•A3 •B1 •C1 •D1

Imitate St. Paul’s Our Lady of Peña de Ugnayan The CROSS

Passion, says the Pope Francia in devotion Couple for Christ Supplement Knights of Columbus Supplement
and tradition

www.cbcponline.net/cbcpmonitor cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net

Church: Condoms don’t Silsilah Davao chapter

stop AIDS laments emergence of
THE Roman Catholic Church is telling the Christian vigilantes
people that using condoms to prevent the spread
of the deadly Human Immunodeficiency Virus
(HIV) is unreliable. MEMBERS of Silsilah Dialogue Movement –
The Church is making the claims despite a Davao Chapter lamented the emergence of
widespread scientific consensus that condoms Christian vigilantes in Mindanao as well as the
are impermeable to HIV which causes Acquired Protagonist of Truth, Promoter of Peace killing of innocent Christian civilians by some
Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). units of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Phil- (MILF).
September 1 - 14, 2008 Vol. 12 No. 18 Php 20.00
Condoms / A6 Vigilantes / A6

Migration weakens
Former Ambassador to the Vatican Leonida Vera greets Antipolo Auxiliary Bishop Francisco de Leon at a Thanksgiving Mass on August 23.

Filipino families --
CBCP head
By Melo Acuna
A TOP Catholic Church official is call-
ing on authorities to halt promotion of
overseas employment because of its
negative social impacts.
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the
Philippines president Archbishop Angel
Lagdameo said the massive migration
of workers is weakening the Filipino
families.
He said that while the overseas Fili-
pino workers contributed much to the
country’s economic gains, the increased
number of parents now working abroad
has resulted in prolonged separation of
families.
Worse, he said, it has also led to radi-
cal change in the family structure: the
emergence of single-parents and female-
headed families, and households headed
by older children of OFWs.
Lagdameo made the statement in an
interview with Church reporters at the
sidelines of the International Catholic
Migration Commission’s Consultation
on Migration Issues and Priorities in
Asia at the San Carlos Seminary in
Makati City, August 28.
He said the government is completely
misguided because the way it is push-
ing for employment abroad deals only
on boosting the country’s economy.
“The negative impacts [of migration]
are not being considered because they
are only [after the] economic benefits of
the country,” Lagdameo said.
The Jaro archbishop said the primary
casualty of worker migration is the sub-
ordination of family bond and values.
The great concern for the local
churches is the “marital problems result-
Says primary casualty of worker migration is the
subordination of family bond and values
ing from separation, the incidence of fake
marriages, divorces and domestic vio-
lence which cannot be made up simply
by economic and developmental solu-
tions,” he said.
He pointed out that the ethical prob-
lems “are much greater than economic
problem.”
“While the social impact of migration,
economic wise, is good because it sup-
ports about 15 million families, there are
also other social impacts which maybe
related to morality, separation of the
members of the family, husbands sepa-
rated from the wife and vice versa, par-
ents separated from their children and
vice versa, which have negative impacts
on the families,” he said.
Records from the Philippine Overseas
Employment Administration showed CBCP Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People chairman and Maasin Bishop
Precioso Cantillas chats with Papal nuncio Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams (right) and a partici-
Migration / A6 pant of the recently held Asian Consultation on Migration.

Church, Eco group seek Thousand lives will be ‘wasted’ in

peaceful solution to death penalty revival
OVER 1, 000 lives of inmates of the Philippines, said that capi- punishment,” said Medroso.

Mindanao crisis
await to be “wasted” if death tal punishment system doesn’t The bishop said he was disap-
penalty in the country will be work for victims’ families, and pointed upon learning that Ma-
revived, Catholic Church officials that the state is better off without nila 6th District Representative, a
warned Monday. it. pastor of the Metropolitan Bible
A CATHOLIC bishop and an environmental coali- explosive devices and other war tools destroy wild- Tagbilaran Bishop Leonardo He argued that the death pen- Baptist Church, filed a bill seek-
tion have jointly appealed for peace in Mindanao as life, disturb native habitats and poison the air, water Medroso said it’s “very tragic” alty do nothing to curb the vio- ing to revoke the law that re-
Muslims commence the holy month of Ramadan on and soil with toxic chemicals.” that some lawmakers are out lence that has poised on so pealed the death penalty.
September 1 and as Christians mark the “Creation Amid the spate of violence in Mindanao, Iñiguez again calling for the restoration many communities in the coun- “That’s why I’m saddened that
Month.” and the EcoWaste Coalition recalled the United Na- of state executions. try. they are going to resurrect this
“September 1 is a propitious day to declare a tions statement on environment and development, Medroso, Chairman of the “Violence must not call for kind of bill that would harm
ceasefire, stop the cycle of violence and resume the popularly known as the 1992 Rio Declaration, which Commission on Canon Law of more violence. We are in favor again life. Life is always pre-
stalled peace process in Mindanao,” said Kalookan says that “warfare is inherently destructive of sus- the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of justice but not call of capital Death penalty / A6
Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez, Jr. who also chairs the tainable development” and that “peace, development
Public Affairs Committee of the Catholic Bishops’ and environmental protection are interdependent and
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
“The first day of Ramadan, the most venerated
month in the Islamic calendar falls on September 1,
indivisible.”
Iñiguez and the EcoWaste Coalition deplored the
huge amount of resources being wasted in the esca-
Arroyo makes bare-faced attempt to justify
which is also the beginning of the Creation Month
that is celebrated by Christians from various denomi-
nations to remind the faithful about our shared re-
lating conflict by government and non-government
forces, which could otherwise be directed to meet the
basic needs of the rural and urban poor, including
unpopular programs for lumads, says IP group
sponsibility to care for the earth,” Iñiguez explained. ensuring the people’s access to primary health care, AN Indigenous People’s Rights ad- spite the existence of the Indig- the Bishops Ulama Conference
Environmentalist Roy Alvarez, EcoWaste humane housing, sustainable jobs and to a healthy vocacy group in Davao City has enous People’s Rights Act, (BUC), a tribal chieftain
Coalition’s Vice-President, echoed the church leader’s and safe environment. branded President Gloria the government has re- questioned the govern-
hope for peaceful settlement of the raging conflict in “It is our hope that all forces on both sides of the Macapagal Arroyo as one used to mained impervious to the ment panel for their bla-
Mindanao as the group warned against the harmful fence will rise to the occasion, respect the Ramadan making bare-faced attempt to jus- issues of the indig- tant disregard on the issues
impact of violence to frontline communities and their and the Creation Month, silence their guns and re- tify unpopular programs for the enous peoples. confronting the IP commu-
environment. sume the elusive search for just and lasting peace in Indigenous Peoples (IPs). In a recent brief- nities.
“We urge all parties involved to return to the ne- Mindanao,” Iñiguez and the EcoWaste Coalition Judy A. Pasimio, executive di- ing on the Memo- Pasimio
gotiating table and reject all forms of violence that stated. rector of the Legal Rights and Natu- randum of said that even
only lead to community devastation and carnage. For Last August 27, Archbishop Angel Lagdameo ex- ral Resource Center (LRC-KsK) Agreement on Arroyo’s pro-
the benefit of the people and the environment, please horted the faithful to offer a prayer for peace in the said Arroyo is not yet tired of re- Ancestral Do- nouncement
agree and move to silence the guns,” Alvarez said. violence-rocked region “in solidarity with the counting to the public her unpopu- main (MoA-AD) that differ-
The EcoWaste Coalition lamented that the Mindanao Bishops as well as the thousands of inno- lar programs with no relevance for in Waterfront In- ences on the
country’s environment is already in a sorry state and cent people who are forced to evacuate and live in the IP communities. sular Ho- issue of an-
that the military conflict is only aggravating the situ- uncertainty and fear because of the current crisis and In a communiqué sent to tel, orga-
ation, saying that the “bullets, grenades, improvised war.” (Roy Lagarde) CBCPNews, Pasimio said that de- nized by Lumads / A6
 CBCP Monitor
A2 World News Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

In Kirkuk, Catholics
and Muslims pray
together for peace
KIRKUK, Iraq, Sept. 1, 2008— were many dynamic Christians
Prayers for peace and coexistence working with Muslims in many
were held in the cathedral of ways, and today we need that.
Kirkuk, in northern Iraq, with We thank the Catholic Church for

© http://www.flickr.com/photos/meteorry/1211513257
hymns, psalms, petitions, and bringing us together”.
readings from sacred Scripture, Later, a young Muslim told me:
attended by both Christians and “I had never been inside a Catho-
Muslims: Sunnis and Shiites; Ar- lic church. I did not know what
abs, Kurds, and Turkmen. to expect. As soon as our joint pur-
The prayers were heard by re- pose was stated again clearly --
ligious leaders, tribal chiefs, po- to pray for deep lasting peace for
litical and military leaders. Two our beloved Iraq -- another expe-
Muslim women were among rience united all of us. Songs from
those who read prayers for peace. the small choir, words from
Many people spoke. “With speakers, the beautiful church
prayer”, said Archbishop Sako, building, and people sitting next
“we can to one
realize another,
recon- k n e w

By 2015, deaths will

ciliation that deep
and es- lasting
tablish peace
peace. was the
Prayer o n l y

surpass births in the EU,

changes power-
o u r ful pur-
heart, pose that
m i n d enables
a n d © http://www.flickr.com/photos/chris-kutschera/195897076/ strang-

study reveals
LONDON, Aug. 29, 2008—
Eurostat, the European Union’s
statistical service, has released
a report indicating that by the
year 2015, deaths in the region
will outnumber births, and that
by the year 2060, for every per-
son above the age of 65 there
will only be two people of
working age.
According to the BBC, this se-
vere demographic winter, the
result of the drop in the birth
rate and the increase in abor-
tions in many countries of the
European Union, will lead to a
continual decrease in Europe’s
population starting in the year
2035.
Eurostat also said that the
current population of Europe is
495 million. In 2035 it will reach
its apex of 521 million, from
which it will fall until 2060,
when the population will be 506
million.
The report also said that the
index of retirees versus work-
ing-age people will increase
from 25 percent currently to 53
helps us ers to sit
to be open-minded and to accept side by side and pray together.”
differences in a positive way. This At the end of the religious cer-
meeting on the eve of Ramadan is emony, we sat together at the
an appeal to fast, pray, be open to same table for a simple meal, and
conversion and to work for peace people representing different
percent by the year 2060. That and reconciliation. In this special ethnic, cultural, and linguistic
is, for every retiree above the spiritual way we can win over the groups told me: “We are all
age of 65, there will be only two violence and thereby strengthen people who believe in the good-
people working. harmony and fraternity”. ness of God; why can’t we gather
This index could reach as high Appreciation for the Catholic and pray for the one thing all of
as 60 percent in some states of initiative was expressed by the us want and need -- the deep,
the EU, including Bulgaria, the mayor of Kirkuk, who called for heartfelt desire for peace and the
Czech Republic, Latvia, peace and true coexistence. A blessings that this peace would
Lithuania, Poland and Romania. Sunni imam recalled that “in the be for our beloved nation, Iraq?”
(CNA) early Islamic caliphate, there (AsiaNews)

Young African woman crawls 2.5

Church in Ecuador places posters against
abortion in all parishes throughout country
QUITO, Ecuador, Aug. 27, 2008—The Church
in Ecuador has placed posters in parishes
throughout the country in support of life
and against the possibility of legalizing
abortion through the new Constitution,
which will be subject to a national vote in
September.
According to Ecuadoran media, the post-
ers have the heading, “Mommy, I’m not a
tumor, I’m your son,” and the Church is hop-
ing they will inform Catholics about a baby’s
developmental process and the different
methods used to carry out abortions.
Quoting Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta,
the posters pose the question: “If a mother
can kill her own child in her own body, why
miles to attend Sunday Mass
can’t we kill each other?”
The bishops of Ecuador have raised seri-
ous questions about the new Constitution
over the possibility that it will leave the door
open to legalized abortion. In light of the
upcoming referendum, they have stepped up
efforts to encourage voters on the need to
protect human life in all its stages. (CNA)
Photos courtesy of AVAN

Indian archbishop says extremists

persecute Christians for helping the poor
He noted that the current problems go back to December of 2007 VALANCIA, Aug. 28, 2008—The Little Sisters of the Abandoned Eld-
and January 2008. “At that time, the ire of extremists was concen- erly in Chissano (Mozambique) took into their home this week a 25
trated on the destruction of the belongings of Catholics, and now it is year-old African young girl named Olivia, who despite not being
on the direct attack of people. The number of victims is still not baptized at the time and not having any legs, crawled 2.5 miles every
definitively known. I have received news of five victims and numer- Sunday to attend Mass.
ous wounded, some seriously. I pray to God this will all end soon According to the AVAN news agency, the nuns said that one day,
and reason will soon prevail again,” he said. they saw “something moving on the ground far away,” and when
The archbishop went on to say, “It is not necessary but it is fair to they drew near they saw, “to our surprise, that it was a young woman.”
say that people are using a pseudo-religious pretext for matters of a “We were able to talk to her through a lady who was walking by
political nature. Catholics in Orissa are a small community, about and who translated into Portuguese what she was saying to us” in
one percent of the population. Our faithful support peaceful coexist- her dialect, they said.
ence with those who belong to other faiths and they have, whenever The sisters said that although “the sand from the road burned the palms
possible, good relations with their Hindu neighbors.” of her hands during the hottest times of the year,” the young woman
Archbishop Cheenath also mentioned the case of a young lay mis- crawled to Mass, “giving witness of perseverance and heroic faith.”
sionary named Ranjie Majhie who worked at an orphanage in The young woman received baptismal preparation from a catechist,
Panampur. She may have died during a fire at the orphanage making who periodically visited her at home. After she was recently bap-
sure that all of the children were able to escape the flames. tized, one of the benefactors of the sisters donated a wheel chair for
“The children and some of the nuns probably hid in the neighbor- Olivia. (CNA)
ing plantations. However, I cannot say anything definitive about her
Bishop: Mexico City’s
Archbishop Raphael Cheenath
fate. I pray that God will protect these innocent victims,” the arch-
ROME, Aug. 28, 2008—Archbishop Raphael Cheenath of Cuttack- bishop stated.
Bhubaneswar in India said this week the recent wave of violence
against Christians by Hindu extremists showed that Christians, “es-
pecially Catholics, are persecuted above all because of our social
Asked about what would happen to the Pastoral Center of the
diocese, he said the center’s director, Father Thomas, “has surely fled
from the Hindu fanatics who were gathered outside the building to
abortion law a challenge
efforts to help the poor. set it on fire. I have spoken to him by phone. He has described the Says society needs to be aware of rights of unborn
In an interview with the L’Osservatore Romano, Archbishop events with anguish. I have told him to pray fervently and to save
Cheenath also said, “We Catholics have never proselytized but we himself.” TEXOCO, Mexico, Sept. 1, 2008— society and its agencies the con-
have always given good example by helping others. I think that for “As far as I know, the pastoral center has suffered serious damage, The preservation of Mexico cepts in all the aspects and dimen-
these people who are fanning the flames, our charitable work is an perhaps irreparable. This was a work that many of faithful sacrificed City’s legalization of abortion sions—ethical, cultural, medical,
unforgivable sin.” greatly for. We were very proud of it,” the archbishop said. (CNA) isn’t a defeat for the Church, but anthropological, social and ju-
rather a call to greater action, says ridical.
the president of Mexico’s episco- “In the second place, as soon as
Franciscan monks savagely beaten at Italian monastery pal conference.
Bishop Carlos Aguiar Retes of
we begin to generate a social con-
science, the latter must see to it
TURIN, Italy, Aug. 29, 2008—On Wednesday Gurini, 76, were still treated at a hospital but Texoco told ZENIT this in light that politicians legislate according
hooded attackers assaulted Franciscan monks suffered less serious injuries, according to the of Mexico’s Supreme Court deci- to society’s view and to truth.”
at a monastery in the Alps foothills near Times Online. sion Thursday to uphold the capi- Bishop Aguiar Retes says he
Turin, leaving one priest severely injured and Father Battagliotti, speaking from his hos- tal city’s legalization of abortion admires and respects the three
the three other victims hospitalized. The pital bed, said the monks had been eating a on demand through the first tri- court justices who voted in favor
Archbishop of Turin, Cardinal Severino dish of spinach when they heard noises out- mester, which came into force in of life: “It isn’t easy to go against
Poletto, called the attack “beyond compre- side. April 2007. the majority and they were able
hension” and only explicable if the attackers “I got up to have a look, but the moment I The 8-3 vote opens the way for to hold their position in a very
had been “either drugged or possessed, or got to the door I was attacked % suddenly, other states in the country to fol- dignified way.
both.” immediately. I was struck on the head with a low suit, and makes Mexico City “Moreover, they truly decided
The 48-year-old Father Sergio Baldin, the blow which made me totter,” he said. one of the few places in Latin on their vote, going to the heart
guardian of the San Colombano Belmonte He then explained how Father Baldin came America that allows the proce- of the matter, that is, that there is
monastery and three elderly monks from the to his aid: Father Sergio Baldin dure without limitations. human life from the moment of
Franciscan order of Friars Minor were hav- “He put himself in front of me to try and Bishop Aguiar Retes said he fertilization.”
ing their evening meal when they were at- defend me, but he too was knocked down “Presumably the attackers thought they doesn’t consider the Supreme He added that the pro-life ele-
tacked, the Times Online reports. without mercy. They hit him until he stopped would find riches at the monastery.” Court’s decision to be a defeat for ments of society did what they
Three hooded men gagged and bound the crying out. Then they beat Father Salvatore Father Gabriele Trivellin, provincial head the Church, rather “a greater could in this case: “I think the ar-
monks before punching, kicking, and beat- and Father Martin as well. It was terrible.” of the Friars Minor, said the assault expressed challenge. We need a greater so- guments presented before the
ing them with clubs. Cardinal Poletto visited the victims at the “mindless, savage and gratuitous violence,” cial conscience on the culture of Court, by those who manifested
Father Baldin suffered severe head injuries hospital. adding that the attackers had continued beat- life and the rights of the newly themselves in favor of life, are
and “serious respiratory problems” because While the cardinal suggested drugs or de- ing the monks even though they offered no conceived.” more than sufficient to show that
he choked on his food during the assault. He monic possession may be to blame, police resistance. He said there are two main el- life begins at conception.
has had brain surgery and was in a coma. said the motive was robbery. The attackers were the object of a manhunt ements of this challenge: “In the “Now they must be made
Father Salvatore Magliano, 86, Father Though the monks reportedly only had as of Wednesday, the Times Online reports. first place, we must articulate and known in all realms of society.”
Emanuele Battagliotti, 81, and Father Martino small amounts of money, a spokesman said (CNA) organize ourselves to clarify to (Zenit)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
Reproductive
Health Bill not
‘pro-poor, pro-
family,’ says
Catholic pro-life
group
MANILA, August 24, 2008—The contro-
versial Reproductive Health Bill is not
intrinsically “pro-poor, pro-life and pro-
family,” said a Catholic pro-life group.
Marita F. Wasan, executive director,
Pro-Life Philippines Foundation Inc., re-
futed the stand of professors of the Uni-
versity of the Philippines (UP) School of
Economics, who found the RH bill to be
pro-poor, authentically pro-life and pro-
family.
The Reproductive Health Bill pend-
ing in the House of Representatives is
authored by Albay Congressman Edcel
Lagman and others.
The economists have a distorted idea
in claiming that 10 percent of poor fami-
lies have only one child while 57 percent
have nine or more.
Statistics from the National Statistics
Office (NSO) prove that the Total Fertil-
ity Rate (average number of children per
woman) is 3.2 as of 2006; that the average
household size in the Philippines is five.
The claim that 57 percent of poor women
have nine or more children does not seem
to be with NSO data, Wasan argued.
The economists also claim that among
the poorest 10 percent of women are of
reproductive age and 44 percent of preg-
nancies are unwanted. But according to
the 2006 Family Planning Survey (FPS),
11 percent of married women of repro-
ductive age in the poorest sector have
unmet needs for family planning. The
two sets of data do not match with the
economists’ claim, Wasan said.
“According to the 2006 FPS, 19.9 per-
cent of women do not want to use con-
traceptives because they want to have
children; 3 percent, because of their reli-
gious beliefs; and 2.9 percent because they
don’t know enough about contraceptives.
They should also know that 30 percent
of women do not use contraceptives for
fear of side-effects. Among women who
didn’t finish elementary, the second
most reported reason for their refusal to
use contraceptives is their desire to have
children,” Wasan said.
The UP economists cited the increase
in the number of poor Filipinos—from
30.4 percent in 2003 to 33 percent in 2006.
The total fertility rate (TFR) decreased
from 3.5 in 2003 to 3.2 children in 2006.
The TFR (6.0 in 1973) has been steadily
decreasing. Population Growth Rate has
also been decreasing—from 3.01 in 1970
to 2.04 in 2007 and is projected to de-
crease to 1.9 next year. Zero population
growth is expected to be achieved by
2025.
The economists got the data all wrong,
she said.
“Despite decreasing fertility and popu-
lation growth rates, is poverty increas-
ing?” Wasan asked.
Meanwhile, Mati Bishop Patricio Alo
said the Reproductive Health Bill is “un-
lawful” as it contains matters such as use
of contraceptive pills and abortion.
The RH bill contradicts the Philippine
Constitution and the divine and natural
law; that the individual right of women
to space their children as they deem ap-
propriate is subject to the right to life for
everyone, from conception to natural
death; and that artificial contraceptives,
some of which are abortifacients, have
adverse side effects on health.
According to the Catholic teaching,
the use of contraception and abortion are
intrinsically immoral.
“There are many countries with higher
population densities than the Philip-
pines, yet they are richer than our coun-
try. There are also many more countries
with lower population densities than the
Philippines, and yet they are poorer than
us,” Wasan said.
The Catholic Church across the coun-
try is soon to launch national ‘signature
campaign’ against the RHB.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
the Philippines and Manila Archdiocese
are spearheading the massive signature
movement in every diocese, parish,
Catholic school, church institution, and
organization.
The Church poses serious objections
in contraceptive programs, which sup-
posedly champion the cause of women,
but ignore the proven harmful side ef-
fects of contraceptives and, in some in-
stances violate women’s rights.
The Church faults the Department of
Health for the disregard and mere ‘lip
service’ it pays to Natural Family Plan-
ning.
The proposed Bill as well as the Ap-
propriations Act of Fiscal Year 2009 is
setting aside more than P2 billion from
tax payer’s money for the purchase of
contraceptives. The Church stresses that
this money could instead be used to pro-
vide education, livelihood and basic ser-
vices.
“If they [economists] got it right from
‘studious reading,’ a decreasing popula-
tion should be followed by a lower pov-
erty incidence. But this is not happening.
Because poverty is not caused by over-
population but by the excessive greed of
those who are in economic and political
power,” said Wasan. (Santosh Digal)
News Features
Christians should imitate St.
Paul’s passion for evangelizing,
says Pope Benedict
Ex-Vatican envoy ‘happy to be back’
MANILA, August 26, 2008—She might
have lost one big position in the Vatican
but being back to the Philippines is
something not worth regretting.
Former Vatican ambassador Leonida
Vera said things do happen like that but
that would never stop her from helping
the Catholic Church and the country.
And being home to the place where
she belongs is worth it, saying she could
even be more in touch with poor people
who needs help the most.
“Being sent back to Manila is nothing
I should be sorry with because there are
a lot of things that I can still do to a lot of
poor people here,” Vera told
CBCPNews.
In fact, Vera said, she is all ready and
excited to face various works she left
when she was sent to Rome in 2004.
Before her appointment as Philippine
ambassador to the Holy See, Vera sat on
the board of Caritas Manila, Family
Crusade International, Edsa Shrine and
the Children Rosary Movement.
She has also been serving with the Or-
der of Malta Philippines, one of the most
ancient religious Catholic Order com-
mitted to care for the sick, handicapped
and terminally ill people.
‘Leaked’
Vera resigned her post last January, a
move that stunned many people and
even the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
of the Philippines.
Earlier reports said that Vera resigned
from her post to give way to her succes-
sor, Cristina Ponce-Enrile, who was cho-
sen by Malacañang but whose appoint-
ment still has to be formalized that time.
This prompted many bishops to criti-
cize the Malacañang move for failing to
seek at least their side on the matter be-
fore it chooses an envoy to the Vatican.
Vera admitted she quit before the new
ambassador, wife of Senator Juan Ponce-
Enrile, was named but she already knew
that Mrs. Enrile would replace her even
before she tendered her resignation.
There were even allegations that Mrs.
Enrile’s appointment was a concession
Relatives of desaparacidos
call for justice
MANILA, August 27, 2008 -- Relatives of Filipino gentina, Chile and Bolivia.
activists who have disappeared without a trace are
still hoping they will be told of the truth of what held accountable, in the Philippines there is no clo-
happened to their loved ones.
Speaking at a jointly organized CBCPNews and
CMN Forum yesterday, Dr. Edita Tronqued Burgos, zation known as “Religious of the United Nations”
mother of Jonas Burgos who had been missing for has made their presence felt both in New York and
485 days said she hopes she would be
informed of Jonas’ whereabouts soon.
Jonas Burgos has not been seen since
April 28, 2007 when gunmen dragged
him from a restaurant in Ever Gotesco
Mall along Commonwealth Avenue,
Quezon City, to a waiting Toyota Revo
whose license plate was traced to an-
other vehicle that was impounded last
year at the 56th Infantry Battalion
camp in Bulacan.
Other victims’ relatives said their
loved ones vanished without a trace.
One was looking for her father, a la- Dr. Edita Tronqued Burgos
bor leader said to have been abducted by law en- hoping against hope their next of kin are still alive.
forcers at the height of a strike at a multi-national
soda company in 1987.
Another mother from Angeles City said his son Burgos added.
was simply a tricycle driver when abducted by still
unidentified men over a year and a half ago.
Fr. Eliseo Mercado, Jr., OMI said the desaparacidos August 30 in commemoration of the “International
were common in Latin America, particularly in Ar- Day of the Disappeared”. (Melo Acuna)
between her husband and the
Malacañang for his support to the Ar-
royo administration.
But Senator Enrile was quick to deny
the accusations.
At first, Vera admitted, she was hurt
upon learning she already has a replace-
ment even without being notified by
Malacañang or the Department of For-
eign Affairs.
Getting the information from unoffi-
cial sources and something that just
“leaked” from friends of Mrs. Enrile was
something hard to accept at first.
“I think it’s unfair because I tried my
best to serve well our country and our
Church and our OFWs (Overseas Fili-
pino Workers) in Rome,” Vera la-
mented.
But Vera said that ironing out the
“pain” and accepting the reality did not
take much time for her. “Things really
happen like that. And I’m very happy
that I’m back,” she added.
No ill-feelings
Vera also said she has nothing against
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo,
who she said, has been “very nice to me.”
She said she is certain that Mrs. Ar-
royo and even Department of Foreign
Affairs secretary Alberto Romulo would
have wanted the things to happen prop-
erly.
“I know from the beginning the presi-
dent and the DFA secretary have noth-
ing to do with what happened. That’s
one thing I’m very sure of,” she said.
“It leaked maybe because of the ex-
citement of many friends of Cristina
Ponce-Enrile that she’s going to be ap-
pointed to the Vatican to take my place.
But it’s OK. Things happen like that,”
Vera said.
Before she left Rome, Vera said Pope
Benedict XVI assured her of his “contin-
ued prayers and blessings” for the Phil-
ippines.
She also thanked the CBCP for sup-
porting her all the way especially at the
height of controversies surrounding her
abrupt resignation as Vatican ambassa-
“Unlike in some countries where dictators were
sure whatsoever,” Fr. Mercado said.
He added a religious non-government organi-
in Geneva.
“There’s definitely no room for
desaparacidos today,” he further said.
Fr. Mercado compared the plight
© http://vileydsidiotz.multiply.com
of Dr. Burgos and her companions
with the grieving relatives of the
missing passengers of the ill-fated
M/V Princess of the Stars.
“The passengers’ relatives want to
bury their loved ones in order for them
to have closure to the tragic incidents,”
Fr. Mercado explained. He said this is
what Sulpicio Lines cannot understand.
He added the relatives will always be
“We call on those responsible to surface all vic-
tims of enforced disappearances soonest,” Dr.
A march from the University of Santo Tomas
along España towards Plaza Miranda was held last
A3
VATICAN CITY, August 27, 2008—Dur- three missionary journeys spurred the
ing today’s general audience in the so-called Council of the Apostles, which
Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, Pope Benedict decided that pagan converts to Chris-
XVI spoke about the life of St. Paul. Re- tianity were not required to observe the
counting that the Church honors the Mosiac Law, the spread of the Gospel
great missionary in a special way this to Europe via Macedonia, the “birth”
year, the Holy Father said that Catho- of the term “Christian in Antioch, and
lics should emulate Paul by sparing no the writing of Paul’s Epistles.
energy and enduring trials for the sake Pope Benedict also highlighted Paul’s
of the Gospel. arrest and imprisonment in Jerusalem,
After making clear the significance and later in Rome. St. Luke closes his
of this year as the 2,000th anniversary account of St. Paul’s life noting that the
of St. Paul’s birth, Pope Benedict noted great missionary spent two years of
Paul’s Jewish birth in Tarsus, his He- house arrest in Rome.
brew name “Saul” and his training as a The Holy Father concluded by re-
“tent” maker. The Holy Father ex- minding his audience of St. Paul’s
plained that from around the age of 12, words: “I do everything for the sake of
Paul was instructed in Jerusalem in the the Gospel.” With this summary of
strict Pharisaic tradition, on the basis Paul’s journeys in mind, Pope Benedict
of which, the future saint “viewed the continued, “Let us pray that the Lord,
Christian movement as a threat to or- who made Paul see the light and know
thodox Judaism”. his Word and who touched the interior
The great missionary, Pope Benedict of Paul’s heart, … will also make us see
noted, persecuted the Church “until a the light so that our hearts may also be
dramatic encounter on the road to Dam- touched by his Word and so that we may
ascus radically changed his life.” also give the world the light of the Gos-
The Holy Father recalled Paul’s his- pel and the truth of Christ, for which it
torical fame as a Christian and apostle, thirsts.”
not as a Pharisee, and the saint’s three Pope Benedict indicated that next
missionary journeys, which are told by week’s audience address will focus on
St. Luke in the Acts of the Apostles. The the conversion of St. Paul. (CAN)
dor. like Tita Nida finish government service
“It was very uplifting (that the CBCP like her,” Villegas said.
was behind me). I found out that they He said it’s very rare among the pub-
really appreciated my work,” Vera said. lic officials who finish their term the way
Vera did. “Some leave government be-
Untainted cause their names have been tainted by
Last Saturday, a thanksgiving Mass for scandal. Some leave government because
Vera, led by Bataan Bishop Socrates they did something wrong to the people
Villegas and Antipolo Auxiliary Bishop they represented,” Villegas said.
Francisco de Leon, was held at the Shrine “The coming of Tita Nida is an encour-
of Mary Queen of Peace on EDSA. agement for those in the public service.
In his homily, Villegas said other gov- It is an inspiration for those in public
ernment officials should take a cue from service that someday your turn will
Vera who vacated her post with her in- come,” he also said.
tegrity still intact and her reputation un- “Someday, the end will come. Some-
tainted. day, the appointment will cease, the au-
The prelate said Vera must serve as a thorization will stop. Like that day
model for public officials as she self- comes as death comes, we pray that all
lessly worked for the welfare of the government officials will be able to fin-
Church and Filipinos in Rome. ish their terms untainted by scandals
“Tita Nida comes home to us as she clean and clear, transparent like clean
left us—whole. There is reason to give water. And Tita Nida is a fine example
thanks because not all public officials for all of us,’ he added. (Roy Lagarde)
Lipa archdiocese launches
Tubig Batangan
LIPA CITY, August 29, 2008 -- First it was Pondong Batangan
(the forerunner of Pondo ng Pinoy), then came Botikang
Batangan.
Now, the Archdiocese of Lipa has Tubig Batangan, a wa-
ter purifying station put up through the initiative of the
Lipa Archdiocesan Social Action Commission (LASAC).
Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles, who blessed the office
where Tubig Batangan’s distilling and purifying machines
are located, lauded the project as this would benefit the
poor of the Archdiocese.
LASAC Project Director Louie Casala said the initial
funding of the project came from a long-time benefactor, a
Filipino doctor from the Parish of St. Mary Magdalene,
Bayanan, San Pascual, Batangas, who is currently residing
in the United States.
The donor, who requested anonymity, has helped a de-
serving student finished college through a scholarship
grant but wanted to continue his donation to LASAC.
He gave an initial funding to this project, the proceeds
of which would partly go to the Commission’s scholar-
ship program and partly to cancer patients under the care
of Cancer Warrior’s Foundation (Batangas chapter).
Under the agreement, CWF will take care of the promo-
tions and delivery while LASAC will take care of produc-
tion and monitoring of the project.
Several children stricken with cancer and under the care
of CWF, together with their parents, were present during
the inauguration and blessing. (Fr. Nonie Dolor)
 CBCP Monitor
A4 Opinion Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

