Monitor
CBCP
Thousands of demonstrators rally along Commonwealth Avenue -- the road leading to the House of Representatives in Quezon City -- as President Rodrigo Duterte’s delivers his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 23. MARTINA SUMMER DAGAL
Bishop hits Duterte’s SONA remark on human rights
By Roy Lagarde
A CATHOLIC bishop has
blasted President Rodrigo
Duterte’s supposed
concern for human life
but not for human rights,
branding his reasoning
as “illogical”.
As Duterte refused to backdown
his bloody war on drugs, Bishop
Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan
said this means that killings will
continue and more lives will be lost
along the way.
“His warning was scary. It means
we have to brace ourselves for more
killings,” he said.
Duterte, in his third State of the
Nation Address (SONA) on July 23,
said that his administration’s fight
against the illegal drugs trade is far
from over.
Instead, according to him, it will
be as “relentless” and chilling” as
the day it started two years ago.
Hitting back at his critics, Duterte
Church is called to unite, not divide
— Cardinal Tagle
CARDINAL Luis Antonio
Tagle of Manila said that
church people are called to
unite people and not create
division in society.
At the end of the Philippine
Conference on New
Evangelization on Sunday, he
stressed that God wants the
“unity of His people” and for
them “to be one in spirit of
caring”.
“It is not the role of the
shepherd to scatter. The role
of the shepherd according to
the mind and heart of God
Pope to Filipinos: Be ‘missionary disciples’ to the world
POPE Francis has invited the Filipino
faithful to be “missionary disciples” who
are tasked not only to follow Jesus, but
also to change the world.
In his message for the participants
of the Philippine Conference on New
Evangelization in Manila, the pope told
the Filipinos to go out into the world on
a mission and proclaim the Good News.
The pope’s message was relayed
through Papal Nuncio Archbishop
Gabriele Caccia and was read to the
PCNE participants gathered at the UST
Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila
by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle on
Wednesday.
“He prays that the participants will
PROTAGONIST OF TRUTH, PROMOTER OF PEACE
JULY 23 - AUGUST 5, 2018, VOL 22, NO. 15 | CBCPMONITOR@AREOPAGUSCOMMUNICATIONS.COM
‘ILLOGICAL’
said, “your concern is human
rights, mine is human lives”.
The bishop lamented that such
statement implies that the victims
of drug-related killings are not
human lives, something that “the
Church can never agree with”.
“The statement is illogical but
not really surprising because it
has been stated plainly on several
occasions,” David said.
“Addicts, for us, are sick people;
drug use is not a crime that deserves
death. What people with substance-
use disorder need is rehabilitation
and we in the Church are willing to
help out in this endeavor.”
“Yes, use the full force of the law,
file charges against violators, jail
the pushers and the suppliers, but
save the users; do not kill them!
Besides, we cannot rehabilitate
dead people anymore, can we?” he
added.
David said they would have long
agreed with Duterte’s campaign
against illegal drugs if only it
Illogical / A7 Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan celebrates Mass at the Philippine Conference on New Evangelization at UST in Manila, July 19, 2018. ROY LAGARDE
Bishop bewails killing of
drug war widow
is to gather and that is the talks and testimonies during The miracle of feeding the
root of the word Church, not the five-day gathering, the multitude is PCNE‘s icon for
division,” Tagle said. cardinal also warned against the Year of the Clergy and the
According to him, the instrumentalizing the Gospel Consecrated Persons who like
church and its leaders should for self-interests and “non- the laity share in the common
be an earthly reflection of the evangelical purposes”. priesthood.
oneness of God and are called He emphasized that Jesus The gathering ended with
to a type of leading that would refuses any attempt to a Mass presided over by
bring people together. instrumentalized the Good Archbishop Gabrielle Caccia,
“All of us who have been News for worldly goals. the Apostolic Nuncio to the
called to follow Jesus and who “They say it’s the Gospel, it Philippines. Jennifer Taburada, 27, was gunned down in Bagong Barrio, Caloocan on Wednesday
have been given positions, turns out to be an ambition. In his message, the evening, July 18. VINCENT GO
calling and responsibility over They say it’s aid, it turns out archbishop urged the faithful
A CATHOLIC bishop has of Kalookan said Jennifer
the others should be mindful to be media mileage. They say to “move” with compassion
condemned the murder of Taborada, 27 and a mother
of that,” he said. it’s compassion, it turns out to and “always think of a person,
a drug war widow who was of two young children, was
Reflecting on the various be career,” said Tagle. Unite / A6
leading a support group gunned down by masked
for families of victims of killers in Caloocan City at
extrajudicial killings.
Bishop Pablo Virgilio David
around 8pm on July 18.
Widow / A6
be will be challenged to a missionary celebration of the Year of the Clergy
discipleship and transformation
setting their vision not only within the
and Consecrated Persons as declared
by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
Netizens ‘not interested’ in federalism?
Philippine archipelago but also to the the Philippines. SEVERAL online social “They used to create noise
vast continent of Asia and even beyond,” ear’s keynote speaker is Fr. James network users have recently in support and in defense of
Caccia quoted the pope as saying. Mallon, Episcopal Vicar for Parish observed that netizens, anything that the president
Around 2,000 participants, mostly Renewal and Leadership Support for including known pro-Duterte says, but this time nearly
priests and religious men and women, the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth, internet users, seem indifferent none is posting about
attended the first day of the conference who will talk on the “Renewed-Leaders to the administration’s push federalism or something else
in a country viewed by the Vatican as the for the New Evangelization” on July 19. for federalism. about the president,” he said.
“hope of the Church” in Asia. Apart from plenary session, there will In the past several weeks,
Now on its 5th year, the call for new be 13 tracks of concurrent session on identified pro-administration Victims of fake news?
evangelization takes into consideration basic ecclesial communities, education, netizens with legitimate online Many of those who are
the evolving cultures and ways of government, family, youth, social social network accounts, were backing and defending
thinking influenced by new media. media, catechesis, church in mission, silent about the proposed shift federalism online are trolls,
The 5-day conference’s topics new ministry, and new trends in the to federalism, said Manases who have multiple fake
and activities are also related to the church. (CBCPNews) Evasco. Federalism / A6
A2 WORLD NEWS July 23 - August 5, 2018, Vol 22, No. 15 CBCP Monitor

