could
have been prevented and
the number of casualties
mitigated had the security and
safety measures been strictly
enforced in the casino-hotel.
The CCTV footage showed
that there is more than an
hour from the time Carlos
entered RWM up to the time
when he exchanged fires
with the police authorities,
more than enough time to
neutralize him.
When Carlos entered
RWM ignoring the security
check, the security guard
could have radioed the other
security guards about it.
The personnel in charge of
the CCTV monitor rooms
could have seen what was
happening, enough to alert
the head of hotel security and
the police authorities. The
RWM security could have
told the police authorities
where the CCTV monitor
room was so that they can
trace the whereabouts of
Carlos and see where the
fire was. They could have
shown the police authorities
the floor plan of the hotel.
What happened? All the
areas where the security
guards and in-house security
personnel were supposed to
be posted were abandoned.
There was no one inside the
CCTV monitor room.
As to safety measures, had
the smoke detectors of the
hotel automatically activated,
the security personnel would
Duc in Altum
Atty. Aurora A. Santiago
immediately know the
floor/area where the heavy
smoke was coming from.
Had the water sprinklers
on the ceilings of the hotel
functioned, the fire could
have been controlled. Had the
fire alarm activated, everyone
would have known that there
was fire. Had the EXIT signs
been fully lighted, the people
in the casino would know
where to go. How about the
fire extinguishers, are they
accessible and are there
enough numbers so that the
authorities could use them
when they entered the area?
The public hearing being
conducted by the House of
Representatives must shed
light on the many questions in
the mind of the people. RWM
had to explain the failure
of their security and safety
measures or protocols. The
Pasay City Fire Department
and Engineering Department
must show that they strictly
enforce the Fire Code and
the Building Code of the
Philippines, respectively. The
security agency contracted
by RWM must explain
why were there lapses in
the implementations of its
security procedures.
***
We deplore and condemn
to the highest level the
desecration caused by the
Maute Group to the Cathedral
of Our Lady Help of Christians
in Marawi. The video footage
showed this group destroying
the religious icons, sacred
vessels and vestments used
in the Holy Mass. Not yet
satisfied, they set fire on
the icons and burned the
Cathedral. Muslim leaders
condemned such shameful
and disrespectful acts. They
claim that it was a blatant
disrespect and disregard of
the teachings of Islam. They
said that the perpetrators
do not represent Islam but
they are enemy of Islam; that
Islam commands to protect
places of worship even during
war time.
***
Saudi Arabia, the United
Arab Emirates, Egypt,
Bahrain, Libya, Yemen and
Maldives cut their diplomatic
and economic ties with the
small but rich country of
Qatar. News report said that
they ordered Qatari citizens
to leave their countries,
recalled their own nationals
from Qatar and closed its air,
land and sea borders to Qatar.
They alleged that Qatar is
supporting terrorism. Qatar
denied the allegation and
stated that it is a sovereign
nation that will not bow down
to outside interest. Qatar is
a member of the GCC (Gulf
Cooperation Council), an
organization of countries in
the Gulf region. The Emir
of Kuwait and the German
Foreign Minister seek to
resolve the crisis in the region.
There are at least 240,000
Filipino overseas workers
and professional in Qatar.
Should this crisis escalate,
the Philippine Government
has to repatriate them. It
would pose a problem of
hundreds of thousands
Filipinos unemployed.
***
My Inay, Gloria Angeles
Duc in Altum / A6
means to achieve a societal goal. To his critics, these are means
that are not only illegal but also immoral.
Brushing off such arguments for being simply ethical or
conceptual is to miss a key point in our discourse about law
enforcement and human rights. We are dealing here with
life, which unfortunately has been reduced to mere statistics
under the present administration. Life has now merely been
categorized as victims of extrajudicial killings (EJK); those
whose death are under investigation (DUI); and those killed
during legitimate police operations.
Life has a story of its own. It is sacred not only in the eyes
of the Church; even the State with its laws recognize its value.
The Constitution and our civil laws have provisions that seek
to protect it. Unfortunately, we understand life today simply
from the point of view of drug use and criminality, such that
drug dependents must die and criminals ought to be killed
too. The necessity of redemption is not applicable to them for
they will no longer change or at the very least, be converted.
Criminals and drug dependents dont have humanity, hence,
laws that uphold a human beings dignity, regardless of its
status and quality, do not apply to them.
So, the barbarity and impunity with which killings are carried
out no longer affect our societys moral consciousness. We are
slowly losing that sense of right and wrong simply because the
State insists that killing criminals will stave off our societys
collapse. In true Kantian fashion, Duterte insists that he is
duty-bound to save our country from utter destruction, hence,
he is justified to use any means just to avert it. Therefore, swift
elimination of alleged criminals is right regardless of civil law
provisions and moral norms that say the contrary.