EDITORIAL

Just war
ON the chilling occasion of the deadly and dreadful war now taking
place in Mindanao—on otherwise naturally rich and potentially
prosperous region in the country”a persistent question that comes
to mind is one and the same. Is the war in Mindanao just?
If so, what makes it a just war? Who sees to it that the war is just?
In the event the war is just, why not have war all over the country
in promotion of the sorely needed justice in the land?
The unconscionable truth is that war makes a great business. As
people are killed in war, there are always those who make big
money in war trafficking. Just for the record, let it be noted that as
the resources of others are destroyed by war, those however who
make war their trade, in effect, build up their wealth.
But the question remains and begs for an answer: When is a war just?
The answer to this is curiously found also in questions: Was there
ever a just war in human history? Was the 1st World War just?
Was the holocaust just? Was the systematic extermination of the
Jews just? Was the 2nd World War just?
Was the atomic bomb explosion in Hiroshima just? Was the
indiscriminate killing of many thousands of civilian men, women
and children just? Is the Iraq War just?
In other words: Is it just to have thousands of invading soldiers killed
and more thousands of locals sent to their death as “collateral
damage”—with more people still to be killed as the days go on and
as the war continues?
Thus far, history has not yet given humanity a just war. Despite
philosophical or theological rationalizations, there is no such animal Abp. Angel N. Lagdameo, DD
as a just war. Only fools say otherwise. Only clowns wear smiles
during war. And only those, whose business is war, rejoice when Migration,
war is actually waged.
Everybody else—if still alive and well—think, feel and say that
In and Out of Season a permanent challenge
there are no winners in war. And those who want war let them go
to the front lines and do their war dance until they stop a bullet at
hitting somebody else in its way. (This piece was delivered at the Consultation on nation, lack of due process when tried, ab- 4. Linkages between the ICMC and the
Migration Issues and Priorities in Asia held at the sence or deficiency in security. Women and Asian churches should be continued and sup-
The war in Mindanao is grim and gross. And those who are the Bahay Pari, San Carlos Pastoral Formation Com- children in particular are exposed to incidence ported and developed. Coherence and part-
casual factor of the war, those who provided the occasion for it, are plex, Makati City last August 28-29) of trafficking and false hopes in a foreign nership will surely be the first of sharing of
not only censurable but also squarely answerable for the debacle: country. The ethical perspective is unavoid- data about migration, about legal and illegal
to agree to what is basically not agreeable, to promise what cannot WE come to conclude our consultation on able in the migration. migrants.
be really done, to give way to what is not theirs to dispose of, and the migration of our Asian sisters and broth- Of great concern for the local churches are 5. To get the local churches involved, the
to expose the lives of others while very carefully saving their own ers to the globalized world with profound the marital problems resulting from separa- Parish Pastoral Councils or their equivalents,
hides. gratitude to the Holy Spirit who guided our tion, the incidence of fake marriages, divorces where such exist, must be made aware of the
interaction, to the Holy Family of Jesus, and domestic violence, which cannot be made realities of migrants to and from the Parish.
This is certainly not the way of the honorable much less the actuation Mary and Joseph who are our icons for mi- up simply by economic and developmental In this way the pastoral aspects will be con-
of rational individuals. These are the characters squarely accountable grant families and also gratitude to the In- solutions. The ethical problems are much sidered or addressed. It is in this level, I think,
for the War in Mindanao. ternational Catholic Migration Commission greater than economic problem. (Unfortu- that many of the pastoral and ethical con-
(ICMC) and our CBCP Commission for Mi- nately, our government in the Philippines cerns of migrants can be successfully ad-
At their feet should be laid the dead and mutilated bodies of the grant and Itinerant People (ECMI), and to seems to be concerned only with economic dressed.
war victims. In due time, justice will surely catch up with these one another. Maraming Salamat po. Thank remittances from our OFWs.) A social issue 6. Many of the local clergy are not involved
purveyors of injustice—as it is already haunting and hunting them you very much. that needs to be addressed to countries re- or concerned with migrant issues. And if they
right now. The inputs that were given by Mr. John ceiving our OFWs is the issue of the OFWs’ are interested, they do so only
Klink and Mr. Johan Ketelers, President and right to be with their families. How is this “envelopmentally” i.e. for the migrants’ con-
Secretary respectively of ICMC, the inputs of going to be concretized? tribution to the church. The priests in the par-
Bishop Precioso Cantillas and Fr. Edwin The dignity and human rights of the mi- ishes should be encouraged to take the lead
Corros, chair and Executive Secretary of grants is a matter of pastoral concern. It was in the pastoral care of migrants.
CBCP-ECMI, the interaction of the forty par- well said, I think, that if the person is not 7. Since the problems of migrants can in-
ticipants facilitated by the Bishops who respected, if the family is weakened, the whole volve not only the families, but also the com-
Pastoral Care of Migrants chaired the seven sessions of the two days of
consultation were very enlightening and chal-
society is likewise weakened.
In this concluding remark, I would like to
munities, a kind of networking among the
different commissions within the Conference
WE are aware of the many serious problems of morality, poverty, lenging. raise some proposals which I have picked up will be helpful. And so the ECMI for example
and injustice that affect people, especially women, who migrate In our exchanges we saw the concerns and from the interventions and inputs. can link up with the commissions on the la-
experiences of our Asian migrants from dif- 1. The church in Asia because of the com- ity, family, women and youth and even so-
from the provinces to the big cities in our own country. They are ferent perspectives. On the whole, migration munal aspects of some problems of migrants cial action.
often exploited in the tourism industry. However, on this occasion is a challenge, a permanent challenge to the should consider organizing common ap- 8. Migration, it has been stated, is a won-
we focus our attention on the plight of migrants and overseas “Catholicity” of Christ’s Church in our Asian proaches in solving their common problems. derful opportunity for evangelization. It is
workers. continent. The fact of migration deepens the 2. The local churches can share their cre- an opportunity to bring the migrants to the
Our reflection moves us, first of all, to thank the Filipinos abroad for identity of the Catholic Church as a “com- ative and wholistic perspectives, and solu- Church and the Church to the migrants. On
the manifold sacrifices they have undertaken for us here at home. munion in diversity” on inter-cultural, in- tions. The present consultation is a practical the part of the Philippines, where before
ter-faith and inter-religious communion, the beginning of net-working among the epis- “Mother Spain” evangelized the Filipinos
Their endurance in the face of adverse conditions, their determination
special place of migrant peoples for the en- copal conferences as sending and receiving through the Spanish Missionaries, now is the
to turn risks into opportunities, their courage in the face of real counter with the “other” in the spirit of hos- countries. time for the Filipino OFWs, laity at that, to
physical threats (for example, seamen in the Persian Gulf) and pitality and dialogue. 3. It was also suggested that a united Asian re-evangelize “Mother Spain”.
moral dangers are to be admired. The courage of these migrant The National reports of 18 Episcopal Con- voice (advocacy) be organized to address is- How necessary it is therefore that our fu-
workers has shown us how to believe in life and to hope against many ferences which include diverse situations, sues of migration, answering the question, ture OFWs, migrants are also prepared to give
odds. enumerable concerns and challenges experi- such as “what can the church do in the con- witness to their Catholic faith in a foreign
Although much has been done by our priests, religious sisters, and enced by our Asian migrants reveal the crete to help incoming and outgoing mi- country. As the receiving country helps them
emerging responses of the local churches. grants. What government policies does the earn their livelihood to support their fami-
lay faithful, we wish to humbly acknowledge before our migrants
Migrants are vulnerable people; they are church agree, disagree with, as helpful or not. lies back home, they in turn not only work
and overseas workers the limitations that beset the Philippine exposed to and many of them do suffer from The migrants can at least be properly warned for consumerism but also to “walk their faith”
Church in its pastoral care for them and their families. But, as we alienation, loneliness, exploitation, discrimi- and advised. as a people on the move.
become more and more a nation of migrants, we are training and
assigning more church personnel, clergy as well as laity, to this
particular ministry. We appeal to the Major Superiors of Religious
Francisco F. Claver, SJ
Men and Women to do likewise. The need for pastoral care is
great and urgent. Although many good things come from migration, Participation in the
it is also attended by many evils, such as exploitation, broken
families, moral degradation, loneliness and other psychological
sufferings.
likes of the MOA-AD Afterthoughts
“CBCP Pastoral Letter on the Occasion of National Migration
Day”, 1988 THE United Nations declared the 1960s “the Decade of Development”, use of available resources, evaluating each stage of the process, chang-
development being understood mainly in economic terms. The 1970s ing directions if previously selected ones were not producing the
were declared “the Second Decade of Development”, because, it was desired results, etc., etc. Simply put, the people to be developed have
clear, the development sought in the 1960s had not happened as hoped to be in on the process from the very beginning, own it, assume
for. In 1967 Pope Paul VI went beyond the two decades’ understand- responsibility for every phase of it. Hardly a revolutionary idea—
ISSN 1908-2940 ing of development in his landmark encyclical Populorum Progressio and a most common-sensical one—it is actually the principle behind
(the Development of Peoples). In it he laid out his ideas on total and what I discussed once in these columns, the AsIPA or Asian Integral

CBCP Monitor
Protagonist of Tr u t h , Promoter of Peace
integral human development—the development “of the whole man
and of all men”. The encyclical and its definition of development as
not only economic but holistic, touching all other areas of human
living as well, has been the lodestar for the Philippine Church’s work
in social development since then.
Pastoral Approach which has been operative in many dioceses of the
country today. Yet, for all its simplicity, it is a principle that is sinned
against again and again by governments and technocrats or pro-
fessed change agents.
Within our own experience in the Philippines, if we are to give one
Pedro C. Quitorio In those two decades, scientific journals (in sociology and anthro- main reason for the utter failure of President Marcos’ “New Society”,
Editor-in-Chief pology especially) devoted much space to development studies and it is precisely because it went against this basic principle: It was
projects. Going over them, one was hard put to find instances of totally his idea and project, not the people’s; worse, it was going to
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos successful attempts. It did seem they were mostly about what not to be brought about by force—martial law was declared, he claimed,
Associate Editor Feature Editor do in development work! for the very purpose.
Since development, purely economic or total and integral as More recently: The same mistake is at the base of the widespread
Melo M. Acuña Rosalynn Garcia Populorum Progressio would have it, is part of the broader subject of rejection of the MOA-AD, the memorandum of agreement on ances-
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor social change, the question those of us in social action work were tral domain, that the government proposed to enter into with the
Dennis B. Dayao forced to confront was simply this: how to bring about change in MILF as the final solution to the age-old Muslim Mindanao question.
Ernani M. Ramos
On-Line Editor Circulation Manager society, in a whole people, as widely as possible. All kinds of books No consultation was held on it among the people most affected, the
and articles were being put out on the theoretical aspects of develop- Muslim and non-Muslim peoples of Mindanao in particular, the whole
ment in the sixties and seventies, but the study I found most useful nation in general (although one of the main authors of the memoran-
Layout by Laurence John R. Morales

Roy Q. Lagarde Marcelita Dominguez

News Editor Comptroller was a book titled “Cooperation in Change” by Mr. Ward Hunt dum claims something along these lines had been done on the Mus-
Goodenough, a cultural anthropologist. I liked it for its firm theo- lim side). Consultation—getting the people concerned to have their
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP say on the subject of the Memorandum—this was the least one would
retical basis, but more so for its eminent practicability.
Communications Development Foundation, Inc., with
His idea was the soul of simplicity itself: Since in social chafnge, it look for in the participation in change that we are talking of here. It
editorial and business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St.,
Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. is people who are the targets of change, for change to occur on a defies reason how (and why) the principals in the making and pro-
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. broad basis and with some firm assurance that it will take, the very moting of the Memorandum could overlook such a fundamental
Email: cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net people who are to change (or to be changed!) have to be brought in requirement for its success.
Website: www.cbcpworld.net/cbcpmonitor into every phase of the change process: accepting the necessity itself When one comes down to the ultimate reason why participation in
of change, planning for it, setting goals, deciding on means and the Afterthoughts / A6
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008 Opinion A5
Rev. Euly B. Belizar, SThD Fr. Melvin P. Castro
When peace is an
By the Roadside elusive victim Speaking of Mary
WAR is raging again in Mindanao. And many songs that describe the loved one say to you, whoever gets angry with his
it’s being felt throughout the archipelago.
The sight of people fleeing their homes
as the “light”. Nothing lights up more
than God’s love that Jesus Christ brings.
brother will have to face trial…So if you
are about to offer a gift at the altar and Promoting the Cause
on prime time television, of soldiers be- No wonder he also calls himself “the light there remember that your brother has
ing hit and killed at times because of al-
legedly delayed rescue and reinforce-
of the world. He who follows me will not
walk in darkness. He will have light and
something against you, go at once and
make peace with your brother. Then come of Our Lady,
ment operations, of rebel attacks and life” (Jn 5:12). Don’t we find here a simple and offer your gift” (Mt 5:22, 23-25).
military counter attacks while politicians
blame one another for the pass the coun-
explanation to why we are where we are?
As human beings we experience that life
In high school Latin I remember trans-
lating a saying of the ancient (Christian) Mediatrix of All Grace
try has come to again—all these have can be so “veiled” until we discover love Romans: “Qui iracundiam vincit, mag-
made me think of whether we really are or meaning. St. Paul in his second letter num inimicum vincit (he who conquers
on the right side of the planet. Even here to the Corinthians, for instance, says the anger conquers a great enemy)”. But, we THE upcoming 5th National Pilgrimage in honor of Our
in Borongan, Eastern Samar, my home- same thing of the experience of Israel dur- need to ask, how do we do that precisely? Lady, Mary, Mediatrix of All-Grace is set on 12 September
town, we are feeling part of the impact. ing Old Testament times when seen in re- For the disciple the key to the answer 2008.
There are Mindanaoans, mostly fisher- gard to his and other disciples’ discovery lies in the commandment of brotherly It will be preceded by a Triduum, all to be held at the
folks, in some of our barangays, some of of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament, as we love which opens up three options to San Sebastian Cathedral, Lipa City. The actual day of the
them Muslim, many more are Christian know very well, tells us of so many ex- him: dialogue (Jesus’ instructions on fra- National Pilgrimage, will start with a Eucharistic Proces-
who have taken refuge in our shores, de- cesses, such as of kings marrying so many ternal correction), reconciliation (the sion at 4 a.m. from the Lipa Cathedral ending at the Site of
spite our obvious poverty. It’s not hard wives or justifying the massacre of their command to mend a wounded relation- the Parish of Mary, Mediatrix of All-Grace. The Confer-
to see why. “I’m running from having to enemies as part of God’s providence etc. ship before offering the altar sacrifice, ences and Talks will be delivered beginning 8 a.m. until
run for my life,” one man at our B.E.C. All these tell us that the old covenant and the Parable of the Prodigal Son) and lunch time.
meeting said to me. looked and pointed to a more perfect forgiveness (the cry at Calvary: “Father, The culminating concelebrated Holy Mass will be held
For many in the Philippines it feels, stage and phase. The Old Testament is like forgive them…”). In the Philippine con- at the compound of the Carmelite Monastery at 3:30 p.m.
(too) many times, like the side of the earth the side of the earth not yet turned to- text all three are under direct threat from Allow me as well to invite you to join us in an organiza-
where we are is constantly turned away wards the sun; it is covered with a veil the cycles of deceit and treachery, of vio- tion dedicated to promoting the cause of Our Lady, Mary,
from the sun. It seems we are just mov- like the Philippines and the world of to- lence and revenge. In effect, we only Mediatrix of All-Grace and dedicated as well in heeding
ing from darkness to darkness, with no day. It is only in Jesus Christ, St. Paul re- have the specter of more and more de- her request of Total Consecration following the devotional
one to blame for it but ourselves. We minds us, that that veil is removed and struction of life, property and good will way of St. Louis Marie Grignon di Montfort.
have successfully kept our sun from dawn- the face of God as well as his will re- looming in our horizons. I say we Chris-
ing. Darkness has come to settle upon us vealed. “Up to this day”, he notes, “how- tians be the first to pinch ourselves from A call to a more perfect devotion
like a veil. The rice and fuel crisis has ever often they read Moses, the veil re- this nightmare to the words of St. Make our Marian devotion more meaningful and rel-
scarcely left us but just as fuel prices are mains over their understanding. But for Maximilian Kolbe: “Hatred is not a cre- evant. JOIN the Confraternity of Mary, Mediatrix of All
beginning to ease down, here comes a those who turn to the Lord, the veil will ative force. Only love is.” When Lincoln Grace and learn St. Louis Grignon de Montfort’s method of
major government fiasco involving a be lifted” (2 Cor 3:15-16) greeted one of his enemies, some of his true devotion to Our Lady by reading his book and even-
Memorandum of Agreement with MILF When our lives face the sun who friends said to him: “He is your enemy. tually consecrating yourselves to her through a holy sla-
rebels that has met intense opposition is Jesus Christ, he even makes clear to us You should rather eliminate him.” To very of love. Now, slavery may sound too harsh to mod-
and cynical suspicions for lack of proper how we are to live so as to have peace and that Lincoln said: “Isn’t that what I do ern ears and yet this most singular slavery frees and un-
consultation. Rebel expectations having the blessings of ‘shalom’. The way is ex- when I make him my friend?” Such a shackles one from sin and vice. But this consecration is not
been raised, the negative reaction ap- posed by and through his gospel which Christian advice from a politician! a mere recitation of a formula. It far transcends that. It is a
pears to have fanned violence and teaches that, to truly live, a human being Add to that my next suggestion: Let’s state of mind and soul. It is a way of life, a real and lasting
counter violence. We are told that last- must go through a total personal trans- take Lincoln’s advice on what to do with true devotion. Learn more!
ing peace is the ultimate aim of the MOA. formation that begins with the heart and our enemies, but let our prayer be that of
Time for a reality check. Peace has now the interior life fired by the Spirit of God. St. Francis of Assisi: “Lord, make me an Christ must be the ultimate end of all devotions
become even more elusive instead, a vic- This is in real contrast to the all-surface instrument of your peace. Where there is Let us read what St. Louis Grignon di Montfort wrote in
tim in fact of the country’s brand of poli- existence exemplified by the scribes and hatred, let me sow love. Where there is his book, True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin, the must-
tics. Pharisees of his time as well as by the injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, read manual of a sincere and real devotee of Our Lady. If
Only when our side of the earth faces lifestyles the world we live in approves faith. Where there’s despair, hope. Where devotion to the Blessed Virgin is necessary for all men
the sun again will the veil be lifted. I’m of today (when ‘looking good’ is pre- there is darkness, light. And where there simply to work out their salvation, it is even more neces-
not simply talking of the sun of reason ferred to ‘being good’, to paraphrase Pope is sadness, joy. O Master, grant that I may sary for those who are called to a special perfection. I do
or of common sense. I’m talking of the Paul VI). (I notice my laptop’s WORD capi- not so much seek to be consoled as to con- not believe that anyone can acquire intimate union with
real Sun Christians recognize as their talizes Pharisee every time I write it but sole, to be understood as to understand, our Lord and perfect fidelity to the Holy Spirit without a
Lord and Master. (And, may I add, we not Jesus Christ—which makes me won- to be loved as to love. For it is in giving very close union with the most Blessed Virgin and an ab-
Christians shouldn’t be embarrassed to der in recognition of who its makers must that we receive. It is in pardoning that we solute dependence on her support.
talk like Christians). It’s true, it would be). are pardoned. And it is in dying that we Since she is the sure means, the direct and immaculate
not be realistic to expect everyone, espe- If peace were to be decided by a scribe are born to eternal life.” Let every cleric way to Jesus and the perfect guide to Him, it is through her
cially non-Christians, to see things from or a Pharisee in Mindanao or in the whole or lay, every soldier or rebel, every stu- that souls who are to shine forth in sanctity must find Him.
this perspective. But, again, have we Philippines or in the entire world, he dent or teacher, every farmer or fisher- He who finds Mary finds life, that is, Jesus Christ who is
Christians who make up the majority of would be satisfied, for example, with man, every professional or amateur—let the way, the truth and the life. But no one can find Mary
the Philippine population faced the real people not being killed or murdered. everyone say or hear this prayer as often who does not look for her. No one can look for her who
Sun and allowed him to lead us through Jesus tells us to go farther and deeper than as every day. does not know her, for no one seeks or desires something
the darkness we are in? I have heard so that. “But,” he emphatically declares, “I Then peace will elude us no more. unknown. Mary then must be better known than ever for
the deeper understanding and the greater glory of the
Blessed Trinity.
Following therefore the teaching of the saints and of the
Bp. Guillermo V. Afable, DD
Lawlessness strikes popes, especially Pope John Paul II and many great men
we too can call ourselves, and become the loving slaves of
our Blessed Lady in order to become more perfect slaves
again a heavy blow DADITAMA of Jesus. Mary is the means our Lord chose to come to us
and she is also the means we should choose to go to Him,
for she is not like other creatures who tend rather to lead
us away from God than towards Him, if we are over-at-
DIGOS City used to be spared from the usual bombing incidents of social discipline. There is disorder in law making, disorder in tached to them. Mary’s strongest inclination is to unite us
that happen in neighboring cities like Davao City, Kidapawan law enforcement, circumventing the laws, and failure in bring- to Jesus, her Son, and her Son’s strongest wish is that we
City, General Santos City. This fortune is no longer true. Re- ing the outlaws to answer for their crimes. No wonder there is come to Him through His Blessed Mother. He is pleased
cently, our City’s tranquil environment, on the eve of the launch- lawlessness all around, from the simple traffic rules to the more and honored just as a king would be pleased and honored
ing of the week long 8 th celebration of Araw ng Digos City, was demanding and intricate rules of the IPRA law and the Compre- if a citizen, wanting to become a better subject and slave of
once again struck by a terror attack. A second Metro Shuttle bus, hensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) the king, made himself the slave of the queen. That is why
this time bound for Malita, was the victim of another bombing Peace is in everyone’s hands. We start simply with reversing the Fathers of the Church, and St. Bonaventure after them,
incident. Innocent lives of men, women and children lost and and abandoning the contempt for law and order. Instead, we de- assert that the Blessed Virgin is the way which leads to our
several others injured. The vivid and gruesome images of the velop and practice a holy respect for the rule of law. Lawmakers, Lord.
victims continue to alarm, agitate and worry officials and citi- law enforcers, and law abiding citizens must come together for To establish another link of True Devotion to the Lipa
zens of our city. What have become of us? the common good of all without fear or favor, especially for the apparition, one ought to recall that in Mother Cecilia of
The situation of un-peace in many parts of Mindanao, includ- good of the ones most marginalized by lawlessness. We start with Jesus’ (Prioress of Lipa Carmel in 1948) official account of
ing our own province of Davao del Sur has been part of the lives the little things, because there are no quick fixes for societal ills. the apparitions she wrote, “On the 25th (Sept. 1948) the
of peoples that especially injure and further deprive the poor of September 8 is the celebration of the 8th Araw ng Digos City. It Lady told the following, I wish you all to consecrate your-
decent and peaceful living. Mutual respect and tolerance and soli- is also, as every Catholic knows, the birthday of Mama Mary. selves to me on October 7 and be my slave’....”
darity among the tri-people of Mindanao continue to be as un- Both the Mediatrix Cathedral Parish and the San Isidro Parish in From Teresing Castillo’s own words, the 7 October 1948
certain as ever. Digos City will come together for an aurora procession and entry of her Life and Testimony: The much-awaited day
But I think there is a more dreadful disease in our society concelebrated mass in our Lady’s honor, and together with the finally came. A Mass was celebrated at the hermitage by
today that brings about a culture of wanton violence perpetrated city officials and employees, and people of good will, to entrust our beloved Msgr. Obviar. As soon as Mass was over, the
either by paramilitary groups or criminal syndicates. It is, I be- ourselves once more to the maternal care of the Queen of Peace. whole community consecrated itself to Mama Mary fol-
lieve, the contempt for order and the rule of law. There is this May she continue not only to protect us, but also to guide us into lowing the devotion of St. Louis Grignon di Montfort.
prevailing atmosphere and environment of lawlessness and lack the ways of peace.
A nation of true devotees
Imagine the abundance of blessings and graces the Fili-
pino nation would receive if its citizens follow Our Lady’s
wise counsel to the Carmelite nuns of Lipa in 1948. In fact,
Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
Twins are double
it is our lofty goal. We desire the greatest number of souls
to consecrate themselves to Our Lady and be her slaves of

Love Life
A REUNION of Twins and Multiple Births
was held last August 16 at the Good Shep-
herd Convent. Over twenty-five sets of
twins and one set of triplets showed up
with their parents. The activity was to or-
ganize the families in preparation for the
third Festival of Twins in December.
The idea of holding a Festival of Twins
is the brainchild of Natalie Palanca, a
Marian devotee and freelance journalist.
Natalie has a set of twin-grandchildren who
are residing with their parents in the USA.
And having attended Festivals of Twins in
some States, Natalie dreamed of holding
one in our country. Last February 2004, as
part of Pro-life Week, and in cooperation
with the City of Manila the first Festival of
Twins was held at the Tent in Intramuros.
Over 80 sets of twins showed up then. In
2005, over 300 sets of Twins and 13 sets of
Triplets attended the Second Festival held
at Raja Soliman, Baywalk, Manila
People have asked me why Pro-life Phil-
ippines is involved in activities for twins
and multiple births. Nowadays, when one
child in the womb is in danger of abor-
blessings
tion because children have begun to be
considered as burden, Pro-life wants to
insist on the fact that if one child is a bless-
ing, TWINS are DOUBLE BLESSINGS!
The Association of Twins has been gath-
ering families to support each other in rais-
ing up their twins according to God’s plan.
Although parents claim that it has not
been easy to provide for their twins or
triplets or quadruplets, they have never
regretted that they were blessed by God
with these children.
Last Saturday, the daughter of Natalie,
Mrs. Milette G. Hammond and her twins,
Jaclyne and Mikhaela came to the Philip-
pines just to share their experiences dur-
ing the reunion. It is hard to imagine that
these pretty fourteen year olds were once
premature babies struggling to survive,
and now excelling in academics and sports,
thanks to the loving care of their parents.
Mr. Benjie Santillan, President of Pro-
life Philippines, gave the Welcome Re-
marks and proudly showed his own set of
twins, ten year old boys looking exactly
alike and looking like their dad!
love. This is the main reason why we are forming The
Confraternity of Mary, Mediatrix of All Grace.
We call upon the countless children of Mary to forge
ahead and make the necessary step to perfect their devo-
tion. Read St. Louis Marie Grignon di Montfort’s timeless
masterpiece, True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin for it is
A Message of support was given by Mrs.
the key to a new level of Marian spirituality and interior
Menchu Sarmiento, Executive Director of
life. Let us, Filipinos, take the lead and set the world on
Philippine Airlines Foundation. She was
the fire of true Marian devotion!
responsible for providing free airfare for
the Hammond Twins, and she related how
Membership
these past years, PAL Foundation has car-
Membership is open to Catholic clergy, religious and
ried three sets of the conjoint (Siamese)
laity. Realizing that different people have varying degrees
twins from the Philippines to the USA for
of understanding and spirituality and thus may take some
surgical separation. She then called the
time to fully grasp the real and profound meaning of this
parents of the Aguirre twins to stand up
devotion, we propose the following different levels of
amid a big round of applause for the suc-
membership:
cessful surgery.
Full-pledged Confraternity Member: an individual who
The Inspirational Talk that was to be
agrees to read True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin and
given by Sec. Lito Atienza, who had been
afterwards go through the 33 days preparatory period prior
very supportive of the first two Festivals,
to consecrating himself or herself to Our Lady as a slave of
was given by his Undersecretary Mrs. Tess
love.
Castillo with her own story to tell. She is
Associate Member: an individual who may not be ready
the widow of a twin–Mr. Castillo and his
to do the consecration yet but believes in the benefits of
twin brother have both passed away.
this apostolate and agrees to help in the confraternity’s
The families went home with bags of
various tasks and projects.
surprises—coloring books, toys, and lots
Patrons of the Confraternity: Donors and supporters–
of food given by sponsors solicited by
those individuals who believe and support the
Natalie and the pro-life groups.
Confraternity’s cause through donations, both in cash and
Those interested in joining the Associa-
kind.
tion of Twins and Multiple Births can call
the Pro-life office at 911-2911.
 CBCP Monitor
A6 Local News Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

CRS to send additional aid Bishop wants

to people displaced by war revamp in gov’t
peace panel
in Mindanao
MANILA, September 1, 2008%Ad- Michael Frank, CRS Country cooking utensils which we are displaced persons but they have
MANILA, August 22,
2008— Because of the
ditional relief aid from the US- Representative, in an interview currently distributing in southern heard of the people’s reluctance peace negotiation fi-
based Catholic Relief Services may with CBCPNews said they have Philippines,” Frank said. to go back to their villages due to asco that resulted
come sooner should their on-go- their men on the ground, in Davao It may be recalled that CRS on-going hostilities between the from the row over
ing assessment of the Mindanao and Cotabato cities trying to find Philippines had earlier sent relief Moro Islamic Liberation Front the Bangsamoro
situation proves the need for as- out the extent of the displaced aid to families who have been dis- and government troopers. homeland pact, a
sistance of internally displaced people’s requirements. placed by the ongoing hostilities “We’re analyzing the recent Catholic bishop
persons in the Archdiocese of “This is on top of the original in Mindanao. events, facts and figures and de- called for an over-
Cotabato including parishes in $25,000 worth of food and tempo- Frank said they have not no- cide soon enough,” Frank added. haul of the govern-
some towns in North Cotabato. rary shelter assistance including ticed any increase in number of (Melo M. Acuna) ment peace panel.
Cotabato Auxil-
iary Bishop Jose

England and Wales Catholic Church Colin Bagaforo said

the revamp is neces-
sary to prevent a re-
peat of the blunder
joins relief effort in Mindanao that produced the
memorandum of
agreement on ances-
THE Philippine Catholic Church’s appeals for help following the as these events are creating further divisions in the communities in tral domain. Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo
ongoing hostilities in Mindanao have brought responses from around Mindanao,” Cooney said. “I hope the gov-
the world. The CAFOD is urging for a peaceful resolution in Mindanao con- ernment panel in the
One of the most high profile has come from the Catholic Church of flict following attacks by groups linked to the MILF and subsequent peace negotiation will be re- made.
England and Wales, which has joined the relief efforts conducted by counter attacks and bombings by government forces. placed because of their previous “The government should just
the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. The National Disaster Coordinating Council said at least 74, 581 actions (concerning the ques- throw the whole MOA-AD away
The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), the of- families or 362, 475 persons were displaced due to fighting. Of these, tioned memorandum of agree- and just create a new one. They
ficial relief agency of the Catholic Church of England and Wales, has 33,438 families of 156, 059 persons are staying in 152 evacuation cen- ment on ancestral domain, or should revamp the whole MOA,”
announced series of initiatives to help those affected of the conflict. ters. MoA-AD),” Bagaforo said. Bagaforo said.
The relief effort is being coursed through its partners in the coun- Placed under a state of calamity were Linamon, Kauswagan and The bishop sought the replace- He also called on the Supreme
try like the CBCP’s National Secretariat for Social Action—Justice Munai in Lanao del Norte, and Lanao del Norte province itself. ment of peace panel chairman Court to issue an injunction rule
and Peace (NASSA). The NASSA continues to appeal for assistance for the victims of Rodolfo Garcia and presidential against the accord to block its re-
In Mindanao, CAFOD’s other partners such as “Pakigdait” and armed conflict in Mindanao region. peace process adviser vival.
“Ecoweb”, which work in the affected communities, are distributing It said the escalating tensions and sporadic encounters continue to Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. The deal is currently under the
rice, mats and other relief supplies to the displaced. trigger the influx of displaced peoples in various evacuation centers. Bagaforo said it is important scrutiny of the High Court after
“CAFOD will be providing support to our partners to carry out “The provision of emergency relief assistance could hardly reach for the government to appoint local government officials in
relief work and ensure people’s needs are met in the immediate its intended beneficiaries due to the very volatile peace and order new members of its peace panel Mindanao have questioned its
aftermath of the attacks,” said Alex Cooney, South East Asia pro- situation,” the NASSA said. who are qualified and credible to provisions and apparent lack of
gram manager. “We further request that assistance will come in the form of cash so hold the positions. transparency.
The agency said they already have set up a registration service to that we could easily facilitate the transfer to affected areas,” it added. Also, he urged the government Foremost among the provi-
help reunite families and are offering trauma counseling. The agency said financial aid may be deposited to the following to scrap its agreement with the sions being questioned is the pro-
The organizations are also lobbying for peace talks between the account details: PHILTRUST CBCP CARITAS FILIPINAS FOUNDA- MILF and replace it with a new posed expansion of the current
Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to get TION, INC. PESO A/C 003200137783. one. coverage of the Autonomous Re-
back on track. “Your help and assistance will go a long way in delivering relief to He said it is not enough for the gion in Muslim Mindanao and
“It’s vital for peace talks to resume with participation at all levels the victims of war and armed conflict,” the NASSA said. (CBCPNews) government to just state that they the plan to turn it into the wider
Migration / A1 would no longer sign the agree- Bangsamoro Juridical Entity.
ment until proper revisions are (Roy Lagarde)
that there are some 516,466 ‘What can the church do in the
documented OFWs deployed concrete to help incoming and Condoms / A1
in various countries all over outgoing migrants? What ippines backs the claims about help end HIV/AIDS.
the globe. government policies does the permeable condoms, despite as- He underscored that the pri-
Instead of just working for church agree or disagree with, surances by the Department of mary way to combat AIDS is
the acquisition of jobs abroad, as helpful and not?” Health (DOH) that they are un- through behavioral change and
Lagdameo said he is hopeful He said the linkages be- true. monogamous partnerships be-
that the government will also tween the International CBCP’s Episcopal Commission tween men and women.
work for the improvement of Catholic Migration Commis- on Family and Life executive sec- “That’s why what we are cam-
the workers’ rights in their sion and the Asian church retary Fr. Melvin Castro said: paigning to people is about fidel-
foreign destination. should be continued and sup- “They are wrong about that… ity to their partners, and of
“I hope that our Episcopal ported and developed. this is an easily recognizable fact.” course, abstention from sexual
Commission on Migrants and “Coherence and partner- Castro cited the case in African intimacy,” Castro said.
Itinerant People (ECMI) will ship will surely be the fruit of countries and Thailand where The church opposes any kind
be able to craft some sugges- sharing data about migration, AIDS is prevalent than ever even of contraception because it claims
tions for our government to about legal and illegal mi- if they’ve been promoting the use it breaks the link between sex and
legalize these migrants in the grants,” he said. of condoms. procreation—a position the
future… That’s the reason why “To get the local churches “The authorities are giving the Vatican has fought to defend.
they are talking now about the involved, the Parish Pastoral people false assurances that us- DOH Undersecretary Mario
rights of the migrants for the Councils or their equivalents, ing condoms for safe sex. There Villaverde on Thursday said con-
families so they can migrate where such exist, must be can never be safe sex,” the priest dom use is needed to further
no longer as individuals but as families. They ket’ and its economic process; where poor made aware of the realities of migrants to said. lower the 0.1 percent HIV/AIDS
will not be separated from each other,” countries cannot really compete with the big and from the parish,” the prelate explained. He called on the government prevalence in the country, add-
Lagdameo said. and powerful; where the freedom of eco- He added the pastoral aspects “will be con- to stop promoting “false security” ing that condoms are 95 percent
nomic processes sorely need juridical and sidered or addressed” because “it is in this to the people that condom will effective in preventing the dis-
Poverty cause of migration ethical norms for the benefit of poor coun- level that many of the pastoral and ethical solve the problem on the deadly ease.
Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences tries; where access to the whole global vil- concerns of migrants can be successfully ad- virus. He made the statement amidst
Secretary General Archbishop Orlando B. lage has become actual for poor people be- dressed.” Castro said the Church stands the Church’s strong opposition in
Quevedo, OMI said poverty in the home coun- cause of the tools of social communication He observed many of the local clergy are by its teaching that the best way the passage of the reproductive
try often leads people in the Asian region to but where physical and economic access is not involved or concerned with migrant is- to prevent the spread of HIV/ health bill, which basically pro-
migrate to more affluent countries. also now being very much restricted because sues. “And if they are interested, they are so AIDS is abstinence and not con- motes the use of artificial forms
“Poverty and underdevelopment are com- of social, economic, and cultural reasons, of- only ‘envelopmentally,’ i.e. for the migrants’ dom use. of contraceptives, including
mon characteristics of the Asian countries of ten expressed through migration laws.” contribution to the church,” he further noted. The Church’s official comment condoms.
origin,” said Quevedo in his welcome address “How the Catholic social principles of the The two-day consultation on migration was came in response to a remark by For the health official, using
at the same consultation. universal destination of created goods and sponsored by the International Catholic Mi- DOH officials that it was time for condom for family planning and
“For the poor the greener pasture is cer- of solidarity are applicable in this kind of gration Commission. The participants in- the churches and religious orga- to prevent HIV/AIDS are two dif-
tainly always on the other side of the fence,” global village has become a major consider- cluded some 40 representatives who were nizations to faced reality and ferent matters and should not be
he added. ation,” the prelate said. mostly Catholic bishops from Vietnam, lifted the ban on condom use to taken generally. (CBCPNews)
Quevedo said “migration is then not so Myanmar, Timor Leste, Philippines, Nepal,
much a sign of luxury as a sign of poverty— Call for united Asian voice India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Hong
Vigilantes / A1
even an imperative of poverty.” Lagdameo has called for what he described Kong, South Korea, Malaysia, Japan and
He noted the globalizing aspect of eco- as “a united Asian voice” in advocacy to be Singapore among others. (With reports from On August 30, several Muslim Imams, ustadz, Muslim youth leader,
nomic development “where economic bor- organized immediately “to address migra- Roy Lagarde) two priests, a seminarian and a religious sister as well as members of
ders are literally set aside by the ‘free mar- tion issues answering the question such as the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) who are mem-
Lumads / A1 Death penalty / A1 bers of Silsilah-Davao gathered at the Redemptorist monastery in
Bajada, Davao City, for a forum and to evaluate themselves on what
cestral domain in Mindanao had agrarian reform is in essence, giv- land distribution under agrarian cious,” Medroso said. they can contribute to peace in Mindanao.
already been resolved is question- ing and awarding land to the land- reform,” said Pasimio. “Secondly, life comes from our Those who attended the forum have gone through the Silsilah
able. less.” She also said that indigenous Creator so we don’t have any Christian-Muslim Dialogue seminar in Zamboanga City.
“IP leaders have insisted that Pasimio also said that because peoples have often had to bear the right at all to take life,” he added. Fr. Amado Picardal who is also a member of the Silsilah wrote in
any resolution that does not in- of Arroyo’s disregard to the con- brunt of government’s develop- Abante’s House Bill 4482 re- his blog that the members lamented the emergence of the Ilagas, the
clude all three peoples of cerns of the IPs numerous prob- ment priorities. vives Republic Act No. 8177, Christian vigilantes.
Mindanao, Moros, Christians and lems including conflicts with “Where government has opened which imposes death by lethal Picardal said that they are worried of the danger that the presence
Lumads is void and such MoA-Ad would-be agrarian reform benefi- up areas for mining investments injection on those found guilty of vigilantes in Mindanao could turn the whole thing into a Chris-
is questionable,” she said, adding: ciaries and ancestral domain claim- for example, human rights viola- of heinous crimes. tian-Muslim conflict.
“Arroyo’s plans reveal her igno- ants such as the case of Cojuangco tions have followed. In Columbio, The lawmaker said there has “The Christians in the Forum also expressed their concerns about
rance on the issue of ancestral do- land in Don Carlos, Bukidnon Sultan Kudarat, people opposing been a rise in the commission of the ongoing military operations against some Moro Islamic Libera-
main for the IPs. This is fundamen- arise. mining operations have been la- capital offenses after the capital tion Front (MILF) units that have led to collateral damage among
tally different from agrarian re- “The Manobos in this area are beled as leftists and rebels; worse, punishment was abolished in Muslim civilians,” he further wrote.
form. The IP’s ancestral domains tying to claim back their ancestral some of them have been arrested,” 2006—reason why he is pushing The Muslims in the Forum were also horrified and saddened by
have been theirs for generations; land, which have been put up for said Pasimio. (Mark S. Ventura) for the death penalty’s return. the killings of innocent Christian civilians perpetrated by some MILF
But Medroso said there are units under Commanders Bravo and Kato.
Afterthoughts / A4
other means of punishing people “They (Muslims) said that it was un-Islamic and must be con-
matters like the New Society or fully to us is that we did not— and active participation of all of in the name of justice. demned. This has contributed to the breakdown of the peace pro-
the MOA-AD is of utmost impor- and still do not—matter, even us in looking for solutions that He cited “perpetual imprison- cess,” said Picardal. (Mark S. Ventura)
tance, it is simply that bringing though the ostensible reason for work. We begin by confronting ment” as one instance so that in-
it to play in questions of the pub- thinking them up was our com- the issues honestly and forth- mates will be given a chance to
lic good is a real recognition of mon good, our common peace. rightly, and discerning deeply on change their lives. them to be executed. Olaguer said the Church prison
the human dignity of each citi- The New Society and the them with the help of the Spirit “We don’t lose hope for con- Olaguer said the Church is ministry is doing all efforts to help
zen, no matter how lowly or in- MOA-AD may be dead, but the of Wisdom. Real participation in version of people,” said Medroso. against death penalty because all inmates turn their lives around.
significant they may seem to problems they tried to solve still decisions for the common good— Msgr. Roberto “Bobby” human life has dignity and other “Let’s give them a chance to get
those who hold power. The dis- are with us, their solutions as its actualization is why we’ve Olaguer, chief chaplain of the means are available to punish on with their lives,” he said.
honoring of the human dignity pressing as ever. The problems been speaking all along in these New Bilibid Prisons, said there heinous criminals. “In my experience (as NBP
of ordinary citizens—that to my continue, and if there’s anything columns of the urgent need of are almost a thousand inmates “We seek to build a culture of chaplain), there are some who are
mind is the greatest sin in the two clear about them, it is that they forming circles of discernment who were sentenced to death. life in which our nation will no already in the death row but even-
cases I’ve been citing here. In their cannot be solved in the way they and, in the Church, basic ecclesial Of the figure, he said, around longer try to teach that killing is tually emerged as leaders in our
total disregard of us citizens, the have been approached so far. communities, people of genuine 65 of those convicted criminals wrong by killing those who kill,” prison ministry,” he said.
message they put across too pain- What is needed is the concerned faith-discernment and—action. already have specific dates for he said. (CBCPNews)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008 Diocesan News
News Briefs
Lipa archdiocese launches water purification
project
LIPA City -- A project initiated by the Lipa Archdiocesan Social
Commission, dubbed “Tubig Batangan,” set up a water purify-
ing station in the city. Archbishop Ramon Arguelles said the
project would benefit the poor of the archdiocese. Project direc-
tor Louie Casala said the initial funding of the project came
from a Filipino doctor in San Pascual town, who is currently
residing in the United States. The donor, who requested ano-
nymity, has helped a deserving student finished college through
a scholarship grant but wanted to continue his donation to
LASAC. (Fr. Nonie Dolor)
Priest wins co-op election in Bicol
NAGA City -- A parish priest won a seat as director of the
Camarines Sur II Electric Cooperative (Casureco II) last Aug. 30.
Msgr. Zosimo Sañado, parish priest of Naga City’s Metropoli-
tan Cathedral Parish of St. John the Evangelist, ran unopposed
representing Naga North District. In the past elections, the posi-
tion was always hotly contested by a number of candidates with
local politicians fielding their own candidates. (Elmer Abad)
Prelate twits defenders of ‘just war’
DAGUPAN City -- Archbishop Oscar Cruz has twitted officials
defending as a “just war” the fighting between government and
Moro Islamic Liberation Front troops in Mindanao. He said
US bishop to celebrate Mass at
Peñafrancia festival
NAGA CITY, September 1, 2008 -- A bishop
from the United States who was deeply taken
by the profound devotion of Bicolanos to our
Lady of Peñafrancia is coming to experience
first hand how the festival is celebrated.
The Most Reverend Salvatore J. Cordileone,
D.D., bishop of the Diocese of San Diego,
California, U.S.A. will be the main celebrant
of the Traslacion mass on September 12 at
the Basilica Minore during the Peñafrancia
Festival honoring the Patroness of Bicolandia.
Father Luisito Occiano, director of the
Caceres Commission on Communications
said the bishop was deeply fascinated how
Filipinos, particularly the Bicolanos celebrate
Peñafrancia fiesta even in America.
The bishop has observed the deep devo-
tion and attachment they have to Our Lady
of Peñafrancia which he says is fantastic and
his curiosity led him to come to the Philip-
pines to see for himself this activity.
Meanwhile, Father Occiano confirmed that
the Archdiocese of Caceres projects a bigger
crowd expected to grace the occasion this
Most Reverend Salvatore J. Cordileone, D.D.
year.
He noted that more requests are coming in
from the different nearby parishes express-
A7
ing their intention to send representatives to
join the processions as ‘voyadores’ or those
who are organized to be given opportunity
to carry the images of the Divino Rostro and
Our Lady of Peñafrancia.
Two weeks prior to the festival bookings
in hotels and transportation facilities have
increased with them having registered a
‘fully-booked’ status.
The center of the celebration will be the
Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Peñafrancia
along the Basilica Road and the Naga Metro-
politan Cathedral where the image of the
Patroness will be housed during the festivi-
ties.
Local authorities are bracing for more than
a million people to flock Naga City to join
the celebration.
“On the part of the church, we are prepared
to make the festival as orderly and as mean-
ingful as possible to the devotees of Our Lady
of Peñafrancia who go out of their way to
come and honor the mother of our Lord,”
Occiano further disclosed. (Elmer Abad)