Dublin archdiocese seeks 4,000 Vatican Briefing

Eucharistic ministers for papal Mass
DUBLIN, Ireland— With Sisters from Glencairn, A good Christian shares the Gospel, pope says
less than a month to go County Waterford. All Christians are called to be missionaries, concerned more
until Pope Francis visits Pilgrims up front will with sharing the Gospel than with earning money or even with
Dublin for the World receive communion from being successful at winning converts, Pope Francis said. “A
Meeting of Families, the main sanctuary area, baptized person who does not feel the need to proclaim the
organizers are moving and teams of nine will be Gospel, to announce Christ, is not a good Christian,” the pope
forward with spiritual assigned to each of the said July 15 before reciting the Angelus prayer with an estimated
preparations as well as corrals set up in the park, 15,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Pope Francis was
the practical, and have which will hold roughly commenting on the day’s Gospel reading, which told about how
called for some 4,000 1,400 people apiece. Jesus sent the disciples out two-by-two to preach and to heal in
Eucharistic ministers to Eight people divided in his name. “It was a kind of apprenticeship for what they would be
serve at the event’s closing pairs of two will distribute called to do with the power of the Holy Spirit after the resurrection
Mass. communion in each corral, of the Lord,” the pope explained. (Cindy Wooden/CNS)
According to the with the distribution point
Archdiocese of Dublin, the Mass must be “trained to distribute in the section marked with a white
around 500,000 people and functioning ministers where their families are, umbrella. There will also be Vatican calls for prayers, support for seafarers,
are expected for the of Holy Communion,” and but voiced hope that this a separate minister placed who face many risks
closing Mass in Phoenix must also be “steady on would not stop people from in the middle and marked The Vatican invited Catholics to pray for the 1.2 million
Park Aug. 26, which will your feet.” “generously stepping up to with a red umbrella for seafarers around the world who work under difficult conditions
be celebrated by Pope Though plastic tarp will help with this important mass-goers who require and make huge sacrifices in their profession. Seafarers “play
Francis, who will arrive in be laid out in several areas, task,” and promised to do low-gluten hosts. a significant role in our global economy by transporting from
Dublin the previous day to most of the distribution their best to keep parish Quoting the Gospel of one corner of the world to another 90 percent of all the goods
close the week-long event. for communion will take groups together. Matthew, which recounts we use in our daily life. For this reason, today while we pray for
To ensure all attendees place on bumpy, grassy So far the archdiocese how the disciples “took all of them wherever they are, we would like also to express our
have access to communion areas of the park, making has prepared some up what was left over of gratitude for their tough work full of sacrifices,” said a message
at Mass, the archdiocese it important that the 4,500 ciboria - the gold the broken pieces” after for Sea Sunday, celebrated July 8. In the message, Cardinal Peter
sent an appeal July 17 for ministers are able to stand dishes used to hold the Jesus multiplied the loaves Turkson, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human
some 4,000 Eucharistic their ground. consecrated hosts in the of bread and fish, the Development, invited Catholics around the world to remember
ministers – priests, Even though ministers distribution of communion archdiocese said they plan seafarers and the sacrifices they make. (Carol Glatz/CNS)
religious, consecrated or will have already been at Mass. to donate any extra hosts
laity—who have already trained and approved by In addition, the to hospitals and nursing
been trained and assist their parishes, they will archdiocese said they have homes, “so that those who Traditionalist society elects new superior general
with the distribution of also need to be vetted already received more weren’t able to be present The traditionalist Society of St. Pius X elected 47-year-old
communion in their home representatives of the than 500,000 hosts for and who followed the Mass Father Davide Pagliarani, an Italian member of the society, as its
parishes. World Meeting of Families. the Mass, thanks to the on television can receive superior general. According to a statement released by the society
According to the The archdiocese said it Redemptoristine Sisters of from this tremendous July 11, Father Pagliarani was chosen to succeed Bishop Bernard
archdiocese, the ministers could not guarantee that St Alphonsus Monastery in event.” (CNA/EWTN Fellay “for a mandate of 12 years” by members of the society’s
who sign up to volunteer at ministers would be able Dublin, and the Cistercian News) general chapter, which was meeting at the Seminary of St. Pius
X in Econe, Switzerland. “After accepting his office, the elected
US bishops conference approves project funding for Africa, Eastern Europe pronounced the profession of faith and took the anti-modernist
oath at the seminary church,” the statement said. The swearing
WASHINGTON D.C.— on the protection of children and expansion of a homeless day center of the oath by all “clergy, pastors, confessors, preachers, religious
Subcommittees at the U.S. vulnerable adults, safe environment run by Sisters of Charity of St. superiors and professors in philosophical-theological seminaries”
Conference of Catholic Bishops creation, policy development and Vincent de Paul in Rijeka, Croatia. was a requirement in the Catholic Church from 1910 to 1967.
have approved more than $6 million collaboration with government A rehabilitation center for children Those who take the oath promise to uphold church doctrine and
for pastoral projects in Africa and agencies. with cancer in Minsk, Belarus, will declare their opposition to “the error of the modernists who hold
Central and Eastern Europe. Funding will also be given to the also receive a grant. The facility, that there is nothing divine in sacred tradition,” according to the
The grants partner with local bishops’ conference in Rwanda, run by Caritas, offers free housing SSPX website. (Junno Arocho Esteves/CNS)
bishops’ conferences and Church which is continuing its peace and psychological support for poor
organizations in dozens of countries and reconciliation efforts after families whose children are going
to respond to specific needs within the 1994 genocide in the country through cancer treatment. Pope attends funeral of cardinal who announced
the communities. by translating conflict prevention Youth summer camps for children to world his election
“The Catholics of the United States resources for use in local Catholic internally displaced by war in East Pope Francis attended the funeral Mass and presided over the
show that we stand in solidarity with schools. Ukraine will also receive funding. final commendation of Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, the French
our sisters and brothers in Africa In Lesotho, a grant from the U.S. Caritas Donetsk will host two cardinal who led the Vatican’s outreach to other religions and
and recognize their courageous bishops’ conference will support summer camps for 100 young who had announced to the world his election as pope five years
commitment to peace, justice, Radio Maria in establishing three people, who will be offered medical ago. Seated to the right of the closed casket with his head bowed
reconciliation, and Christian hope new transmitting stations, so that health care from professionals and in solemn prayer, the pope attended the entire ceremony in St.
throughout the continent,” said their educational faith programs can spiritual care from priests. Peter’s Basilica July 12. Typically, the pope arrives at the end
Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, reach the entire national population. “As the people of Central and of a cardinal’s funeral Mass to officiate over the rites of final
who chairs the Subcommittee on the In addition, the U.S. bishops’ Eastern Europe continue to build commendation. Pope Francis gave the final blessing, sprinkling
Church in Africa. Subcommittee on Aid to the Church a new future after decades of with holy water and incensing Cardinal Tauran’s casket, upon
The subcommittee recently in Central and Eastern Europe has repression, we are all inspired by which was laid an open book of the Gospels. (Carol Glatz/CNS)
approved 54 grants providing $1.4 approved $4.9 million in funding for the example of great hope they give
million for pastoral efforts in Africa, 209 projects in 22 countries. Used to the world that it is possible to
which include religious formation, to support the Church in nations bring healing to the wounds of the Pope sends condolences to victims of tragedies
seminarian and lay leader education, that previously saw oppression past,” said Cardinal Blase Cupich in Laos and Greece
evangelization, and family ministry. under communism, the funding will of Chicago, chairman of the U.S. Pope Francis sent his condolences to victims of wildfires in
Money for the grants comes from go toward construction projects, bishops’ Subcommittee on Aid to Greece and flooding caused by the collapse of a hydroelectric dam
the Solidarity Fund for the Church formation of Church leaders, and the Church in Central and Eastern in southeast Laos, expressing his “heartfelt solidarity” with those
in Africa. education and evangelization efforts. Europe. affected. Sent through Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Among the projects funded by These include a seven-week The grants are funded by the July 24, Francis said he “was deeply saddened” to learn of recent
the grants will be the establishment formation program to help develop annual Collection for the Church wildfires in Greece, which have killed more than 60 people in the
of child protection measures in the youth ministries in Romania, where in Central and Eastern Europe, Attica region around Athens, according to the BBC. The pope
Diocese of Wa, Ghana. The new only one-third of the parishes in the which is generally collected in commended those who died “to the merciful love of Almighty God,”
Child Protection Office in the diocese Archdiocese of Alba Iulia currently churches throughout the U.S. on invoking the consolation and strength of the Lord for the mourning
is organizing training sessions have youth programs, and the Ash Wednesday each year. (CNA) and offered encouragement to civil authorities and emergency
personnel in their continued rescue efforts. At least 60 people have
19th-century Italian teen to be canonized during youth Synod been killed and 100 more injured in the worst wildfires in Greece
VATICAN— Bl. Nunzio thought and action,” the him, sending him on long could enter the religious in more than 10 years. (Hannah Brockhaus/CNA)
Sulprizio, who died at pope continued. “He will errands, beating him, and order when he was old
the age of 19 from bone teach you how you, young withholding meals if he enough.
cancer, will be declared people, can regenerate the thought things were not Though he experienced Honduran auxiliary bishop accused of sexual
a saint Oct. 14 during world in which Providence done correctly or the boy periods of increasing misconduct resigns
the Synod of Bishops on has called you to live, and needed discipline. The health, Sulprizio Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Juan José Pineda,
young people, faith, and how it is up to you first to young Sulprizio would take contracted bone cancer. auxiliary bishop of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, following a Vatican
vocational discernment, consecrate yourselves for consolation in Eucharistic His leg was amputated, investigation into accusations of financial mismanagement and
Pope Francis announced the salvation of a society adoration and in praying but it did not help, and sexual misconduct against seminarians. The bishop, 57, has long
Thursday. that needs strong and the rosary. he died from the illness been the subject of accusations of financial misdealings, as well
The pope announced the fearless souls.” While still very young, shortly after his 19th as rumors that he offered support to a male companion using
date of the young Italian’s Sulprizio said it was he contracted an infection birthday in 1836. One of archdiocesan funds. He serves under papal advisor and archbishop
canonization during an “God’s Providence” that in one of his legs, causing the last things he told his of Tegucigalpa, Cardinal Oscar Andrés Rodriguez Maradiaga,
ordinary public consistory cared for him during his intense and constant pain, friend, the colonel, was, who has also been accused of financial misconduct. In March, the
at the Vatican July 19. short life, and would say, with a puss-oozing sore. “be cheerful. From heaven National Catholic Register reported that two former seminarians
The canonization will take “Jesus endured so much for Due to a lack of proper I will always be helping had also submitted personal testimonies to the Vatican accusing
place alongside six others, us and by his merits eternal medical care, the boy you.” Pineda of serious sexual misconduct and of attempting unwanted
including that of Bl. Oscar life awaits us. If we suffer a developed gangrene, and Besides Bl. Pope Paul sexual relations. The July 20 announcement of Pineda’s resignation
Romero and Bl. Pope Paul little bit, we will taste the was sent to a hospital in VI and Bl. Oscar Romero, provided no explanation, stating only that it had been accepted by
VI, who presided over joy of paradise” and “Jesus Naples. There he would the other canonizations Pope Francis. (Hannah Brockhaus/CNA)
Sulprizio’s beatification. suffered a lot for me. Why unite his pain with Christ’s to take place Oct. 14 are
At the beatification should I not suffer for him?” suffering on the cross, also Bl. Francesco Spinelli,
Dec. 1, 1963, Paul VI said Born in the Italian helping his fellow patients. a diocesan priest and CDF laicizes Ecuadorian priest for abuse of minors
that Bl. Nunzio Sulprizio region of Abruzzo in 1817, During this time, founder of the Institute of An Ecuadorian priest accused of the sexual abuse and possible
teaches us that “the period Sulprizio learned the Sulprizio was introduced the Adorers of the Blessed torture of minors was dismissed from the clerical state by the
of youth should not be faith from a priest at the to a colonel who treated him Sacrament; Bl. Vincenzo Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Archdiocese of
considered the age of free local school he attended like a son and helped pay Romano, a diocesan priest Guayaquil announced Monday. The CDF issued a decree July 12
passions, of inevitable and from his maternal for his medical treatments. from Torre de Greco in dismissing Luis Fernando Intriago Paez from the clerical state.
falls, of invincible crises, grandmother. While in the hospital, the Italy; Bl. Maria Caterina The decree followed the Congregation’s rejection of a second
of decadent pessimism, He was orphaned before young man was visited by Kasper, a German nun and appeal by Intriago which “lacked foundation,” according to a
of harmful selfishness. the age of six, and after the a priest who prepared him founder of the Institute July 23 press release from Archbishop Luis Cabrera Herrera.
Rather, he will tell you how death of his grandmother for his first confession and of the Poor Handmaids The press release explained that as a laicized priest, Intriago is
being young is a grace…” three years later, went Holy Communion. of Jesus Christ; and barred from holding any office in the Church, from the celebration
“He will tell you that to live with an uncle, He also met St. Gaetano Nazaria Ignazia of Saint of the sacraments in public or private, and from imparting any
no other age than yours, who took him on as an Errico, an Italian priest Teresa of Jesus, founder theological teaching within the institutes of the Catholic Church.
young people, is as apprentice blacksmith, not and founder of the of the Congregation of the The decision may not be appealed. Intriago’s dismissal from the
suitable for great ideals, permitting him to attend Missionaries of the Sacred Misioneras Cruzadas de clerical state by the CDF concludes a canonical trial which began
for generous heroism, for school anymore. Hearts of Jesus and Mary, la Iglesia Sisters. (CNA/ in 2013. (Hannah Brockhaus/CNA)
the coherent demands of His uncle also mistreated who promised him he EWTN News)
CBCP Monitor July 23 - August 5, 2018, Vol 22, No. 15 A3