While Duterte believers applaud each and every killing in
the streets, his critics, including the Church and adherents
of human rights, continue to insist on following at least the
letters of the law which visibly spell out the need for due
process, equal protection, right to life, and the upholding of
human dignity.
Dutertes penchant for eliminating the scum of society is
legendary. While he wont directly admit it, the hushed chatter
from those in the know has constantly identified him as the
chapo behind this national catastrophe. These killings have
visibly weakened our democratic institutions and processes
such that very few have shown the audacity to cross him.
Those who tried were either eliminated or incarcerated and
rendered terribly helpless.
Much like during Marcos martial law, fear has now creepily
reared its ugly head in our national consciousness because
of Dutertes policy on law enforcement and human rights.
Many say we have nothing to fear, especially if were not into
drugs. From the looks of it though, anybody can be a target.
Once hit, law enforcers will make the audacious claim that
you are into drugs even though youre not. This irrational
justification demonizes innocent victims who are now lifeless
to defend themselves. Sadly, this has become the norm under
the Duterte administration.
Martial Law has only been declared in Mindanao. Under the
circumstances that we have right now, will it be worse than
Marcos martial law if and when it is declared in the whole
country? Let us first examine in depth how this administration
treated human rights and law enforcement for the last eleven
months in the second part of this series.

Whatever The upset of puberty

Fr. Francis Ongkingco

I GUESS its tougher for our
generation today, Father, the
young fellow concluded.
In what sense? I shifted on the
mono-block chair.
The onset of puberty is earlier for
us, he explained.
On what grounds?
Maybe our generation is different
from yours? He said.
I think, as regards entering
puberty, generations arent very
different. Biological, psychological,
and social changes occur in all of us
in pretty much the same way!
But, he scratched his head.
What?
Something still seems different,
right?
Yes! It is the trigger to the onset
of puberty.
Trigger!!!?
Yes, like a switch. For our
generation, engaging issues like
identity crisis, sexual awareness,
and family issues, etc., turned ON
around 11 to 12 years of age and
lingered for the rest our teen years.
Then why are we getting puberty
sooner, Father?
I was amused by the way he said
it.
The switches are simply turned
on earlier. One main switch would
be the Internet. We didnt have
Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and
more back then. These easily expose
you to pornography, violence, social
forums that relativize controversial
moral issues, etc. Your minds and
emotions are bombarded by all
these triggers even before you can
set up defenses rooted on clear
convictions and values.
Then what can our generation do
about it, Father?
***
I was reminded about a story of a
father who approached a priest for
help regarding his son. The father
asked, How do I form my son to
be a good Christian? The priest
replied, How old is the boy? The
father replied, Hes eleven. The
priest said, You better hurry, you
are eleven years late!
This story unveils two problems
for parents today: first, how to
cope with what they neglected
to form in their children earlier;
and second, when parents and
guardians (with a genuine but
alarmed concern) tend to reduce
their childrens problem manifested
in their sexual, emotional and
psychological symptoms.
Undoubtedly, the reality of
their rebellion, disordered desire
for independence, pornography,
Whatever / A7
A6 LOCAL NEWS
Archbishop urges govt to
rethink position on casinos
THE government should
rethink its position on
casinos after a supposed
gambling addict wreaked
havoc at the Resorts World
Manila recently.
Anti-gambling crusader
Archbishop Oscar Cruz said
that gambling in any form
should not be encouraged as
it goes against the ethos of
working for a living.
More than that, he said
is its social costs including
corruption, relationship
break-ups and family
violence.
Little by little, get rid of
casinos because casinos are
the cause of a lot of crimes,
just like money laundering,
Cruz said.
But while detractors call for
the cessation of casinos and
authorized gambling outlets,
the government see them as
a way to boost the economy
and create new jobs.
It is quite improbable
that the casinos will close
themselves because that
is where they get their
money. I think it is only the
government that can say
what to do with gambling,
both legal and illegal, he
said.
The retired archbishop of
Lingayen-Dagupan further
Interreligious / A1
Poverty, injustices
Quevedo also said
that fighting poverty and
injustices, rather than military
intervention alone, were also
key to stopping terrorism.
According to him,
terrorism has its roots in
injustices, discrimination,
poverty, underdevelopment,
government neglect, poor
governance.
Government has to
address the economic and
political roots of terrorism,
he stressed.
Reconciliation
The first cardinal from
Mindanao is often referred
to as the man of peace in
southern Philippines.