Nuncio’s visit casts a good sign

only those who have much to profit from the ongoing conflict
can call it a “just war.” “If so, what makes it a just war? Who sees
to it that the war is just? In the event the war is just, why not
have war all over the country in promotion of the sorely needed

in troubled Mindanao
justice in the land?” he said. (CBCPNews)

Ilagas alarms Church officials

DAVAO City -- Church officials here are worried at the emer-
gence of Christian vigilantes, particularly the Ilagas, who vowed
to fight the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), saying that CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Au-
they could spark a Christian-Muslim conflict. “Christians in the gust 27, 2008 -- Amidst news ad-
forum also expressed their concerns about the ongoing military visory of foreign countries
operations against some MILF units that have led to collateral against safe travel in Mindanao,
damage among Muslim civilians,” Redemptorist priest Amado the visit of Apostolic Nuncio in
Picardal said at dialogue forum staged recently. (Mark Ventura) the Philippines Archbishop Ed-
ward Joseph Adams, D.D, in the
N. Cotabato church workers, pols to campaign vs
Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro
City has cast a confidence vote
Ilagas
on the peace and order situation
NORTH Cotabato -- Church workers here have expressed fears here.
the resurgence of a Christian vigilante group, which gained “The visit of the Papal nuncio
notoriety in early ‘70s during the martial law years, will again is a good sign, he is giving con-
imperil or endanger the lives of militant and progressive reli- fidence on the peace and order
gious and lay workers. Rev. Felixberto Rodenas, Sr., spokesper- situation in Mindanao,” said
son for the Promotion of Church Peoples’ Response (PCPR) in Cagayan de Oro Archbishop An-
North Cotabato, said the revival of the Ilaga (an Ilonggo term tonio Ledesma S.J. in an inter-
which refers to a rat) is sending a “strong signal”, not only to view with CBCPNews.
the Muslims in Mindanao, but also to those individuals or groups The Papal Nuncio arrived in
that have progressive or militant ideals. (CBCPNews) Cagayan de Oro August 26 upon
the invitation of Archbishop
Sulu Archipelago, due to the very
high threat of terrorist attack, in-
cluding kidnapping, and related
counter-terrorism operations.
Armed clashes between the Phil-
ippines Armed Forces and Moro
Islamic Liberation Front are con-
tinuing after fighting broke out
on 10 August 2008 in central
Mindanao. If you are in these ar-
eas, you should consider leav-
ing,” quoted from the website
of Australian’s Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The nuncio visited a poor com- Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams led the cutting
munity in Macabalan, and at- of the ribbon at the opening of Paghanduraw, a traveling photo exhibit that
tended the opening of
showcases the history of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro City last August 26.
Paghanduraw, a traveling photo de Oro City. bishop Ledesma and the clergy
exhibit showcasing the history He also visited the province of the Archdiocese. (Maryann
of the Archdiocese of Cagayan of Camiguin together with Arch- Alasay Zamora)

Daet backs signature drive

Archbishop pushes for declaration of ceasefire Ledesma in view of the year-
COTABATO City -- The archbishop here urged the government long celebration of the diamond
to declare a ceasefire with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front jubilee of the archdiocese.

against repro health bill

(MILF) with the upcoming observance of the Ramadan. Cotabato He led the Pontifical Mass at
Archbishop Orlando Quevedo said the military may consider the Metropolitan Cathedral last
the declaration even of an “informal ceasefire” in Mindanao at August 28 in celebration of the
least during the month of Ramadan since rebel factions it has feast of St. Augustine, the patron
been pursuing in recent weeks have already. (CBCPNews) of the archdiocese.
“We have so many events that
Priest warns vs BUC in discussions vs MOA we have to be grateful for. We
MANILA -- A peace advocate said that members of the Bishops- have received precious gifts es-
Ulama Conference (BUC) should not be allowed to participate pecially this time in life with
or even lead the discussions regarding the Memorandum of some foreign countries giving
Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MoA-AD) between the gov- advisories not to visit Mindanao”
ernment and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Instead said Fr. Calvin Poulin, SJ, Uni-
of the BUC, the proponent said the discussions should be led by versity Chaplain of Xavier Uni-
non-partisans like the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Phil- versity–Cagayan de Oro during
ippines (CBCP). The warning was aired by Father Eliseo “Jun” a short programme to welcome
Mercado, lead convenor of the National Peace Council. the nuncio.
(CBCPNews) It may be recalled that
Canada, United Kingdom, New
Bishop calls for military presence in Iligan Zealand and Australia issued
ILIGAN City -- Even as residents from Lanao continued to re- travel advisory to their nation-
turn to their homes a week after a Moro Islamic Liberation als against traveling in
Front attack, a Catholic bishop asked government Monday for Mindanao.
continued military presence in Iligan City. Iligan Bishop Elenito “We strongly advise you not
Galido also requested President Arroyo to assure residents of to travel to Mindanao, includ-
military presence in the area and to “bring to justice” the MILF ing mainland Mindanao, the
commanders behind last week’s attack. (CBCPNews) Zamboanga Peninsula and the
DAET, Camarines Norte, Au-
gust 26, 2008 -- The Diocese of
Daet has supported the signa-
ture drive initiated by the Arch-
diocese of Manila against the
Reproductive Health Bill in
Congress.
“This diocese supports the
move of the Most Reverend
Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales
of Manila to launch a signature
campaign in support of the
stand of the Catholic Church
to counter the Reproductive
Health Bill filed in Congress
legalizing the use of artificial
family planning methods.”
This was the statement made
by Father Ernesto Core,
spokesman of the Diocese of
Daet and parish priest of San
Felipe parish in Basud,
Camarines Norte in an inter-
view with CBCP News.
Core said the diocese headed
by Bishop Gilbert A. Garcera,
D.D. will continue to make a
stand on moves not in accor-
dance with the teachings of the
church like what is being es-
poused by the house bill.
This stand is made concrete
through the Diocesan Commis-
sion on Family Life Ministry
which has initiated a campaign
and implemented programs for
the faithful to further under-
stand the concept of respect for
life and to value its dignity.
Core expressed alarm upon
confirming reports that some
public high schools in the prov-
ince are teaching that ‘there is
no life yet in the womb of a
mother’ and used this to jus-
tify the use of artificial family
planning methods.
“Indeed, something has to be
done so the children will not
be confused with the wrong
teachings being fed to their
young minds. To tell them that
‘there is no life yet in the womb
of a mother’ is not correct and
it is misinformation,” Core
said.
“With this development,
Cardinal Rosales’ signature
campaign in Manila will not be
difficult to replicate in the
province because the diocese is
ably supported by students,
teachers, catechists, Catholic
schools and the faithful in the
province of Camarines Norte”
Core concluded. (CBCPNews)

Bishop: MILF attacks a wake-up call

MARAWI City -- The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)’s
attacks on some provinces in Mindanao on Monday should be a
wake-up call for government and the public, a Catholic bishop
said Tuesday. Marawi Bishop Edwin Dela Peña said the bloody
incident is a product of the stalled peace negotiations and could
go worse if the proper measures are not immediately taken. “I
think this is also a wake up call to everyone that this is one
problem that we really have to deal with,” dela Peña said. (Roy
Lagarde)
Ulamas, bishops to initiate peace efforts in
Mindanao
CAGAYAN de Oro -- An inter-faith group composed of Catho-
lic bishops and Muslim scholars expressed its willingness to
accelerate its peace efforts in Mindanao. Cagayan de Oro Arch-
bishop Antonio J. Ledesma said that the Bishops-Ulama Confer-
ence (BUC) is responding to the Palace’s call that the group
should facilitate peace dialogues between the government and
Moro National Liberation Front (MILF). “The religious groups
from the Christian and Muslim sides are willing to show that
these issues could be solved by consultation,” Ledesma said.
(Maryann Alasay Zamora)
Afable urges people to make Vocation Month
fruitful
DIGOS City—Bishop Guillermo Afable has urged his people to
make the celebration of Vocation Month this September fruit-
ful. Afable invited his people to organize something together
to launch this very important month-long celebration. “I
strongly suggest that you engage our youth and the children of
your Parish, the School and the small Christian communities
and your family so that they become active subjects of the Voca-
tion Month,” Afable said. (Mark Ventura)
Bishop calls for justice for victims of Digos blast
DIGOS City— Even as he grieved for the victims of a bus bomb-
ing in Digos City on September 1, Digos Bishop Guillermo
Afable called on authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Afable condemned the bombing as a “heinous crime against
innocent men, women and children,” adding it cannot justify
whatever motive the perpetrators may have. (Mark Ventura)
Arguelles to speak at
Int’l Marian Congress
on Lipa ‘Apparition
LIPA CITY, August 19, 2008 -- Lipa Archbishop
Ramon C. Arguelles is set to leave for Rome,
Italy and Lourdes, France today, August 19
to speak before the International Marian
Congress on a very controversial topic, “Is
the apparition at Carmel Monastery (Lipa)
real?”
“I am perplexed,” Arguelles said, sharing
his sentiments to the clergy in the recently
held archdiocesan retreat at the Carmelite
Missionary Center of Spirituality at Tagaytay
City last week.
Arguelles mentioned the April 12, 1951
declaration of the Commission of Bishops
assigned to investigate the so-called appari-
tion that began in 1948. The said commission
declared the so-called apparition was “not
supernatural.”
The prelate also disclosed that among the
members of the Commission, it was only
Archbishop Sancho of Vigan who did not sign
the document.
“I will be very objective in my presenta-
tion,” said the archbishop, “although you al-
ready know my sentiments about this.”
A staunch Marian devotee, Arguelles has
started the National Pilgrimage to Lipa, in
honor of Mary Mediatrix of All Grace, to pray
for World’s Peace and Sanctification of the
Clergy.
The September 12 annual gathering has
attracted thousands of Marian devotees to
Lipa Carmel from different dioceses all over
the country.
This year’s annual pilgrimage will be the
fifth. (Fr. Nonie Dolor)
 CBCP Monitor
A8 People, Facts & Places Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

Markings
CELEBRATED. Fr. Jaime
Achacoso, 25th anniversary of
sacerdotal ordination, August
15, 2008. A priest of the Per-
sonal Prelature of the Holy
Cross (Opus Dei), Achacoso
obtained his Doctorate in
Canon Law from the Univer-
sity of Navarre, Spain in 1985.
He has been the Secretary the
Canon Law Society of the Phil-
ippines since 2001 and is a
Consultor of the Episcopal
Commission on Canon Law of
Around 50
Around 50 lay
lay leaders
leaders from
from 24
24 dioceses
dioceses in
in Luzon
Luzon gathered
gathered at
at Subic
Subic International
International Convention
Convention Center,
Center, SBMA
SBMA Freeport,
Freeport, Zambales
Zambales last
last August
August 8-10,
8-10, 2008
2008 for
for aa seminar
seminar on
on
“Training for
“Training for Effective
Effective Women’s
Women’s Desk”.
Desk”. Organized
Organized by
by the
the CBCP-Office
CBCP-Office onon Women,
Women, the
the meeting
meeting discussed
discussed situationers
situationers on
on women’s
women’s concern,
concern, the
the prevailing
prevailing sexual
sexual the Catholic Bishops Confer-
ence of the Philippines. He is

Pampanga marks
behavior of
behavior of the
the young
young that
that leads
leads to
to pre-marital
pre-marital sex
sex and
and early
early pregnancy,
pregnancy, the
the impact
impact of migration on the family and reproductive health.
currently Associate Editor of the Philippine Canonical Forum
and writes a regular column on canonical issues in the CBCP
Monitor. He is involved in pastoral work with professionals and
students in Metro Manila.

CELEBRATED.

centennial of first
Cagayan de Oro,
75th anniversary of
foundation as a
Diocese, August 28,
2008 with a pontifi-
cal Mass presided

Filipino cardinal
by the Most Rev.
Edward Joseph
Adams, DD, Apos-
tolic Nuncio to the
Philippines at the
Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Augustine. On January 20, 1933,
Pope Pius XI in a Papal Bull entitled, “Ad Maius Religionis” di-
vided Mindanao into the Diocese of Zamboanga and the newly
THE centennial of the birth of the Rufino Car- 1960. Cardinal Santos was installed as arch- Cavite and as parish priest in Marilao, erected Diocese of Cagayan de Oro, of which Fr. James Thomas
dinal Santos, the 29th Archbishop of Manila, bishop of Manila on March 25, 1953. He was Bulacan. Gibbons Hayes, SJ, was appointed as the first Bishop. The origi-
was celebrated in his hometown Guagua, only 45 years old then. He would serve for During World War II, he was arrested and nal territory, in 1933, included the provinces of Surigao, Agusan,
Pampanga on Aug 26. two decades until his death in 1973 at age 65. sentenced to die by firing squad, but was res- Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Lanao and the island of Camiguin.
Manila Archbishop On the 35th anniversary cued by Liberation forces on the eve of his In 1939 the provinces of Surigao and Agusan were constituted
Gaudencio B. Cardinal of his death on Sept 3, 2008, execution. into a separate diocese. In 1951, Misamis Occidental and Lanao
Rosales was the main cel- Cardinal Rosales presided He was also responsible for the building were made a separate prelature. Later, in 1961, the province of
ebrant at a Mass at the Im- over the Eucharistic celebra- of several important structures in the arch- Bukidnon also became a separate prelature. The present terri-
maculate Conception Par- tion at the Manila Cathedral diocese, among them the Our Lady of tory of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro with Archbishop
ish Church at 10 a.m. at 8 a.m. Guadalupe Minor Seminary along Edsa, Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ as Ordinary now comprises the Provinces
Concelebrating with him The sixth of nine children Makati City, the Pius XII Catholic Center in of Misamis Oriental and Camiguin.
are San Fernando Arch- of Gaudencio Santos and Paco, the Villa San Miguel in Mandaluyong,
bishop Paciano B. Aniceto, Rosalia Jiao, Cardinal and the St. Paul’s Hospital (now Cardinal CELEBRATED.
the auxiliary bishops and Santos was born in Barrio Santos Medical Center). Our Lady of
clergy of San Fernando Santo Niño, Guagua. He en- The celebrations were initiated by the Lourdes Parish,
and Manila, the bishops tered San Carlos Seminary Holy Angel University Center for Binuangan,
and priests of the on July 25, 1921. Kapampangan Studies, in cooperation with Misamis Oriental,
suffragans of the two arch- He pursued higher the Archdiocese of San Fernando and the 45th anniversary of
dioceses, according to a Rufino Cardinal Santos priestly studies at the Municipality of Guagua. foundation as a
statement from Manila Pontificia Universita The formal opening of an exhibit of Cardi- Parish, July 7,
Archdiocese. Gregoriana and obtained a Baccalaureate in nal Santos memorabilia, loaned by the Arch- 2008; with a Pro-
Cardinal Santos was the first Filipino to Canon Law in 1929 and a Doctorate in Sacred diocese of Manila and the Kapampangan Mu- cession and Eucha-
become a prince of the Church. Pope John Theology in July 1931. seum at Clark, will follow the unveiling cer- ristic celebration
XXIII gave him the red hat of the cardinal He was ordained priest on Oct 25, 1931 and emonies, said church sources. (Santosh Digal) presided by Msgr.
during the public consistory on March 31, then served as assistant parish priest in Imus, A b e l a r d o
Cabillan, HP first
parish priest. The concele brated Mass was attended by 11 priests

New York’s Fil-Am community to launch from the Archdiocese. The Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in
Binuangan is known for its miraculous grotto of the Our Lady of
Lourdes located few miles away from the Parish Church where

San Lorenzo Global Hour many sick were healed from their physical ailments.

DEDICATED. Our Lady of Sorrows Parish Church, F.B. Harrison,

Pasay City, by Most Rev.
A PASTORAL outreach dubbed San Lorenzo Global Hour will highlight and homilist of the liturgical celebration. Broderick Pabillo, Auxiliary
this year’s celebration of New York’s Filipino community of the feast of Gordoncillo will be feted with a testimonial dinner at Jing Fong Res- Bishop of Manila, September 6,
San Lorenzo Ruiz on Sept. 28. taurant on 18 Elizabeth Street and Bayard in historic Chinatown on Sep- 2008. Early last year, the Church
Themed “Celebrating the Filipino Migrants around the World (Fili- tember 26. Dinner’s proceeds will partly go to the typhoon Frank disaster was partly gutted by a fire
pino Diaspora) with the sub-theme: “Celebrating the Filipino Young relief. Gordoncillo, who comes from an area badly hit by the typhoon, caused by faulty electrical wir-
Adults,” the feast of San Lorenzo will be celebrated with a 2 p.m. Pontifi- will personally receive the donations. Donors can specify if they want ing. Through the common ef-
cal Mass led by Most Rev. Onesimo Gordoncillo, archbishop of Capiz at their donations to go to Capiz or Aklan or Iloilo, three of the hardest hit forts of parishioners and gen-
St. Patrick’s Cathedral. provinces. erous benefactors, the burned
Fr. Erno Diaz, New York’s archdiocesan director of the Filipino Novena Masses are scheduled from August 30 to September 27 in the portion of the Church was re-
Apostolate, in a press release said this year’s event will involve the launch- Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz, 378 Broome Street, New York City. constructed and the entire struc-
ing of a pastoral outreach dubbed San Lorenzo Global Hour to global The feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint and considered the ture refurbished. The parish
migrant communities which will be beamed worldwide through cable or patron saint of Filipino migrants is celebrated annually on Sept. 28. A church of Our Lady of Sorrows
satellite television. layman who was married with three children, Lorenzo was martyred is under the care of the priests
Cardinal Edward Egan, the archbishop of New York, formally invited along with 15 other companions for their faith in 1637 in Japan. (CBCPNews/ of the Society of St. Paul, a reli-
Gordoncillo on behalf of the Filipino Apostolate to be the main presider Fr. Erno Diaz) gious congregation founded by
Blessed James Alberione. The

Iligan diocese holds Youth Encounter parish administrator is Fr.

THE Diocese of Iligan has recently held a Youth
Encounter organized by men and women reli-
gious congregations of the diocese with the
theme “Youth: Walk for Faith.”
It was a concert–talk shared by Alvin
Barcelona, a writers of inspirational publica-
tion Kerygma, with his band members.
“As we walk in Faith, we need to STOP
Rollin Marie Flores, SSP.
love because to walk in faith is to walk home
in the Lord,” he said before the concert ended. DIED. Sr. Ma. Beatriz M. Elumbaring, RVM, August 6, 2008.
The program concluded with a Eucharistic
celebration presided by Most Rev. Elenito

Bibliodrama facilitators’
Almost 3,000 youths from the different (Search, Think/Reflect, Open, Pray) because Galido, bishop of Iligan.
schools and parishes of Lanao del Norte and when we STOP, the more we see Jesus, the more In his homily the bishop challenged the
Iligan City gathered at St. Michael’s Gymna- we deepen our relationship with Him and as youths to work for peace and continue to be-

sium for the Youth Encounter which was held
last August 16 at 9:00 a.m.
The Encounter started with a walk parade by
students of St. Michael College and youths of
the Catholic Campus Ministry from the Cathe-
dral of Iligan to the Gymnasium.
Parish Youth apostolate conducts
formation course
TO strengthen the Christian
faith and practices of the youth
in the parish, the St. Francis
Xavier Parish Youth Apostolate
Kapatagan Chapter is holding
a series of training courses on
Youth Formation at the Parish
Formation Center in
Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.
Started on June 25, the train-
ing course is held every Satur-
day and will culminate on Oc-
tober 25, 2008 to coincide with
the SFX parish day celebration.
More than 100 youth minis-
ters composed of Majestic
Choir, CCRM Youth, Acolytes/
Knights of the Altars, Bible Min-
istry, Legion Juniors, Youth
Catechist, BEC Youth, SHJ-
Youth, Holy Cross Ministry,
training held
we walk with others, the more we bring others come witnesses of God’s love to one another.
to Jesus, the more we walk happily to Jesus,” “May this youth encounter, energized our
Alvin emphasized in the first session. youthful hearts and spirit to help in God’s mis-
“To see beyond the cross is to live in thanks- sion and continue our work together for peace
giving, to live in freedom, to live in trust, in and become true witnesses of God’s love,” A SIX-DAY training for cross-cul- to the Word to be integrated into
Faith and Hope, and most especially to live in Bishop Galido said. (Metot Nillas) tural groups of Bibliodrama prac- the different ministries in the par-
titioners was held recently at the ish in the near future.
Ateneo de Davao hosts int’l media confab Bukal ng Tipan at Maryhill,
Taytay, Rizal. The practitioners
Sr. Gemma Labestre, MST
formator and active worker in
THE Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU), a private Catholic univer-
sity founded and administered by the Society of Jesus (SJ) hosted an
underwent skills upgrading in
the use of bibliodrama elements
the Retreat ministry in Jaro, de-
scribed bibliodrama as “most ef-
Youth for Christ and the Lectors international media conference last August 21 to 23. and the preparation of modules fective in knowing Jesus (Word-
Guild are participating in the The conference was organized by the Asian Congress for Media commonly used in retreats and made-flesh) personally and in ef-
Youth Formation Training and Communication (ACMC), a Philippine-based Asian-wide orga- recollections, Liturgy and other fecting an experiential learning
Course with the theme: “If You nization of educators and practitioners in the field of media, commu- participative church activities. of the power of the Word.”
Heard Their Call… Come and nication, and language education. The participants were com- The bibliodrama ap-
be Part.” This year’s conference centers on the theme, “Media in Asia: A posed of two Divine Word mis- proach has gained more adher-
Fr. Melchor “Bobot” Tool for Human Rights Education and Monitoring,” which is also in sionaries, seven religious ents in the Philippines over the
Alquilita, pastor of Saint Francis support of the United Nations commemoration of the 60th anniver- women from five congregations, past few years with special em-
Xavier Parish said the formation sary of the Declaration of Human Rights, which began on December a Redemptorist theologian from phasis on various elements in-
course seeks to strengthen the 10, 2007 . continental USA and four youth cluding reading of the Word,
Christian faith and spiritual de- In a communiqué distributed by ACMC it said, “The international Ministry volunteers from Hatsal bibliodrama dance, faith-sharing,
velopment of the youths as fu- conference has a purpose of bringing together lectures, practitioners, Community in Seoul, South Ko- silence and play.
ture leaders of the church. and students interested in the academic discourse of complex inter- rea. Bukal ng Tipan, under its Di-
The formation sessions sched- connections between media and human rights at a time when both Fr. Martin Jaggi of the Bontoc rector Fr. Mark Legase, CICM, is
uled every Saturday of the have become central tenets of political, cultural, and policy debate.” Pastoral Center and Bukal ng a mission spirituality center for
month have the Bible, Catholic The conference’s immediate aim, it further said, “is to develop in Tipan’s Joy Candelario acted as community and practical skills
Doctrines and Church History the participants a foundational knowledge on the role of media and facilitators. A pioneer in training, retreats and recollec-
as topics and given by different the academe in reporting on human rights issues so as to be able to bibliodrama in the Philippines, tions in Taytay, Rizal. Its
formators for the development bring this discourse to the classroom.” Candelario underscored Episco- Bibliodrama series includes Ba-
of youths’ organizations. “Its long-term aim is to influence the way journalism is taught pal Commission on Biblical sic and Facilitators’ Trainings and
(Wendell Talibong) with the view of developing more socially-aware media practitio- Apostolate or ECBA’s vision for the Talitha Kumi Dance Seminar.
ners of the future,” the communiqué read. (Mark S. Ventura) this multi-dimensional approach (Fran Quitoriano)
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
© www.flickr.com
1. The origin of devotion
The devotion to Our Lady of
Peña de Francia was initiated
through the vow of Fr. Miquel de
Covarrubias to have an image of
Our Lady made for veneration.
This vow fortuitously took form
through the request from those
called cimarrones to have an im-
age of our Lady for their own. The
more public veneration of the
image is attested to in Fr. Miguel’s
letter on May 1, 1710:
The image of Our Lady, under
the title of Peña de Francia, was
brought in solemn procession to the
completed chapel. And there, she
did many favors to all, all who made
a visit, and principally at the Mass
on Saturdays.
Since the date, the devotion has
endured and spread in the city,
province,
region and
t h e
world
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media
Archbishop Leonardo Z. Legaspi, DD
Pastoral Concerns
Our Lady of Peña
Principalmente a la Misa: A pastoral letter on the veneration of
de Francia
over. It has described the fervor devotionals, e.g. novenas; prac-
of Bicolanos and has become a gift tices, e.g., relics and images.
of faith for Christians everywhere They blend altogether in a ritual
that, as Bishop Gainza foresaw, is action of sacred time and space.
for the good of the Church and The ritual becomes a communal
Mary’s cult and glory. Through the expression of perspectives, pow-
centuries and across the globe, de- ers and possibilities. Consis-
votion to Our Lady has been tently observed, it becomes a tra-
marked by characteristics of its dition effectively binding per-
origin: Mary’s tutelage under the sons to the history of one’s past
title of Peña de Francia, her im- and to the future of the next gen-
age brought in solemn proces- eration.
sions, acts of homage for favors
through visits and pilgrimages, 2. Reflection on tradition
and especially the Mass. 2.1. The title of Our Lady of Peña
This devotion calls for a con- de Francia and her tutelage in the
tinuing reflective practice. On novena. Let us then renew our
one hand, the object of devotion faith in celebrating the devo-
is God; it is to love God. It ac- tional tradition of Our Lady of
tively comes from the inward at- Peña de Francia --
titude of deep fervency and inti- 2.1.1. Title and tutelage. The de-
macy of dedication. On the other, sire of Fr. Miguel de Covarrubias
at the core of devotion, is the fact to promote the devotion to Our
still of God providing and caring Lady of Salamanca found at the
for all creation. Passive in the mountains of Peña de Francia in
sense of abandonment to God’s Spain resounded in the supplica-
“The image of Our Lady, under the title of Peña de
Francia, was brought in solemn procession to
the completed chapel. And there, she did
many favors to all, all who made a visit, and
principally at the Mass on Saturdays.”
own will and tions of those called cimarrones
work, devotion is (montaraces) at Mt. Isarog to have
really a gift of the their own place for worship. The
Holy Spirit. While image carved in local form and
then the love of God color by a native artisan eventu-
directs acts of devotion ally came to be venerated as
in the midst of daily life Bicol’s own Lady of Peña de
to be righteous, fre- Francia. Here, one sees the indi-
quent and immediate cation, even of old, for the essen-
and, at the same time, tial link of devotion to the lit-
requiring detachment urgy. The veneration of Mary
from things finite-- leads the community to worship.
never in order to get The orientation to liturgy and
something back for worship is through Mary’s title.
deeds done--it is also Bishop Gainza accounts for Our
active in celebrating Lady of Peña de Francia being the
God’s provident Queen of Angels. This title is re-
care since creation. lated yet to two other Marian
God himself is feasts: the Nativity of Our Lady
the source and and the Most Holy Name of
summit of devo- Mary. The Nativity of Our Lady
tion; God is the be- indicates the imminent transfer
ginning and end of of the image of Our Lady of Peña
devotion. de Francia from her shrine to the
In the experi-
Cathedral through the traslacion.
ence of com- The feast of the Most Holy Name
munion with of Mary marks the return of the
God, interi- image from the Cathedral to its
ority in de- shrine through the embarcacion,
votion is ex- sakay or the fluvial procession.
ternally ob- Bishop Gainza especially under-
jectified, in lines the principal feast of Our
in devotion and tradition
Lady of Peña de Francia to be on
the Sunday after the fluvial pro-
cession. Significant in the titles
and observances for Our Lady of
Peña de Francia is the fuller title
for Mary as the Queen of Heaven
(and the Angels). This title itself
was introduced into the divine
office by Clement VI in the 14th
century as a preparation for Eas-
ter recalling Mary’s part in the
reopening of heaven to men and
reigning as the Queen of Angels.
By papal decree, the feast for the
Most Holy Name of Mary has also
been determined as the octave of
the feast of the Nativity of Mary.
Hence, the veneration of Our Lady
of Peña de Francia describes her
birth, her participation in redemp-
tion, and finally her Queenship.
The Easter imprint on Mary’s
queenship readily leads further
to understanding it as the fruit of
her assumption into heaven. The
intercessions of Our Lady of Peña
de Francia need no longer be
traced to circumstances at the
carving of her image. Rather, the
marvel God had done is for the
cimarrones to have faith by desire
and their being attentive to the
value of life. By her assumption,
Mary is after all, “the image and
beginning of the Church as it is
to be perfected in the world to
come” and is the sure hope and
solace to the People of God on its
sojourn on earth.”
Sunday, the Lord’s Day, being
the last day for the traditional
novena, brings all of Mary’s in-
tercessions “to gather all things
in him (Christ)” in whom all
“things in heaven and on earth”
have their fullness. Our Lady of
Peña de Francia is a figure of the
communion of the faithful with
Christ for the renewal of creation.
This eventual link of the titles of
Our Lady of Peña de Francia to
the assumption, seen even before
dogmatic definition, makes the
Peña de Francia devotion truly
an insight of faith among
Bicolanos. It is, more so, a call for
the continuing maturity in faith
as a gift and pledge for all in the
Christian community and soci-
ety, the nation and the world.
2.1.2. The novena. Describing
the role and work of Our Lady
of Peña de Francia draws atten-
tion to how the devotee con-
forms his life to God in the
Church and in society. In this,
devotion is inspired and guided
through a narrative largely
known as the novena. It is the
novena that also directs expres-
sions in ritual acts meaningful
for the devotee and significant
for the community.
Based on the widely used no-
vena to Our Lady of Peña de
Francia in the vernacular, the fol-
lowing elements are edifying -
It is addressed to Mary as
Blessed Virgin and Queen. These
titles speak of Mary’s role and
work according to the plan of God
for salvation and for the glory of
the Blessed Trinity. Mary’s role
is fulfilled through her co-opera-
tion in the redemption by Christ
enduringly present and salvific
through the Holy Eucharist.
Throughout the novena, Mary
brings the devotee to hope in the
singular goal of salvation. This
B1
© www.peñafrancia.net
hope concerns the individual
devotee and the devotee’s rela-
tions. For the individual devotee,
to hope is to have a stronghold
for healing and help through all
uncertainties or threats, sin and
weaknesses, pain and death. For
the devotee’s own relations, to
hope is to extend the same help,
comfort and protection through
Mary to one’s family, relatives
and associates, and all devotees
especially those in need of mercy.
Salvation, as the goal in the no-
vena, speaks of submission to and
judgment in the mercy of Christ,
in the love of God and for the
glory of the Trinity. Confidence
in divine glory must be the dis-
position of the individual devo-
tee and for those whom the graces
of Mary are to be extended. It is
the contrite heart needing for-
giveness, renouncing sin and its
allures that places Mary with
Kabikolan katood mong anan—the
entire communion of the faith-
ful—confident of divine glory.
Edifying as the novena is, it
urges further attention. First, the
nature of devotion precludes at-
tachment to finite things, and even
so, relations. This urges the devo-
tee to actively seek the good of
others. This is not merely from
superfluous altruism, but from an
alterity of respect and compassion
with the other. For, is it not in giv-
ing that we receive, in loving our
neighbors that we really love?
Second, the novena to Our Lady
of Peña de Francia offers a way
towards a transforming human-
divine relationship. The devotee
Peñafrancia / B5