Pope Francis appoints Athlete Hidilyn Diaz:

‘Avert from failures,
four presidents delegate seek for purpose’
for youth synod

PHOTO FROM SYNOD2018/TWITTER

Athlete Hidilyn Diaz speaks about overcoming adversity through faith at the Philippine
Conference on New Evangelization at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City, July 19,
2018. PHOTO FROM PCNE

OLYMPIC silver medalist ibang atleta,” she said.

VATICAN— Pope Francis appointed
Saturday four cardinals as presidents
delegate to the synod on youth, which
will meet at the Vatican in October.
His July 14 appointments were
Cardinal Louis Raphael I Sako, Chaldean
Patriarch of Babylon; Cardinal Désiré
Tsarahazana of Toamasina; Cardinal
Charles Maung Bo of Yangon; and
Cardinal John Ribat of Port Moresby.
Each were appointed cardinal by
Pope Francis.
The presidents delegate will take turns
presiding over the synod on the pope’s
behalf. They are to guide the synod’s
work, delgate special tasks, and sign the
synod’s documents.
The Oct. 3-28 Synod of Bishops
on Young People, the Faith and the
Discernment of Vocation will address
questions of sexuality and gender, the
role of women, and the desire for a
Hidilyn Diaz urged people
and co-athletes not to focus
Church which knows how to listen. on the failures and pains
The synod’s instrumentum laboris in life but to seek for the
was issued last month, and key issues purpose that God has given.
highlighted in it include increasing “Para sa akin natural
cultural instability and conflict, and that ang masaktan, natural na
many young people, both inside and may nararamdaman tayong
outside of the Church, are divided when lungkot. Magtiwala kayo
it comes to topics related to sexuality, the kay God na may purpose
role of women, and the need to be more para gamitin natin ‘yun
welcoming to members of the LGBT as learning para rin ma-
community. (CNA/EWTN News) encourage natin ‘yung ibang
tao,” Diaz said on the third
“Parte ng pagiging atleta na
ma-injury kayo, matalo kayo,
parte rin ng pagiging atleta
ang manalo. Kailangang
paniwalaan si God, kailangan
niyong paniwalaan ang sarili
niyo,” added Diaz.
She also pointed out that
listening to other people
really helped her in her
journey.
“Natuto akong makinig sa
iba’t ibang tao, ang daming
taong nag-eencourage sa akin

Go to God in weariness, says teacher day of Philippine Conference

on New Evangelization at the
Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay
kahit sa proseso ng training,
minsan hindi parating
maganda ang training,

Sabrina Ongkiko City.