In the 1990s, Quevedo
helped put up the Bishops-
Duc in Altum / A5
Santiago, would have turned
100 on June 13, two years after
she joined our Creator. My
siblings and I lost Inay after
almost 5 months of illness
due to mild stroke. Although
we prepared ourselves for
the eventual passing of Inay,
it was still a very painful
experience losing her. At
her age, she was very strong
and could move around until
she suffered mild stroke,
which made her bedridden.
It was very frustrating for
her to be bedridden when
she used to be very active in
the house and was always
Candidly Speaking / A4
handle them properly.
That is to say, that we are
keenly aware of the purpose
or reason the giver or author
has when giving us what we
are and what we have. And
we should try to make use of
them in the best way we can,
making them as productive
as possible.
Since mans creation, God
our creator has always told
us to be fruitful. Be fruitful
and multiply, he said. Fill
the earth and subdue it. Rule
over the fish in the sea and
the birds in the sky (Gen
1,28)
And this command has
been constantly reiterated
all the way to Christ who in
many parables told us clearly
to be fruitful. The parable of
the three servants (cfr Mt
25,14-30) is one example
among many.
We have to learn how to
be accountable to God and
to others. One concrete way
of doing that is by making
a daily examination of
said that the social impact of
gambling is no different from
that of illegal drugs.
Gambling is just like
drugs. You need more and
more drugs the moment you
begin taking drugs. The same
with gambling. The moment
you start, the more money
you need for gaming. Its
addictive, Cruz said.
He cited the case of Jessie
Carlos, a former government
employee who was deep in
debt due to casino gambling,
and was identified by the
authorities as the man behind
the Resorts World attack last
Friday.
Gambling is a vice and I
have yet to hear of a gambler
who has developed his
virtues, especially honesty. I
still have to hear of a gambler
who did not waste his
earnings, who did not destroy
his family, who became a
better employee, he added.
Gambling is a vice and a
vice means it is a habitual
doing of what is evil, of what
is wrong, Cruz also said.
Early this year, the
Philippine Charity
Sweepstakes Office launched
the expansion of small town
lottery operations from only
18 to to 56 areas nationwide.
(CBCPNews)
Ulama Conference to
help foster peace and
understanding among
various faiths in Mindanao.
Composed of Catholic
bishops, leaders of
interdenominational
churches and Muslim ulama,
they meet regularly to discuss
social concerns and even
a dialogue of theological
exchange.
Other dioceses have
replicated BUC and now hold
IRD discussions involving
faith leaders and lay people of
different religious traditions.
Peace and reconciliation,
therefore, are not impossible.
There is realistic hope
despite terrorism. Ordinary
Christians and Muslims want
to continue living in peace,
he said.
with us on family outing
and eat out. It really hurts,
especially when she had a
very cheerful disposition, and
nice to be with; she was like
an older sister to us. Inay,
Happy Birthday in Heaven!
We know you are now with
our Creator accompanied
by all the angels and saints
in heaven. We love you,
we miss you, we will always
remember you.
***
Happy Independence Day
to all. May we truly experience
being a free country. God
bless the Philippines!
conscience before going to
bed. This will allow us to
see how we fared during
the day, whether we were
fruitful or not, and to make
the necessary plans for the
following day.
Without cost you have
received. Without cost you
are to give. (Mt 10,8) For
sure, with these words of
Christ, we are strongly
reminded to be generous, to
give ourselves completely to
God and to others, sparing
and keeping nothing for
ourselves, because God
has been generous with us.
He gave nothing less than
himself to us. And he wants
us to share what we have with
everybody else.
This should be the attitude
we ought to develop when we
have an abiding concern for
accounting all that we have
received from God.
We should never
marginalize, much less,
ignore, the Holy Spirit in our
education.
June 12 - 25, 2017 Vol 21, No. 12 CBCP Monitor
OFWs in Qatar told to be vigilant
A CATHOLIC bishop urged overseas denounce anything and anyone which the Middle East.
Filipino workers (OFW) in Qatar to propagates hate and destruction, he Santos also that he is praying that
maintain vigilance amid ongoing said. diplomatic ties and cooperation will
diplomatic crisis in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab return among the Gulf countries.
Balanga Bishop Ruperto Santos of the Emirates, Egypt, Bahrain, Libya, We are hoping that tension will ease,
CBCPs migrants ministry said OFWs Yemen and the Maldives broke relations peace reigns conflict be solved, mutual
should remain calm, closely monitor with Qatar accusing it of supporting understanding again be realized, the
the situation, and coordinate with extremism. bishop added.