B2
Interpreting
liturgical norms
FATHER Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina
Apostolorum university, answers the following question:
Q: Is there a Church document or scholarly treatise on “how” to
interpret liturgical laws and norms? In civil law there is something
known as “legal methods.” This course and treatise contains a collec-
tion of “maxims” or accepted rules and standards of interpretation
when reviewing cases or statutes. For example, I read in one of your
responses an interpretation of the meaning and use of the word “fit-
ting” as used in a particular liturgical norm. In civil law one could
consult an official text or case to provide a standard for interpreting
the term. Is that standard for interpretation discussed or defined
anywhere either by the Church or by scholars? This seems to go to the
heart of many challenges with interpreting Church norms. -- S.M.,
Westfield, Indiana
A: Although the Church’s canon law was first codified only in
1917, the codification reflected a long legal tradition eventu-
ally rooted in Roman law.
Thus, expert canon lawyers are able to drink from a deep
wellspring of traditional interpretations in stating the mean-
ing of laws. Most canonists will claim that doubts regarding
the objective meaning of a law are fairly rare.
They do occur, however, and are usually clarified over time
by an authentic interpretation promulgated by the legislative
authority, by a new law that further clarifies the question at
hand, or by development in canonical doctrine until a consen-
sus is reached among the practitioners of the craft.
The Holy See has a special body dedicated to the authentic
interpretation of laws. Its first decision regarding the 1983
Code of Canon Law dealt with the meaning of the word
“iterum” (which can mean either “again” or “a second time”)
in Canon 917 which refers to reception of Communion. The
decision fell on “a second time” as to how often one may
receive Communion in one day.
All but the most essential aspects of liturgical law are found
outside the Code of Canon Law and have never been com-
pletely codified into a single volume.
Within liturgical law we must distinguish between laws appli-
cable to the ordinary and extraordinary forms of the Roman rite.
The rites of the extraordinary form are meticulously deter-
mined, a factor which endows this form with a particular beauty,
reverence and spiritual force when celebrated with due care.
Over four centuries this rite generated a considerable body
of jurisprudence gathered together in the volumes of authen-
tic decrees of the former Congregation of Rites. Fortunately,
this series of complex laws were frequently digested by sedu-
lous scholars into descriptive manuals for use of priests and
masters of ceremonies. Two of the best of these have been
republished: A. Fortescue and J.B. O’Connell’s “The Ceremo-
nies of the Roman Rite Described,” updated by Father Alcuin
Reid, OSB, and the even more complete Italian “Compendio
di Liturgia Pratica,” by L. Trimelloni.
The interpretation of the norms of the ordinary form presents
some particular difficulties. The rite’s relative youth (at least as
regards its rubrics) means that there is little in the way of histori-
cal jurisprudence that could clarify any doubtful passages.
There is also the difficulty that in general the rubrics quite
deliberately eschew detailed descriptions of the rites so as to
leave a certain degree of flexibility. For example, both the
extraordinary and ordinary forms indicate that the priest pray
with hands extended, but the latter rite makes no determina-
tion as to distance and position of the hands, leaving this up to
the discretion of the celebrant.
Also, the existence of official translations can sometimes
make interpretation difficult especially when translations vary
the meaning of a text, even among countries sharing the same
language. We saw this discrepancy in a recent column (Dec. 4,
2007) when some liturgists interpreted the English translation
of the introduction to the lectionary to conclude that the Alle-
luia is omitted if not sung, an inference absent from the origi-
nal Latin and other modern translations.
Unlike the liturgy, canon law has no official translations
and only the Latin text may be used for legal purposes.
Another factor is the involvement of other instances of li-
turgical legislation besides the Holy See, such as legitimate
customs and bishops’ conferences. The conferences may pro-
pose particular adaptations for their countries requiring ap-
proval from the Holy See before becoming particular law.
They may also publish other documents such as guidelines on
certain liturgical questions which, while not strictly legally
binding, in practice become a legal point of reference.
In spite of these difficulties liturgical interpretation is not
arbitrary.
The Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments
sometimes makes authentic interpretations of the liturgical
texts. For example, it declared that No. 299 of the General
Instruction of the Roman Missal, in stating that a celebrant’s
facing the people seemed “more desirable,” did not constitute
a legal obligation.
Such authentic interpretations throw light on the mind of
the legislator regarding similar texts and so help in resolving
disputed points. In some cases historical decision regarding
the extraordinary form are still useful in understanding the
present form.
Another means is to examine the use of a particular word
throughout the official documents so as to gauge its overall
sense. Compared to civil law the totality of liturgical ordi-
nances constitutes a relatively small corpus, and this makes
such comparisons fairly easy.
Finally, again unlike much civil law, liturgical law is actu-
ally designed to be clearly understood by non-experts and so
it actually means what it says based on a literal reading. There-
fore priests, deacons, sacristans and other liturgical actors are
absolved of the need for a law degree in preparing for Mass.
The difficulty in liturgical law is not usually in the under-
standing but in the faith, love and will to carry it out. (Zenit)
Updates
The law on preaching
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, J.C.D.
AT times I have been asked by my teen-aged
son whether listening to the homily is essen-
tial to attending Holy Mass. I can only sur-
mise that it was a veiled reference to the qual-
ity of some homilies, especially those which
tend to be long-winded or unrelated to the
scriptural readings of the Mass, or worse with
political undertones.
On the other hand, I have always been
puzzled as to why at times there are Masses
with homilies and at other times there is no
homily. I was even more puzzled when in
one particularly politicized Mass, a well-
known political figure was asked to step up
to the podium to speak after the reading of
the Gospel. Can you please enlighten me on
this matter, so I can explain to my son.
Since the people of God are first brought to-
gether by the word of the living God (c.762 in
principio), among the principal duties of the
sacred ministers is the authoritative procla-
mation of the Gospel to the faithful (cf. c.762
in fine).
Such authoritative presentation of doctrine
to gatherings of people is called preaching,
and the Code mentions several forms of
preaching, of which the homily is singled out
as the pre-eminent form.
The Homily
Among the forms of preaching the homily is pre-
eminent. It is a part of the liturgy itself, whereby
the mysteries of faith and the norms of Christian
living are expounded from the sacred text through
the course of the liturgical year (c.767, §1).
A 1964 Instruction provides a fuller de-
scription: By a homily derived from the sacred
text is understood an explanation either of some
aspect of the readings from holy scripture or of
another text from the Ordinary or Proper of the
Mass of the day, taking into account the mystery
which is being celebrated and the particular needs
of the hearers.1
The Code established the following norms
regarding the homily:
a) Obligation to preach: A homily is to be
given at all Sunday Masses and at Masses cel-
ebrated on holy days of obligation; it cannot be
omitted without a serious reason (c.767, §2).
Furthermore, if a sufficient number of people
are present it is strongly recommended that a hom-
ily also be given at Masses celebrated during the
week, especially during Advent or Lent or on the
occasion of some feast day or time of mourning
(c.767, §3).
b) Proper Subject: The homily is reserved to
the priest or deacon (c.767, §1). This question
had been debated for a time due to the appar-
ent margin for lay preaching given by c.766.
It was authoritatively settled in 1987 by the
Pontifical Council for the Authentic Interpre-
tation of Legislative Texts, which declared
that the reservation of the homily to ordained
ministers stipulated in c.767 cannot be dis-
pensed by the diocesan Bishop.2
The Instruction of 1997 is more explicit:
“The homily, therefore, during the celebra-
tion of the Holy Eucharist, must be reserved
to the sacred minister, Priest or Deacon to
the exclusion of the non-ordained faithful,
even if these should have responsibilities as
pastoral assistants or catechists in whatever
type of community or group… For the same
reason, the practice, on some occasions, of
entrusting the preaching of the homily to
seminarians or theology students who are
not clerics is not permitted.
Indeed, the homily should not be regarded
as a training for some future ministry. All
previous norms which may have admitted
the non-ordained faithful to preaching the
homily during the Holy Eucharist are to be
considered abrogated by canon 767, §1.” 3
The reason is none other than the fact that
the homily is an integral part of the Eucharis-
tic liturgy, which demands that its subject be
an ordained minister.
c) Content: In the homily the mysteries of faith
and the norms of Christian living are to be expounded
(c.767, §1). The homily must express the faith of
the preacher, his love for God and the people,
with a special emphasis on the sharing of the
people in the eucharistic sacrifice.
The homily is the pre-eminent form of
preaching, whereby the mysteries of faith
and the norms of Christian living are
expounded from the sacred text through the
course of the liturgical year (c.767, §1). It
should be an explanation either of some
aspect of the readings from holy scripture
or of another text from the Ordinary or
Proper of the Mass of the day, taking into
account the mystery which is being
celebrated and the particular needs of the
hearers.
With the option taken by the Second
Vatican Council to make the sermon homi-
letic—i.e., based on the scriptural readings
of the day’s Mass—there is a greater need for
the minister of the word to plan and prepare
his homilies, so that the systematic explana-
tion of the doctrine of Christian faith and
morals is not neglected.
d) Obligation to attend the homily: The
obligation of preaching a homily in Sunday
Masses and in those celebrated on holy days
of obligation (c.767, §3) seems to imply a cor-
responding obligation on the part of the faith-
ful to be present at the homily, since it forms
an integral part of the Eucharistic liturgy, at-
tendance to which is obligatory on those days.
Other forms of preaching
Aside from the homily, which occupies
pride of place in the forms of preaching, the
following are also mentioned in the Code:
a) Spiritual exercises or sacred missions: At
certain times according to the prescriptions of the
diocesan bishop, pastors are to arrange for those
types of preaching which are called spiritual exer-
cises or sacred mission (c.770). These are periods
of recollection in which the faith-
ful—through a series of conferences
or meditations based on the word of
God—are made to consider the fun-
damental realities of their Christian
vocation.
b) Radio or television talks on
Christian doctrine—for the giving
of which, the prescriptions of the con-
ference of bishops are to be observed
(c.772, §2).
c) Other types of preaching. With-
out specifying, the Code lays down
the duty of the pastor of souls to
arrange for his flock—if not the pre-
viously mentioned spiritual exer-
cises or sacred missions—other types
of preaching adapted to their needs
(c.770). In any case, the norms issued
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
Photo courtesy of Sr. Ann Marie Nemenzo, FSP
by the diocesan bishop concerning the exercise of
preaching are to be observed by all (c.772, §1).
It is to these non-homiletic forms of preach-
ing that the dispositions for the participation
of the non-ordained faithful mentioned above
apply. The 1997 Instruction summarizes these
as follows: “Preaching in churches or orato-
ries by the non-ordained faithful can be per-
mitted only as a supply for sacred ministers
or for those particular reasons foreseen by
the universal law of the Church or by Con-
ferences of Bishops. It cannot, however, be
regarded as an ordinary occurrence nor as an
authentic promotion of the laity.” 4
Conclusions
By way of conclusion and in answer to the
questions posed at the start, we can summa-
rize the all the foregoing as follows:
The homily is the pre-eminent form of
preaching, whereby the mysteries of faith and
the norms of Christian living are expounded
from the sacred text through the course of
the liturgical year (c.767, §1).
It should be an explanation either of some
aspect of the readings from holy scripture or
of another text from the Ordinary or Proper
of the Mass of the day, taking into account
the mystery which is being celebrated and
the particular needs of the hearers.
1. A homily is to be given at all Sunday
Masses and at Masses celebrated on holy days
of obligation; it cannot be omitted without a
serious reason (c.767, §2). Furthermore, if a
sufficient number of people are present it is
strongly recommended that a homily also
be given at Masses celebrated during the
week, especially during Advent or Lent or
on the occasion of some feast day or time of
mourning (c.767, §3).
2. The homily, during the celebration of
the Holy Eucharist, must be reserved to the
sacred minister, Priest or Deacon, to the ex-
clusion of the non-ordained faithful, even if
these should have responsibilities as pastoral
assistants or catechists in whatever type of
community or group. For the same reason,
the practice, on some occasions, of entrust-
ing the preaching of the homily to seminar-
ians or theology students who are not clerics
is not permitted.
3. The obligation of preaching a homily in
Sunday Masses and in those celebrated on
holy days of obligation (c.767, §3) seems to
imply a corresponding obligation on the part
of the faithful to be present at the homily,
since it forms an integral part of the Eucha-
ristic liturgy, attendance to which is obliga-
tory on those days.
(Footnotes)
1
S.C.Rites, Instruction Inter Oecumenici, 26.IX.1964,
n.54.
2
Cf. AAS 79 [1987], 1249.
3
Instruction Ecclesia de Mysteriis (15.VIII.1997), Art.3,
§1.
4
Instruction Ecclesia de Mysteriis (15.VIII.1997), Art.2,
§4.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008 Diocese
LEFT: PASAKALYE, Street dances and pantomimes depicting Masbate’s historic past. CENTER: St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral. RIGHT: The 40th
anniversary celebration highlights one of the diocese’s priority concerns “ sensitivity and responsiveness to the plight of the poor.
Diocese of Masbate reaches 40
braces for 50 year Jubilee
THE Diocese of Masbate caps its three-year overture of being church this September 25,
2008 when the same diocese turns 40 years old. Expected to grace the occasion and to
preside over the Mass of thanksgiving that day is His Excellency, Most Rev. Edward Jo-
seph Adams, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines. To join the celebration are the Bish-
ops of Bicol, other Bishops and Clergy particularly the Clergy of the Diocese of Sorsogon,
the Mother Diocese which gave birth to Masbate in 1968.
The theme
for this year’s
celebration
is, “Respon-
sable na Pag-
a t a m a n ,
Pagpamahala,
kag Pagbalik sa
Dios san mga
Ginpaniwala
Niya sa Aton”
(Responsible
Care, Governance,
and Restoration to
God of all that He has
entrusted us, or simply
put, Stewardship).
By virtue of the Papal Bull,
Sorsogenensis Dioecesis, issued by
His Holiness, Pope Paul IV, the
Diocese of Masbate was born on
March 23, 1968. Most Rev.
The Official Seal
Porfirio R. Iligan, D.D. became
its first Bishop. Twenty one
priests were assigned to the dio-
cese at its inception.
of the Diocese
Last September 25, 2006 prepa-
ratory activities and programs
were initiated for the 40th Anni-
versary of the Diocese. Most Rev.
Joel Z. Baylon, D.D., the second
By Rev. Fr. Errol G. Bataga, Jr. bishop of Masbate then already
spoke of milestones during his
homily in the following words:
THE Official Seal of the Diocese of Masbate drew its inspiration “Thirty eight years is quite a long
from the Coats of Arms of the first two Shepherds of the local
Church, namely, the late Most Rev. Porfirio R. Iligan, D.D. and the
Most Rev. Joel Z. Baylon, D.D.
The dark and bright theme of the seal was obviously influenced
by the past and future theme of Bishop Iligan’s Coat of Arms. It
envisions a church rocked by tumultuous waves of the ocean but
moves towards the tranquil waters of inland habitat to establish
Schedule of Activities of the
herself there and endure forever. The inscription: “Diocesis
Masbatensis Insulae Philippinarum”, was taken from the original 40th anniversary celebration
dry seal used since 1968 for the official documents of the diocese.
On the upper left side of the seal is a Star representing Mary who is
known as the Stella Maris, and is found in the Coat of Arms of Bishop
September 2008
Baylon. Like a star that guides seafarers to the safety of the shore and
to their homes the Blessed Mother also guides us safely to Jesus her
20 Saturday 8:00am
Son. The Lily imposed on the islet at the middle right side is sym- 1:00pm
bolic of St. Anthony of Padua, the titular Patron of the diocese.
The Galleon depicts the Hispanization and Christianization of 21 Sunday 10:00am
Masbate. The Dove is the Holy Spirit that directs the church to its
eternal destiny. The Bamboo Cross is a sign of life lived to the full;
it is where the loving hands of God touches the helplessness, as 1:00pm
well as the sinfulness of humanity in order to reconcile everything to 22 Monday 8:00am
Christ (Cf. Eph 1:10). The Islands are the mainland Masbate and the 2:00pm
two smaller islands of Ticao and Burias; these may also be scenes 23 Tuesday 8:00am
1:00pm
typical of any entry point to the whole ecclesiastical jurisdiction.
Atop the main trunk of the seal is the Biretta — a cap which a 24 Wednesday 8:00am
priest, bishop or cardinal wears. The biretta is placed there to 4:00pm
denote headship among the people of God which is proper to
6:00pm
ordained ministers alone. The breastplate type encapsulation of 25 Thursday 8:00am
the seal calls to mind the words of the Lord to Peter: “...but I have 4:00pm
prayed that your own faith may not fail; and once you have turned back, 7:00pm
you must strengthen your brothers” (Cf. Lk 22:32). The Breastplate, 26 Friday 9:00am
being a kind of armor is cast to safeguard and protect so that the
gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it (Cf. Mt. 16:18).
Diocese of Masbate holds Unang Hakbang
Formation Workshop and Youth Congress
By Maria Lique Coordinator Ms. Maribeth Dablos, and Maria Lea Dasigan, acted as
and Diocesan Youth Leaders Mr. speakers for the first group which
Julius Abejuela and Sr. Mariz was accommodated at Balay Padi
THE Masbate commission on Tugbo, DSJ. while Miss Maribeth Dablos, Mr.
Youth and Campus Ministry Eighty-four delegates from the Stephen Borja and Mr. Dexter
held the Unang Hakbang— a different parishes of the Diocese of Lucero were in charge for the sec-
formation program for Youth Masbate participated in the forma- ond group at SAHSS. The forma-
Ministers last May 27-30, 2008 tion program spearheaded by tion program ended on May 30
at Balay Padi and St. Anthony Bishop Joel Z. Baylon, DD. The pro- in a separate closing liturgy.
High School Seminary gram aimed to synergize efforts Meanwhile, the Youth Con-
(SAHSS), Masbate City. and initiatives on youth ministry. gress 2008 in collaboration with
Together with the Youth and The 84 participants were the 40th Anniversary Celebration
Campus Ministry were Dioc- grouped into two with a separate of the Diocese of Masbate, under
esan Director Rev. Fr. Emerito Opening Liturgy. Sr. Mariz the theme “Responsable na pag-
R. Castilto, Diocesan Youth Tugbo, Joseph Angelo Guevarra, ataman san mga Regalo san Dios sa
time already for an ordinary person
to achieve at least a few of his dreams
in life. For the Diocese of Masbate,
the 38 years brought about a num-
ber of milestones too. St. Anthony
High School Seminary was built to
be a helping hand for the Diocese by
producing not only priests but also
parish and civic leaders. There were
the birth of many religious organiza-
tions, the acquisition and building of
diocesan schools, the renovation and
expansion of the cathedral and today
the hand in hand effort of the church,
the government and the ordinary
people to build a civilization of love.”
Among the activities and pro-
grams launched in 2006 were: the
Symposium on the Hispa-nization
and Christianization of Masbate,
the Trade and Skills Fair cum Di-
ocesan Exhibit, the Paila sa Kabataan
(Youth Showmanship), the Dioc-
esan Family Bible Quiz and the
MUMHO, a Masbateño version of
the Pondo Ng Pinoy. The theme
was: “Simbahan nagalakaton, buhay
Diosnon pakusugon, komunidad
pahiwagon” (Church on a Journey,
strengthen divine life, mobilize
communities).
In 2007 some of the initiatives
were provided a sequel and there
were also innovations. Thus an-
other symposium was held,
PasaKalye
Feria Mercantil
Handumanan
Mass for the Diocesan
Lay Organizations
and Movements
Diocesan Bible Quiz
Regata
Kite Flying
Simposio
Skills Training c/o
TESDA
Ordinacion
Friendship game
Dinner c/o MBMG
MUMHO Day
Thanksgiving Mass
Orgullo Masbateño
Bicol Bishops’ Meeting
mga Kabataan”, started on May 31,
a day after the end of Unang
Hakbang. This was participated
in by 126 participants including
the Hakbangers, vicarial and par-
ish youth leaders and coordina-
tors.
This event ended in a Closing
Liturgy presided over by Bishop
Baylon at the Cathedral of St. An-
thony of Padua which was fol-
lowed by a Santa Cruzan with the
Jubilee cross. These two events
which ran for four full days were
indeed a success.
B3
th
Saudan sa may Simbahan (Feria operation with the Diocesan
Mercantil) was accentuated with Commission on Canon Law
the barter system, Handumanan (DCCL).
(Masbate Heritage Information Bishop Baylon underscored
Center) was thought to be an off- in his Pastoral Letter three as-
shoot of the Diocesan Exhibit, pects of church existence
PasaKalye (Street march/dance; which he said needed atten-
to the street; prelude) was intro- tion, namely, strengthening of
duced as an adaptation of the the Christian Communities,
Paila sa Kabataaan, Orgullo sensitivity and responsive-
Masbateño (Masbateño’s Spe- ness to the needs of the poor
cialty) was conceptualized to and care for the youth and
showcase the local culture and the children. The DCDF as well as
Galleon Festival was pursued as the DCCL pointed out in the
a church-based revelry about the Advisory the fact that 40 years
Masbateño identity, history and is symbolic for a celebration,
goal. Here started the yearlong but a 40th year anniversary
celebration of the 40th Anniver- may not be considered a jubi-
sary of the diocese. The theme lee celebration. Therefore, the
was: “Pagdumdom san Kinaagi, Pag- Diocese of Masbate on its 40th
atubang san Presente … para sa anniversary not only aptly
Masbate” (Recalling the past, cop- contemplates its present diffi-
ing with the present... for culties and struggles, but at
Masbate). the same time looks forward
For this year 2008, two impor- to sure hope of a better future.
tant documents were issued: one Up ahead on the 50th anniver-
was the Pastoral Letter on the sary of the diocese, the initia-
Celebration of the 40th year An- tives of today could have al-
niversary of the Diocese of ready matured and could well
Masbate by Bishop Joel Z. Baylon, be the best parts of the com-
the other was the Advisory on ing Jubilee Celebration ten
the Proper Celebration of the 40th years from now.–Diocesan
Anniversary of the Diocese by Commission for Social Com-
the Diocesan Commission on the munications and Media Af-
Doctrine of the Faith (DCDF) in co- fairs (DCSCMA)
Pangadyeon para sa
Ika-40 na anniversaryo
San Dioceses San Masbate
By Most Rev. Joel Z. Baylon, DD and Rev. Fr.
Errol G. Bataga, Jr.
O Ama san tanan na kalalangan kag buhay
labaw sa tanan an pagkamoot mo sa imo katawohan.
San kami nagkasala, ginpadara mo sa amon an Kaligtasan.
Paagi sa imo Bugtong na Anak na nakiusad sa amon
kasaysayan
binalik mo kami sa imo grasya kag pangataman.
Sa bulig san Banal na Espirito danay mo kami na binilog
kag gin-andam
agud magin angayan sa imo panimalay - an wara’n
katapusan mo na Kahadian.
Batuna an amon pagpasalamat
sa tanan na grasya sa sulod san kuwarenta ka-tuig
na pagigin-simbahan mo didi sa Diocesis san Masbate, kag
mailaan mo lugod an amon pagdumdom san imo
paginmalulot sa amon.
Bendisyuni kami sa imo padayon na pakiupod
lalo na gayud sa mga kaagi-agi san kalisudan kag pagtios
agud dili kami mabulág saimo
kag maabot namon an katumanan san amon kaluwasan.
Sa tunga san mga pagtilaw kag pag-agyat san kinab-an
buligi kami na mag-ungod pa gayud para magin buhay
na komunidad,
nagamangno sa kada usad, labi na sa mga pobre kag
nagatestigo sa imo Ebanghelyo sa amon mga buhay.
Sa pangamuyo san Mahal na Birhen Maria,
an pinakauna na bunga san Bag-o kag wara’n katapusan
na Pakigsumpaan,
kag sa pangataman ni San Antonio de Padua, an amon
Mahal na Patron,
mahatagan lugod sin kahumanan sa amon an imo
halangdon kag banal na
kapagbot-an.
Ini tanan amon ginaayo sa malipay kag nagapasalamat
na puso
sa ngaran ni Kristo kag sa Espirito Santo, kaupod Mo,
usad na Dios sa panahon na wara’n katapusan. Amen.

B4
© www.rcam.org
Reproductive Health and the Catholic Faith:
Lagman Bill and the Catholic Moral Tradition:
Agreement and Conflict
By Eric Genilo, SJ
I. Introductory Notes
a. Reproductive Health
* The Catholic Church uses the terms
“reproductive health” and “reproductive
health care” with a specific Christian
meaning. The way the Church uses these
terms is different from the usage of the
UN, WHO or other organizations.
* “The Church considers the terms “re-
productive health” and “reproductive
health care” within a more general con-
cept of health. These terms embrace, each
in its own way, the person in the entirety
of his or her personality, mind and body.
They foster the achievement of personal
maturity in sexuality and in the mutual
love and decision making that character-
ize the conjugal relationship in
accordance with moral norms.”
(from the message of the Holy See
to First World Conference of Min-
isters Responsible for Youth in
Lisbon 1998)
* Reproductive health is viewed
by the Church always in the con-
text of the integral good of the
whole person and every person.
* The Church rejects the act of
abortion or access to abortion as a
dimension of reproductive health.
b. The Difference between Abor-
tion and Contraception
* Abortion is the “the directly
intended termination of preg-
nancy before viability or the di-
rectly intended destruction of a
viable fetus”
* Contraception is “every ac-
tion which, either in anticipation
of the conjugal act, or in its ac-
© Corbis
complishment, or in the devel-
opment of its natural conse-
quences, propose, whether as an
end or as a means, to render procreation
impossible” (Humanae Vitae)
* Contraception is different from abor-
tion. They involve different acts, they
have different effects, they have differ-
ent moral meanings, although they are
both seriously wrong acts, they are
treated differently by the Church.
* Abortion merits an automatic excom-
munication while contraception does not.
* Some contraception methods/de-
vices do not lead to abortion [condoms]
* Some contraception methods/de-
vices can lead to abortion [IUDs and
morning-after-pill prevent implantation
of fertilized ovum]
* We need to be clear and precise about
what we are objecting to; we object to
condoms for their contraceptive effects;
we object to IUDs and morning after pills
for their abortifacient effects.
c. Interpreting Church Teaching
* In interpreting its own teaching, at times
the Church speaks in a diversity of voices.
* Within the hierarchy and among the
catholic laity there are conservatives, mod-
erates and liberals. Depending on their
views, their interpretation may vary.
* It is important to listen to the vari-
ous voices and discern the position that
most embodies the whole of the Church’s
moral tradition.
II. Points of Agreement Between
Lagman Bill and The Catholic Moral
Tradition
* There are certain points in the House Bill
Features
on Reproductive Health which are in agree-
ment with the Catholic moral tradition.
* These positive points of agreement
can be the starting point for a reason-
able and civilized discussion between the
legislature and the hierarchy.
a. Respecting the sound judgment of par-
ents and couples
* The Church objects to any coercion
by the state on the decision of parents to
decide the number and spacing of their
children.
* In various sections, the Bill affirms
the rights of parents and couples to freely
decide the number and spacing of their
children. Its two-child recommendation
is only meant as an ideal for families in
their decision-making. (Sec. 3, g; Sec. 16;)
* The Bill emphasizes that it is not co-
ercive and no punitive measures will be
imposed on families who exceed two
children. (Sec 16)
b. Respect for the conscience
* The Church teaches that the decision
of a well-formed conscience must be re-
spected. A person must not be made to
act contrary to his or her conscience ex-
cept if it involves grave harm to one’s
self, to others, or to the common good.
* The Bill makes it clear that conscien-
tious objections of health care providers
based on ethical and religious beliefs
will be respected. (Sec 21a, 5)
c. Provision of comprehensive informa-
tion on reproductive health
© Corbis
* The Church teaches that the correct
use of one’s conscience is dependent on
its proper formation and access to nec-
essary information for decision-making.
* The Bill states that one of its aims is
to provide relevant, adequate and cor-
rect information on matters that pertain
to reproductive health. (Sec. 3,g)
d. Prohibition of abortion
* The Church has made a clear and
firm stand against the legalization of
abortion in order to defend the life and
dignity of the unborn.
* The Bill states that it continues to
proscribe and penalize abortion as a
crime in the Revised Penal Code. It states
that its provisions on assisting compli-
cations arising from post-abortion com-
plications are not intended to violate this
law. (Sec. 3, m; Sec 7, d)
e. Preventing Discrimination
* The Church affirms the equal dig-
nity of all persons and is against any
form of discrimination.
* The Bill prohibits the refusal of qual-
ity health care services and information
based on a patient’s marital status, gen-
der or sexual orientation, age, religion,
personal circumstances, and nature of
work. (Sec. 21, a, 5).
f. Care for the poor and vulnerable
* The Church urges the government
to extend preferential aid to those who
are more vulnerable in society.
* The Bill has various provisions that
address the specific needs of disadvan-
taged groups such as the poor, senior
citizens, women in prostitution, differ-
ently-abled persons, and women and
children in war crisis situations. (Sec 2;
Sec 3, j)
III. Points of Conflict Between Lagman
Bill and The Catholic Moral Tradition
a. Abortion
* There are some who take the posi-
tion that protection of the unborn be-
gins upon implantation of the embryo
in the womb (such as stated a previous
version of the Lagman Bill [House Bill
17], Introductory Section, Par. 7). The Phil-
ippine Constitution declares that protec-
tion of the unborn begins at conception
(Art. II Sec. 12) The Church also teaches
that protection of the unborn begins at
conception. This difference between im-
plantation and conception is crucial.
* Any device (e.g. the IUD) or medicines
that prevent the implantation of a fertil-
ized embryo is not contraceptive but is
abortifacient and therefore any promotion
of such devices or medicines would be a
violation of the Philippine Constitution.
* The current version of the Lagman
Bill does not define clearly when the
protection of life begins. Although it
mentions the constitutional illegality of
abortion it does not state directly that
human life is to be protected upon con-
ception. This is important because there
are some contraceptive means that are
actually abortifacient in effect (IUDs)
while there are contraceptive means that
can be abortifacient if used after concep-
The Church objects
to artificial means
of birth control that
involve direct
human intervention
to prevent
conception, either
temporarily or
permanently. What it
objects is what some
would call a “cafe-
teria style” of family
planning where all
methods of family
planning are all
presented as equally
good and acceptable.
tion has already occurred but implanta-
tion still has not happened (birth con-
trol pills, for example.) The Bill must
make it very explicit that no devices or
methods would be provided that is
aimed at the prevention of implantation.
b. Mandatory RH and Sexuality Education
* The Bill states that the Sexuality Edu-
cation curriculum shall be common for
both public and private schools starting
from Grade 5 up to Fourth Year High
School. (Sec 12)
* Private Catholic schools would
strongly object to this provision. In con-
science, Catholic educators would refuse
to teach methods of family planning
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
which they consider immoral or unac-
ceptable according to Catholic norms.
* This provision can be accused of vio-
lating the freedom of religion and free-
dom of conscience of Catholic educators
as well as the freedom of Catholic par-
ents who prefer sex education based on
Catholic teachings for their children. The
Church would consider it unjust for a
Catholic school to be penalized if it re-
fuses to teach methods of family plan-
ning that is against its moral teachings.
* A better solution would be to allow
private schools to implement their own
sex education curriculum and to allow
Catholic parents with children in public
schools to choose whether or not to al-
low their children to attend the sex edu-
cation classes in their schools.
c. Providing the full range of RH services
* The Bill states that the Reproductive
Health Care Program will provide the full
range of information and services pertain-
ing to all methods of family planning in-
cluding surgical methods. (Sec.5, f, 1& 6 )
* The Church objects to artificial means
of birth control that involve direct hu-
man intervention to prevent conception,
either temporarily or permanently. The
above provision will be interpreted by
some sectors of the Church as direct pro-
motion by the government of methods
of family planning that are immoral. This
is what some would call “cafeteria style”
of family planning where all methods of
family planning are all presented as
equally good and acceptable.
* For some sectors of the Church, this
would not be objectionable because it
respects the use of reason and the exer-
cise of conscience of persons when mak-
ing moral decisions. These sectors
would focus on the formation of con-
science to help Catholics make decision
faithful to their religious and moral val-
ues.
* Some may see this provision
as recognition of the existence of
a diversity of religious views on
the morality of artificial contra-
ception and sterilization. While
the Catholic Church views con-
traception and sterilization as im-
moral, the Protestant Churches
and some Moslems do not. Some
may argue that since the Bill is to
be applied to all Filipino citizens,
it should respect different reli-
gious and moral positions on
contraceptives and sterilization.
d. Natural and “Modern” Meth-
ods of Family Planning
* Advocates of Natural Family
Planning will object to the Bill’s
use of “modern” to describe arti-
ficial means of family planning
(Sec 3, a; Sec. 12, f). This gives the impres-
sion that the natural methods are not mod-
ern or not scientific thus giving a negative
image to NFP methods.
* Current natural family planning
methods such as the Standard Days
Method, the Two Day Method, the Bill-
ings Method, the Basal Body Tempera-
ture Method, and the Symptothermal
method, and the Lactational Amenorrhea
Method are based on the latest scientific
research on the reproductive system.
* The use of the word “modern” to de-
scribe the use of artificial means of fam-
ily planning can also give the impres-
sion that outdated (and ineffective) meth-
Reproductive / B5
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008 Statements B5
Joint Communique of the Praying for peace in
Moro Islamic Liberation Mindanao
Front (MILF) and the THE conflict and crisis occasioned by the controversial and
delicate Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain be-
tween the Republic of the Philippines and the MILF—in the
absence apparently of due consultation with concerned par-