“That time din [nagsimula]
‘yung journey ko with God
minsan pagod na pagod ka
na, burnt out ka na pero
kailangan kasi may pangarap
THE best prevention for medicall school kasi nakilala ko si God ka,” she said.
weariness is staying focused application personally, natuto na akong “Marami akong
on our faith and on what God form,” said mag-pray,” she said. nakilalang iba’t ibang tao
asks us to do, public school Ongkiko. The Filipina weightlifter na nakatulong sa akin,
teacher Sabrina Ongkiko “Pero kung had a knee-injury in 2014 nagbigay ng wisdom
said. ito ‘yung gusto and was not able to join in about sport science, sport
“Minsan, nalilito po tayo, Niya, sasaluhin competitions. psychology,” Diaz also said.
pinili mo naman talaga pero niya ako. Kaya Diaz said that it was in The Philippines got its first
pag nahihirapan ka na, may i po nakapag-aral “emptiness” that she Olympic medal since 1996
na, mapipilitan ka na lang po. po ako na may discovered where her faith with Diaz. She is also the first
But as long as nagmamahal scholarship, at and purpose in life is. ever Filipino woman to win a
ka, ‘yun pa rin po ‘yung tawag patuloy niya na “Hindi ko alam kung medal in the Olympics.
sa inyo,” she said. po akong sinasalo ano ‘yung purpose ko sa Diaz will compete in Asian
The teacher shared a araw-araw,” she buhay, kung bakit ako nasa Games in Indonesia in August
personal testimony at the said. weightlifting. Ginamit ko this year. (Joselle Dela
Philippine Conference on O n g k i k o ‘yun para ma-encorage ‘yung Cruz/CBCPNews)
New Evangelization in admitted that she
Manila on July 22, revealing
how instrumental his faith to
also experienced
the “weariness”
The Indonesian nun treating
his mission.
Ongkiko initially wanted to
in doing her
Sabrina Ongkiko speaks during the 2018 Philippine Conference on New Evangelization at the Cuneta
mission but God Astrodome in Pasay City, July 19, 2018. MARTINA SUMMER DAGAL
cancer sufferers
become a doctor so she took reminded her of
biology in Ateneo de Manila A DREAM changed the life of traditional medicine.
the importance of love in her para magmahal.’ Sinasabi ka na. Iba ang matalino sa
University. Maria Mediatrix nun Antonia “I got the cosmic energy
calling. po sa atin na ang pagtuturo magaling, ang magaling
But guided by a mission Batseran. when I was suffering from
“Noong una pong beses, raw po isang porma ng kayang gawing magaling
to serve, she abandoned Back in 1983, when breast cancer,” she said. This
pagod na pagod po akong pagmamahal, pero lagi mong ang iba. You reminded me
her ambition and chose a she was teaching at an ‘God’s gift’ suddenly came up,
maging teacher. Bakit ba dito susundan ang pagmamahal,” to teach according of what
path that surprised many—a elementary school run by her and I use it now to help heal
ako dinala? Kasi po iyong she added. I envisioned the country,”
public school teacher. congregation in Indonesia’s my patients.”
pinili at pinilit, isang letra Ongkiko also emphasized she said.
“Sabi ko agad sa Diyos, Maluku province, a doctor She never makes patients
lang poo ‘yung pagitan no’n, t h a t i n t e a c h i n g , i t i s Ongkiko was one of the
kung ito ang gusto Niya, diagnosed her as having pay for the traditional
‘di ba?” she said. important to impart the 10 Outstanding Women
walang kalahating paalam, advanced breast cancer. medicine. But if a patient
“Sabi lang Niya, ‘Teka knowledge to others and not of the Nation awardee in
buong-buong tatalon so “The doctor said that I had has e nou g h mone y and
Sabs, tinawag kita hindi para just being wise. 2016. (Joselle Dela Cruz/
hindi ko po pinasa ‘yung little chance to live,” she told offers to pay, she uses the
maging teacher, tinawag kita “Hindi sapat kapag okay CBCPNews)
ucanews.com. money to run her healing
But Sister Batseran, 70, service along with support
Sinicization of China’s Catholics begins later had surgery eight times
over consecutive years and
she receives from her
congregation.
CATHOLIC dioceses in China are being Sinicization through seminars and there is to be a biannual forum on the in the last operation her left “It has been more than 30
required to show how they will reduce other means. subject. The policy directive requires breast was totally removed. years now,” she says of her
foreign influences and adopt a more However, it complains that many that educational efforts emphasize She kept praying to God healing endeavors.
Chinese ideological and theological ordinary Catholics do not “accurately the rule of law and disseminate new for a miracle. And one night, Among those she has
identity. understand its implications and goals”. religious affairs regulations that came her brother, Akle Ivakdalam, treated is Lie Lie, a 52-year-
The aim is to do this through a five- It had therefore been decided to into effect earlier this year. Also on the had a dream in which he was old Catholic mother of three
year plan running until 2022. ensure a systematic approach in keeping drawing board is a booklet on liturgy called upon to take parasitic who has a lump in her left
A strategy was agreed at a May 17 with President Xi Jinping’s stated aim of highlighting “Chinese traditional plants from a kapok tree and breast.
meeting of the Bishops’ Conference of continuing education on “independence, features”. an orange tree in front of their Lie Lie met the nun for the
the Catholic Church in China (BCCCC) autonomy, and self-management” of the house to make medicine. first time in 2010 at a clinic
and the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Church. Democratic management of the The next morning, he in North Jakarta.
Association (CCPA). This centers on Christians recognizing Church collected the plants to dry “I had seen a doctor, but it
Now all dioceses have been told their responsibility to “love the Dioceses are told to conduct seminars them before boiling the stems was still so painful,” she said.
to state in writing by the end of motherland” and accept the leadership and symposiums on Sinicization, and leaves. “A friend of mine told me
August how they intend to meet the of the Chinese Communist Party, including on the relationship between “I regularly drank the to see her. I have drunk the
requirements. the socialist system and the nation’s the church’s ruling hierocracy and potion for three years and felt potion three times a day and
A 15-page document includes sections constitution. democratic management. The planning so much better than before,” refrained from eating oily
dealing with deepening the political, Study and exchanges could help document states that division of Sister Batseran relates. “Yet food since then. Thanks be
legal and social identity of Chinese prelates and ordinary Catholics practice responsibilities between the Patriotic I had to see a doctor to make to God, the lump has become
Catholicism as well as promoting the socialism with Chinese characteristics in Association, the Catholic Administration sure that my breast cancer smaller now.”
faith. Xi’s new era, the Sinicization blueprint Commission and dioceses should be had gone.” The nun brought her a
Further, it requires development states. more clearly defined. The doctor was surprised feeling of peace.
of church management policies with It emphasizes the constitution and The role of local Patriotic Associations by her recovery, she said. “I believe prayers heal
“Chinese characteristics”. work regulations of the Patriotic and the Catholic Administration She had remembered a everything,” she says, adding
And dioceses are being told to adopt Association as well as dioceses being Commission in relation to official message from her brother’s that she will continue to take
church architecture, painting and sacred involved in educational activities, registration of church organizations, dream that she should help the traditional medicine until
music more in keeping with Chinese historical research and publishing. A religious venues and colleges is to be heal others suffering from her lump is gone.
culture and traditions. research institute is to include scholars strengthened. cancer. Besides serving people
The word ‘Sinicization’, which from both inside and outside of the The plan stresses that Sinicization After taking up a new job with cancer in clinics, Sister
according to one dictionary definition church. Aims include compilation of of Chinese Catholicism cannot be as a congregational school Batseran also visits cancer
means to ‘modify by Chinese influence’, a history of the Catholic Church in separated from effective organizational headmistress, she also patients in hospitals.
is mentioned 72 times in the planning China and establishing archives on restructuring, with the Patriotic attended medical clinics “As a human being, I easily
document which was obtained by Catholicism. Association and Bishops’ Conference in her district, as well as feel tired, of course,” she says.
ucanews.com. Traditional Chinese culture and taking the lead nationally. others in West Java, and even “But I cannot just ignore
The policy master plan notes that philosophy are to be more widely However, this would be done in traveled abroad. those coming to me to ask
the two main officially recognized taught in seminaries. The Patriotic coordination with provincial, municipal She tells of passing cosmic for my help. I am only an
organizations, the Bishops’ Conference Association and Bishops’ Conference and autonomous region church energy or prana to each intermediary. It is God who
and the government-backed Patriotic are to take a lead on publishing a authorities as well as parishes and patient, and also praying heals them.” (Katharina
Association, are already promoting textbook dealing with Sinicization and seminaries. (UCANews) to God, before offering the Lestari/UCANews)
A4 OPINION July 23 - August 5, 2018, Vol 22, No. 15 CBCP Monitor