Philippine authorities. The Arab nations said they would also For Gulf countries know and
We are so worried about our OFWs suspend all air, sea and land transport accept that our OFWs come only
but we are optimistic they will not be with Qatar, a home to more than for work as to help and improve the
affected, Santos said. 130,000 Filipino workers. lives of their loved ones back home,
We also urge and pray that our OFWs The Philippine Overseas Employment not for any political nor ideological
will be always vigilant and always stay Administration (POEA) said that there motives, he said. (Roy Lagarde/
away from false and violent ideologies, are around 900,000 OFWs working in CBCPNews)
Duterte urged: Declare watersheds, agricultural
lands no-go zones for mining operations
A FAITH-BASED network
of peace and civil society is
calling on President Rodrigo
Duterte to declare watershed
communities and agricultural
lands as no-go zones for
mining.
The Philippine Misereor
Partnership Inc. (PMPI)
said Duterte must take
decisive action to protect
the environment and local
communities.
We call on the President to
take strong directives to the
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources to
protect the mining affected
communities, said Yolly
Esguerra, PMPI national
coordinator.
PMPI Executive Director
Beth Yang said Duterte
should also rally his allies
in Congress to swiftly pass
the Alternative Minerals
Management Bill and the PMPI network members, partners, and community members of mining-affected areas from Eastern Samar, Zambales, South
National Land Use Act. Cotabato and Batangas march to Mendiola in Manila to commemorate World Environment Day, June 5, 2017. CBCPNEWS
We are calling to the
president to release an Monday to mark the World Rapu-Rapu Island in Albay, because that is the only way
executive order that Environment Day. Zambales and Marinduque that he will understand
will declare watershed Participants came from as and to penalize them if the situation, said Jen
communities, ancestral far Manicani and Homonhon found guilty. Moling, PMPI Project
domains, small-island Islands in Eastern Samar, They are also seeking Officer for Anti-Mining
ecosystems, and prime Tampakan in South Cotabato, a dialogue with DENR Campaign.
agricultural lands as Calatagan in Barangas and Secretary Roy Simatu and PMPI is a social
no-go zones for mining Olongapo and Sta. Cruz, both for him to give a briefing of development network of
corporations, she said. in Zambales. his platform or program as peoples organizations, faith-
The PMPI network The PMPI also urged the the new environment chief. based groups, and Misereor,
members, their partners Duterte administration to I have high hopes that the overseas development
in Metro Manila, and look into environmental he [Simatu] will listen to agency of the Catholic Church
community members of crimes allegedly committed the communities, come in Germany. (Niceforo
some mining-affected by mining companies in down to them and see Vince A. Balbedina/
areas gathered in Mendiola Manicani and Homonhon, the damage for himself CBCPNews)
Prelate hopes Marawi conflict will end soon
MARAWI Bishop Edwin dela Pea and live a normal life. Tirona called on the public to keep
expressed hope that the ongoing However, thousands of displaced sending aid to the evacuees.
fighting in the city will soon end. families wont be able to go back to the Let us all work together and put
We hope the chaos, the war will city until the peace and order situation our minds, emotions, and assistance
soon be over and we can all return becomes stable with the hope that they together for our countrymen in need,
to our normal and peaceful life, said can rebuild the city in the coming months. said Tirona.
dela Pea told Church-run Radio We hope we can already be The social action arm of the
Veritas on June 12. free from this violence and fear of Catholic Church has earlier issued
The prelate is hoping the terrorists, he said. a solidarity appeal for the families
government can bring back peace For his part, Caritas Philippines adversely affected by the clashes.
soon as people have longed to go back chairman Archbishop Rolando Tria (CBCPNews)
Cardinal Tagle: Its not enough to serve family
SOMETIMES, its a given for example, who are good feels so good to cook for rest of humanity, offering its
that people love and serve cooks to share their gift with others. many gifts.
those closest to them through more people. Similarly, Tagle urged Today, we celebrate being
their gifts and talents, this is people who sing well to go one, one body with so many
why theres a need to go out Go out and share beyond their comfort zones. needs, one humanity with so
and serve total strangers. Dont just cook for yourself Why dont you visit many wounds and needs, but
This is what Manila or for your family. Cook for orphanages, infants who we should be signs of hope,
Archbishop Cardinal Tagle Hapag-asa. Why dont you need to hear lullabies or go he said.
told some 6,000 people volunteer once a week or to the home for the aged, [for If we can only recognize
at Jesuit Communication so? Why dont you go and those] who want to remember [that] the Church has not
(JesCom)s annual Pentecost share your gift? asked Tagle, some of those songs? Dont abandoned humanity The
recollection on Sunday, June stressing the need to share just sing in the shower! he Spirit gives us gifts, if only
11, which carried the theme ones talents to the bigger added with a laugh. we recognize those gifts
One Body in Christ at the Church. and offer those gifts for the
Smart Araneta Coliseum in The prelate shared how, Churchs birthday common good.