Bishops of Mindanao
THE first-ever peace dialogue
between the Catholic Bishops of
Mindanao and the Moro Islamic
Liberation Front (MILF) held at
the Archbishop’s Residence in
Davao City on August 14, 2008
was capped with utmost sincer-
ity, trust and cordiality, a historic
significant initiative as a way for-
ward in advancing the common
quest for genuine peace, unity and
development in Mindanao.
Both the MILF and the Bishops
reiterate their unwavering moral
commitment to pursue the path
to peace, solidarity, justice and
development in Mindanao, and
resolve and support to the con-
tinuation of the peace process
between the MILF and the gov-
ernment until its successful con-
clusion is achieved.
The Bishops and representa-
tives of the highest leadership of
the MILF called on all sectors of
the society for sobriety and calm-
ness in confronting and resolv-
ing the issues besetting the forg-
ing of the GRP–MILF Memoran-
dum of Agreement on the Ances-
tral Domain.
Both Parties appealed for an
immediate declaration of
ceasefire to the ongoing armed
clashes in some towns of North
Cotabato, and immediate provi-
sion of relief assistance and reha-
bilitation programs for the af-
fected communities by all con-
cerned institutions, local and in-
ternational.
Dialogue and educational pro-
grams must be intensified, par-
ticularly by the religious leaders
and academic institutions, rela-
tive to the ongoing peace process
in Mindanao.
The Bishops were led by Arch-
bishop Fernando Capalla of
Davao, co-convenor of the Bish-
ops-Ulama Conference, and the
MILF officials by Mohagher Iqbal,
who is also the Chairman of the
MILF Peace Negotiating Panel.
Those in attendance are Arch-
bishop Fernando Capalla of
Davao, Archbishop Orlando
Quevedo of Cotabato, Auxiliary
Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo of
Cotabato, Bishop Honesto
Pacana of Malaybalay, Bishop
Juan de Dios Pueblos of Butuan,
Bishop Nerio Odchimar of
Tandag, Surigao del Sur, Bishop
Edwin dela Peña of Marawi City,
Bishop Antonieto Cabajog of
Surigao City; MILF Peace Panel
Chairman Mohagher Iqbal, MILF
Senior Peace Panel Member Atty.
Datu Michael Mastura, Ustaz
Mohammad Montasir and Ustaz
Mohammad Abdullah, both
members of the MILF Central
Committee, MILF AHJAG Chair-
man Atty. Abdul Dataya, MILF
Peace Panel Head of Secretariat
Jun Mantawil, MILF Peace Panel
Secretariat Member Mohajirin
Ali, and MILF CCCH Secretariat
Head Rasid Ladiasan.
Done this 14th day of August,
2008 in Davao City, Mindanao,
Philippines.
For the Mindanao Bishops:
ARCHBISHOP FERNANDO
CAPALLA, DD
Archbishop of Davao
For the MILF:
MOHAGHER IQBAL
Chairman, MILF Peace Negoti-
ating Panel
ties—has developed in the last few weeks into a war.
As is already being done in several dioceses, we urgently
and strongly recommend that we pray for Peace in Mindanao.
We may use the following prayer and/or similar prayer for
this intention:
God our Father, you reveal that those who work for peace
will be called your children. Help us to work without ceasing
for that justice which brings true and lasting peace. Hear our
prayer and grant peace to Mindanao that we may rejoice in
your mercy and praise you without end. Mary, Virgin of Light,
remember your first shrine in Mindanao and let “the dawn
from on high break upon us, to guide our feet into the way of
peace.” (Lk. 1:79) Amen.
We offer this prayer as one nation and in solidarity with the
Mindanao Bishops as well as with the thousands of innocent
people who are forced to evacuate and live in uncertainty and
fear because of the current crisis and war.
Instead of only blaming the people who are responsible for
this unfortunate happening in our country, let us also pray,
approaching Mary, the Virgin of Light to help us. We are con-
fident that She who is the Mother of all Abrahamic children
will unite us in peace
+ANGEL N. LAGDAMEO, DD
Archbishop of Jaro
President, CBCP
August 27, 2008

Peñafrancia / B1

is to grow into his relationship with God, man in Christ. The Eucharist makes its emplar of the Virgin-Church that by

URGENT APPEAL with Mary’s help, through stages begin-

ning, and not only with, the human heart
graces really present for the individual,
for others and for the entire Christian
preaching and baptism brings men to
new life, renewed as disciples of Christ.
Thus at Cana, when Mary interceded for

from the Convenors of the

contrite before the mercy of God, but community. Done still within the feast
still towards peace in the love of God of Mary’s nativity upholding her to be the temporal needs of the occasion, Jesus
till the joy of union in divine glory. The the Mother of God, the novena to the worked the first of his signs that con-

Bishops-Ulama Conference
devotee is to aspire and has to be guided
to progress in spiritual maturity.
The nine-day novena prayers, espe-
cially at the Cathedral, on the festivities
20 August 2008 for Our Lady of Peña de Francia, under-
score the need for progress in spiritual
maturity. These prayers, from a com-
mentary on the Gospel of St. Luke and
WE, the undersigned convenors of the Bishops-Ulama Conference, most ear- the Most Holy Name of Mary, depict the
nestly and urgently appeal to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines intercession of Our Lady of Peña de
(GRP) and to the Central Committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Francia for the devotee conforming his/
to put an immediate STOP to the fighting between their respective combatants, her life to God’s will. Prayers speak of
to order them back to their barracks and headquarters, to release captives and the soul seeking enlightenment about
hostages, and to arrive at an immediate ceasefire agreement. its origin and grateful for divine favors
We also appeal most earnestly and urgently to the Philippine National in public and in private, protection from
Police, their CAFGUs and CVUs as well as to the local MILF Security Forces to the perils of the world on the journey of
restore order in the affected areas in North Cotabato and Lanao del Norte becoming an imitator of God, being
including the contiguous cities of Kidapawan and Iligan respectively. faithful to one’s state of life and obliga-
We call on local, national, and international aid agencies to provide imme- tions, and finally attaining eternal hap-
diate assistance to the displaced residents, and their damaged houses, chapels piness grateful of Mary’s intercession.
and properties, with special attention to the poor, the sick, the babies, and the The novena prayers are an instruction
little children. on the dignity and destiny of persons.
We call on all religious leaders in Mindanao—our bishops, ulama, ai’mah, They are a pedagogy for the transforma-
ustadzes, pastors, priests, religious men and women—to help us make this tion of persons from creation to confor-
our earnest and urgent appeal heard, accepted, and answered throughout the mity with God’s love and will onto com-
region. We likewise strongly and urgently appeal to print and broadcast munion in God’s glory. In the devotee
media to take utmost care in reporting only the facts and to avoid spreading being drawn towards a community-for-
disinformation, incendiary comments and unconfirmed rumors. others to the glory of God, the prayers
Finally we respectfully remind everyone who believes and loves God, encourage him/her to break from the
whom we call by many names, to intensify sustained personal and commu- usual and comfortable perspectives and
nal prayer accompanied by self sacrifices, to ask Him for an enlightened use powers. It leads him/her to being touched
of our reason, for calmness and sobriety in our emotions, for compassion and by God in ordinary daily events of exist-
forgiveness in our hearts. For we believe that Christian, Islamic, and indig- ence to give one’s part for the good of the
enous faiths put great emphasis on the power of sincere and constant prayer. Church and society. The novena, affirm-
To the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and to the ing the Eucharist as really present and
Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) we offer ourselves and our confreres to salvific, points to the Eucharist being
be facilitators of your intensive information campaign regarding the peace made more meaningful in today’s press-
process in general and the peace negotiations in particular especially the ing conditions and concerns.
Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) so that our
people especially the Mindanaoans may know, understand, and accept what- 2.2. The tradition of solemn processions:
ever you decide and agree on their behalf. The traslacion and the embarcacion or
the fluvial procession
2.2.1. The solemn processions. The break
FERNANDO R. CAPALLA from ordinary life only to rebound to a
Archbishop of Davao more ordered way of living is observed
BUC Co-Convenor is the power of ritual action in devotion,
particularly in the solemn processions
HILARIO M. GOMEZ, JR. in honor of Our Lady of Peña de Francia.
UCCP Bishop Emeritus Present observance of the feast of Our
BUC Co-Convenor Lady is in fact introduced by the novena
to the Divino Rostro and is concluded
HAMID A. BARRA by the celebration of the Eucharist on
OIC Ulama League of the Philippines Sunday. This frame of reference unites
BUC Co-Convenor the festivity for Our Lady to the mission
of Christ. The novena to the Divino
Rostro vividly recalls the redemption of
Divino Rostro sees in the Eucharist a
prophetic message: God is always faith-
ful to his covenant. Mary is the attentive
virgin faithful to this love of God for his
people. Uniting yearnings of peoples old
and new, Mary sings the Magnificat, the
song of the chosen people who, through
the overshadowing of Mary by the Holy
Spirit, continue their journey to become
the People of God, the Church. In this
way is the image of Our Lady of Peña de
Francia said to follow the image of the
Divino Rostro.
2.2.2. The traslacion % the transfer of
the image of Our Lady from its sanctu-
ary to the Cathedral % is penitential in
character. Bishop Gainza attests to the
traslacion being, on one hand, “para cortar
algunos abusos”—to end self-interests by
both the cimarrones and the espanoles, even
the sacerdotes. On the other, it was to ac-
commodate the greater number of
people visiting Our Lady. Traditions are
not built on abuses, rather upon the as-
pirations of persons. People visiting Our
Lady venerate and seek her intercession
that the community of faith serves for
the good of all. Penitence is for the fail-
ings of the community to act as the re-
deemed people of God by persistently
clinging to self-serving interests.
Still, at the traslacion the Holy Spirit,
who showed the Father’s loving faith-
fulness in sending Jesus for man’s salva-
tion, calls to the People of God. He calls
them to the freedom of the poor of the
Lord that for Mary, the Virgin-in-prayer,
meant the freedom to praise and to faith-
fully love God in response – “I am the
servant of the Lord, be it done to me
according to his word.” Indeed, the
traslacion and the boya, can now be seen
as that “sea of humanity” % and, not of
rowdy “self-interests” % bearing the
image of Our Lady. The traslacion is an
intercessory procession. Rather than tak-
ing any of the fineries and adornments
from the image of Our Lady, it is to give
Mary fitting signs of thanksgiving that
the deeds of the Lord may be fulfilled in
us, as it was for her. It is to pray with her
to praise and love God faithfully, as she
did; and, to be a servant of the Lord for
the community, as she is.
While at the Cathedral, Mary is the
Virgin-Mother. She is the type and ex-
firmed the faith of the apostles and the
community on him as the one sent by
God. This is the same faith Jesus entrusts
to Mary and John at the foot of the cross.
The Church cares for disciples as they
care for the Church.
2.2.3. The embarcacion or fluvial proces-
sion. The mutual care between the Church
and disciples is further enacted at the
embarcacion or the fluvial procession
bringing back the image of Our Lady to
its present Basilica. Mary is the virgin-
presenting-offerings. At the presentation
of Jesus in the temple, Mary’s “heart
pierced with a sword” is oriented to
Jesus’ being “a sign of contradiction.”
The Christ-child, according to Simeon’s
greeting, is “…a light for all nations and
the glory of the people Israel.” Just as
Mary offered Jesus to be the light for all
nations, so all disciples – devotees now
– have to be reconciled with God by re-
storing all things in Christ.
Hence, Our Lady’s principal feast day
on Sunday, celebrates the Virgin-Mother
in union with her Son in the work of
redemption. As Jesus “offered himself
as the perfect sacrifice to God,” “Mary
“…united herself with a maternal heart
to this sacrifice…” In the Sunday Eucha-
rist Jesus perpetuates his sacrifice on the
cross and entrusts it to the Church. The
Church continues to pray in union with
Mary who, assumed into heaven (as
Queen of Heaven and the Angels), has
never abandoned her mission of inter-
cession for salvation. The Eucharist on
Our Lady’s feast day celebrates the eter-
nal love of God. It challenges the
Church—especially the devotees of
Mary—to imitate her, to act in the soli-
darity of charity.
3. The continuing challenge: The prac-
tice of tradition
Bishop Gainza was edified by the fer-
vency devotees give to their visits,
prayers and adornment of the image of
Our Lady, by the order bogadores
(voyadores) give in assuring solemnity at
processions, and by the involvement
personalities in government and soci-
ety give for the fitting celebration of Our
Lady’s feast. These observances have,
however, dimmed severely, diminish-
Peñafrancia / B7

Reproductive / B4

ods such as the old calendar
method and withdrawal are natu-
ral family planning methods be-
ing endorsed by NFP advocates.
* Withdrawal has never been rec-
ognized as an NFP method and the
calendar method has already been
replaced by more accurate meth-
ods based on body symptoms.
e. Free Ligation
* The Bill directs public hospi-
tals to provide indigent mothers
delivering children in govern-
ment hospitals to be provided
free ligation if they request for
it. (Sec. 5, i )
* This provision may be inter-
preted as evidence of the
government’s bias for artificial
means of birth control and pro-
viding improper enticement for
the poor to have sterilizations.
This provision makes it easier for
people to choose artificial means
of birth control over natural fam-
ily planning.
f. Consultation
* The Bill does not mention any
consultation with religious
groups or churches, unless these
groups are under the category of
NGOs. (Sec. 24)
* Such an omission might be
interpreted to mean that religious
and moral beliefs of citizens are
not significant factors in the for-
mation of policies and programs
involving reproductive health. A
more explicit mention of consul-
tation with religious groups can
avoid criticism on this point
g. Employer’s Responsibility
* The Bill states that CBAs
should ensure the provision of an
adequate quantity of reproductive
health care services, supplies and
devices. (Sec 17, Sec 21, c) But what
if it is a Catholic institution?
Should a Catholic school be forced
to provide for contraceptive ser-
vices for its employees if such an
act would be against its moral
teachings? The Bill should not pe-
nalize Catholic employers if they
choose not to provide for contra-
ceptive services and devices if it
goes against their consciences.
h. Freedom of Speech
* The Bill penalizes anyone
who maliciously engages in
disinformation about the intent
or provisions of this Act (Sec 21,
a, f). Malicious intent is difficult
to prove and there are wide dis-
agreements about many aspects
of the population question that
the Bill is trying to address. It
could be a violation of the free-
dom of speech of dissenting
groups if they are prevented
from speaking out to challenge
the Bill. It is true that there are
some opponents of the Bill who
do not use correct information.
But to stop public debate on the
issue of contraceptives through
the use of penalties will not solve
the problem but instead will turn
the Bill into a coercive and un-
democratic act in violation of the
freedom of speech.
III. Points to Consider Necessity
of Dialogue
* The government must con-
tinue to maintain dialogue with
the Catholic Church and other
faith groups. Legislation that dis-
regards or violates religious and
moral beliefs will provoke op-
position among the clergy and
the laity, and will have very little
chance of passing into law. The
government, the Church, NGOs,
religious groups and other dia-
logue partners must keep a level
of civil discourse that is reason-
able and rational.
a. Manner of Discourse
* In all forms of discourse on
reproductive health, responsible
parenthood and population, there
should be an effort to gain some
form of reasonable consensus that
respects basic values of all stake-
holders.
* A belligerent and antagonis-
tic approach that uses insults,
demonization of opponents, dis-
tortion of information, threats,
and emotional arguments distract
from and do not contribute to find-
ing a proper response to urgent
reproductive health and popula-
tion concerns. Unfortunately,
some sectors in the Church use
these wrong ways of discourse.
They only cause confusion and
make it appear that the Church is
irrational, insensitive, and crude.
b. Democratic Process
* It is not to be in keeping with
the democratic nature of our soci-
ety for the Church to speak above
the heads of its members and sim-
ply deal with legislators and lead-
ers of government through pres-
sure politics and threats.
* The Catholic Church, in pro-
posing its view of how to protect
the life, health, and dignity of the
human person should not only
speak to leaders and legislators
but more importantly it should
speak to its members and form
their consciences in order that they
may exercise their moral choices
through democratic and participa-
tive forms of political action.
c. A Way of Proceeding
* “In essentials, unity; in non-
essentials, liberty; and in all
things, charity.”
* For things pertaining to pro-
tecting human life and dignity,
we need to come to a consensus
for the common good;
* For things that can be left to
individual decisions without vio-
lating human life and dignity, we
need to respect freedom of con-
science;
* In all our discussions, we need
to speak and act with charity and
understanding as members of the
same human community.
 CBCP Monitor
B6 Reflections Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

Cross – Sign of God’s unconditional love

Feast of the Triumph of the Cross; Jn 3:13-17,
September 14, 2008

By Bishop Francisco M.
de Leon, D.D.
THE altar crucifix in Christ the
King Parish, Green Meadows, is
unique because of its particular
depiction of Christ. Instead of the
traditional portrayal of Christ
beaten, bloodied and in the
throes of an agonizing death, this
one shows a stylized Jesus in all
His glory, draped in flowing
robes, his limbs stretched out
straight and strong along the
beams, as if the cross was a
throne for a king, rather than the
tool for an executioner. This cru-
cifix is a presentation of the feast
that is celebrated by the Church
in its liturgy today—The Tri-
umph of the Holy Cross.
The cross as triumph? If you
were to wear a necklace of a cross
in Palestine during Jesus’ time,
people would find it weird, to say
the least. Crucifixion was the cru-
elest form of execution during that
time. They would never use it as a
form of decoration on their neck
or body. When Jesus was crucified,
he hanged there, naked and
pierced, scorned and rejected by
his own people, the figure of de-
feat. How devastating it must have
been to His followers who have
lived with him, loved Him and
believed in Him only to see Him,
as Paul described it, having “emp-
tied himself, taking the form of a
slave,” dying there like that. But if
it ended there, then Jesus’ crucifix-
ion would be like other crucifix-
ions. Remember how Spartacus
and his followers were crucified.
After three days,
Jesus rose again
from the dead. It
is when we con-
template the
cross as victory
that the crucifix-
ion becomes so
much more.
But it did NOT end there. After
three days, Jesus rose again from
the dead. It is when we contem-
plate the cross as victory that the
crucifixion becomes so much
more. Then we see it as the cul-
mination of God’s supreme act of
love for all of us, an act that be-
gan with the Nativity when He
became a man like us; he grew in
age and wisdom before God and
man and, then, as a grown man,
set out on his mission and to end
it by humbling Himself, “becom-
ing obedient to the point of
death, even death on a cross.”
It is then that we see it as vali-
dation of all that He came to
teach us, that to follow Him is to
love Him and to love Him is to
serve others. Most of all, as a vic-
tory over intolerance, injustice,
greed and self-absorption, it be-
comes an act of triumphal re-
demption. However often we
might stumble in life, we know
that it is done, that we have al-
ready been redeemed. We rejoice
and we are glad!

Fr. Roy Cimagala

Atty. Jo Imbong

Can we, clergy, hack it?

WITH our times getting complicated and
hot-button issues popping up, one won-
ders whether we, priests, can ably act as
true beacons of light and moral com-
passes we are expected to be before all
the Church’s faithful.
With this recent public debate on re-
productive health, for example, not a few
people have complained that they hardly
hear anything from their priests about
this issue, outside of rallies called for
this purpose.
They said that it’s lamentable, because
the issue involved in reproductive
health concerns them everyday, and yet
they hardly get any guidance or re-
minder from priests other than occa-
sional motherhood platitudes.
If ever, they said, the words are full of
condemnatory tones with hardly any ex-
planation why, for example, contraception
is morally wrong and why they ought to
be careful about the reproductive health
bills now pending in Congress.
Much less do they hear anything about
how to develop authentic conjugal love
and conjugal chastity, using both super-
natural and practical arguments. This is
what they want to hear, they said, and
not just skills in natural family planning.
Many, for example, want to know
how to live chastity when one of those
fierce clashes with one’s own sexual
urges takes place. It’s the priestly inabil-
ity to offer feasible advice in this area
that turns many people off and leads
them to seek solutions in other, usually
immoral, sources.
Bo Sanchez
In the end, they said, the Church cam-
paigns manage to attract only a few and
very specialized following—usually old
women and what they call “Catolico
cerrado”—and can even alienate the
young ones who are actually also looking
for truth and fairness in issues like this.
I believe this is a concern that has to
be attended to urgently. Many Church
documents and exhortations have al-
ready been issued by Popes, councils,
bishops, etc., urging the clergy to be at
par with these modern challenges. But
what are the results?
I’m afraid these have largely fallen on
deaf ears. There’s still a lot of room for im-
provement. Only a little percentage of the
clergy appears to be competent in handling
our current Church and world situation.
Most of us are still groping in the dark,
clumsy and unsure about what to do and
what to say. Many just get satisfied with
celebrating the sacraments, without
doubt necessary and indispensable. But
this, given the times, is not enough.
There is need for the average priest to
learn to pray and study, to articulate and
apply relevant doctrine to concrete situ-
ations, to build and strengthen an abid-
ing sense of the Church, to develop the
skill for effective evangelization in
today’s setting.
We priests are supposed to be the sac-
ramental representation of Christ, head
of the Church. We should be able to say
to the people, “It is I (Christ), do not be
afraid.” Christ said these words to his
apostles who thought they saw a ghost
walking on the lake toward them.
A few are wondering how many
priests are truly internalizing, not just
externally tweaking, our sacramental
identification with Christ as priest. We
are not Christ’s ghosts, nor Church bu-
reaucrats and performers.
Instead, there is a lot of priestly com-
placency and mediocrity nurtured in a
culture of tolerance and impunity. This
has to be wiped out. A strong infusion
of authentic spiritual life and a firm
grounding in sound doctrine are needed.
It’s painful to hear priests succumb-
ing to spiritual lukewarmness and doc-
trinal ignorance, confusion if not out-
right error. It’s painful to see them en-
tangled in petty quarrels, envy and ri-
valry among themselves.
You can just imagine if they get in-
volved in highly scandalous situations!
The formation of priests should be an
ongoing, endless affair. There’s need for
continuing renewal of commitment, be-
cause this simply is the requirement of
love and fidelity that’s supposed to ani-
mate the priestly vocation.
The formation in the seminary also
has to be carefully developed with
eagle-eyed supervision from the authori-
ties. There, heroic dedication, obedience
and discipline should be learned as es-
sential signs of love. We have to purge
the seminary of bad eggs.
In the end, we priests should try to do
our best in our priestly life and ministry,
and to make our best better always. This
is how we can hack the current challenges.
‘Memi-
nisse Iuvat’
“It is helpful to recall, when new
dangers threaten Christians and the
Church, the Spouse of the Divine Re-
deemer, that We—like Our Predecessors
in bygone days—have turned in prayer
to the Virgin Mary, our loving Mother,
and have urged the whole flock entrusted
to Our care to place itself confidently un-
der her protection.”
THUS wrote Pope Pius XII 50 years
ago on July 15, 1958. That was his last
Encyclical. It might as well have been
written for today.
For today is not a good time for
the Christian family, not a good time
for parenting, not a good time to raise
our children.
We have a strongly pro-family
Constitution that was enshrined in
1987. It describes the Filipino family
as “sacred.” It acknowledges the right
of the unborn to be protected from
the moment of its conception, with-
out exception. Ours is one of very few
constitutions in the world that has
done so. It also assures parents of their
God-given and therefore, inviolable
right to the moral upbringing of their
own children. This right may not be
exercised by anyone other than a par-
ent, because only a parent knows and
understands his own child. The Con-
stitution guarantees it.
ground for it.
Young and vulnerable children
will undergo sex education and all
methods of family planning starting
Grade 5, although this is already be-
ing done today in schools even in
lower grade levels. If their parents
object, there is a fine and imprison-
ment waiting. In western countries,
promiscuity in teenagers is attributed
to sex education outside the confines
of home and family. That is why the
West now gives abstinence education.
Three BILLION pesos is the budget
of Health Department for contracep-
tives and a nationwide family plan-
ning program. There is also P386 Mil-
lion for POPCOM. These are apart
from 2.4 Million Dollars from the
UNFPA for this year alone, and an-
other $2.2 Million for 2009. This
money is for “population and devel-
opment-reproductive health” that
dooms our country to zero popula-
tion growth. Today’s average family
has three children compared with
seven in the ’70s. But the billions of
pesos spent in the last 30 years of ac-
tive population control programs
have not reduced poverty nor ben-
efited the poor. And if these measures
become a law, our time-honored Fili-
pino values about human life, family
life and marriage will be replaced by
a destructive counterculture.

Nurture your secret life

“YOUR assignment is to clean the toilet
everyday.”
Many years ago, I was part of a celi-
bate brotherhood. And on my first day
there, an older brother gave me my as-
signed chore: Toilet cleaning.
“I don’t know how to clean toilets,” I
muttered meekly, “can you teach me?”
“Let’s start with the toilet bowl,” he
smiled, as he grabbed a sponge, sank
his hand into the toilet water, and started
scrubbing the insides of the bowl. Be-
lieve me, every hair on my body stood
on end and my innards shook violently.
“Gee… uh, I recall Mom using a
stick…” I mumbled, but he interrupted,
“But this cleans it so much better,” his
forearm almost disappearing inside the
Throne.
With his hand still dripping, he
handed me the sponge and said, “You
want to try?” I almost choked and won-
dered if God could take my life that sec-
ond.
“Okay…” I held the foam as manly
as I could. Being at a loss for words, I
started praying in tongues. I plunged my
hand into the water, and realized that
my state-of-life discernment was over.
That very night, I was going to escape
the brotherhood, and get married.
But the days became weeks, and the
weeks, months.
I cleaned that toilet for a whole year.
And I began to love it. It became “my
toilet” and “my sponge”. I’d have with-
drawal pangs if I didn’t clean the toilet
in a day.
Indeed, the celibate brotherhood
taught me the meaning of “The Secret
Life”.
You see, I was already preaching in
big prayer rallies at that time. After such
events, people took my pictures, got my
autograph, and—hear this—tried very
hard to shake my hand. Oh, if they only
knew what I held just a few hours be-
fore.
My “public life” was symbolized by
the microphone.
But my “secret life” was symbolized
by the sponge. And it put me in my place,
keeping pride away from my heart.
I love Bill Hybell’s definition of
“Character”: Character is who you are
when no one’s looking. It’s easy to be a
disciple in front of an applauding crowd.
But when no one’s looking, was I still a
disciple?
Thanks to my sponge, I had an answer:
Yes!
I remember one Saturday night. We
had a big feast—and all the brothers
washed the dishes together. We even
sang happy songs while soaping, rins-
ing, and drying.
That night, I was soaping. When it was
almost over, I was removing a stubborn
food particle stuck in a fork—when I
noticed something about the sponge in
Despite these clear and strong com- At this crucial hour, is there a Chris-
mands of the Constitution, some rep- tian path that will protect and pre-
resentatives of the people who were serve our threatened Faith and cul-
sworn into office to promote the wel- ture?
fare of all, are bent on approving As citizens, our Christian duty is
measures that will undermine the to live and witness our Faith. Know
rights of parents, of the unborn, of that “contraception is wrong not be-
my hand. It looked oddly familiar.
children and their families, rights that cause the Church speaks against it.”
I gasped. Because I knew my sponge!
come from God the Creator, and Rather, “the Church speaks against it
What was it doing here in the kitchen?
therefore may not be trespassed. because it is wrong.” Be not afraid to
Just to be sure, I rushed to the toilet and
The bills “encourage” a two-child speak out forcefully against evil, for
opened the cabinet under the sink—the
family. This insults and violates the evil is not negotiable.
usual place where I stored my sponge. It
autonomy of spouses guaranteed by Whenever we speak, we stand on
wasn’t there.
the Constitution, to raise a family ac- what our Faith teaches us. This is the
I entered the kitchen hesitantly, won-
cording to their religious convictions authentic way to live it. And when
dering whether to tell the brothers. But I
and the demands of responsible par- we stand on what we believe as
saw them singing and happy. How could
enthood. Catholics, no human authority can
I break their cheery mood? So I decided
Despite the confirmed dangers and override us. The law assures it.
to join the singing, get my sponge, and
cancer-causing properties of common In Meminisse Iuvat, Pope Pius XII
soap the few remaining plates. (To this
birth control pills and depo-provera, warned that “anyone who knowingly ig-
day, I have never told them what hap-
these drugs will be made accessible nores Christianity or tries to hinder, in-
pened that night. When they read this,
to girls and women as “essential sult, or undo her teachings, weakens
they will kill me.)
medicines.” And yet, what are truly thereby the very foundations of society.
I have a question for you: How’s your
essential medicines are those badly It is a harmful and reckless policy to do
secret life?
needed for malnutrition, tuberculo- battle with Christianity, for God guaran-
Who are you when no one’s looking?
sis, anemia, infections, hypertension, tees, and history testifies, that she will
In the unspectacular, mundane, rou-
pneumonia, and many childhood dis- exist forever.
tine of your day?
eases. All business establishments, in- “If a Christian way of life flourishes
I tell you. Nurture your Secret Life.
cluding Catholic-run hospitals and again, as it did in the age of the
schools will be required to provide Apostles and martyrs, then we can
contraceptives on demand, under reasonably hope that the Blessed Vir-
***
pain of fine and imprisonment. gin Mary—who longs with a
The unborn will be protected only mother’s heart that all her sons
I believe that on Judgment Day, God
after it clings to the mother’s womb. should live virtuously—will gra-
will give me a 365-room mansion in
But when it reaches the womb, the ciously heed our prayers and will
heaven. And when I ask Him why the
womb will have been destroyed by soon grant, in response to our peti-
lavish reward, I’d expect Him to say,
the chemicals in the pill and depo- tions, happier and more peaceful
“Because of your preaching to thou-
provera. The baby is starved and will times for the Church of her Only Be-
sands,” or “Because you founded a Home
eventually die. While the bills do not gotten Son and for the whole human
for the Elderly,” etc. But instead, He’d
legalize abortion, they prepare the society.”
say, “For each day you cleaned that toi-
let with love in your heart…”
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
By Fr. Savino Bernardi, CS
FILIPINO seafarers are the prime
movers of the maritime transporta-
tion industry in the world. They are
found on board in all kinds of ships:
yachts in Greece, containers ships in
Rotterdam, tankers in Nigeria, gen-
eral cargo ships in Buenos Aires. They
keep the goods moving and delivered
to all ports, at times in risky weather
or in difficult conditions. The Filipi-
nos serve the maritime world with
professionalism, reliability and with
Social Concerns
time education to redeem their family from
poverty or to subsidize the education of
their younger siblings. Once the maritime
profession becomes more established,
they look into the acquisition of a lot and
house, a family car or business.
Full of risks and challenges
The life of a seafarer, however, is fret
with risks and challenges, and this not
only by storms and waves, but due to
the nature of the forever-temporary or
casual employment. The good salary is
the primary attraction of many young
people as they choose which college
no-chance of landing a job onboard.
The Filipino seafarers are indeed pro-
fessional and sought out by international
shipping companies and the number of
Filipino seafarers onboard is increasing
steadily every year. Among the many
reasons of preference for Filipino sea-
farers are the professional preparation,
the knowledge of English, the Filipino
cultural and social characteristics and his
ability to adapt. Furthermore, in the
profit-oriented shipping industry, the
relatively low wages makes their em-
ployment still very attractive. However,
not infrequent would be cases of exploi-
character, personality and motivation.
Efforts are made from several directions
to achieve this objective.
Already during the educational years
Nautical Schools are training future ca-
dets with strong elements of discipline,
respect, reliability and commitment.
However, from experience of the envi-
ronment in several of these schools,
more must be expected starting from
self-discipline and improvement on
group dynamics. Crew must be cohesive
to make the life of each one on board
easy. Individuals must prioritize the
wellbeing of all even before personal
B7
try is now shopping for highly pro-
fessional, skillful and versatile offic-
ers to whom entrust their ships and
crew. As ships are becoming more
computerized and automated in
these days a cadet contingent will al-
ways be necessary, but in an ever
shrinking number. On the other hand,
the quest is on to entrust expensive
ships and cargo to officers of quality
and reliability. Who will these be?
This multi-million dollar opportunity
is there for the Philippines to take or
lose it depending on the quality of
officers the system is willing to pro-

The life of seafarers: An odyssey

a smile in most of the 55,000 ships
moving around the globe. They num-
ber about 300,000 in international
vessels, and perhaps 100,000 more in
the domestic routes and deep-sea fish-
ing industry. One million families in
the Philippines depend on their work
and earnings while the seafarers
brave their long and lonely absence
from home and the uncertainty of the
sea. Judging from known data, about
1 percent of them meets the deadly
perils of the sea and still more suffer
from accidents or sicknesses.
For the reason of their endurance
and bravery and the undisputed pro-
fessionalism, the Filipino seafarers
remain sought out in the international
employment. In these days, the whole
world is asking for more of them,
from the rank of officers particularly.
Now, the world turns to the Philip-
pines to source out 15 to 20 thousand
and more officers, in the next 10 years
to man their ships. This is an awe-
some challenge putting the maritime
schools, training centers and the
whole of the regulatory system un-
der an enormous pressure. But the
Philippines must and, I am sure, will
deliver, and in the process modern-
ize and perhaps re-invent its system
to successfully meet the challenging
demands of the time.
These are the realities and chal-
lenges the Filipino seafarers are fac-
ing. In the last 30 years, they grew in
number from 60,000 to the about
300,000, or 25 percent of the crewing
hands in the world. They have made
the Philippines shine and in the pro-
cess they have helped the country’
economy with 2 to 3 billion dollars
each year.
The much higher salary in US dol-
lars is attractive and many parents en-
courage their children to take up mari-
course to enroll in.
In the Philippines, the seafaring pro-
fession begins with the dream of many
thousands of young people enrolling
into one of the 94 Nautical Schools in
the country. Often the parents are be-
hind them to encourage their son
(mostly) to take up the maritime course
so that one day they could contribute to
bring the family out of poverty or to
provide a good education for their sib-
lings.
The fees are high and the chances of
success very slim. Three years later, only
about 15 percent successfully complete
their academic course. They are still un-
der-graduates but they can already ap-
ply for deployment on board as ordi-
nary seafarers (OS). The 4th year is de-
signed to acquire “on job training” (OJT)
experience which would seal their pro-
fessional preparation as graduate seafar-
ers or “able seamen” (AB), and open the
door to the seafaring career. To succeed
on this is the second hurdle of the pro-
fession as opportunities are limited and
often given only to the brightest stu-
dents. In the end only about 5,000 suc-
ceed, while the remaining thousands
settle for an undergraduate position of
“ordinary seamen” (OS). In any case, all
come to swell the number of new appli-
cants into the job market already satu-
rated by at least 300,000 “unemployed”
seafarers. For many it is the beginning
of the “Luneta Park experience”, and the
endless and frustrating application jour-
ney to several of the 360 Manning Agen-
cies in Manila. Many end up as “utility
boys”, struggling an existence in Manila
with a promise of a position onboard as
it may come available. Each year only
about 8,000 – 10,000 new hires can be
counted. For hundreds of thousands of
them, remains the cruel prospect of a
costly and miserable life in Manila, away
from their families and with a slim or
tation for even lower wages, placement
fees (not allowed), payment delays, con-
tract substitution on board, early termi-
nation of contract, endless litigation on
compensation, age-limit restrictions,
blacklisting, unnecessary re-training
demands, etc. In ultimate analysis, a con-
tract on board is, for most of them, often
hanging on a thin thread of good luck,
good health, good records and good sub-
mission to a system at times less than
fair.
Meeting challenges head on
It is often heard in these days that the
maritime industry is moving fast to a
higher level of technological develop-
ments and there is a need to prepare sea-
farers for these new challenges.
The demand is to forge officers who
will stay longer on this profession with
the assistance of a thorough and continu-
ous training. On the other hand, the rat-
ings will need to be encouraged and
helped to look beyond the opportunis-
tic dollar-earning job for few years only
and instead to make of it a career possi-
bly also by rising on the ranks of offic-
ers themselves. In other words, the mari-
time industry is looking for stability in
employment, in capital investment and
in a reservoir of professional and dedi-
cated personnel to draw from. This vi-
sion intends to elevate the maritime
employment to a “career” for life and a
“love” for the sea.
Where are the Filipino Seafarers in
this vision? They still hold a prime posi-
tion for the foreseeable future, but some
improvements must take place.
I am happy to hear, sometimes softly
other times loudly, the mention of some
important factors for better employabil-
ity: commitment, dedication, responsi-
bility, trustworthiness, reliability, men
of character and high moral standards.
A seafarer must be a “solid” person in
considerations.
In the pre-departure seminars, value
formation should be an integral part of
the program together with practical
pointers on professional seamanship,
good relationships and team-ship with
company authorities and officers. A
“solid” character is built from within and
the output in performance reflects the
sound, clear and strong motivations of
the inner-self.
It is a wide perception that Filipinos
have the “ingredients” for it and that is
the reason why they have the winning
edge on employability. However, devel-
opment is needed just like in the field of
knowledge and professionalism. It is par-
ticularly the development of the camara-
derie spirit that comes to bridge all dif-
ferences in harmony and direct the atten-
tion of all toward a positive and dynamic
inclusion of each individual. The objec-
tive is a good level of sharing as a gift of
one to all and all to one on board as well
as in the social inclusion of all stakehold-
ers of a particular agency: directors, offic-
ers, ratings, and their families.
The Apostleship of the Sea has always
been committed to help develop the
human and Christian values on seafar-
ers. Perhaps it is only in the Philippines
that value programs have been con-
ducted through seminars and spiritual
retreats for maritime students, Christian
leadership courses, and communication
on values during the pre-departure in-
formation and family apostolate for the
families of seafarers. A wealth of op-
portunities are available therefore, and
the increasing number of Filipino sea-
farers in the international maritime sec-
tor—regardless of wage competition—
indicates that the effort is rewarded.
Highly professional Officers
In this field of employment, the inter-
national maritime transportation indus-
duce. Is the Philippines up to the chal-
lenge?
What appears to be clear are cer-
tain given factors.
Every maritime employer will
base his decision on the quality of the
crew, education and training as ma-
jor factor for employment. About 25
percent of ship owners are prepared
to pay good price for “good quality”
crew. These may also be willing to
support continuous training of their
crew. About 20 percent of ship own-
ers care less about “quality” and go
for “cheaper” crew. These are not pre-
pared to spend for re-training any
more than necessary.
The remaining 55 percent of ship
owners mix the two standards within
the regulatory and commercial pres-
sure. Cost of re-training could be
taken up for selective personnel.
Reputable companies are not will-
ing to sacrifice safety and standards
for a cheaper deal. However, they may
accept different standards of crew de-
pending on area of operation, flag of
registry, pressure from charterer, etc.
Generally, employers will not ig-
nore cost, but they constantly search
for officers (and crew) who offer the
“best value” for the price they pay.
The answer to the challenge for
more and better Officers remains in
the commitment to invest now and
wisely for the future by all concerned
parties: the principal, the agent, the
training center, the government and
the seafarer. All have a part to share
to establish a lasting partnership
which in time will be rewarded with
success.
Fr. Savino Bernardi, CS is a Scalabrini
priest ministering to seafarers as Direc-
tor and NSD Coordinator of the
Apostleship of the Sea (AOS)-Manila.