EDITORIAL

Right to life, the first

and fundamental human right
WHOEVER thought of dichotomizing human rights and human
life either does not have a good grasp of the meaning of human
rights—at least how the United Nations defines it—or has a
deeply rooted political agenda that often resorts to redefinition,
disinformation and propaganda. If the latter should be the case,
then brace for the worst because it is not far-fetched that the
intention is to deodorize and ultimately justify the thousands
of killings that are directly or indirectly related to the drug war.
At the 2018 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President
Rodrigo Duterte clearly stated: “Your concern is human rights,
mine is human life. The lives of our youth are being wasted and
families are destroyed, and all because of the chemicals called
shabu, cocaine, cannabis, and heroine.” This a more formal
rendition of what he said in August 2016 where he questioned
if drug addicts could be considered human beings. He said
then, “Are they humans? What is your definition of a human
being? Tell me. Human rights. Use it properly in the right
context, if you have the brains.” Just months after his inaugural,
everybody thought it was a big joke—or so was it?—just like he
said in March 2016 that he would kill 100,000 criminals and
dump so many in Manila bay that the “fish will grow fat” from

ILLUSTRATION BY BLADIMER USI

feeding on them. On another instance, his crowd was cheering
when he said, “The funeral parlors will be packed…I’ll supply
the dead bodies.”
After two years and several thousands dead bodies, mostly
poor, the dichotomy of human rights and human life is not a
joke, after all. This is a mentality. A system. A method or a
solution. The only rub is, this is wrong. The Duterte solution
believes that success is just about liquidating drug users (which
will be ad infinitum because drug users will not run out while
the supply of drug lasts and the psycho-social need exists.), not
in making people whole again by rehabilitating them.
Federalism, Panaghoy
“Addicts, for us, are sick people; drug use is not a crime
that deserves death. What people with substance-use disorder
the Trojan Horse Bp. Broderick Pabillo
needs is rehabilitation,” said CBCP Vice President and Caloocan
Bishop Pablo Virgilio David.
The right to life is the first and fundamental human right.
Nobody in his right mind can claim to protect life if he violates
THE story of the Trojan Horse is this – the present congress convened as in 6 months, if the problem of illegal
a person’s right to it, in the first place.
interesting. After years of siege, the constitutional assembly—we can already drugs is not solved in 6 months, etc., etc.
Greek could not penetrate the city of guess where this is heading. It will spell If he is true to his word, he should have
Marketing spiritual services Troy, until they came up with an idea of disaster to the Filipinos. resigned long ago! But he is one who is
IT is not, of course, a matter of indulging in commercialization making a big horse as a peace offering. We say no to Cha-Cha at this juncture “strong”—and flimsy—in words but very
of things spiritual and of religion and piety. That would be They left it on the shore and sailed away, of our history! Although our 1987 weak in deeds. Who can believe him?
simony, a no no. But given the temper of the times, I think we admitting their defeat. The Trojans were Constitution is already hailed as a very 2. The Lower House is no longer
need to be more pro-active in promoting the spiritual services, so happy at this turn of events. They progressive constitution together with independent. It is just a rubber stamp
such as the sacraments and others like spiritual counselling brought the big wooden horse inside that of South Africa, it is not perfect. of the palace. The congressmen and
and spiritual direction. their city and celebrated whole night. It can still be improved, but not at this women there no longer represent the
Truth is of all the things that we most need, one thinks, the While they were celebrating, soldiers time and not with this present congress people but their own families and
spiritual things, the very means of our sanctification and of came surreptitiously out of the horse, and president. political interests. They do not have the
developing a lifestyle that would lead us to our eternal life, opened the city gates to let in their Not at this time: good of the people at heart. They cannot
should rank first. As such, they should not be confined to some hidden comrades who stealthily sailed 1. The atmosphere in the country is be trusted. Nor are they qualified too for
restricted and confined means of promoting them, like just
back, and attacked the drunk Trojans. not conducive to critical participation. changing the charter!
depending on some word of mouth and putting some notices
on bulletin boards of churches, etc. In fact, one cannot anymore Thus the great and impregnable city of There is a culture of fear and bullying 3. The present government is no
depend solely on homilies to do this. These spiritual services Troy fell to the Greeks. promoted by Duterte. longer seen as independent from foreign
can and should be more visible and audible in the media also. Duterte is presenting federalism as the 2. There is the haste to make the influence. China is seen as a real threat,
We can generate a lot of interest for them. With many magic wand to bring about prosperity to Cha-Cha. They want the plebiscite to be and with the connivance of no less than
people entangled if not sunk in complicated situations and the whole country. This claim is at best done this year. So there is no time for Duterte himself.
predicaments, they will soon realize that there are other very dubious. But the way to bring about transparency, proper consultation and The country is faced with real
effective ways of tackling them other than the usual material federalism is the change of the present discussion. But why the haste? There is problems, like the runaway inflation,
means, like pills, food supplements, exercises, etc. We cannot constitution, Cha-Cha, in short. I see a strong suspicion that the haste is to the rise in prices of the basic goods,
deny that many people are stuck with bad habits, vices and all that federalism is the Trojan horse, the avoid the election of 2O19 so that those the atmosphere of lawlessness with the
kinds of addiction—from alcohol to drugs to sex to the Internet smokescreen in order to bring about in the office can remain. continued killings of the poor, of church
to games, etc., etc. Self-abuse, pre- and extra-marital sex are Cha-Cha, which is the formula for total Not with this present administration. people and of politicians, the loss of our
rampant. Corruption, greed, deception in high places are now control of the country. It is a control that 1. Duterte is out for power. We do not territorial sovereignty, the weakening
into epidemic proportions. Cases of depression and mental
is backed up by the new constitution they believe his “promise” to resign if the Cha- of our democratic institutions, the
illness are increasing at a frightening rate.
Even at these times, there seem to be a very big market out are proposing! We do not yet know this Cha for federalism is already passed. anger at the controlled and uncalled for
there of people who would be highly benefited if given the new constitution but knowing the people He already had so many “promises” to ranting of Duterte, etc. These should
appropriate spiritual services. The spiritual services, like the who are behind this—Duterte and his resign—if traffic in Manila is not solved be addressed by people in government
sacraments of confession and the Holy Eucharist, spiritual minions—and knowing who will craft in 3 months, if ENDO is not taken away now, not Cha-Cha nor federalism!
direction and counselling, etc., can actually offer remedies and
relief that attend more to the more important constituent of
our nature, which is our spiritual soul. If people only know the
Another Angle A mode of living
effectiveness of these spiritual services!
Of course, we have to make everyone understand the priority
that the care of our spiritual soul has over that of our physical
Fr. Emmanuel Mijares as presbyterium
body, without ever disparaging the importance of the latter. It
is in the state of our spiritual soul where the ultimate quality
of our life is actually determined. This is actually a point that ST. IRENEUS of Antioch Gnostics, who took their the faith and the Gospel attain joy and happiness is
needs to be explained more. fought against the Gnostics name from the Greek word perfectly comprehensible. to enter within this confines
We need to do a lot of advertising the benefits of the spiritual because his main priority for “knowledge.” They They absolutize their own as if their knowledge
services, slowly but steadily explaining the details of the benefits was the unity of the Church are those who claiming theories and force others assures them of their
involved. And we can do this by making use of the usual means of and therefore of the access to secret knowledge to submit to their way of internal joy. They could
advertising, like making commercials for radio, TV and even online.
presbyterium. He become imparted by Jesus to only thinking.” develop themselves into an
There is now a lot of marketing being done online. Let us
hope that we can count on competent people to do this. The
famous through his words a few disciples. To know This could take varied “ecclesiastical click” and
clergy should lead the way, but the laypeople can and should that priests should be united this “secret” for them is a forms. Perhaps what could have the air of being better
be highly involved in this job. With their exposure to the real with their bishop as strings gateway to heaven. be opined is even without than the other priests since
world and their creativity, many laypeople can be most effective to a lyre. Therefore harmony The Pope in his recent realizing it, this form of they know something better
in this department. in thought and heart is letter Gaudete et Exaltate false sanctity could exist which only they enjoy and
Yes, appropriate gimmicks, slogans and the so-called “hugot” necessary in Presbyterium presents the danger of neo- with those who are near could become closed to the
lines can be used—anything that can legitimately grab the as a good melody which Gnosticism. Together with the confines of a limited other ideas and opinion
attention of the people. Of course, we should not forget the could come out from this Neo Pelagianism these are group of priests around of their other brother
traditional means of promoting these spiritual services, but unity—a beautiful musical “false forms of holiness the bishop. They are those priests. Moreover, deviated
neither should we be stuck with them. prayer to God. that can lead us astray” He considered as an elite group, competition among its
Times have changed, and there are people who do not feel at On his time as a bishop says the “Gnostics think the confidants or the cordon members could creep in,
home anymore with the old traditional means. We need to adapt of Lyons he was especially that their explanations sanitaire around the bishop in order that one could
to the times. We may have to do some changing of attitudes and concerned with the can make the entirety of who could think that to Another Angle / A7
acquiring new skills for this purpose.
Let’s hope that the spiritual services can be made mainstream
in the world of media! Just come home Candidly Speaking