Quezon City. as a young priest in the U.S., Celebrating what many JesCom also organizes
Expounding on why gifted he was asked to cook for consider to be the birthday Tagles annual Easter and
people should make sure 60 people during a feeding of the Catholic Church, Advent recollections, which
that [their] gifts will be used program. Despite it being his Pentecost, Tagle noted are open to the public.
by the common good, the first time to cook for so many, that the Catholic Church (NirvaAna Ella Dela
prelate called on the faithful, he admitted in Filipino, It continues to stand by the Cruz/CBCPNews)
Perspectives / A1
body has different members, but St. varied ingredients: beans, plantains, theres no creativity! he said.
Paul talks about not just members but fresh milk, ice cream, leche flan (a rich Tagle exhorted the crowd not to fear
spiritual gifts that the Holy Spirit gives custard), among others. division, saying: Unity coming from the
to the Body, one Body with many gifts Thats the kind of unity we crave: Spirit, diversity coming from the same
from the Holy Spirit, he added. mouth-watering! How boring itd be spirit and you dont have fear because
if unity only had one face, one way of the spirit of diversity is the same spirit
Unity in diversity thinking, he stressed. that guarantees unity.
According to Tagle, it is the various To further his point, Tagle went so far The recollection ended with a
gifts given to the many members that as to urge his listeners to stop looking for Mass, presided over by Tagle and
build up the Church, describing how like-minded individuals when forming concelebrated by Cubao Bishop
halo-halo, a beloved Filipino dessert, committees for church projects. Honesto Ongtioco. (Nirvaana Ella
becomes so delicious because of its Because you are of only one mind, Delacruz/CBCPNews)
CBCP Monitor
Faithful urged:
Fight secularism
with basics
Borongan Bishop Crispin Varquez presides over Mass for the 29th Diocesan Pentecost
Vigil held at the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Brgy. Matarinao, Salcedo,
Eastern Samar on Sunday, June 4, 2017. ALREN BERONIO/ESTE
BORONGAN City A Catholic
bishop has challenged his
flock to go back to the basics
of our faith as a response to
the growing secularism in the
world today.
Gathered for the 29th
Diocesan Pentecost Vigil,
Borongan Bishop Crispin
Varquez has urged the
faithful to appreciate and
recover the pillars of the
faith: doctrines, sacraments,
morality, and pray-er.
Let us remember what
the early Church did. The
pillars of our faith stood
as the cornerstones of the
community, Varquez said in
his homily.
He also dissuaded the
people from becoming
Catholics by convenience
as he acknowledged that
some Catholics proclaim that
they belong to the Church but
when the Church makes a
stand on cer-tain issues, they
choose to remain silent.
Speaking to more than
three thousand people, he
also mentioned how the
adults of today fail in one way
or another in transmitting
the tenets of the faith to the
young.
He called on politicians,
especially those who studied
in Catholic schools, to uphold
the Catholic education they
Malolos dioceses 189
catechists graduate
Malolos City, Bulacan
A new set of 189 laymen
and catechists from the
Diocese of Malolos re-
cently received their
ecclesiastical certificate
after successfully passing
a course on Catechetics at
the Diocesan Lay Institute
of Catechetics.
With the theme
Catechist, channel
of Gods mercy and
compassion in the
community, the grad-
uation Mass and the 10th
Missio Canonica were
held at the St. Elizabeth
of Hungary Parish in
Sta. Isabel, Malolos City,
Saturday, June 3.
Catechists who are
extending their time,
talents, and treasures are
blessings to the Church,
said Fr. Avel Sampana,
who presided over a
concelebrated Mass before
the graduation rites, with
Fr. Eric Bagay and Fr.
Angelito Caliwag, spiritual
director of PASKA or
Pandiyosesis na Sentro
ng Katekesis.
In his homily, the priest
stressed the important
role of catechists in the
Church and in society,
say-ing: All Christians
have the role to teach and
spread the Gospel.
Mo. Cecilia Capiral,
RCM, Dean of Studies
presented the 189
candidates, who graduated
June 12 - 25, 2017 Vol 21, No. 12
received. It is not necessary
to become a Christian just
for one to become honest,
added the prelate.
He also encouraged
famililes to bring back the
altars at home as these are
effective ways of intro-ducing
the faith to young people.
If you do not have an altar
at your home right now, make
sure that you will provide one
once you arrive home, the
bishop said.
Now on its 29th year, the
celebration gathered more
than a thousand clergy,
religious, and lay faith-
ful coming from different
parishes of the diocese.
Hosted by the Our Lady
of the Most Holy Rosary
Parish in Brgy. Matarinao,
Salcedo, Eastern Sa-mar, this
years Pentecost carried the
theme: Parish, Communion
of Communities.