Peñafrancia / B5

ing tradition and darkening the
vision of faith and culture. Still,
from the foregoing, the Spirit calls
to the vision of faith: the Church
at the service of salvation in soci-
ety. The tradition resounds in a
cry: “Viva la Virgen!”—it is the
veneration of Mary, Our Lady of
Peña de Francia as the Queen of
Heaven and of Angels; she is the
hope for our union with God in
the restoration of all things to
Christ. The tradition becomes the
means to promote the vision. It
is through the renewal of the
devotee’s identity and vocation,
of the inter-relationships in the
Church, and of its service in soci-
ety. Some key activities can be
named without precluding other
ways and initiatives.
3.1. The renewal of the devotee’s
identity and vocation
In this aspect crucial is the for-
mation toward the development
of devotion and Christian matu-
rity, such as offered for Marian
spirituality in Our Lady of Peña
de Francia being the Queen of
Heaven and of Angels. Toward
this formation is the renewal of
the novena itself; it is still largely
allegorical and subjective in affec-
tion. Further, it means promoting
an education of faith especially
seen as a pedagogical process
from birth to finally a commun-
ion with God, as seen in the life of
Mary. That is, a continuity of in-
structions for children, youth and
adults and other circumstances,
such as for instance in the adapta-
tion of the rite of Christian initia-
tion. In particular, with the per-
formance of devotion still beset
by self-interested affections, com-
plicated yet by the breadth of his-
tory and distances, renewal means
a habituation of the heart. That is,
learning by the performance of
devotion in its prayers and acts,
e.g., processions, and no less of the
liturgy and the sacraments,
through training and practice es-
pecially in the home, in commu-
nities, school and the parish. This
renewal is a discipling of the devo-
tee, a formation of heart. Else what
would the eye see or the ear hear,
or enter into the human heart un-
less taught and trained for what
God has prepared for those who
love him?
The renewal of inter-relation-
ships in the Church
In this aspect significant is the
imaging of the Church as a sacra-
ment of unity. The devotion is
intimately oriented to salvation
made real through the Eucharist.
However, the immediately ob-
served inordinate conduct par-
ticularly at processions works
against the Church being seen an
effective instrument of unity.
Nonetheless, the same failing
points to the task of the Church:
to promote a moral vision among
the faithful. Immediately urgent
certainly is for devotees, espe-
cially the bogadores, to organize
themselves for the sake of order
in the procession and devotion.
They themselves at their best are
the “guardians of honor” for Our
Lady’s image. One way is to pre-
vent any defilement of Our Lady’s
image and her fineries. Another
is to gather in “stations of prayer”
to greet her and her Son with
signs of praise and thanksgiving;
for instance, flower-offerings,
lighting of candles, waving of
handkerchiefs, etc. particularly
during the processions.
Indeed, inculcating vision
among the faithful is to build them
up to care for Mary as she cares
for the Church. In building-up the
faithful together as groups or com-
munities in the Church, spiritual
guidance and direction, such as in
retreats and recollections, is vital.
In building-up the services of the
Church, pastoral direction is criti-
cal. For incorporating individu-
als into the Church, the liturgy
and preaching, and catechesis
have to be intensive; for improv-
ing the lives of people, social ac-
tion and mission have to be ex-
tensive. Facilities may get to be
improved and programs coordi-
nated, but there need not be the
“crossing of boundaries” to have
more activities. Rather, para-
mount is to build up the infrastruc-
ture of resources in the Church %
the priests and religious, lay el-
ders and workers, cooperators and
volunteers, and the new leaders
of the future after them, with the
local and global participation of
devotees. It is no longer far-
fetched to even set up centers for
the spiritual-pastoral care of devo-
tees abroad. Bishop Gainza none-
theless noted reluctance among
the cimarrones (montaraces) as well
as of the espanoles and sacerdotes to
render, among other things, ac-
counts of Our Lady’s action in
their lives. Preserving and trans-
mitting Our Lady’s interventions
will enable the Church to grow in
devotion. Indeed, after St. Tho-
mas, is it not that ceremonial pre-
cepts help to obtain justice in re-
lations among persons for them
to attain to the peace of God?
In the renewal of the Church’s
service in society
In this aspect, needed is the col-
laboration between the Church
and the state. Public officials and
personalities from social sectors
have been present at the festivi-
ties of Our Lady of Peña de
Francia. Their presence is a rep-
resentation by the people. People
giving public expression to their
religious faith, especially
through the processions across
the city, inaugurate a sacred time
or season and dedicate a sacred
space, a place of pilgrimage. The
city—together with it, the prov-
learning, values and cultural ge-
nius of a people; for example on
communication-technology as
well as in the regeneration of cul-
tural heritage, etc. Strategic initia-
tives are far more lasting on ecol-
ogy and livelihood security and
sustainability, etc. In sum, recom-
mendations negative and positive
are to raise the capacities of people
for their faith to bear fruit in qual-
ity of life. The efforts – by the
Church and the State together –
are a solidarity of charity espe-
cially for the most vulnerable. In
the faith attaining to a quality of
life, is this not the healthy attitude
towards possessions that assures
life, security and liberty? In rais-
ing the capacities of people, is this
not for their aspiration to equal-
ity, freedom and dignity under
God that democracy is all about?
A concluding prayer
These reflections and recom-
mendations are to promote ven-
eration of Our Lady of Peña de
Francia. The observance of its
devotion and tradition is nar-
rated by the novena and the ritual
action of processions and other
acts. They are oriented to and
completed by the memory of
Jesus’ redemption perpetuated
principally at Mass, in the Eucha-

CBCPMonitor Name _________________________________________________

(Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name)
ince and the entire region—is re-
minded by Mary’s assumption
that it is also on pilgrimage.
As in a place of pilgrimage,
rist, to assure our salvation. Thus,
the true mark of Our Lady’s devo-
tee is the prayer and service for
the good of the other in the care
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 CBCP Monitor
B8 Entertainment Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

Moral Technical
Assessment Assessment
Abhorrent Poor
Disturbing Below average
Acceptable Average
Wholesome Above average
Exemplary Excellent

CLONE Wars takes place in be-
tween Episode 2: Attack of the
Clones and Episode 3 Revenge
of the Sith. The movie opens
with the Republic clone troop-
ers led by Jedi generals Anakin
(Matt Lanter) and Obi-wan
(James Arnold Taylor) fighting
the droid army. Complicating
matters is Master Yoda’s decision
to assign a PADIWAN (appren-
tice), Ahsoka Tano (Ashley
Ekstein) to serve under Anakin.
They are quickly assigned to res-
cue Jabba’s kidnapped son so
they can form an alliance with
the Hutts as latter control a safe
trade passage crucial for win-
ning the galactic war. Unknown
to them, the kidnap is staged by
Sith Count Dooko (Christopher
Lee) and his apprentice Asaji
Ventress (Nika Futterman) to
discredit the Jedis and win the
Hutt’s support. Much of the film
follows Anakin and Ahsoko’s
attempt to rescue the baby Hutlet
and forge a treaty with Jabba.
The movie is presented with
good stylish animations and en-
joyable CGI’s, although the char-
acters feel stiff and look like the
miniature dolls sold as mer-
chandising. The sceneries are al-
most breathtaking and action is
dynamic enough to keep the au-
dience glued for an hour and a
half. This animated version has
plenty of moments with some
cute and funny punch lines
thrown here and there in be-
tween incredible action se-
quences. Unfortunately there is
nothing new presented for a
storyline save for more schem-
ing of the Sith against the Repub-
lic, more explosions and special
effects. While the editing is
witty, engaging and thrilling
and helps to keep the flow
smooth and understandable even
for non-Star Wars fans. How-
ever, the musical scoring falls a
little short to support the se-
quences but since this is an ani-
mated version one can let this
cheesiness pass.
What does it mean to be a good
leader? The film makes several
points on the teacher-student /
master-apprentice relationship.
First, the importance of listening
which should be a two-way deal.
Students need to listen to the wis-
dom of their teachers while
teachers in turn need to be at-
tuned to the creativity and fresh-
ness of their students’ opinion.
Second, respect is earned by
“walking the talk”. Anakin could
have never gained Ashoko’s trust
and loyalty if he had not shown
courage and dedication to do
what is right. Likewise, Ashoko’s
perseverance and loyalty not
only won Anakin’s respect but
Title: Star Wars – The Clone
Wars
Cast: (VOICE) Matt Lanter,
Ashley Eckstein, Dee
Bradley Baker, Tom Kane,
Nika Futterman, Ian
Abercrombie, Corey Burton,
Catherine Taber, Matthew
Wood
Director: Dave Filoni
Producers: Catherine Winder,
George Lucas
Screenwriters: Henry Gilroy,
Steve Melching, Scott
Murphy
Music: Kevin Kiner
Editor: Jason Tucker
Genre: Animated Science
Fiction
Distributor: Warner Bros.
Pictures
Location: USA, Singapore
Running Time: 98 min.
Technical Assessment:
½
Moral Assessment: ½
CINEMA Rating: For viewers
age 13 and below with
parental guidance
also his fondness and protection
of his teenage apprentice.
The movie is safe and decent
with numerous violent se-
quences, though non-graphic,
given the premise of war and ac-
tion animation. Parents are cau-
tioned to guide their very young
children when watching the film.

MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi

SI PIA (KC Concepcion) ay isang real

estate executive sa kompanya ng
kanyang Daddy (Philip Salvador).
Title: For the First Time
Cast: KC Concepcion, Richard
Gutierrez, Nor Domingo, Jake
Cuenca, Carla Humphries,
Buhay Parokya Look for the three missing items: Crucifix
image, Marian image and Last Supper im-
age. (Illustration by Bladimer Usi)

Hirap si Pia na patunayan ang sarili

sa kanyang ama at matindi ang pres-
sure na binibigay sa kanya nito. Sa
gitna ng pagkaabala sa trabaho,
itinuloy ni Pia ang bakasyon sa
Santorini, Greece upang makapag-
isip-isip kung dapat pa niyang
ituloy ang pagtatrabaho sa ama. Sa
di inaasahang pagkakataon ay
magku-krus ang landas nila ni Seth
(Richard Gutierrez), ang mayamang
playboy na naging ex-boyfriend ng
kanyang mga kaibigan kung kaya’t
matindi ang pagkainis niya rito.
Pero dahil si Seth ang may-ari ng
kanyang tinutuluyang hotel sa
Santorini, napilitan siyang paki-
samahan ito. Isinumpa ni Pia sa
kanyang sarili na hindi siya
pwedeng main-love kay Seth dahil
bukod sa ito ay certified babaero,
hindi si Seth ang tipo ng lalaking
magugustuhan ng kanyang Daddy
para sa kanya. Pero sa pagdaan ng
mga araw sa Santorini, sa gitna ng
romantikong lugar, ay tila
magbabago ang ihip ng hangin sa
dalawa. Si Pia na kaya ang huling
babae sa ni Seth. Mapanindigan kaya
ni Pia and sumpa sa sarili?
Isang karaniwang kuwentong
pag-ibig ang For the First Time na
inilagay lamang sa ibang lugar.
Matagumpay ang pelikula sa
pagdadala sa manonood sa matu-
laing lugar ng Santorini, Greece.
Napakaganda ng tanawin na tila
nanaisin ng sinumang makaka-
panood ng pelikula ang puntahan
ang lugar na ito. Pasado ang pag-
arte ni KC Concepcion kahit pa ito
ang una niyang pelikula at hindi
maitatangging napaka-ganda ng
kanyang rehistro sa kamera.
Si Richard Gutierrez ay wala
namang bagong ipinakita. Hindi
gaanong ramdam ang kilig sa
dalawa at tila mababaw ang
kuwento sa kabuuan. Masyadong
mataas ang antas ng pamumuhay ng
mga karakter sa pelikula na hindi
arok ng masa. Ito ang klase ng buhay
na papangarapin lamang ngunit
hindi ang lahat ay mabibigyan ng
pagkakataong maranasan.
Labas tuloy ay isang artipisyal na
daigdig ang ipinakita ng pelikula
at malayo sa katotohanan. Hindi rin
gaanong nakakadala ang daloy ng
emosyon ng mga tauhan. Salamat
Denise Laurel, Candy
Pangilinan, Beatriz Saw
Director: Joyce E. Bernal
Producer: Malou N. Santos
Screenwriter: Vanessa Valdez
Editor: Marya Ignacio
Genre: Romance/ Drama
Cinematography: Shayne
Clemente
Distributor: ABS-CBN Film
Productions
Location: Manila
Running Time: 110 minutes
Technical Assessment:
Moral Assessment:
CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14
and above
na lamang sa ilang epektibong
patawa ni Candy Pangilinan at
nagkaroon kahit paano ng buhay
ang pelikula.
Makapangyarihan ang tunay na
pag-ibig lalo pa’t wagas and
hangarin nitong alalahanin ang
kapakanan ng minamahal. Ito ang
nais sabihin ng For the First Time
sa kabuuan. Pero sa likod Pero sa
likod ng mensaheng ito ay
makikita ang mga karakter na
bulagsak sa salapi, walang paki-
alam sa paligid at sadyang
napakadali ng buhay. Bagay na
hindi magandang halimbawa sa
sinumang kabataang makakanood.
Hindi malinaw ang naging pagba-
bago ng karakter ni Seth.
Sadyang nakakailang at mahirap
paniwa-laan ang paghingi niya ng
tawad sa lahat ng babaeng kanyang
nasaktan. Pawang peke ang dating
nito. Si Pia naman ay pina-patu-
nayang pilit ang sarili sa ama
gayong malinaw na hindi buo ang
kanyang loob na kontrolin ang
kanyang emosyon.
Talaga bang hindi na uso ang pag-
akyat ng ligaw sa mga kabataan at
ang pakikipag-relasyon ba’y
talagang palihim na sa mga
magulang? Nakakabahala ang
ganitong umuusbong na kultura.
Hindi gaanong napalalim ng
pelikula ang maraming dahilan ng
paghi-hiwalay ng mga relasyon at
pagkawasak ng pamilya. Pawang
ang mga ito ay normal lamang at
karapat-dapat na tanggapin bilang
bahagi ng buhay-pamilya.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
Clergy and Laity –
A holy partnership
Archbishop Ramon Arguelles celebrated the Mass at the end of the Clergy-Lay Congress. Co-celebrants were (from left)
Bishop Patricio Alo, Bishop Antonio Tobias and Bishop Denis Wiehe of Seychelles.
By Ernie Maipid, Jr.
MORE than 400 Couples for Christ lead-
ers and more than 110 members of the
clergy, including five bishops, met just a
day before the 27th CFC anniversary to
discuss the ways by which there could be
greater coordination and cooperation
between CFC and the clergy in all the
parishes of the country.
The workshops were very fruitful and
focused on determining both the
strengths and weaknesses in the exist-
ing relationship between CFC and the
clergy. The activity started from the
premise that CFC abides by its vision
which states: “Moved by the Holy
Spirit, one with the Catholic Church,
blessed to witness to Christ’s love and
service, Couples for Christ is a united
global community of family evangeliz-
ers that sets the world on fire with the
fullness of God’s transforming love.”
Being one with the Church, CFC
bears a deep respect for the office of the
clergy (both priests and religious) and
beyond them, the Church hierarchy,
starting with the bishops.
The Gift of the Clergy to CFC:
The following positive points about
the relations between the clergy and
CFC were brought out during the
workshop discussions:
1) “The clergy bring the gift of the
Holy Eucharist, the Source of
strength for our families.”
2) “The clergy allow families to live
out the Gospel through homilies
and counsel.”
3) “The clergy strengthen our rela-
tionship with Mama Mary; they
provide deep foundation in
Church teachings.”
4) “The clergy serve as admirable ex-
ample of how to give self fully to
God.”
5) “The clergy help guide the pasto-
ral formation of CFC through the
mission of building the Church.”
CFC leaders described their parish
priests in a variety of positive traits:
1) Intelligent, bearing a wealth of
theological knowledge
2) Accessible, approachable, avail-
able and accommodating.
3) Humble, committed, inspiring and
supportive of the work of CFC in
the parish, particularly CFC’s
strong programs for the youth and
the poor.
4) Cognizant of the gift that the
movement brings to the Church,
which posture enables them to
give effective spiritual direction to
the group.
The clergy and religious are a defi-
nite blessing to the laity, as examples of
lives given entirely to the Lord, dedi-
cated to poverty, chastity and obedi-
ence, wholly focused on God and de-
tached from all worldly lures, attuned
to the Spirit and apart from the flesh.
The Gift of CFC to the Clergy
The laity have a responsibility to stand
up for God and witness to His Word while
living and working in the world. Just as
the clergy focus on prayer, the
sacramentals and a life witnessing to to-
tal submission, lay people likewise fight
in defense of life, truth, justice, unity and
love within the temporal setting.
The bishops and priests who attended
the congress spoke of CFC as:
1) their true companions in mission,
citing their exceptional missionary
spirit and their determination to
go to remote places that even the
clergy dare not go.
2) representing the fullness of Catho-
lic spirituality with their active
parish involvement, their aware-
ness of moral issues, their commit-
ted responsibility for the poor,
their family formation and their
womb-to-tomb evangelization.
3) as God’s instrument for bringing
people back to the Church. “They
ease my work as a priest” said one
clergy Congress participant. “CFC
takes time for parish involvement.
Their dedication and commitment
flow from a personal conversion.
Theirs is zeal, energy, warmth and
presence. They are generous in
sharing time, talent and treasure.”
4) eager to help infuse a truly alive
Church spirit through their being
pastors, showing professionalism
in undertaking the apostolate, help-
ing families and showing endur-
ance in mission. As another priest
put it. “CFC best exemplify the
characteristics of a
basic ecclesial
community.”
5) generous in
helping meet par-
ish financial con-
cerns. In the words
of one parish
priest: “They also
show example of
financial generos-
ity to Church con-
cerns by their ac-
tive practice of tith-
ing.”
Clergy – Laity
Unity
The workshop
discussions high-
lighted the follow-
ing themes in the
area of unity and
cooperation:
1) Role as Church
Both clergy and religious and the la-
ity form Church. One without the other
is an incomplete definition of Church.
Both clergy and religious and the lay
need a common reading of the Spirit’s
movements in these times and what
roles they play in response to these
leadings and challenges.
2) Building Relationships
As a result of this common understand-
ing of the Spirit’s directions for Church
today, the clergy and religious, as well
as the laity are called to forge closer ties
and build strong relationships. The
clergy needs the lay people to complete
the work that they are praying for and
offering sacramentals for. The laity like-
wise needs the clergy to provide the spiri-
tual anchor for their dynamic and pas-
sionate involvement in the world. With-
out this dedicated outpouring from the
clergy, the heart of lay action will be
dead.
3) Communications
Key to a fruitful relationship is good
communication. Both need to make
known to the other what leadings the
Spirit may be prompting them to and
how they are poised to respond. Lay
The spirit that moved a pilgrim –
my days down under
By Clarke S. Nebrao
I COULD not imagine how God will
bring me to experience the fullness
of his plans for our community until
he brought me to the great land down
under, Australia. Three full weeks of
faith experiences and of a spiritual
journey with people from the com-
munity and the larger church defined
my mission on being a pilgrim
moved by the Spirit to witness His
immense love in my life and the
Couples for Christ community that I
love.
World Youth Day-Sydney Style
The World Youth Day in Sydney
was one great faith experience. It re-
minded everyone of the “New Pente-
cost” in the Church abiding in love
and spirit of unity under one amaz-
ing God. The opening statement of
His Eminence George Cardinal Pell,
Archbishop of Sydney, set the tone
for the activity. He said, “Christ is
calling you home - to love, healing
and community. If you take God’s
hand, He will do the rest. Trust is the
people need to know what the clergy
are thinking and planning, what brings
them to their decisions, what rational-
izations and justifications, inspirations
and encouragements they receive. On
the other hand, the laity likewise needs
to make known their visions and re-
sponses to the clergy for their good ap-
preciation and understanding.
4) Family Witness
A parish brings families together.
Family is the unit of society established
by God where father, mother and chil-
dren work in unity to promote home life,
and form the anchor for future genera-
tions. It is the aim of Church in general
to promote the Christian family and en-
sure their alignment with God’s plan. This
is the mission which Couples for Christ,
as a Christian movement, has adhered to
for the last 27 years. Through their liv-
ing witness of Christian family life, CFC
helps parish priests perform the goals and
programs they set for families in the par-
ish and to make basic ecclesial communi-
ties a reality. BECs start with families
practicing Christian beliefs and aligning
themselves to God’s call to unity and love.
This is exactly what CFC is propagating.
There is no need for acknowledgement
and recognition. This is God’s command
for His work “to bring all of creation to
unity under Christ.’
5) Parish Formation
As an organized movement, CFC
implements a pastoral formation pro-
gram on which is anchored the spiri-
tual training of its close to a million
members. In the greater interest of
Christian witness, CFC can share their
basic formation program with people
from the parish seeking nourishment in
their Christian faith walk.
This may include our Foundations of
Christian Living series, which can actu-
ally stir up in these individuals the need
for the support of a Christian commu-
nity.
The Pre-Cana talk series adapted in
the parishes have likewise been stepping
stones for young couples to be evange-
lized into seeking out a Christian com-
munity so they can live out the married
life according to the Christian principles
of unity, love and service.
key. God will not fail us.”
The presence of our beloved Pope
Benedict XVI was electric. His wisdom
was deep and His love for the Father
showed in every word he addressed to
the young. He challenged all of us to
reflect on what kind of world we are
handing on to the future generations. He
repeatedly stressed that we need to sur-
render our lives to Christ and be em-
powered by the Holy
Spirit so we could coura-
geously face the difficul-
ties and challenges of this
world.
Ministries and GK on the
move
CFC Youth for Christ
and CFC Singles for Christ
members in Sydney gave
everything they had to
give – their time, talents
and their hearts — during
the youth festivities that
they spearheaded. These
included not just the World
Youth Day activities but
also the preparations for
the SFC Oceania Leaders
C1
6) Parish Mobilization
The pastor may influence the active in-
volvement of their parishioners in the
Church activities, liturgical celebrations,
community outreaches and general par-
ish directions. CFC may be tasked to ini-
tiate parish involvement that may not ne-
cessitate the parishioners’ opting to join
CFC, but which may just be purely in-
spired or encouraged. It will also be well
for CFC to have to work with non-CFC
groups, especially the parish religious
associations, and other ecclesial groups
and movements in the interest of achiev-
ing Christian unity in the parish.
7) The Church of the Future
It is important for the Church of this
generation to prepare the groundwork
for the Church of the Future. The Spirit
leads us to two mission stops: the
youth and the poor. The youth of to-
day need to hear God’s call for them to
know Him, to love Him, and to serve
Him. The poor, who are bereft of many
of life’s present opportunities, also cling
to God for hope. Every parish needs to
bring their youth and their poor closer
to God in their work of establishing the
base for tomorrow’s Church. It is in-
cumbent on those who have resources
in the parish to lift up the lowly. The
youth and the poor are especially loved
by God. It is our common mission, as
Church, to bring Christ to them.
What began in the Congress this year
— the laity sitting with the clergy to
dialogue — is expected to spark greater
fruitfulness for the active engagement
of Church in the challenges that beset
our world today.
Note: The above are the outputs from
the Bishops-Clergy-Lay Congress held on
June 20, 2008 at the Valle Verde Country
Club. The talks delivered by the bishops
and the leaders of CFC were so inspiring
and the discussions at the workshop so ani-
mated that many bishops sounded the call
for similar congresses in other areas of the
Philippines.
In response to this call, CFC is scheduling
a Bishop-Clergy-Lay Congress in the major
island groupings of Luzon, Visayas and
Mindanao. The first of these echo congresses
is scheduled for November in Tarlac.
Conference and the Youth for Christ
Global Leaders Forum.
Two of our Gawad Kalinga benefi-
ciaries, who had the good fortune to
be pilgrim delegates for the World
Youth Day, were privileged to be with
the group that went with the Pope
during His “Boat-a-cade” around the
The spirit / C4
 C2
WITH the euphoria of our 27th
anniversary, we need to build on the
blessings and move with the
momentum!
“Build on the blessings.” The first half
of this year was indeed full of blessings
- the overflow conferences, the
groundswell of support for our One Time
Big Time campaign that resulted in our
debt-free status, and the expansion of our
evangelization work to areas we have
never before explored (such as the OFW
programs and the informal settlers from
the railroad tracks).
Many of the clergy have expressed
their support for our community and our
work, clear indication that as long as we
simply “move with the momentum” and
allow the Spirit to work through us and
in us, we shall be known,“by our fruits,”
as a people who follow His ways.
Archbishop Roberto Rivas of the
Caribbean, during the recently-
concluded CFC Caribbean conference,
announced to the huge crowd gathered
that he and the clergy in his diocese stand
squarely behind CFC and its
International Council. Bishop Paul
Hinder of Saudi Arabia expressed his
appreciation to CFC and the IC for being
the clergy’s companions in mission.
Closer to home, many bishops have
expressed the same sentiments.
Joe Yamamoto, Philippine Missions Director, International Council Member
Starfishes and pebbles in
building God’s kingdom
IT is always fascinating to think how
each one of us was called into a life in
the Community and how each one of us
uniquely contributes to the whole. It is
said that the whole is the sum of its parts.
Many times though, it is not by giant
strides or earth shaking events that shape
the work particularly of helping build
God’s Kingdom while in this life.
One Sunday as I reread the story of
the Starfish Thrower, I could not help
but be impressed with the reality that in
our life our determined efforts make a
difference in the life of people, one person
at a time. For those who are not familiar
with the story, it goes this way:
“Once upon a time there was a wise
man who used to go to the ocean to do
his writing. He had a habit of walking
on the beach before he began his work.
One day, as he was walking along the
shore, he looked down the beach and
saw a human figure moving like a
dancer. He smiled to himself at the
thought of someone who would dance
to the day, and so, he walked faster to
catch up.
As he got closer, he noticed that the
figure was that of a young man, and that
what he was doing was not dancing at
all. The young man was reaching to the
shore, picking up small objects, and
throwing them into the ocean.
He came closer still and called out
‘Good morning! May I ask what it is that
you are doing?’ The young man paused,
looked up and replied, ‘Throwing
starfish into the ocean.’
“Why are you throwing starfish into
the ocean?” asked the somewhat startled
wise man. To this, the young man replied,
‘The sun is up and the tide is going out. If
I don’t throw them in, they’ll die.’
Upon hearing this, the wise man
commented, “But, young man, do you
not realize that there are miles and miles
of beach and there are starfish all along
every mile? You can’t possibly make a
difference!’
At this, the young man bent down and
picked up yet another starfish, and threw
it into the ocean. As it met the water, he
said, “It made a difference for that one.’
(adopted from the Star Thrower, by Loren
Eiseley)
The story makes you think: Should
one be intimidated by the seeming
futility of tackling the insurmountable
problems in life or should he
courageously choose to take the high
ground of taking on the realities of life
and his own world and doing something
about the problems that go with it? One
should not miss the opportunity of
making a difference by acting on his
Joe Tale, CFC Executive Director
Our faithful God
The leaders conferences in
various parts of the world
enhance our global perspective
as a community dedicated to
bringing God’s message to all
the parts of the world. The most
recent conferences in Miami,
Florida for the North American
region and in St. Lucia for the Caribbean
region exuded the spirit of a new
springtime in CFC and the joy, hope and
love that the Philippine conferences
manifested.
With all of these blessings, the Lord
simply showed us His faithfulness.
What then is our proper response? I
believe that the message “Build on the
blessings, move with the momentum!”
is the response we need to give. The
Lord is asking us not to rest on our
laurels, He is telling us not to be
complacent. He is asking us to build on
these blessings and to use them to gain
more blessings for the people He has
given us to nurture and pastor, most
especially the poor.
God has been so faithful to us, both in
our individual spiritual lives and in our
community life. In our regular
assemblies, both in the small chapter
groups and in the larger gatherings, we
have heard stories upon stories of
personal blessings. We have heard
wonderful testimonies of sicknesses
healed, jobs secured against all odds,
relationships mended, heart’s desires
achieved. These are real miracles.
Underlying all of these is our
faithfulness. What forms should our
faithfulness to our God take? There are
two simple ways, ways which from our
chosen option.
In another light, picture a builder who
sets aside a few pebbles at a time, and by
recruiting other committed builders,
patiently piles more pebbles that become
mounds of pebbles. The accumulated
pebbles can then be mixed with other
building materials and made into bricks;
bricks that will become the foundation
of castles and homes and kingdoms!
For us Christians, evangelization
means inviting and journeying with one
person at a time to become a disciple of
Christ. And as we bring more people to
God, they become disciples ultimately
belonging to a discipled nation.
Everything starts with one determined
step to follow the Lord.
There is another inspiring story, this
time about a physically handicapped
person who proved that, with dedication
and determination, one can do almost
anything. Don Bennett was the first
amputee to reach the summit of Mount
Rainier in North America, one of the
highest and most difficult to scale even
on two legs. He did not succeed at the
first attempt and had to plan on taking
the climb several times. Finally when
he did it, he was asked how he achieved
the climb of 14,410 feet on one leg and
two crutches. He replied: “ONE HOP AT
A TIME.” He also said that when the
going got roughest, when he was near
total exhaustion, he looked at the path
ahead and said to himself, “you just need
to take one more step, and anybody can
do that.” And he did.
The leaders in CFC, like leaders
everywhere, face a similar challenge in
trying to accomplish the extraordinary:
the mountain looks too steep and too
high to even think about climbing it.
Getting ourselves and others to change
former mindsets and habits and replace
them with new ones is indeed very
daunting. In our CFC experience as well
as based on observations of leaders and
members over time, the most effective
change processes are incremental; big
problems and concerns are broken down
into small, doable steps. Then a person
gets to say yes to the process not once
but numerous times.
In CFC, the very first habits and
commitment that were inculcated among
the members were our daily prayer time
and Scripture readings. And corollary to
this expectation of change in our lives,
the household heads were expected to
actively follow up the progress of their
members by asking during their ‘one on
ones’ – “How is your prayer time?” and
“How is your Scripture reading?” The
monitoring and follow up process is
Ugnayan
early days in community have been
impressed upon us as requisites for a
faithful life - our prayer time and our
Scripture reading, our “speaking to
God” and our “listening to God.”
Speaking to God is easy. We all do
this many times during the day, and
most especially when we need
something. I am reminded of the movie
“Bruce Almighty” where God allows a
mere mortal (Jim Carey) to experience
being God for a day and to listen to the
pleas of all the people of the world. The
mere man is of course overwhelmed at
the continuous avalanche of prayers and
petitions for temporal needs.
Man, by nature, raises up his concerns
to a higher being. What may not come
as naturally is to LISTEN!
In the midst of the noise of the world
around us, the cacophony of sounds and
events, we should, as Bishop Leonardo
Medroso advised during CFC Bohol’s
16th anniversary recently, LISTEN TO
GOD. But precisely because of the noise,
we should always insure that it is indeed
God whom we are listening to.
The prophet Elijah showed us how to
listen. In 1 Kings 19, it is said that Elijah
fled from those who meant to kill him
and all throughout his journey, he was
protected by angels who provided not
just protection but food, water and sound
advice. After walking for forty days and
forty nights, he came upon Horeb, the
mountain of God, and there he hid in a
cave. When he was sent a message to
stand on the mountain and wait for the
Lord who would be passing by, he did
as instructed.
“A strong and heavy wind was rending
consistently successful and has been
effective in ensuring that members
experience change and transformation
in their spiritual lives.
Only a little later was the element of
financial stewardship and ‘tithing’ injected.
Despite the set of teachings that have been
used for the last two and a half decades,
the financial support record of the
members leaves much to be desired. In
reality, there are forms of financial support
given by members to other members that
remain largely uncounted or
undocumented and yet definitely exist:
‘pass the hat’ for sick members, victims of
calamities, those who suffer from
economic displacements, and even
conference subsidies given by other
members for poorer brethren. The
preceding examples fall into the category
of resource sharing that is familiar to every
CFC member.
How then do we encourage the
majority (about 75 to 80 percent of general
membership) who are not regular ‘givers’
to contribute regularly? How do we
inspire them to take on the responsibility
of helping the community’s finances?
How do we inspire and motivate
everyone to “make a difference?”
How do we make them stakeholders
to and active supporters of the life and
mission of CFC?
Here, the “Prayer Bank” concept can
be considered as a doable reinforcement
to the expected belief and habit changes
among CFC members. Simply stated,
after his or her prayer time, the member
sets aside a coin (a one peso coin may be
a suitable starting point) and puts it into
a clear plastic bottle that serves as his
‘prayer bank.’ He tracks his daily prayer
time with this simple and easy step.
In emphasizing the power of simple
steps, Cardinal Rosales said: “Ano mang
bagay maski maliit, basta’t malimit ay
patungong langit” (Anything, even if
small, if done frequently can lead to
heaven.) Small things repeatedly done
have a way of changing habits and belief
systems. Or as the saintly Mother Teresa
once said: “…not great things but small
things done with much love.”
The whole idea of the ‘Prayer Bank’
revolves around the process of
reinforcement of the desired growth in
the area of prayer habit while being
careful not to equate prayer with finance
building. The ‘prayer bank’ concept
should be looked upon as an offering to
God and considered a measure of
faithfulness to prayer time and scripture
readings. Setting aside the coin is simply
a visible measure of a required and
desired daily activity. Growth in prayer
Joe and Babylou Tale wuth Archbishop Roberto Rivas of the Caribbean
the mountains and crushing rocks before the
Lord - but the Lord was not in the wind.
After the wind there was an earthquake - but
the Lord was not in the earthquake. After
the earthquake there was fire - but the Lord
was not in the fire. After the fire there was a
tiny whispering sound. When he heard this,
Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and
stood at the entrance of the cave. A voice said
to him, ‘Elijah, why are you here?’” 1 Kings
19:11-13
God was not in the noisy
manifestations of wind, earthquake and
fire. He was in the “tiny whispering
sound.” He was in the midst of peace
and calm. And perhaps, that is why we
often do not hear Him because we get so
life and scripture reading is the primary
intent; the financial offshoot is secondary.
A few years back, Bulacan struggled
with their tithing and contribution. After
much prayer, discussion and
discernment with the other leaders, the
Bulacan area head gathered the MCG one
teaching night and passed around plastic
bottles of mineral water free to all the
attendees. After everyone had taken his
fill of the cold refreshing water, they
were asked by the area head to save the
empty bottles and start saving a peso a
day beginning the next day. He then
encouraged and exhorted the leaders to
cascade the idea to their household
members.
In a month’s time, tithing and
contribution doubled and in a few more
months, their finances quadrupled! It all
started with an inspiration to take simple
daily steps.
The ‘Prayer bank’ is similar and yet
different, because one connects it to his
daily prayer time and scripture reading.
It refines habits that are integral to the
identity and covenant of a CFC member.
How do we grow from here?
I recommend the following steps:
1. Persevere in our evangelization – like
the starfish thrower, a starfish at a
time; one person at a time invited to
the CLP and each starfish thrower (the
CFC reader) committing to serve in
the CLP
2. Be a kingdom builder! Lay a brick at a
time (tithe), then set aside a pebble at
a time (prayer bank). Remind yourself
and everybody else that the
contribution is not a substitute for
tithes. To one who tithes, it is simple
to add flavor to his daily prayer life
with the ‘prayer bank.’ The ‘prayer
bank’ should be a big help to those
who do not yet contribute and should
lead them to the practice of tithing.
Do not look on this as a dilemma of
Tithe ‘OR’ Contribution but as a good
example of the bountiful blessing of the
‘AND.’ My Tithe AND my Prayer Bank !!
No one should be too rich not to resort
to a ‘prayer bank’ nor too poor to begin
to help.
3. Deepen your spiritual life – against
all odds and difficulties. One Hop at a
Time!! Taking the ‘hop at a time’
attitude develops confidence and
strengthens competence in achieving
the call to be ‘families in the Holy
Spirit renewing the face of the earth.’
Two Scriptural readings are
appropriate models for this process of
changing our paradigm from reluctant
giver to joyful sharer of God’s blessings.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
absorbed in the hustle and bustle of the
world around us.
But should we simply listen? Should
our listening be passive? Do we stop at
simply hearing the voice of God? I
would think not.
God is asking us to LISTEN and then
to ACT. And what we act upon should
resonate from what we hear. The Word
of God must move us to do what is asked
of us.
This is not an easy task because we all
find the comfort of where we are situated
too difficult to leave. But God is always
a faithful God. As long as we listen, He
will always lead us to the right way. And
that is the real blessing.
The multiplication of the loaves and
fishes
We all know this story. The multitude
of 5,000 (not counting the women and
children) has been rapt in attention at
Jesus’ preaching. Jesus notices that it is
approaching evening and the people have
not eaten. Instructing his disciples to feed
the crowd, he is met with the very
negative “But we have nothing here.
Send them away.” Jesus’ response? “Why
not feed them yourselves?’ to which the
disciples counter: “We only have five
loaves and two fish.” Undaunted, Jesus
lifts up the meager provisions to heaven,
says a prayer and instructs his men to
begin distributing the food. Lo and
behold! When everyone had eaten, and
they gathered up the leftovers, they were
able to fill 12 baskets!
It is noteworthy that this is the only
miracle recorded in all four gospels. It
must have created quite a stir in those
days, such that all four evangelists record
almost identical details of the event – the
number of people pegged at 5,000; the
five loaves and two fish; the 12 baskets of
leftovers; the act of Jesus of raising the
provisions and praying to the Father.
What is significant in this account is
that the miracle occurs only AFTER Jesus
has offered it up as a sacrifice to the
Father. This is what is also asked of us.
Our peso may be small but, if lifted up
as an offering for the greater good, will
multiply and benefit an even greater
multitude than Jesus fed.
The widow’s mite
Was the widow foolhardy to part with
her last money? Or was she so trusting of
the Lord’s goodness and mercy that she put
her life on the line, so to speak? Some
commentaries have suggested that the story
of the widow’s mite was actually a parable,
and that Jesus meant to simply call attention
to the state of our heart whenever we give.
Whatever the purpose of the
evangelists, the story does evoke in us
the same desire to be pure of heart
whenever we go and offer our
contributions for the Lord’s work. It also
assures us that no matter how small our
offering (remember that those who
offered at the same time as the widow
did were presumably wealthy and gave
so much more) the Lord will accept it
and allow it to multiply for the
furtherance of His kingdom.
I end with a prayer for each one of us to
understand that growth in spiritual life
and the passion for evangelization begin
by faithfully taking incremental steps.
Conversion occurs by stages and the last
of these is the ‘conversion of the wallet.’
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008 Ugnayan C3