Monitor
CBCP Fr. Roy Cimagala

PROTAGONIST OF TRUTH, PROMOTER OF PEACE THESE past months, I have been desperation, the one good thing that even in our worst possible scenario, we
attending family and class reunions he did, the last straw he managed to can always count on God’s ever-ready
Pedro Quitorio and these always gave me very happy, clutch, was to decide to come home mercy as long as we decide to come
Editor-in-Chief
moving and memorable experiences. even if he was willing not anymore to home to him.
Nirva’ana Delacruz Ron Ramos There is a sensation of being at home, be considered as a son. We should always strengthen our faith
Associate Editor Design Artist of being part of a family or class We know what happened. The father in God’s mercy and compassion. Of course.
where the process of growing up, of was all the time waiting for him. And We should also try not to abuse God’s
Roy Lagarde Mercedita Juanite learning and discovering, and of being when he saw a glimpse of the returning goodness, even if we know that despite
Circulation Manager
News Editor unconditionally understood and loved prodigal son, he could not help but ran our best efforts we may end up abusing
Marcelita Dominguez as one is, took place. to him, very happy to have him back. He it just the same. But whatever happens,
Christine Paguirigan
Managing Editor Comptroller All of these somehow reminded me ordered a feast and let go of what the son we should come home. Just come home.
of the parable of the prodigal son. (cfr. did. He knew his son was sorry. That’s what matters in the end.
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the Areopagus Lk 15,11-32) We are familiar with the This is a great lesson all of us have to We need to strengthen our spirit of
Communications, Inc. with editorial and business offices at
Ground Flr., Holy Face of Jesus Center & Convent, 1111 story. A son went away from home, learn. In life, anything can happen. We divine filiation—that God is our father
F. R. Hidalgo Street, Quiapo, Manila. Editorial: (632) 404 - taking his big inheritance and wasted try to do what is good, but sometimes who is all merciful and compassionate,
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all of it in loose living until he suffered our idea of what is good can actually who is all willing to do anything for us
its inevitable dire consequences. In his be bad. We just have to remember that Candidly Speaking / A7
CBCP Monitor July 23 - August 5, 2018, Vol 22, No. 15 OPINION A5

“Tinimbang ka, ngunit…”:

By the Roadside an ordinary priest reflects Commentary
Fr. Eutiquio ‘Euly’ Belizar, Jr. SThD Craig Blewett
on the 2018 SONA
FIRST, credit is due to the transpired before the SONA, based on true assessment that it seems to see success A valiant woman’s voice
chief executive’s people for
steering him to a “cursing-
no sign of it was visible in
the chief executive’s eyes or
of facts and conditions?);
(2) justice (do they give the
not in people being brought
from drug dependence to in ‘Humanae Vitae’
free” content and delivery (at face. He could have given country and Juan de la Cruz drug independence. Success
least, from my standpoint) of it his complete blessing or their due at the service of his is seen in getting rid of WANDA Półtawska, a Polish doctor, is 97 years old. Her life and
the written piece. In effect, bitter objection but only a few life, dignity and welfare?); whatever and whoever it work is unknown outside her native Poland and some quarters
it was easier to listen to his knew, aside from himself. All (3) common good (do they defines as involved in, or of the Catholic Church, but her insights and influence have
address and focus on the the more reason politicians really serve the common hindering the resolution of, prospered the mission of the Church in defending the dignity of
points that deserve attention. and politicking should follow good as defined by Pope the problem: drug addicts all human beings.
Coming from a more-than- moral norms. John, i.e., “the sum total of all and pushers (mostly poor), Equally unknown by most people is the long, close
an-hour-long suspension due Even the Second Plenary conditions of social life which drug lords (mostly untouched friendship she and her family enjoyed with Karol Wojtyla,
to an unexpected but highly Council of the Philippines enable individuals, families or at large), and, figuratively later Pope John Paul II. In the 1960s, she advised him on
suspicious ruckus involving teaches that the exercise and organizations to achieve or literally, critics (some family dynamics and sexual issues, including the newly
the position of Speaker of the of the prophetic ministry complete and efficacious politicians, some church developed contraceptive pill.
House being taken over by means not only “criticizing, fulfillment” [John XXIII, leaders, some human rights Through this relationship her views on artificial birth
Representative Arroyo from condemning” and doing “all Mater et Magistra: AAS 53]? advocates). control are likely to have influenced Pope Paul VI in
Representative Alvarez, the it (clergy) can to lessen” Or are the efforts one-sidedly Already the chief executive his writing of the encyclical Humanae Vitae, which
leader of the republic might what is “bad” or wrong in geared towards material and has been taken to task ruled out family planning methods like the pill. Indeed,
have been ecstatic or angry, Philippine society but also economic development?) for falsely dichotomizing one biographer of John Paul II claims that not only her
but it did not show. Very few, “enhancing, encouraging, One thing bothered me human rights and human ideas but “in some cases her exact words can be found in
however, believe he was not supporting what is good” in it after listening to the SONA. lives. His statement directed the text.” (See note below)
in the know. Days before the (PCP II 346-347). Thus, even I believe it should bother to human rights advocates: The pill, in Dr Półtawska’s judgment, was no friend of
event news media were abuzz we priests admit the need to all of us. I’m speaking of the “Your concern is human married love and still less a healthy choice for women.
with rumors of a change of support this administration’s president’s re-affirmation of rights, mine is human lives” She saw it as an assault on a woman’s dignity bringing not
leadership in the House, obviously good intentions his commitment to pursue ignores the fact that the freedom, but a form of moral enslavement. It was a spoiler
courtesy of the presidential and programs: anti- the anti-illegal drug war right to life is the first and of love between spouses, an excuse for men to shirk their
daughter’s behind-the- corruption measures, in a way he characterizes fundamental human right. It paternal responsibilities, and a straight path to abortion,
scenes efforts. The rift stronger defense and as “relentless” and even is this false dichotomy that pornography, sexual abuse and euthanasia. It was, in short,
between these two intense promotion of environmental “chilling”. If this is to mean is behind the thousands of a destructive tool for the agendas of radical politics.
personalities inspired not so protection and of the more forceful application of deaths and killings directly Having been herself a victim of the medical
secret unfriendly exchanges welfare of migrant workers, the law, it is to be welcomed. or indirectly related to the experimentation carried out by the Nazis during World War
doubtless fanned and bruited genuinely independent But if this means more killings drug war. To recognize the II, she also saw the pill as a tool of the eugenics movement
about by media. When people foreign policy, more effective and travesty of human rights, right to life of one segment for eliminating racially impure human beings.
in power quarrel, those closer ways to uphold our territorial no one, not even government of the population (those Wanda Półtawska was just a slight teenage girl when
to the more powerful of them integrity through peaceful forces, can stand on solid outside the drug war) she was dragged away to prison by four big men of
wins. This was no exception. means, peace efforts with all moral ground and at the and to deny it of another the Gestapo. She spent most of the next four years in
As a priest and an ordinary stakeholders in Philippine same time continue allowing (drug addicts, pushers, and Ravensbrück concentration camp, where she, along with
citizen I am appalled not society, truly poor-friendly such actions. It is clear that their kind) dehumanizes others, experienced the extreme of what was meant by
at the former Speaker tax reforms, and the like. the administration is less everyone ultimately. To eugenics. She endured having injections of bacteria into
Alvarez’ downfall but at I wonder though how bothered by its human rights deny the right to life of any wounds deliberately created in order to observe the effect.
how treacherous politicking these good intentions and violations record than it is by human being is to deny not This indescribably horrible and painful ordeal is recorded
and politicians can be. Still, programs fare when gauged its own dogged determination only his humanity but even in her memoir, And I Am Afraid of My Dreams.
whatever basest of human by important value tools, to achieve success in the anti- of the one who does the Before her incarceration, Wanda had been preparing to
emotions and behavior such as: (1) truth (are they drug war. The trouble is denial. become a Classical scholar and teacher. But while in the hell
of Ravensbrück she resolved that if she survived she would
Moved with compassion become a good doctor. Weak and disfigured in her legs,
Duc in Altum she did survive, went home and began her medical studies.
She married Dr Andrzej Półtawski in 1947, and they
Atty. Aurora A. Santiago had four daughters. She completed her medical studies in
1951 at the Jagiellonian University, and in 1964 completed
her doctorate in psychiatry, specializing in the care of
sexual abuse victims and disorders of concentration camp
DATELINE: Los Angeles, California— what the Lord had taught his disciples. David, Bishop of Kalookan and Vice survivors, whom she called her “Auschwitz children”.
After careful deliberations, discussions Vengeance is never the way of Christ. President of CBCP bared his heart out By providential chance, sometime in the mid-1950s, Dr
and reflections, our shepherds had It is not the way of Jesus to return evil when he reported the killing of Jennifer Półtawska took a pilgrimage with other Catholic doctors to
spoken. The much-awaited pastoral for evil; no, we can conquer evil only Taburada, 27 years old, one of the the Shrine of Our Lady of Częstochowa, where she happened
letter of the Catholic Bishops Conference with good. Up to the last moment of widows who are leading the support to meet Karol Wojtyla, assistant bishop of Krakow. She
of the Philippines (CBCP), had been his breath, he had nothing but words of group for extrajudicial killing (EJK) and her husband became close friends of the bishop, often
released. They advised the faithful mercy towards his tormentors, ‘Father, victims in the Diocese. Jennifer is the discussing with him matters closest to their hearts and
that “the Church respects the political forgive them for they do not know what widow of Ryan who was an EJK victim lives: chaste sexuality, marital relations, religion, theology,
authority, especially of democratically- they do’”. a year ago. Ryan’s body was mutilated family life, marriage, celibacy, contraceptives, communism,
elected government officials, as long as *** by the killers. They gouged his eyes philosophy and the changing times in the church and world.
they do not contradict the basic spiritual It is with deep regret that this year, and cut off his private parts. Jennifer Continuing pro-life work she had already begun with
and moral principles we hold dear, such I could not attend the Philippine was killed by the bonnet gang or death other women in the Krakow archdiocese before she met
as respect for the sacredness of life, the Conference on New Evangelization squad. Jennifer and Ryan were from Bishop Wojtyla, she became his chief assistant in developing
integrity of creation, and the inherent or the PCNE 5. I had attended PCNE the Diocese of Kalookan. They were and managing programmes of marriage and sex counseling,
dignity of the human person.” 1 to 4 (from year 2014 to 2017) and it survived by their two children, Princess as well as family and health care ministry there. This
The bishops stated that they are not was really a learning experience which and Prince Jr., 5 and 7 years old, who included a home for unwed mothers run by volunteers,
political leaders, and certainly not everyone must attend. I love most the are now complete and totally orphans. which survived harassment by the communist authorities
political opponents of the government. segment “Heart to Heart with Cardinal To make sure that Jennifer was dead, from 1957 to 1965, when it was forced to close.
The Church has coexisted with the Chito” (Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, the killers fired more gunshots to her She taught natural family planning, but took care to
government and has been partners Archbishop of Manila), a sharing and dead body. After killing Jennifer, they emphasize the possibility of conception and the importance
and collaborators of the government in witnessing of real life story of persons just walked away without haste, went of spouses remaining open to a child in their sexual
its many projects and programs. They from different sectors of society. I also to a nearby barangay and there killed relations, as Humanae Vitae was to reaffirm.
caution though that there are some wait for the Eucharist, especially the Alvin Teng, 36 years old. The killings When, in 1962, Dr Półtawska was diagnosed with
specific issues when collaboration may Homily of the Mass Presider. Talks happened in Caloocan City. malignant colon cancer, Bishop Wojtyla – then in Rome for
not be possible because of the spiritual and workshops are also a must attend Bishop Ambo cried out in frustration: the opening of the second Vatican Council—wrote and asked
and moral beliefs, but never impose on session. “I feel so sad that I am unable to protect for the prayers of the Italian mystic Padre Pio, with whom
the unwilling. The Church recognizes This year’s theme “Moved with my flock from wolves. Today, in utter he was acquainted. In 1947, the newly ordained Fr. Wojtyla
the separation of church and state. Compassion… Feed the Multitude,” is shame and frustration, I declare, ‘I have had been to visit the Capuchin friar and spent a week in San
When the Church speaks out on certain very meaningful topic in the Year of not been a good shepherd to my flock. Giovanni Rotunda where they talked together. When, 15
issues, it is always from the perspective the Clergy and Consecrated Persons. The wolves have been prowling the years later, Padre Pio received Wojtyla’s hand-delivered
of faith and morals, especially the It is also very timely especially now streets and alleys of Caloocan, Malabon, letter with the urgent request, he agreed to honour the
principles of social justice, never with when the Universal Church is facing and Navotas. They have killed hundreds written plea. A few days later the Polish doctors prepared
any political or ideological agenda in many challenges and the clergy and already, and I am unable to protect to operate on their colleague, but they found that the cancer
mind. consecrated persons are being attacked them with my life. I will bow in shame had vanished; there was no tumor upon which to operate.
The bishops warn those who were from all fronts. if the Good Shepherd will denounce me This healing, which had no medical explanation, was cited
angry due to the insulting statements *** as a mere hireling, who remains very as one of the miracles contributing to the canonization of
of people in authority: “remember Most Rev. Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” Duc in Altum / A7 Padre Pio in 2002.
With her strong understanding of family, Dr Półtawska
contributed to Wojtyla’s book on romantic theology, Love
Spaces of Hope New expressions and Responsibility, with its theme of sexual love between
husband and wife. At a time when the topic of women’s
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola sexual experience was not spoken of openly, but largely
assumed to be the same as the male’s experience, she threw
Freudian psychology on its ear by openly insisting that
husbands get over their selfishness and train themselves
to cherish their wives and caress them lovingly in slow and
intimate ways so that their wives might know spousal love
RECENTLY, I ventured into memory of men in the early getting into when I posted synchronized by an unseen through female orgasm. At the same time she criticized “the
an electronic jungle called the Church of sober minds the first letter. If given the hand to drown out every myth of orgasm”, that is, the contemporary pursuit of
Facebook or FB. This began who, fired by God’s love chance, I would do the same other voice but their own. pleasure for its own sake.
when I posted an Open Letter and reflecting on Scripture thing God continues to gift Vocabulary had degenerated Wanda Półtawska’s faith, service, wisdom and love were
to President Duterte. The and lived experiences, put me with much peaceful into a few choice words which forged through extreme suffering. Having experienced
short letter began this way: two and two together and slumber. Daily, I rise up with actually demeans the writer the vilest of indignities during the Second World War,
“Dear President Duterte, discovered the unfathomable head gratefully unbowed - I not the reader. These were she became a powerful witness for human dignity and for
I am writing to you as an beauty of God’s mercy in the do not know though about obviously scripted based purity in intimate matters. Holiness in marriage and in
individual Filipino and as a face of human brokenness those who prowl the cyber on the common language the priesthood, decency and proper regard for the health
priest and not representing called original sin...” night seeking someone to and tone. Only about 7 of women were greatly needed in a critical moment of the
any group. You have crossed The posting soon attracted devour...” comments, somewhat critical dark 20th century.
a line when you called God various readers. Whatever I did a little math on the FB of my post, were thoughtful Although the backwash of controversy following Humanae
‘stupid’. The line is neither the reaction, I decided to posts and found out that as of and constructive, deserving Vitae was violent and divisive, 50 years later there is a change,
red nor yellow but black and respond by pressing the 6:20 a.m. Friday June 29, the a second look and a special if not yet peace. The wisdom and sanity of that encyclical is
white. The belief inspired heart icon on FB. I felt peace letter had elicited 684 shares thanks. beginning to be realized within and beyond the church and even,
by the Genesis story is way replace a growing agitation. and close to 500 comments. Then I did some more implicitly, in the secular world, where young women unhappy
beyond your pay grade as it is I posted a follow-up letter a The comments began mostly math. Of the 500 comments with hormonal contraception are turning to natural methods of
beyond mine. It is something few days later: positively, then it degenerated about fifty individuals saw family planning.
best left to our grateful living “...I knew what I was into a cacophany of voices Spaces of Hope / A6 Commentary / A6
A6 LOCAL NEWS July 23 - August 5, 2018, Vol 22, No. 15 CBCP Monitor