Before the Mass ended,
Msgr. Lope Robredillo,
vicar general of Borongan
diocese, thanked indi-
viduals and groups who
made the event meaningful
and successful.
He also announced that
next years vigil will be hosted
by the Parish of St. Isidore
Labrador in Maslog, Eastern
Samar. (Roel Joe Abonal/
CBCPNews)
and par-ticipated in the
mission-sending, to
Msgr. Bartolome Santos,
HP, vicar general of the
Diocese of Malolos, for his
confirmation and blessing.
In his message to
the graduates, Santos
encouraged the graduates
to continue to bear witness
to the Gospel. A good
example can teach better
than a good talk, he said.
In an interview with
CBCPNews, Capiral, who
is also the superior of the
RCM sisters, shared a short
background on the institute.
It was established in 1998
during the time of Bishop
Rolando Tria Tirona to
provide the catechists
and the lay people some
formal training on teaching
and Cate-chetics, she
explained.
Graduates from
the institute received
ecclesiastical certificates
in catechetics and may
decide to pursue their
masters degree at the
Immaculate Concepcion
Major Seminary.
To date, the institute has
more than 1300 laymen and
catechists who finished the
Catechist Basic Formation
program curriculum,
which was created by the
Episcopal Commission on
Catechesis and Catholic
Education. (Myraine
Carluen Policarpio/
CBCPNews)
DIOCESAN NEWS A7
Why survivors need post-
crisis formation
TACLOBAN City Caritas
Internationalis president
and Manila Archbishop
Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle
disclosed on June 1 a new
phase that the humanitarian
arm of the Catholic Church
world-wide takes on, the
formation of the survivors
of calamities and why it
matters.
One of the advocacies
of Caritas Internationalis
these days is Sustainability,
Resilience, and For-mation of
the person, said the prelate
before representatives of
organizations of survivors
of super typhoon Yolanda
helped by Caritas, in Basey,
Samar, one of the towns in
Eastern Visayas hit hard by
the category 5 super typhoon
Children greet Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle in Basey, Samar, one of the towns devastated by super typhoon Yolanda in 2013. EILEEN
in 2013. BALLESTEROS
According to the prelate,
the formation of the tavus Joven Tria Tirona and Social Action Center were It was followed by a
person is necessary, so that representatives from several likewise present, along with dialogue among Caritas
when another typhoon or diocesan social action centers representatives from Caritas representatives and Yolanda
earthquake happens the in the coun-try. Internationalis member beneficiaries from Cal-bayog,
person will stand strong in Palo Archbishop John Du organizations. Palo, and Borongan, and
faith. and Fr. Alcris Badana, the Tagle headed a later, by project site visits
He was accompanied social action center head in concelebrated thanksiving to the villages of Bacubac,
by Caritas Philippines the Archdiocese of Palo as Mass in the morning at the St. Guirang, and Sito Rawis,
chairman and Nueva Caceres well as the representatives Michael de Archangel Par-ish all in Basey town. (Eileen
Archbishop Rolando Oc- of the Calbayog Diocesan Church. Ballesteros/CBCPNews)
Nortehanons urged: Be dangerously passionate
CATARMAN, N. Samar Some According to him, Passion is the Annunciation Cathedral of this town
8,000 Catholic faithful from different expression of ones heart and soul. was hosted by Catarman, which
parishes of the Diocese of Catarman The term originates from the ancient hosted the event from 1998 to 2005.
were exhorted to live with passion, Greek word, paskho meaning to In Valenzuelas talk, he expressed
following the apostles example during suffer. admiration for the humility of Pope
the 20th Di-ocesan Pentecost Vigil Valenzuela also connected his talk Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict
and Family Day celebration on June to the Church in the Philippines XVI.
3, Saturday. celebration theme this year, Year of He called the resignation of
Are you ready to be dangerously the Parish, sending a special message Benedict XVI a humble way of
passionate? asked Br. Anthony to the youth and to those working in giving way for a new pope to lead
Rouben P. Valenzuela, a lay preacher the parishes and in communities. He the Church, which was founded on
of the Light of Jesus community, who said in whatever endeavor: [o]ne Pentecost, 50 days from the Lords
gave the main talk of the event, Ignite must be excellent. Resurrection (or Easter).
and Unleash the Passion. Passion is also giving focus towards Humility is from humus (or soil),
He emphasized the example of the goals and mission, he said. Passion Valenzuela said, noting how someone
martyrdom of the apostles who were is commitment, has full of energy, and who serves the Church, who is filled
intially so afraid and were in hiding more importantly, humility. by the Holy Spirit, should be kept
before receiving the Holy Spirit. grounded.