Mary in times A bishop speaks about CFC

BISHOP Paul Hinder was born in Switzerland. He was appointed Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Arabia
in 2005. His vicariate includes 2 million Catholics across the entire Arabian Peninsula. In this interview, the

of distress
bishop speaks of the role of CFC in his vision for his flock in the region.

What is your vision for the Church in the Middle East?

My vision or my wish is to give proper care to all Catholics in the whole of the Peninsula. But
that is right now not a given because of the particular situations we have in the different countries,
especially in the countries where we don’t have many Catholics, and also for a few Catholics in
Saudi Arabia. That is my hope and I’m working on it step by step but it will take time. Maybe we
will never get to the ideal situation but we have to work with what we have.
Of course, I wish we can have more space where the brethren can worship all throughout the
peninsula. I would also like to achieve better coordination among lay people and movements in
our Vicariate.

How do you think CFC can support you in this vision?

By Arnel Santos
A MARIAN Recollection with the theme, “Mary In
Times of Distress” was conducted by Couples for
Christ on August 19, 2008 at Xavier Gymnasium,
San Juan, Metro Manila. The event was attended
by the Mission Core Group of CFC, with Rev. Fr.
Melvin Castro as guest speaker. Fr. Melvin is the
Executive Secretary of the Episcopal Commission
on Family and Life.
Fr. Melvin explained that “the world is yearn-
ing for the triumph of God” and Mary has been
the instrument for this triumph of Christ.
Thus, in Guadalupe (1531), at the time when the
Aztecs were offering the lives of children as sacrifice
to false gods, Mary made an apparition as a woman
wearing black ribbon and overshadowing the sun.
For the Aztecs, the black ribbon meant preg-
nancy, while the sun was the greatest of their
gods. Mary’s apparition became a source of con-
version. The Aztecs realized that the womb is sa-
cred and Mary is more powerful than the sun.
According to Fr. Melvin, the message of Our
Lady of Guadalupe is very relevant today, espe-
cially in the discussion on reproductive health.
“This issue is beyond condoms,” but a battle be-
tween the Woman and the Serpent. We are in a
spiritual warfare and “we are strong in our posi-
tion because we see the bigger picture.”
In Rue de Bac (1830), Mary introduced herself as
the “tender mother”. She has shown that she assumed
to heaven, body and soul, because she did not sin.
On our last days, Fr. Melvin said, we shall rise
again- body and soul, our body at its age when it
was most beautiful, citing St. Thomas Aquinas.
For us, this should mean that we must take care of
our bodies. “Our bodies are God’s” such that “even
within marriage, we are called to chastity.” There
should be no place for contraceptives in our marriages.
In Lourdes (1858), Mary appeared as the “Im-
maculate Mother” to Bernadette who was a poor
and uneducated 16-year old lass. This evokes for
CFC a lesson, especially in its work with the poor
through Gawad Kalinga.
Fr. Melvin noted the Gawad Kalinga slogan, “The
Best for the Least” and said that we can only say “the
best for the least” because the work “is for the Lord.”
In Fatima (1917), Mary appeared as the Mother
of Peace, five (5) days after Pope Benedict XV
wrote a letter addressed to the world, praying
“Lord, give us peace.” Mary’s apparition showed
that God answers the prayers of His Church.
In Lipa (1948), three years after World War II,
Mary appeared as the Interceding Mother, Our
Lady - Mediatrix of all Graces.
Before Mary’s apparition in Lipa, it was the
demon who first appeared. This illustrated that
we indeed are in spiritual warfare. It was also a
reminder for us not to allow the devil to gain the
upper hand. To ensure our triumph, we should
not be content with “routinary piety.”
“Mary is not an obstacle to the Lord,” Fr. Melvin
emphasized. “She draws us closer to her Son. The
more that we are in love with Mary, the greater our
love for Christ. The more we promote devotion to
Mary, the more we promote the love for God.”
Fr. Melvin exhorted the CFC leaders to conse-
crate themselves to Mary, “to offer everything to
God, through Mary.” For, as was promised in Fatima,
“In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph.”
Fr. Melvin cited St. Louie Marie de Montfort who
said that in the latter times, those consecrated to
Mary will be her army to defeat the enemy.
“CFC,” Fr. Melvin continued, “is part of that
army. Despite our sinfulness, our Lord will use
us to defeat the evil one. God gives miracles. We
will receive them if we need them.”
CFC plays an important role in our Vicariate, particularly among the Filipinos. In terms of care
of the family life, of the life of the couples and the Singles for Christ, community life in CFC helps
them come to terms with their situation as expatriates especially for those who are alone. I expect
Couples for Christ to fully follow the Catholic teachings.
I’m a bit disappointed that the movement suffered a crisis in the Philippines. Taking the current
situation of the movement in consideration, particularly in relation to their existence in the vicari-
ate, I made a decision not against anybody. I am aware that there are already so many branches and
groups that multiply and some are unnecessary, but all of them basically have the same spirituality
and that’s why I decided simply to take one branch of CFC. Some may question my decision but I
took this decision and we have to live with it
CFC is recognized globally, and in the Vicariate they are doing a good job in developing the
spiritual health of the people.
What is your message for CFC?
I would like to take off from my last pastoral letter as it addresses the very important point on
how to become responsible Christians. It starts with the basic mystery that each baptized person
should confirm that he is the dwelling place of Jesus Christ in his heart. If we take our daily
decisions and if we are organizing and shaping our spiritual life according to this mystery, that
Jesus Christ is dwelling in our heart by faith, then I think we are in a certain sense making the right
decisions.
We have to throw away or cast out spirits which are against the spirit of Christ for there are forces
sometimes who are attacking us tempting us, questioning us in a way which could be dangerous for
our Catholicism or our being Christians.
And if we apply it to the life of the Couples or of the Singles for Christ, the basic mystery is
always the same.
I encourage everyone to look into that and to be proud that we are living and walking temples of
Jesus Christ wherever we are. We should take better responsibility for how we are proclaiming
Jesus Christ in this world. If the way we live out or witness to Christ in our lives is not good, then
we make Jesus Christ look bad. But if the lives we lead witness to Jesus in a good way, then we are
doing it for the glory of Christ and not for our own glory. That is my essential point and the rest
should be a consequence of this basic mystery.
Bishop Paul
Hinder with
Noli and Sam
Manuel (left),
Princess
Mayella Salcedo
and Ace Lu.

One amazing experience

Wendy Poon Tip, CFC
Trinidad & Tobago
IN October 2007, when Arch-
bishop Robert Rivas of the Arch-
diocese of Castries decided he
would take a group of persons
with him to Rome to witness him
receiving his Pallium from the
Holy Father, Mark and I instantly
indicated that we wanted to be a
part of the group. We certainly
wanted to share in the joy of the
Caribbean people as we were
going to witness not just Arch-
bishop Rivas receiving his Pal-
lium but also Archbishop Donald
Reece of the Archdiocese of Ja-
maica. How amazing — two
Archbishops from the Caribbean!
On the afternoon of Wednes-
day June 18, however, just a week
before our departure on June 26,
in an attempt to chase a
neighbor’s dog out of our yard, I
twisted my right ankle and dam-
aged the ligaments. The doctor
said it would take six weeks to
heal. I was distraught but deter-
mined not to let it prevent me
from traveling. Mark made the
necessary arrangements for me
to have a wheelchair at my dis-
posal on our arrival in Rome. So
began our amazing pilgrimage.
On Sunday June 29, the Feast
of Sts. Peter and Paul, the day of
the Pallium ceremony at the St.
Peter’s Basilica, Mark and I were
escorted to an area designated for
persons in wheelchairs. To our
amazement we found ourselves
sitting very close to the right of
the altar! Thus we saw every-
thing up close and personal.
Next day we all went back to
the Vatican for a special audience
with Pope Benedict XVI with all
the Archbishops and their espe-
cially chosen guests. Once again
Mark and I were escorted to the
designated area for wheelchair-
assisted persons and once again
we found ourselves in a very ad-
vantageous position. While wait-
ing for our Holy Father, Mark
and I began to reflect on the good-
ness of our God and how this
seemingly unfortunate injury
was bringing us blessings that we
never could have imagined.
His Grace Archbishop Rivas
presented his sister Lenore and
his Dad Bill to the Holy Father.
Moments later we were asked by
the Vatican security to move
from the area where we were
seated so we began to get excited
thinking that maybe the Holy
Father was going to be making
his way down the center aisle to
greet other persons. Again all
the wheelchair-assisted persons
were directed to a special area but
this time we found ourselves be-
ing led directly onto the stage
area to greet the Holy Father!
What a truly amazing moment.
A once in a lifetime opportunity
and it happened when we least
expected. Our hearts are just so
full of thanks and praise to God
for this amazing privilege. We
believe now, more than ever, that
God truly desires to give us all
so much more than we deserve. strangers before the pilgrimage and we were privileged to expe- the fact that God can take an un-
On this pilgrimage, we expe- became truly wonderful caring rience it first hand. Our lives are fortunate situation and turn it
rienced in a real way the immense friends, taking turns to push my richer for it and our faith renewed into a blessing if only we trust
love of God through each and ev- wheelchair, carrying our bags, because of it. We will forever re- Him. As we are told in Romans
ery one with whom we shared wrapping my bandages or sim- member this as the most amaz- 8:28 We know that in all things God
twelve memorable days to- ply enquiring how I was feeling. ing experience in our lives and works for good with those who love
gether. Persons who were all The love among us all was real we hope it will give witness to Him…

On a mission of mercy
Robert Jimenez The surgical team was composed of Drs. Joe
Yamamoto, Oscar Tagulinao, Bernard Cueto, Diony
Lopez, Irene Tangco, Noe Babilonia, Bernadette
THE Give Kare Health Foundation conducted a Hogar, Juliet Cruz and Jeffrey Chua, ably assisted
surgical mission for the poorest of the poor in by nurses Bettina Davadilla, Tristanne Jusayan,
Maasin, Leyte last August 7 to 10, 2008. A total Carmen Lopez
of about 60 patients, with problems ranging and Robert
from cleft lip to hernia to thyroid, were oper- Jimenez, and
ated on. More patients would have been oper- Manny Patayon.
ated on if not for the fact that 15 boxes of surgi- Dr. Yamamoto
cal and medical equipment and supplies were also visited
left behind in Manila due to a problem at the Bishop Precioso
baggage handling section of the airline. The Cantillas of the
equipment arrived only the following day, Fri- diocese of Leyte.
day, August 8. The bishop reiter-
The local CFC headed by Dr. Jerome Paler ated that in his
and the Gawad Kalinga council of Maasin were diocese, Chris-
on hand to provide much needed physical and tian Life Pro-
spiritual support. The operating area was adja- grams are going
cent to the chapel and it is indicative of the CFC full blast and that
culture of intercessory prayer that for the entire he is fully sup-
three days, the chapel resounded with the loud portive of CFC
prayers and songs of worship of CFC Leyte and its vision and
members. mission.
 CBCP Monitor
C4 Ugnayan Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

Seychelles: The Vicar General of

Love Paradise
SEYCHELLES, an archipelago consisting
of 155 islands and the smallest popula-
tion of any sovereign state of Africa,
became the love paradise of the conti-
nent as Couples for Christ leaders from
the country gathered for the Disciples
Weekend.
The Deepam Cinema was packed and
the voices of praise and thanksgiving
surrounded the entire town attracting
even bystanders to the event.
Testimonies of love were rendered by
our CFC missionaries in Seychelles: Lito
and Ofie Samaniego together with CFC
East and Central Africa Coordinator,
Clarke and Cynthia Nebrao.
The Governance Team of CFC
Seychelles took turns in sharing as well
the challenges of loving in the context
of the Seychellois society.
The Disciples Weekend in Seychelles
would not have been complete without
the blessing of His Lordship Bishop
Denis Wiehe, Bishop of the Diocese of
Victoria, Seychelles.
In his message to the community he
said, “ I love three things about Couples
for Christ. One, CFC empowers the lo-
cal leadership of the country to take on
the work of evangelization. With the
local leadership in place, we can
evangelize more people in this
country.
Two, CFC is very missionary.
You don’t wait for things to
settle down, but with urgency,
you move on to reach more
people to know God’s love. It is
in this missionary spirit that the
disciples of Jesus carried the love
of Christ to all the nations.
It is my wish that CFC
Seychelles will bring families, es-
pecially the men, back to Christ.
Third, CFC is very much within
the structure of the Catholic
Church. You are bringing back
the fire of the Holy Spirit in our
Church. It is because of this fire
that CFC, in less than 2 years of
its establishment here in
Seychelles, have exceeded my
expectations. Now, let us love
one another as Jesus loved us so
we can evangelize and bring in-
dividuals, families and this coun-
try back to God’s loving arms.”
Novaliches breaks bread
with North B leaders
ON August 25, 2008, the leaders of North B met with Fr. Antonio Labiao, the
Vicar General of the diocese of Novaliches, for a simple breakfast at one of
the eateries in Quezon City.
It was a lively time of fellowship as the group expressed its gratitude for
Fr. Tony Labiao’s continuing support for the work of evangelization and
Gawad Kalinga programs being undertaken by the CFC Sector.
Fr. Tony also gave precious advice to the leaders on how best they could
support the parish programs and also continue the sector’s good relationship
with the parish priests. He also talked of the need for close coordination in
the holding of CFC activities especially those that need clergy support, such
as Eucharistic celebrations, and the use of the church’s facilities.
Fr. Labiao also told the group that the Parishes have initiated a ‘poverty
mapping project’ in the diocese and urged the GK team of the Sector to help
in this regard. North B’s Family Ministry members, specifically those from
Singles for Christ, will coordinate the engagement, as per North B’s Ermi
Sebastian, Family Ministry Head.
The sector leaders led by sector head Ernie Balarbar, in turn updated the
good priest on the evangelization work, including the holding of the recent
Rosary night attended by 840 members and where the key speaker was Bishop
Ted Bacani.
It was agreed that more meetings would be held between the parish and
CFC with the Vicar General inviting the Sector to send representatives to
some vicariate meetings involving lay organizations.
North B’s GK Head, Rene Reyes, will coordinate the presentation of the
GK Programs to the parish leaders of the areas within the sector’s area of
responsibility.
The other leaders in attendance were cluster heads Bong and Alice Bongcac,
Bobot and Echie Bautista, Steve Krueger and Terence and Thel Grana. Also
present were Cathy Balarbar, Cynthia Reyes, Dida Sebastian and Jun and
Angie Dimarucot.

Go out to all the world and

proclaim the good news The spirit / C1

Fr. Paul Uwemedimo
“GO out to all the world and tell the Good
News.”
This was Christ’s command to his
apostles before he ascended into heaven.
And it remains his command today……
not just to his apostles but to his whole
Church.
We are to preach the Gospel to the
ends of the earth. Everywhere and
always we are to tell the good news of
God’s love, God’s love revealed and
offered to us through Jesus Christ,
through Jesus Christ who died for our
sins and rose to give us life.
Pope Paul VI wrote an apostolic
exhortation to the whole Church “On
evangelization in the modern world.”
In that exhortation, he said. “We wish
to confirm once more that the task of
evangelizing all people constitutes the
essential mission of the Church.”
The Church, said the pope “exists in
order to evangelize” and the
evangelizing is “our deepest identity.”
According to the Pope, evangelizing is
“the grace and vocation proper to the
Church.” This is our essential mission
and vocation as Christians…as
Catholics. And it is of course our
essential mission and vocation as
members of Couples for Christ, a
missionary community.
As members of CFC, we can say
together with our mother Church: That
CFC exists in order to evangelize, that
evangelizing is CFC’s deepest identity
and the grace and vocation proper to
CFC. We exist as CFC, to take our part
in the essential mission of Christ’s
Church through being families in the
Holy Spirit renewing the face of the
earth, evangelizing families and
building the Church of the Home,
evangelizing the poor and building the
Church of the Poor.
“CFC,” says the Lord Jesus Christ “Go
out to all the world and tell the Good
News.” Let us make the words of St Paul
our own: “I must proclaim the Good
News of the kingdom of God,”
Brothers and sisters, let us never ever
lose our evangelizing zeal. Let us never,
ever lose our zeal to make others fervent
evangelists.
Evangelizing is the task of every
member of CFC, and not just of the leaders.
indeed evengelizing is the task of every
Catholic and every Christian, .and not just
those in groups and communities like
CFC. Let us seek to stir up
in all Christians this desire,
this compulsion to preach
the Gospel, the good news
of God’s love, the Good
News of Jesus Christ, the
Good news of God’s
Kingdom.
Let me again quote
Pope Paul: “... the person
who has been
evangelized goes on to
evangelize others. Here
lies the test of truth, the
touchstone of
evangelization: it is
unthinkable that a person
should accept the Word
and give himself to the
kingdom without
becoming a person who
bears witness to it and
proclaims it in his turn.”
The pope reminds us
about the many millions
of people struggling with
all their energy “to
overcome everything”
which he says “ condemns
them to remain on the
margin of life.” He
mentions “ famine,
chronic disease, illiteracy,
poverty,” and “ injustices
in international
relations…especially in
commercial exchanges.”
He also mentions
“situations of economic
and cultural neo-
colonialism” which he
says are “sometimes as
cruel as the old political
colonialism.” The Church, he says, as the
Catholic bishops have repeated, “has the
duty to proclaim the liberation of
millions of human beings, ….the duty
of assisting the birth of this liberation,
of giving witness to it, [and] of ensuring
that it is complete.”
The Pope asks how we could possibly
proclaim Jesus’ new commandment of
love “without promoting in justice and
in peace the true, authentic advancement
of man”. He says that in evangelization
we cannot and should not “ignore the
importance of the problems ….
concerning justice, liberation,
development and peace in the world”
“This” he says “would be to forget the
lesson which comes to us from the
Gospel concerning love of our neighbor
who is suffering and in need.”
I think these words of the Pope should
encourage us and affirm us that we are
on the right path with our thrust of total
Christian liberation, with the work of
the social ministries and with our stress
on Gawad Kalinga. Pope Paul also says
that the most important aspect of
evangelization is the silent witness of
Christians living lives of love and
goodness.
I thank God that we in CFC are on the
right track and I pray that we would
continue on that right track. I pray that
we will continue to have an increasing
zeal for evangelization, to build the
Church of the home and to build the
Church of the poor. I pray that we in
CFC would be shining examples of
silent witnessing, living lives of love and
goodness, lives that cause others to
wonder why we live as we do, lives that
would cause others to seek after what
we have, to seek after who we have.
I pray that we would increasingly be
captured by God’s heart of love for the
poor, that we would give our lives in
service of the poor, that we would
increasingly speak out on issues of social
justice, as well as on issues of family and
life. Indeed that we would not just speak
out but that we would fight with passion
to eradicate oppression, injustice and
poverty, that we would fight with
passion to promote a culture of justice
and of life, of love and peace, to promote
true health and prosperity.
I pray also that we would never forget
the need to explicitly proclaim, to both
rich and poor, the need for repentance
and faith and the call of Jesus to follow
him as Lord, God and Savior
I also pray that CFC would
increasingly appreciate the part of the
Eucharist in life and in evangelization.
“Evangelizing” says Pope Paul “ is in
fact the grace and vocation proper to the
Church, her deepest identity. She exists
in order to evangelize, that is to say, in
order to preach and teach, to be the
channel of the gift of grace, to reconcile
sinners with God, and to perpetuate
Christ’s sacrifice in the Mass, which is
the memorial of His death and glorious
resurrection.”
city. The fruits of our GK work cap-
tured the interest of the foreign press,
particularly the Italian and the Euro-
pean based journalists, who featured
the amazing testimonies of young Fili-
pinos transformed by the love of God.
Holy Encounters
My World Youth Day journey
would not be complete without my
own holy encounters with conse-
crated men and women. especially the
princes of the church, our Bishops and
Cardinals. There was His Eminence
Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Arch-
bishop of Manila, and his pilgrim
buddies Bishop Francisco De Leon,
Auxiliary Bishop of Antipolo, and
Bishop Elenito Galido, Bishop of
Iligan. Aside from Cardinal Pell, the
other bishops from Australia were
Bishop Kevin Manning (Bishop of the
Diocese of Parramatta), Bishop Julian
Porteous (Auxiliary Bishop of
Sydney), Bishop Terence Brady (Aux-
iliary Bishop of Sydney), Bishop Pe-
ter Elliot, Auxiliary Bishop of
Melbourne, Bishop Anthony Fisher,
O.P., Coordinator for the World
Youth Day and Auxiliary Bishop of
Sydney, and Bishop Timothy
Costelloe, SDB, Auxiliary Bishop of
Melbourne.
The African Bishops were led by
William Cardinal Napier of the arch-
diocese of South Africa, Archbishop
Ignatius Kaigama (Archdiocese of
Jos, Nigeria), Bishop John Ayah (Dio-
cese of Ogaja, Nigeria), Bishop Do-
minique Bulamatari and Bishop
Daniel Nlandu Mayi (Auxiliary Bish-
ops of the Archdiocese of Kinshasa,
Democratic Republic of the Congo).
I was so happy to see them since I
was reminded that it was in the con-
tinent of Africa where my love for
the missions grew deeply.
I also had occasion to meet the In-
dian Bishops — Bishop Victor
Lyngdoh (Diocese of Nongstoin, In-
dia) and Bishop Anil Joseph Thomas
Bishop
Bishop John
John Ayah,
Ayah, Clarke
Clarke Nebrao,
Nebrao, Cardinal
Cardinal Stanislaw
Stanislaw Rylko,
of
of the
the Laity,
Laity, Fr.
Fr. Paul
Paul Uwemedimo
Uwemedimo andand Msgr.
Msgr. Jude
Couto (Diocese of Jullundur, India. I
also met Sr. Valerie whose love for
CFC is so contagious as she passion-
ately pursues a stronger CFC com-
munity in Australia. Fr. Lawrence
Cortez, Executive Secretary to Arch-
bishop Denis Hart, Archbishop of
Melbourne, continues to give his all
for the mission in a foreign land
while earnestly longing for home in
the Philippines.
One highlight of my WYD experi-
ence was meeting His Eminence
Stanislaw Cardinal Rylko, President,
Pontifical Council for the Laity, who
affirmed the work of Couples for
Christ when he said that “Couples
for Christ is doing great work for the
family around the world. Keep up the
good work.”
While my pilgrimage was a
deeply-felt faith experience, nothing
could be greater than the birth of our
second daughter, Carmen Phylicia.
She was born in Manila, on the feast
day of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, July
16, at the same time that I was em-
barking on my pilgrimage. For those
who know our story as a family, our
only prayer was for a very normal
delivery. Indeed, the Lord was very
faithful as Baby Carmen was born
without the blood incompatibility
like the one that Callista Malaika, our
first daughter, went through.
Pope Benedict XVI, in his homily
on the last day of the World Youth
Day, said, “Our eyes have been
opened to see the world around us as
it truly is, charged with the grandeur
of God, filled with the glory of His
creative love. How many of our con-
temporaries have built broken cis-
terns in desperate search for mean-
ing - the ultimate meaning that only
love can give? These gatherings in
fact form the stages of a great pil-
grimage across the world, to show
how faith in Christ makes us all chil-
dren of one Father who is in heaven
and builders of a civilization of love.”
Rylko, President,
President, Pontifical
Pontifical Council
Council
Jude Okulo
Okulo
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
KCFAPI Officers. (Standing from left) Ronulfo Antero G. Infante, Senior Manager, Management Information System; Dr. Jaime Talag, Medical Consultant; Gari M. San Sebastian, Manager, Fraternal Benefits Services; Atty. Rizal V. Katalbas, Manager, Legal Services; Joselito
E. Mañalac, Senior Manager, Corporate Services & Research; Efren C. Caringal, Vice President, Actuarial & BC Holders’ Services; Edwin B. Dawal, Manager, Financial Management & Accounting Services. (Seated from Left) Joseph P. Teodoro, Vice President, Fraternal
Benefits National; Magdalene G. Flores, Vice President, Finance; Carmelita S. Ruiz, Underwriting & BC Conservation; Ma Theresa G. Curia, Executive Vice President; Loren T. Mercado, Manager, Human Resources & Administrative Services; Pedro P. Luberia, Senior Manager,
Corporate Audit.
KCFAPI salutes Capitol
Council No. 3695
An annual memorial Mass and meeting was held last November 2007 to honor Capitol Council 3695 deceased brother knights.
Photo shows the widows and council officers: (at the head table from right to left) Chaplain Fr. Arnold Boehme, Past Grand
Knight Rey Ventura, Former Financial Secretary Gene Bautista, Treasurer Rene Pieda. Also in photo are Past Grand Knight
Ruperto Carpio, Advocate Justice Hector Hofilena, Past Grand Knight Jess Non, Chancellor Mario Nery, and Past Grand
Knight Antonio B. Borromeo.
By Joselito E. Mañalac
AS the Knights of Columbus Fra-
ternal Association of the Philip-
pines, Incorporated (KCFAPI),
celebrates its 50 years of frater-
nal service this September 9,
2008, we, the officers and staff,
KCFAPI holds medical mission
for Intramuros residents
By Loren T. Mercado
THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal
Association of the Philippines, Inc.
(KCFAPI) held a medical mission among
Intramuros residents at the KCFAPI
grounds on August 31.
Dubbed as Oplan KC: Kalusugan para
sa Community, the activity was orga-
nized in view of KCFAPI’s 50th founda-
tion anniversary on September 9.
Intramuros residents were given free
check up of vital signs and consultation
from volunteer medical practitioners
headed by
KCFAPI
Medical
consultant
Dr. Jaime
Talag.
F r e e
medicines
and vita-
mins were
distributed
and a
feast
Mr. Antonio B. Borromeo, KCFAPI President,
speaking before the residents of intramuros dur-
ing the medical mission last August 31.
The Cross
A Supplement Publication for KCFAPI
and the Order of the Knights of Columbus
take the opportunity to salute and three terms: as Trustee from 1968-
pay tribute to Capitol Council 1979, as Chairman of the Board
No. 3695, the home council of il- of Trustees and President from
lustrious gentlemen who are 1979-1984, and again as Trustee
principal contributors to the suc- from 1985-1988.
cess of KCFAPI. Brother Basilio King under-
Brother Oscar Ledesma served took the management reins of
KCFAPI with distinction during KCFAPI as its first General Man-
of congee and milk were given to more
than 300 residents of various barangays
in Intramuros.
The community expressed their ap-
preciation for the free medical check up
given to the neighborhood.
“Nakatulong sa amin ang ginawang
activity ng KCFAPI, libreng check [up]
at gamot para sa aming di kayang
magbayad. Mahal ang mga gamot
ngayon kaya laking pasalamat naming
sa libreng vitamins at gamot sa sipon at
lagnat,” said Carlos Santos.
Santos, who lives in Barangay 655,
brought his two children to be checked
by a pediatrician.
It was not only the recipients who were
benefited by the medical mission but
even those involved in the activity said
they also profited in another way.
“Personally, I regard this activity as
a humbling experience, being of help
to our less privileged neighbors who
can barely buy their own medicines and
undergo medical consultations brought
me the feeling of being needed. It will
definitely be a memorable experience
for me too as I got to be a pharmacy
assistant for a day,” said KCFAPI’s Hu-
man Resources Staff Kristianne
Guevara.
Dr. Talag also said that seeing the
many people who came to the medical
mission and having the support of many
of his colleagues and employees made
the activity worthwhile despite the ex-
haustion they experience.
Dr. Paul Brigino, a surgeon and a
fourth-degree Knights of Columbus
member, said it has always been his pas-
sion to do volunteer work in many com-
munities since he was in medical school.
It was his first time to join KCFAPI in
this undertaking and was more than glad
to join them again in future medical ac-
tivities.
D1
ager from 1958-1975 and success-
fully steered its early corporate
Today, this tradition of faith- says: MARAMING SALAMAT,
ful and distinguished service is PO!
directions and affairs. still carried on by another mem-
The outstanding examples of ber of Capitol Council. He is
service by Bro. Ledesma and Bro. none other than Brother Anto- KCFAPI Board of Trustees from
King started the series of gener- nio B. Borromeo. He now serves Capitol Council No. 3695
ous and unqualified contribu- a second term as President that Basilio King,(+) 1958-1975 Gen-
tions of Capitol Council No. started last year and owns the eral Manager; Oscar Ledesma,(+)
3695 to KCFAPI’s growth and record distinction of being 1968-1978 Trustee, 1979-1984
stability as the fraternal family KCFAPI’s Golden Jubilee Presi- Chairman and President, 1985-
protection provider of brother dent. He first 1988 Trustee;
knights and families in the Phil- served as Trustee Lauro M. Cruz, (+)
ippines. from 1993-1994, 1980-1983 Trustee,
The first Luzon Jurisdiction and in 2001. He 1984-1988 Trustee,
State Deputy, dearly departed then was called to 1989 Chairman,
brother, Engr. Lauro M. Cruz, serve again as 1990 Managing
served five terms occupying po- Trustee and was Trustee, 1991-1993
sitions such as: Trustee from elected Treasurer President, 1994
1980-1988, Chairman of the from 1995-1998, Trustee, 2000-2003
Board of Trustees in 1989, as and as President Trustee, 1984-1988
Managing Trustee in 1990, as from 2002-2004. Trustee, 1989
President from 1991-1993, and History clearly Chairman, 1990
again as Trustee from 1994-2003. manifests that M a n a g i n g
Several notable members also from its birth until Atty. Jesus Laxamana Trustee, 1991-1993
contributed their invaluable its 50th Foundation President, 1994
time, talent, experience, and in- Anniversary, KCFAPI owes its Trustee, 2000-2003 Trustee; Juan
fluence in serving KCFAPI as success to a very great measure C. Reyes, Jr., 1981-1982 Trustee,
Trustees. They are Brother and to the tradition of exemplary 1992-1995 Trustee; Querube C.
Atty. Juan C. Reyes, Jr., 1981-1982 and voluntary service of distin- Makalintal,(+) 1982-1985 Trustee,
and 1992-1995, and dearly de- guished members of Capitol 1988-1991 Trustee; Antonio B.
parted Brother and Former Council No. 3695. Borromeo, 1993-1994 Trustee,
Speaker of the House of Repre- To all the members of Capitol 1995-1996 Treasurer, 1997-1998
sentatives, Querube C. Council No. 3695 headed by its Trustee, 2001 Trustee, 2002-2004
Makalintal, from 1982-1985 and Grand Knight and Atty. Jesus President, 2007-present Presi-
1988-1991. Laxamana, the KCFAPI family dent.
KCFAPI
Sales
continue
to soar
FOR two months now KCFAPI has
registered a monthly first year con-
tribution income of over 9 million
pesos.
KCFAPI sales continue to pur-
sue an upward direction. The trend
started in the month of April 2008
when sales first started to post a
positive variance in a single
month.
This positive development in
sales is attributable to the grow-
ing acceptance of the KC US Dol-
lar Supreme Plan which accounted
for almost 50 percent of the total
sales.
Another factor is the entry of the
The affair was spearheaded by leged residents of Intramuros. Gold Series plans to the maturity
KCFAPI medical consultant Dr. Jaime M. The medical check up was one of the stage. The undiminished popular-
Talag, a team of KCFAPI employees many activities organized by the Asso- ity of the Special Plan for Elderly
with Executive Vice President Ma. ciation as its corporate social responsi- Knights (SPEK) also contributed to
Theresa G. Curia, medical practitioners, bility programs for the Intramuros com- the increased sales.
and barangay officials who volunteered munity. The KC US Dollar Plan has been
their time and expertise. The event was generously supported acknowledged by those who are
The affair started at 8:00 a.m. with the by chairmen of recipient barangays, vol- getting the insurance plan as a safer
Prayer for the Canonization of Vener- unteers, medical specialists and spon- and more profitable place to keep
able Fr. Michael J. McGivney led by Mr. sors; Chairmen Jose Caranto of Brgy. their dollars. Furthermore, the fra-
Edwin B. Dawal, Former District Deputy 658, Pedrito Yacub, Sr. of Brgy. 655 and ternal association has been accept-
of M-47 and the Association’s Financial Gladys de Jesus of Brgy. 657; Ms. Irma ing the Philippine peso for own-
Management and Accounting Services Villafranca, General Manager of NYK- ing a KC US Dollar Plan.
Manager. Fil; Dr. Paul Brigino, Chancellor of Coun- With the approval of Enhanced
KCFAPI President Mr. Antonio B. cil 5124 Balut, Tondo; Dr. Mary Rosalyn College Savings Plan last June 2008
Borromeo gave a warm welcome to the Talag; medical specialists from the fraternal benefits group is op-
residents and explained briefly that Philamcare – Dr. Maria Lourdes Fallar, timistic that the upward trend is
Knights of Columbus is an organization Dr. Marietta Pajares, Dr. Maribel Cruz sustainable and will be a major fac-
of Catholic gentlemen and how one can and Dr. Victorio dela Cruz-Mendiola; tor for them to be able to deliver
be a member. medical specialists from Cavite Hospi- an ambitious ten million pesos first
He added that the Medical Mission was tal Dr. Jerwin Philip Tibig and Dr. Luis year insurance contribution in-
organized by KCFAPI, the insurance arm Juan Arroyo; and Nutrens of Nestle Phil- come in the month of September
2008. (Joseph P. Teodoro)
of the Knights of Columbus, with the ippines and various pharmaceutical
aim of extending help to the less-privi- companies.
 CBCP Monitor
D2 Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

“You must put on the armor of God… and hold your ground. Stand fast, with the truth
as belt around your waist, justice as your breastplate, and zeal for the propagation of the Gospel
of peace as your footgear. (Ephesians 6:13-15)
I DIRECT these words of encouragement of St. Paul to the members of the Knights
of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. who, on 9 September 2008, mark
their Golden Founding Anniversary.
Committed to the ideals of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism, and inspired by your
Founder, Fr. Michael McGivney, you have, for fifty long years, engaged in faithful voluntary
service to the Church. Your almost 80,000 Knights and their families from all councils in the
Philippines are united for mutual support, both spiritual and material.
Now, your well deserving fraternal Order begins a new chapter in its life. The many works of charity that your Organization
is noted for, its assiduous promotion of the values of human life, family and marriage, fidelity to the Faith, and promotion
of priestly and religious vocations are all things to be proud of.
On the occasion of your anniversary, no better words of congratulations can be offered than those of Pope Benedict
XVI: “May the Holy Spirit make you creative in charity, persevering in your commitments and brave in your initiatives, so
that you will be able to offer your contribution to the building up of the civilization of love.”
Happy Golden anniversary! Vivat Jesus!
Archbishop EDWARD JOSEPH ADAMS
Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines
GREETINGS to the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc
on your 50th foundation anniversary!
The past half century has shown the growth of your association not only in terms of
membership but also in structure. You are at the threshold of a new era when you are poised
to cross over to second corporate life. This is both a challenge as well as an opportunity. The
opportunity lies in the greater benefits that your members can derive from a well-managed
institution with its inherent checks and balances. The challenge is for your association to be
more committed to the values of God’s kingdom especially those that regard the poor with
compassion and generosity.
Our vision of fullness of life applies to the community of God’s people and not just
to an association. Your transition should move you towards that fullness of life which can
be found in your love and service for others especially the poor and destitute. Your growth in structure should be overshadowed
by your growth in faith and in your complete trust in the providence and goodness of God.
God bless you all.
GAUDENCIO B. CARDINAL ROSALES
Archbishop of Manila
I BELIEVE that it is the spirit of gospel of stewardship that has moved KCFAPI through
the years to reach your organization’s Golden Founding Anniversary on September 9 this year.
K
K
Celebra
Celebra
of
of Frat
Frat
THE exemplary fraternal service of the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) s
There is something about the Association that is different, distinctive, something rare to be found in any other instit
In pursuit of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism—ideals that are concretely unfolded in the lives of the more th
While it was Venerable Fr. Michael J. McGivney who founded the Knights of Columbus in the United States in March
He was initiated into the First Degree on June 30, 1938 through the Manila Council 1000 in Intramuros, Manila, and was
War II, Fr. Willmann led KC members in undertaking the Order’s projects including the provision of welfare assistanc
halls for USAFEE soldiers. He was nabbed, and imprisoned at the University of Santo Tomas and later at the concentrat
war, Fr. Willmann and a few surviving KC members revived the lone KC chapter in the Philippines. He recruited ordi
Under his leadership, KCFAPI was founded on September 9, 1958. With a seed capital of P32,000—contributed by 64 b
association to provide low-cost insurance protection for Filipino brother knights and their families.
The Jesuit priest envisioned KCFAPI to serve as the financial arm of KC councils in meeting their responsibility to th
primarily by Ambassador Oscar Ledesma, Basilio King, Roman Mabanta and Mardonio Santos.
For fifty years, the Association has continuously evolved into a service organization with a strong family orientation
the KCFAPI provides its members a variety of life insurance products for the financial stability of their families.
A strong pillar of financial strength, KCFAPI has already paid death and living benefits amounting to over a billion
In its mission to be collegiate scholars and 114 vocational scholars from
become a premier across the country.
mutual benefit asso-
ciation (MBA) in the 1950’s to 1960’s
country, KCFAPI has Incorporated under the leader-
over P2.4 Billion re- ship of Fr. George J. Willmann,
sources and consis- S. J. Licensed by the Insurance
tently earns the seal Commission as a mutual benefit
of sound financial society, 46 K of C members and
management, busi- 18 councils contributed P500.00
ness practices, con- each to raise a seed capital of
tinuous improve- P32,000.00. Roman Mabanta, Sr.
ment and compliance and Basilio King served as the
Fr. George J. Willmann with regulatory re- first Chairman/President and
quirements. In fact, KCFAPI has earned the distinction of first General Manager, respec-
being the first MBA to be ISO 9001-2000 Certified since tively.
January 2007. At the end of the decade—To- KCFAPI’s permanent home in
Through the years, KCFAPI remained true to its found- tal Protection Benefits: P28.4M;
ing principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patrio- Total Resources: P3.4M.
tism. The organization is renowned for its dedicated sup-
port for both the church and country. 1970’s
The KC Philippines Foundation, Inc., for instance, a Built a new and permanent Home Office in Intramuros,
100 percent affiliate of KCFAPI backed more than 200 Manila. Founded the Knights of Columbus Philippines

PRESENT MEMBERS OF T
Proof of this spirit of stewardship at work in your order are the almost 80,000 members
nationwide who are bonded in the fraternal association.
Through the KCFAPI you have built a constituency, a network of trust, support,
communication, creating an impact across barriers of time and distance.

(2007 -
In the spirit of “Love your neighbor as yourself”, you are taking care of other people’s
“talents or treasures” as if they are your own, because the Lord God who is the primary, original
and ultimate owner has told you so.
At the heart of stewardship is the theology of creation: that every life and everything,
all that we are and all that we have belongs to God, the original owner, and they are merely
entrusted to us. From this theology of creation we derive the principle of stewardship, that the steward, although not the
owner, behaves as if he is the owner. He therefore behaves in relation to the trust with gratitude, responsibility and generosity.
Congratulations. May God bless you.

ANGEL N. LAGDAMEO, D.D.

Archbishop of Jaro and CBCP President

IN the name of the Society of Jesus in the Philippines, I rejoice with and congratulate
you on this 50th anniversary of your beginnings as the Knights of Columbus Fraternal
Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI).
From the small undertaking of 64 Knights under the direction of the late Fr. George J.
Willman, S.J. in 1958, your association has burgeoned into a nationwide instrument of service
and fraternal support. I applaud this growth and encourage every effort you can make to
strengthen the foundations of the Filipino family at a time when enormous economic and social PATROCINIO R. BACAY SOFRONIO R. CRUZ ANTONIO B. B
pressures test its very foundations. Your commitment to be more concerned with Mindanao Chairman Vice Chairman Pres
and parts of the country distant from Manila is also commendable, as are the efforts being
made to develop the spiritual life and community service of your employees.
I extend to all those associated with the KCFAPI my prayerful best wishes in this anniversary year, a jubilee that almost
coincides with the 125th year of Fr. Michael J. McGivney’s original founding of the Knights of Columbus in 1882. May God
bless all of you with renewed enthusiasm and courage so as to carry on and face the future with the best of the traditions
that have energized your organization over the last half-century.
Sincerely yours in the Lord,

Rev. Fr.. JOSE C. J. MAGADIA, S.J

Provincial of the Society of Jesus

THE growth of the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc.,
(KCFAPI) from insignificance in 1958 to a multi-billion insurance system 50 years after
is indeed phenomenal. It escapes ordinary imagination how it survived and conquered
victoriously even the most critical economic environment that the country has gone
through.
The success deserves a “magnificat”. The Lord has done great things for KCFAPI. And DIONISIO R. ESTEBAN, JR. GUILLERMO N. HERNANDEZ
what the Lord has done was bring the right people, the likes of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ, Member Member
Oscar Ledesma, Basilio King, Roman Mabanta, Sr., Mardonio Santos and a lot more who never
sought their personal interests but that of the Order and of the Church. What these
“fraternalists” have done was renew the economic order within their realm according to the
social teachings of the Church.
These gentlemen and their successors managed KCFAPI and its subsidiary companies within the ambit of the mind
of the Church which had been beautifully verbalized by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in its
1998 Pastoral Exhortation on Philippine Economy that stated: “While the entire Church (clergy, religious, and laity) has the
mission to renew every aspect of human life in accordance with the Gospel, it is the specific vocation of lay people to renew
the temporal order, including economics. ‘By reason of their special vocation it belongs to the laity to seek the kingdom of
God by engaging in temporal affairs and directing them to God’s will.” (Lumen Gentium, no. 31) Hence they have to renew
economic life with the values of the Gospel and of the Kingdom of God, which are authentically human values, such as
integrity, justice, equity, service, preferential option for the poor, responsible stewardship.”
The next 50 years of KCFAPI is a fresh challenge to the next generation of managers, trustees, executives, area
managers, fraternal counselors and staff not only to meet their annual targets—but the target of God’s Kingdom.
Vivat Jesus!

AMB. HILARIO G. DAVIDE, JR. His Eminence EDIJERA A.

Msgr. PEDRO C. QUITORIO Advisor GAUDENCIO B. CARDINAL ROSALES Adv
KCFAPI Chaplain
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008
C3

KCFAPI,
KCFAPI,
ating
ating 50
50 years
years
ternal
ternal Service
Service
pans fifty years today. IN my own name and on behalf of the Knights of Columbus Supreme council, I wish to offer
tutions as this one is managed by Brother Knights and families for Brother Knights and families. congratulations to you and all those who are involved in the Knights of Columbus Fraternal
han 60,000 members nationwide—KCFAPI has been fulfilling important objectives of the Order in the Philippines. Association of the Philippines Inc., as you celebrate KCFAPI’s 50th anniversary.
You have much to be proud of, and much to look forward to, as you mark this golden jubilee
1882, it was Fr. George J. Willmann who nourished and nurtured the Order in the Philippines which was started in 1905.
milestone. By providing affordable insurance products to Filipino Knights and their family members,
s appointed Chaplain of the Council, a position he held up to the time of his death on September 14, 1977. During World
you are carrying out the vision of our Order’s founder, the Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney,
ce to prisoners freed from the Japanese concentration camp in Capas, Tarlac, and operation of canteen and recreational who included a death benefit when he began the Order in 1882.
tion camp in Los Baños, Laguna, where he and other prisoners were later freed by American liberation forces. After the You are also extending the hard work of Father George Willman, S.J. known as the “Father
inary and prominent people. He organized new councils in various parts of the country. McGivney of the Philippines”, who responded to the needs of knights in the Philippines by founding
brother knights and KC councils, KCFAPI was organized under Philippine laws as a non-stock, non-profit mutual benefit KCFAPI.
I recall with great fondness my visit to the Philippines in 2005 for the centennial of the founding
heir members as provided in the first two purposes of the Order. His vision was carried out by his successors in office of the Order in your country. Filipino Knights are a great asset to the Church, their communities and our fraternal order. The great
dedication and enthusiasm of your brother Knights provide a great example to Knights of Columbus everywhere.
n covering more than 60,000 members with more than P8.5 billion in Total Protection. As a fraternal beneficiary society, As you embark on the next half century, I ask that you and your fellow administrators assure the future of KCFAPI through
wise and selfless governance. In this way, you will provide financial security for Knights and their families for generation to come,
and bring to life the order’s principles.
n pesos since inception. With best wishes and kind regards, I remain.
Foundation, Inc., a charitable and civic foundation which Fraternally,
provides scholarship to poor but promising youth (chil-
dren of K of C members or non-members) who wish to
pursue college education, as CARL A. ANDERSON
well as providing financial as- Supreme Knight
sistance to victims of calamities.
WARMEST greetings and congratulations to the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association
Granted income tax exemp- of the Philippines, Incorporated of its 50th Foundation Anniversary.
tion by the Bureau of Internal As one of the premier Mutual Benefit Associations in the country the Knights of Columbus
Revenue. At the end of the de- has continuously distinguished itself as a model of stability and service in the industry. As a member
cade—Total Protection Benefits: of the contractual savings sector it encourages and promotes the practice of thrift and the value
P373M; Total Resources: P38.9M of personal savings among its members through its life insurance programs. By pooling and providing
funds through investments in the unified thrust of the government and the private sector the
1980’s Association indirectly helps invigorate the economy and therefore contributes in the arduous task
Founded and incorporated of nation building.
Holy Trinity Memorial Chapels As we face together the continuing challenge of the times, both locally and globally, let us
Compass Development Corp., a
show more commitment and stronger resolve in fulfilling our individual roles in the development
subsidiary operating the Holy crease in KCFAPI’s insurance coverage limit to P350,000.00 of our country’s progress. As your organization embarks on its fraternal journey to your second golden jubilee I encourage and enjoin
n Intramuros, Manila Trinity Memorial Chapels per benefit certificate holder. Founded and incorporated all of you to continue to actively participate in our shared effort to help our country move forward.
which now has a state of the art Christopher Foundation, a charitable and civic founda- Thank you.
crematorium and water treatment facility. Founded and tion which supports the livelihood projects sponsored by
incorporated Mace Insurance Agency, a non-life insur- K of C councils. Established Services Offices at Cebu,
ance subsidiary that provides coverage at the most af- Cagayan De Oro, Cabanatuan and Davao. MARGARITO B. TEVES
fordable premium rate. At the end of the decade—Total Protection Benefits: Secretary of Finance
Office of the Insurance Commission approved in- P1.52B; Total Resources: P235.6M
MY congratulations to the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc.
(KCFAPI) as it celebrates its Grand Jubilee.

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

KCFAPI’s journey to growth is not different from The Miracle of the Loaves in which seven
loaves of bread and a few small fish “miraculously’ fed four thousand people and left over seven
baskets full. The seed money of KCFAPI came from 64 generous knights who dreamed of providing
insurance benefits to members and their families, raising P32,000 for the cause. In fifty years,

- 2008)
the fund has grown to more than Php 2 billion assets, propelled KCFAPI as one the top five Mutual
Benefit Associations in the country, and paid millions in death and living benefits to members and
their families as envisioned by its pioneers.
With such growth, KCFAPI will undoubtedly continue to reach out for greater endeavors. May
you continue to meet your commitments to your stakeholders, continuously develop your human
assets, and have enough to sustain your social undertakings. Your Grand Jubilee, far from being a destination, is a launching port
for higher goals and bigger dreams. We, in the Insurance Commission, wish you all the best.

EDUARDO T. MALINIS
Insurance Commissioner

FIFTY Years ago Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ., encouraged 64 Filipino knights by themselves
or representing their councils to organize a mutual benefit society which will cater to the growing
fraternal life insurance needs of members in the Philippines. Fr. Willmann wanted to affiliate with
the insurance system in the United States of America. However, this was not possible due to
administrative and technical concerns.
Fifty years later from this humble beginning of Php32,000, your fraternal association grew
to become a financially stable company and a strong partner of the Order in our country. Through
BORROMEO ANTONIO T. YULO ALONSO L. TAN all those years we have continuously assured the financial security of KC members and their
ident Treasurer Corporate Secretary families, rendered charitable and benevolent projects for the community and provided financial
wherewithal to the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines.
It is my distinct honor and privilege to thank the founding members and councils, the benefit
certificate holders, the men and women past and present who have worked and are still connected with us, the area managers and
fraternal counselors who have been devoting their time serving in our frontlines, everyone in our Order who have in one way or another
supported us and most especially the members of the clergy who have always prayed for our success.
Happy 50 Years of Fraternal Service.
VIVAT JESUS!

PATROCINIO R. BACAY
Chairman - KCFAPI

IT is my privilege and honor as the Golden Jubilee President to extend fraternal greetings
and best wishes to all stakeholders of the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the
Philippines, Incorporated, (KCFAPI), on the celebration of its 50th Foundation Anniversary.
The members of the Board of Trustees and its Advisors together join me in congratulating
the management team, employees and field sales representatives for being faithful and true to
PEDRO M. RODRIGUEZ, JR. ROGELIO S. SIPALAY the vision of KCFAPI’s founders—Rev. Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J., and the 64 founder-members
Member Member composed of Knights of Columbus councils and brother knights, who included Bro. Basilio King and
Bro. Roman Mabanta.
During the past decades we have seen the tremendous growth in number of Catholic men
from the lower income groups of Filipino society recruited into the membership in the Knights of
Columbus. The need for a family protection plan, which only an insurance program could guarantee,
continues to be more relevant today and may even be considered imperative for new recruits, as it is for our K of C USA brothers.
Like Fr. Willmann, SJ, we will always remain sensitive to the needs and restricted resources of the economically underprivileged
members of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines. Inspired by our founders’ vision, the undertaking of KCFAPI’s mission remains
steadfast, ever bold and more meaningful today.
On this anniversary, I enjoin all to rededicate ourselves to the worthy and noble fraternal crusade of providing a secure and
dignified financial future for Knights of Columbus families, whatever their present status in life may be.
This is the supreme fulfillment of the dream of our Order’s venerable founder, Servant of God Father Michael J. McGivney,
that blossomed into reality in the organization of the Knights of Columbus so that “widows and orphaned children of dearly departed
brother knights may not find themselves in dire financial straits and may continue to persevere in the practice of their Catholic faith.”
With my warmest congratulations, I say “onward Christian soldiers” for there is still much for us to accomplish in this lifetime.
Vivat Jesus!

. MARTINEZ PANFILO O. PACUBAS, SR. TEODORO O. ARCENAS, JR.

visor Advisor Advisor ANTONIO B. BORROMEO
President - KCFAPI
 CBCP Monitor
D4 Vol. 12 No. 18
September 1 - 14, 2008

Big 8 for 2008 Morales tops

Golden Jubilee
THE Golden Jubilee activities dubbed Big 8 for 2008 in celebration of KCFAPI’s sound and images about a phenomenon called the Knights of Columbus Fra-

Sales Contest
50th Anniversary have been designed to create awareness and highlight the ternal Association of the Philippines, Inc.
beginnings and milestones of the Association. It also aimed to strengthen the
KCFAPI’s relationship with all its stakeholders (i.e. Order, BC Holders, Church, BC Holder Bonanza
Sales Force, Employees, Suppliers, and the General Public). Special edition
Golden Jubilee Items
The Launching and Cellphones are BRO. BONIFACIO Morales of the Central
Held last September drawn monthly for our Luzon Believers topped the Golden Jubilee
14, 2007 at the KCFAPI valued BC holders who (Early Passers Category) sales contest spon-
Social Hall, the Jubilee pay their contribution sored by KCFAPI. He bested about 800 other
Logo and theme “50 on or before due date or fraternal counselors nationwide. Bro. Mo-
Years of Fraternal Ser- on every approval of re- rales’ feat made him one of the strongest con-
vice” were unveiled and instatement. Grand tenders for the 2008 Fraternal Counselor of
the KCFAPI song, prize includes a family the Year, a much coveted achievement which
“Hands of Love” was trip to Hongkong he won four times before.
first heard. It Disneyland. These, in- The Golden Jubilarians sales contest was
jumpstarted a year-long deed, are symbols, of 50 years of quality fraternal service that KCFAPI has one of the two incentive scheme devised by
series of activities that rendered to its worthy members all through the years. the fraternal benefits group to motivate the
somehow reflected the sales performers to attain the elite Annual
fruits being reaped today by the Order and the Church due to the heroic Fraternal Service Con- Family Service Awards. The other one is the
fraternalists who built selflessly this institution 50 years ago. vention Presidential Gold Watch Incentive which will
This incentive pro- end on September 30, 2008.
KC Family Day gram for our sales force Qualifiers in the Golden Jubilee Sales Con-
The Association sup- is aimed to motivate test will attend an improvement seminar on
ported the Order’s KC sales productivity. The September 12, 2008 in a hotel in the metropo-
Family Day activities Convention also aims to lis (venue to be announced separately). The
(Marikina for Luzon; improve our service to seminar is intended to enhance the selling
Cebu, Iloilo and our Brother Knights by skills of the participants. The following day
Tacloban for Visayas) holding sessions on Saturday, September 13, they will be invited
by providing medals new products and by to the Grand Jubilee Ball at the Centennial
for the games and t- providing information toolkits. This is a regular feature of KCFAPI that has Ballroom of the Manila Hotel at seven o’clock
shirts for raffle. In accor- been perfected all these years, for the sake of its members. In pursuit of the in the evening.
dance with the Church, worthy objectives of KCFAPI, these men are businessmen of the Order, un- The other contenders for the FC OF THE
the family is a top pri- derwriters for the Lord. YEAR also qualified themselves in the sales
ority concern of the contest making the fight for the top sales per-
Knights of Columbus—and so it is, with KCFAPI through the years. Jubilee Updates former of the year too close to call. Here is
Various information the complete list of all 27 fraternal counselors
KC-ing Galing Chorale drives are being under- who passed the Golden Jubilee Sales Contest.
Competition taken to emphasize the
To make the KCFAPI Association’s accom- Early Passers – Golden Jubilarians – (Janu-
Song known to KC plishments and activi- ary-March)
members, an All-Male ties, not only to the Or- Luzon Jurisdiction: Bonifacio M. Morales
Chorale Competition der but to the general (CLB1); Lauro L. Evangelista (CLB1); Danilo
was held during the public, as well. But the M. Tullao (NEL); Ariston V. Francisco (CLB1);
State Convention of the underlying content of Maximo V. Castro, Sr. (CLC); Veronica C.
3 jurisdictions. Prizes of the information drives Casupanan (CLB1); Rosa D. Hernandez
up to P50,000 were is actually the mission (MMC).
awarded to the winners. of the Order which is to Visayas Jurisdiction: Maria Teresa G. De La
It was not about the tune help its members and Mota (WVB); Raymund S. Depol (WVC);
or even about the lyrics ultimately the bigger Inocencia P. Deiparine (CVA).
of the song; it is about the singers and the generations before them who have community, the Church. It is in the sense that “faith in action” is translated Mindanao Jurisdiction: None.
seen and have benefited the works of “the gallant men united in a cause, into every endeavor that KCFAPI commits itself and accomplishes.
protecting us, assisting us…fully able to build God’s Kingdom in our midst.” Regular-Golden Jubilarians (January-June)
Golden Jubilee Ball Luzon Jurisdiction: Dominador R.
KCFAPI Coffee Table This culminating ac- Hermosura (NEL); Mauricio P. Pangda (NEL);
Book and Video Docu- tivity on September 13, Reynaldo Q. Segismundo (NWL); Romarico
mentary 2008 at the Manila Hotel Z. Ramos (NLP); Rene P. Cruz (CLC);
Written by KCFAPI shall be a grand occasion Reynaldo D. Valencia (MMD); Amado S.
chaplain, Msgr. Pedro to gather past and Miranda (CLD); Luis F. Ferrer (CLB1);
Quitorio III, the KCFAPI present employees, sales Venancio F. Capiral (SL); Armando E. Muyot
Coffee Table Book, force, Board of Trustees, (MMA); Raymundo M. Alkuino (SL); Teofilo
“Fifty Years of Fraternal clergy and other special A. Samson (SL);
Service: A Saga of Faith in guests who have played
Action” tells about how a significant role in Golden Jubilarians
a small seed grew as big KCFAPI. It shall be a Visayas Jurisdiction: Jose L. Calvo, Sr.
as the vision it carried “night of nights” to (WVB); Ambrosio B. Belgica, Jr. (WVB).
through 50 years. A mark and celebrate the Mindanao Jurisdiction: Leticia J. Zambrano
video documentary of great things that the Lord (CM); Marteliano A. Alcontin (NM); Emma
the same title tells in has done to all those who have witnessed the impact of KCFAPI in their lives. M. Saclote (NM) (By Joseph P. Teodoro)

Remembering our past

By Sis. Ma. Theresa G. Curia, EVP
KCFAPI is turning 50 Years in less than 15 days!
Everyday, the countdown moves nearing Septem-
ber 9 and the scheduled Grand Celebration on Sep-
tember 13. As Executive Vice President, I have had
mixed feelings in trying to ensure that every detail
of the preparation will be in its proper place. Of
course, we see unexpected deviations from the
original plans but I am very thankful to Him that
everything comes just in time.
At this special edition of The Cross (CBCP Moni-
tor supplement), it is worth recalling those people
who were instrumental in bringing KCFAPI to
where it is now. I have not personally met some of
them but through the historical documents avail-
able, I have become so inspired by these gentle-
men. Acclaimed in their own professional fields of
expertise, they shared their time, talents and trea-
sure in running KCFAPI.
Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J.—The Fr. McGivney
of the Philippines and the Father of KCFAPI. He
served as the Spiritual Director of the Founder
Members being the Philippine Deputy at that time.
He enjoined Bro. Roman Mabanta and Bro. Basilio
King, gentlemen with extraordinary talents and
business acumen, to serve the church, the commu-
nity, and our Association.
In addition to establishing KCFAPI and the KC
Philippines Foundation, Inc., he also established
the Daughters of Isabella in the Philippines, which
was later reorganized under the name Daughters
of Mary Immaculate (DMI). (I have been delighted to
learn about this especially now that I serve as the Vice
Regent of DMI Rosarian Circle in Baliuag, Bulacan).
Ambassador Oscar Ledesma—Immediate succes-
sor of Fr. Willmann. As quoted from the speech of
our dear late Former Luzon Deputy Lauro M. Cruz:
“When Don Oscar assumed the position, the Phil-
ippines Deputy was a very powerful individual in
the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines. He
was not only the head of the Philippine Jurisdic-
tion but also automatically the Chairman and Presi-
dent of KCFAPI. He himself appointed the mem-
bers of the Board of Trustees and dictated the poli-
cies of the insurance system in the Philippines.
Aware of the need to provide “check and balance”
in an independent and effective Board of Trustees
in policy making, credibility in its decisions, and
assurance of continuity of the Corporation, Don
Oscar created the Founders Committee.”
The humility and dedication of Don Oscar
brought him closer to members and earned their
respect for him. He always allowed free exchange
of opinions and ideas before giving his own views
and obtaining a consensus. His unforgettable ad-
vice on making important decisions in KCFAPI
which we always remember is, “THIS IS NOT OUR
MONEY. IT IS MONEY ENTRUSTED TO US.”
An excerpt from the statement of Mardonio R.
Santos reads: “It was Bro. Ledesma who inspired
the foundation board members to be the first and
foremost donors in fund raising for worthy causes.
This he has initiated by donating to the KC Philip-
pines Foundation the reimbursement by the Su-
preme Council of his transportation in attending
the annual Supreme Council Convention in the U.S.”
Bro. Basilio King—the first General Manager of
KCFAPI. He accepted this position on the condi-
tion that he will not be given compensation. He
held said position for 16 years until his death. The
KC insurance system benefited from his vast busi-
ness experience and affiliations. As General Man-
ager of KCFAPI, he was very devoted to his job.
No conference or engagement in his other compa-
nies was too important that he could not be called
to attend to a KCFAPI concern. He devoted a large
part of his life in the service of KCFAPI. (The story of
Basilio King in the service of KCFAPI has inspired me
the most.)
Bro. Roman G. Mabanta., Sr.—the first Chair-
man and President of KCFAPI. As such, he was the
acknowledged strategist. He was initiated in the
Order on May 5, 1919. He was already a well-known
businessman before he joined KCFAPI. He served
the Association from 1958-1975.
Mardonio R. Santos—the third Philippine
Deputy of the Knights of Columbus. He was the
Chairman and President of KCFAPI from 1984-1988,
then as Chairman from 1992-1995. He was elected
as the first Filipino Supreme Director and concur-
rently the Vice Supreme Master of the Fourth De-
gree in June of 1989.
Bro. Isagani V. Tolentino was the General Man-
ager of KCFAPI and the President of PhilAsia Life
in the year I joined KCFAPI. He would come to his
office very quietly, and as he approached my office
going to his room, he would gently greet me with
a soft “Good Morning”. Bro. Tolentino was part of
the group that conceptualized business ventures
for the Association. It was during his term when
we bought PhilAsia Life Assurance Corp., started
Anchor Finance and Investment Corp., Holy Trin-
ity Memorial Chapels, and Mace Insurance Agency,
Inc. He was quick in decision making and was al-
ways ready to give business advice. Mr. Tolentino
became KCFAPI’s President in 1989 until his re-
tirement in June 1990. He was member of the Board
of Trustees in 1975-1979 and 1989-1990. When I was
the Audit Officer of this Association, I can still re-
call his advice: “Talagang ganyan, Tes, maraming
magagalit sa iyo… Gawin mo lang ang trabaho
mo….”
Bro. Manuel G. Lopez became the General Man-
ager of KCFAPI after the term of Bro. Tolentino.
He became Executive Vice President in 2002 until
his retirement in February 2006. It was during the
leadership of Bro. Manuel Lopez that I had spent
the most number of years at KCFAPI. It was dur-
ing his term that we built the new edifice which
we now know as the National Headquarters of
the Knights of Columbus. It was also during his
term that we introduced a new computerized sys-
tem which paved the way for dramatic improve-
ments in manpower and operational efficiencies.
With the lifting of the limitation on the amount of
coverage that we can offer to our members,
PhilAsia Life was sold, yielding added benefits
for the members of KCFAPI. His charisma and
leadership inspired the employees to perform and
do their best.
This recognition and thanksgiving will not be
complete without mentioning Brothers who have
served the Association:
H. E. Jaime Cardinal Sin, DD, Lauro M. Cruz, Sr.,
Cristeo P. Aquino, Ramon Consing, Antonio M.
Albert, Sr., Jose L. Burgos, Ramon Campos, Vivencio
de Guzman, Fernando G. de Leos, Nicanor Fuentes,
Bishop Mariano Gaviola, Justice Juvenal K.
Guerrero, Alejandro A. Judan, Jr., Jesus S. Lazatin,
Justo Lopez, Leonor S. Lozano, Speaker Querube
Makalintal, Hermenegildo B. Reyes, Carlos E.
Santiago, Alfredo V. Silva, Alejando Tanabe, An-
gel C. Veloso.
Felipe B. Alfonso, Hector M. Aguiling, Joven B.
Joaquin, Arsenio R. Lopez. Eduardo G. Laczi, Carlo
Ricardo H. Magno, Antonio A. Mansuelo, Antonio
M. Ortiguera, Pablo D. Panlilio, Juan C. Reyes, Jr.,
Ernesto B. San Juan, Commissioner Rene Sarmiento,
Rogelio Sipalay, Dr. Ruperto P. Somera, Alfredo O.
Taruc, Edgardo G. Valencia, Jaime M. Yulo, Con-
gressman Isidro C. Zarraga.
Yes, most of us—employees and benefit certifi-
cate holders of the present generation—never had
the chance to meet these distinguished gentlemen.
But their memories will continue to linger. Their
ideals, examples and talents have brought KCFAPI
to where it is now and we hope to nurture every-
thing that has been planted, in the manner it should
be.
In Fr. Willmann’s last appeal, as quoted by Am-
bassador Ledesma in his first message to the
Knights in the Philippines, we are asked to “Spiri-
tualize all of our activities, for whatever we do as
Knights of Columbus must be related to our Faith,
and be Christ-oriented.” Truly, putting faith in ac-
tion is what carries the Knights of Columbus and
KCFAPI through the years.
With the guidance of our highly esteemed present
Board of Trustees and advisors, we shall aspire to
live out the virtues of these gentlemen who self-
lessly served our Association.