Birthday of the Church The gathering culminated with
To suffer Themed Holy Spirit: Source the midnight celebration of the Holy
Valenzuela, who already appeared of Communion of Christian Mass by Bishop Emmanuel C. Trance,
in two TV commercials and an indie Communities, this years diocesan concelebrated by the parish priests of
film, stressed: Its not all about looks gath-ering held at the Sacred the diocese. (Carl Jaime Bordeos/
but the heart. Heart Plaza of the Our Lady of the CBCPNews)
Crisis / A1
Mama Mary, please pray
for our country, especially
Marawi, that peace and love
loving, my intercessor, pray
for our brethren in Marawi!
From an American:
Marawi and also for the latest
incident at Resorts World.
We pray in Jesus mighty
Its main aim is to provide
spiritual support by way
of prayer, sacraments, and
may reign. Amen. Blessed Mother Mary, please name with Mama Mary. Catholic doctrinal formation
From a French woman: cover Marawi, with your Amen. posts which aim to inspire
Please, Lord, bring peace heavenly mantle, and ask The Holy Rosary Brigade more love for Jesus.
to us. Mother Mary and St Jesus to help them, Amen. is open to all Catholics of To join, search for
Joseph, pray for us. Angels From another Filipina any nationality and to their English-Speaking Catholics
of God, defend us in battle. abroad: Lord, grant our friends of any religion as well, in Facebook, enter and
Amen. country, peace and unity particularly those who can click on the Join widget.
From Nairobi, Kenya: My and protect us, especially communicate in English for (Fr. Mickey Cardenas/
Holy Mother, most caring our brothers and sisters in use as a common language. CBCPNews)
Intervention / A1
Catholic bishops in Mindanao have Constitution, he said. Rights chair Loretta Ann Rosales, along
earlier acknowledged the need for Other petitioners include Novaliches with more than 300 lawyers, also filed
martial law in the strife-torn region Bishop Antonio Tobias and Kalookan a separate petition before the high
but stressed that it must only be Bishop Emeritus Deogracias Iiguez tribunal to compel Congress to convene
temporary. and former senator Wigberto Taada. a joint session.
Pabillo clarified that they are not Opposition lawmakers on June 5 filed The petitioners asserted that the
entirely against martial law but said that a petition before the SC to question framers of the Constitution intended
legislators have the constitutional duty the legality of Dutertes martial law that a joint session of Congress be
to check and balance Duterte. declaration. convened immediately after the
We are not discussing Martial On June 6, former Solicitor General declaration of martial law. (With
Law per se. All we want is for a joint Florin Hilbay, former senator Rene reports from Max Rempillo/
session to be called as required by the Saguisag, former Commission on Human CBCPNews)
Whatever / A5
video `games over studies, what must be corrected not give up. There is always through material substitutes
attention, and depressive or improved on in what time to retrace their steps (e.g. money, fame, rewards,
syndromes are enough for the children already (even though what they say and entitlement, etc.) The
parents to be more than possess positively within or do may seem to fall on identity forging ingredients
concerned. But as the adage themselves. If we are not stone-deaf ears) by giving of our childrens character
states: prevention is better patient and prudent, we good example. will always be supplied
than cure. A sudden desire could end up converting Virtue over Vice. Our spiritually. If we overindulge
to make a misguided youth parenting into an arduous natural eye for what the them in worldly comforts and
make a U-turn to virtue but road for ourselves and for negative can often dampen security, it will not be easy
with unproportioned means our children. the spirit of the young. Focus for them to appreciate the
may not yield pleasant results. Better late than later. and foster virtue! Moreover, treasures the world cannot
So what can parents, like Parents whose children the greatest teacher of virtue give (e.g. loyalty, sacrifice,
the father who was eleven are still young must never for them is not our words prayer, and friendship, etc.)
years late, do? Here are some take things for granted by but our example. Though Hopefully, with patience,
possible, not exhaustive, saying, Ill tell them later imperfect, we are ready to optimism, and a cheerful
points: or Someone else will when take accountability for our faith in our children and
The whole is greater the time comes. Every day errors and mistakes. Gods grace, their journey
than the parts. Parents has a lesson to seize upon! Spiritual over Sensual. The along pubertys road will not
must focus on the persons Parents, however, who may change we want our children be harsh, above all, never
total growth. They balance have missed the bus, must to experience will not be lonesome and dark.
A8 PEOPLE, FACTS, AND PLACES June 12 - 25, 2017 Vol 21, No. 12 CBCP Monitor

Sainthood cause for Mindanao martyr gains momentum

SAINTHOOD could be the
next honor for a 16th century
Italian Jesuit missionary
whose memory still lingers
in a southern Philippine
province.
A drive to canonize Fr.
Francesco Palliola appears to
be gaining momentum.
Bishop Severo Caermare of
Dipolog said that sainthood
is a tedious process but the
whole proce-dure is driven
by cult or popular devotion.
There has been an ongoing
devotion about him that
made us study and gather
evidence, Caermare said in
a press briefing in Manila on
Friday.
Jesuit Fr. Tim Ofracio said
that the strong devotion,
among other reasons,
was triggered by several
miracles being attributed
to Palliola.
When the Jesuit mission
returned to the Philippines in
1859, after an absence of 90
years, he said that the Jesuits
were surprised that the the
cult of Fr. Palliola was very
much alive.
When we returned here,
we were shocked that many
people believe that he is
holy and asking for his
intercession, Ofracio said.
So the cult of Fr. Palliola
is really very old a cult in a
positive sense, he said.
Caermare said that the
diocesan process for the
cause of martyrdom of
Bishop Severo Caermare of Dipolog and postulator Fr. Patrick Dalangin shows a photo of a painting of un-known date and origin, depicting Jesuit Fr. Francesco Palliola with
dagger that slit his throat. The painting is presently at the archives of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in Manila. ROY LAGARDE
Palliola, which was started
in January 2016, is expected
to close before the year ends.
The cause will then move
to its next phase wherein
the Vaticans Sacred
Congregation for the Causes
of Saints in Rome will
verify the documents of the
diocesan process.
The Roman phase for the
cause will be handled by the
Society of Jesus.
If the review is positive,
the Pope is likely to declare
Palliola a martyr and approve
his beatification, the last step
for sainthood.
We wanted to have another
saint for the Philippines and
its coming from Mindanao.
Its very timely for us as we
will be celebrating in 2021 the
500 years of Christianity,
could be the third from the
Philippines after St. Lorenzo
Ruiz of Manila and St. Pedro
Calungsod of Cebu.
Born into nobility, in the
town of Nola in Naples, Italy in
May 1612, Palliola joined some
40 Jesuits on an expedition to
the Philippines.
After a trip of over two years,
he finally landed in Iligan
in January 1644, beginning
a mission in Mindanao that
would take him to Dapitan,
Dipolog and the rest of
Zamboanga Peninsula,
spreading Catholic faith to the
locals, including the Lumads of
the area, the Subanen.
At age 35, Palliola was
martyred at Ponot, now Jose
Dalman town, on January 29,
1648 by a con-verted native
leader who had left Catholicism,
and who the priest was trying to
bring back to the faith.
Martyrs, or people who
were killed for their faith,
can be beatified without a
miracle, since the death itself is
considered a miracle of grace.
However, a miracle is needed
for canonization.
With the help of the Jesuits
in Rome, postulator Fr. Patrick
Dalangin said that whats good
Caermare said. about Palliolas case is that
He is not a native of we dont have the scarcity of
Mindanao but because of documents pertaining to his
his passion for mission martyrdom.
and love for Lumads, he We didnt have a hard time
could be considered a true because everything was well
Mindanaoan, he said. documented, he said. (Roy
If declared a saint, Palliola Lagarde/CBCPNews)

Liveloud Catholic worship concert draws record crowd

IT was drizzling night, but the spirits
were high at the Liveloud Catholic
Worship Concert on Saturday, June
10.
More than 14,000 people attended
the event at the MOA Arena in Pasay
City, which attracted mostly young
audiences from different parts of
Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Now on its 9th year, it was the
largest Catholic concert ever held
in the country.
Liveloud is a worship band that
comes from the CFC-Youth for
Christ. Their mission? To inspire
more young people to live loud
for God.
The kind of Liveloud music
and its worship experience is an
avenue for us, especially the young
people, to express our gratitude and
worship to God, YFC International
Coordinator Lawrence Quintero
said.
He said that Pope Francis has
called for a new evangelization
in the Church and Liveloud is our
new way of proclaiming the love
of God.
With various songs, Quintero said
they want the youth to encounter
Jesus Christ through music and a
unique worship experience.
Hopefully we actually made the
Liveloud worshippers deepen their
personal relationship with Christ
though our Catholic faith, which
is founded in the love of the Holy
Trinity, Quintero said.
And as you can see in our recently
concluded Liveloud, we are able to
express our worship to God by
reflecting on the basic proclamation
of our faith as Catholics through the
Apostles Creed, he added.
Last year, Liveloud released its
new album titled In Gloria Dei. It
is also available on iTunes, Google
Play, Deezer and Spotify.
The concert was preceded by a
Mass presided over by Fr. Jeffrey
Quintin.
In his homily, he said that its
hard to gather a crowd of young
people that is as big as the Liveloud
concert especially on a Saturday
night.
Its a blessing that you are here.
You are chosen to be here, Quintin
said. (CBCPNews)
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