Church welfare agency offers refuge Bishop to PNP chaplains:

for kids orphaned by killings
A CATHOLIC welfare institution
has offered a haven for the two
children bereaved by another case
of extrajudicial killing in Caloocan
City.
Bishop Pablo Virgilio David said
the Hospicio de San Jose in Manila
is willing to take care of Jeniffer
Taborada’s children who was killed
by masked men on July 18 evening.
“A sister who is managing the
Hospicio de San Jose approached
me and said ‘we are willing to take
care of them if the social workers
would not find relatives who will
look after the children,’” he said.
David on July 19 presided over a
Mass at the Philippine Conference
on New Evangelization at the
University of Sto. Tomas in Manila
‘Elevate’ spirituality of
police force
and asked for special collection to
support the needs of the orphans.
The collection reached a total of
P300,000 and was personally given
to David by Cardinal Luis Antonio
Tagle.
The Kalookan diocese already has
an existing program for the families
of the victims of extrajudicial
killings.
David said this include a support
group and scholarship program.
“One of the children of Jennifer is
already enrolled in our scholarship
program,” he said.
“But we did not foresee that these
two children would suddenly become
complete orphans, so they are in a
totally different situation now. They
would not just need a scholarship
because they’re parentless,” said
David.
The bishop said he will entrust
the fund to the priest of the Birhen
ng Lourdes Parish located in Brgy.
Bagong Barrio, where Taborada
resides, whom he asked to look after
the needs of those children.
“So they’re really focused just on
those two children so that they can
be symbols of our support,” he said.
Taborada’s husband was also
killed by still unidentified gun men
last year.
Founded in 1782, the Hospicio
de San Jose is the fist social welfare
agency in the Philippines. As a
foster care institution, it has been a
home for orphans, the abandoned,
and the elderly. (CBCPNews)

Seminarians issue statement on ‘growing culture of violence, death’

A GROUP of seminarians from the behind,” the group stated. Hope for healing
Diocese of Imus in Cavite recently In the end, the group reminded Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Oscar Florencio (center), Apostolic Administrator of the Military Ordinariate of the
aired their sentiments regarding ‘Growing animosity’ the faithful that despite having Philippines, attends the 5th Philippine Congress on New Evangelization at the UST Quadricentennial
the “growing culture of violence According to PASTOL KA, the “differences and weaknesses,” Pavilion in Manila, July 18, 2018. MARTINA SUMMER DAGAL
and death” that many believe is gap between the Church and the everyone remains “children of God”
sowing growing division between government is alarming since both are who never lose hope because “Jesus A CATHOLIC bishop called on problem but said he consistently
the Church and the state. supposed to serve the common good. never lost His hope for us.” police chaplains to “elevate” cautioned and advised them to do
In a statement issued July 15, “We are troubled with the growing “May this hope heal the wounds the spirituality of the country’s what is right.
Pagtatalaga ng mga Seminarista animosity between church leaders we have caused to each other. May law enforcers amid the spate of “They (chaplains) have to insist
Tungo sa Lingkod ng Kabite (PASTOL and the government who serve the it inspire us to return once again to controversies hounding the law on this: what is right is right, what
KA) said that being under seminary same Filipino people. We detest the the Word of God and proclaim it enforcement agency. is wrong is wrong,” said Florencio.
formation does not prevent them proliferation of fake news and harsh anew; a proclamation that warms Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Oscar “Their conscience would guide
from staying involved in social issues. statements against humans and the heart, directs our thoughts, and Florencio, Apostolic Administrator them.”
“Deaths, which has become part against God. Our language, which guides our actions,” the seminarians of the Military Ordinariate of the Philippine National Police Chief
of daily news, became so ‘ordinary’ was developed to connect people, added. Philippines, said that as chaplains Director General Oscar Albayalde
for some of us, that they do not catch is now used to sever relationships,” PASTOL KA is the official their mission is to attend to the earlier asked the assistance of the
our attention anymore nor become the seminarians said. organization of Catholic seminarians pastoral care of the men and women Church for the rehabilitation of
part of our prayers. Worse, some This June, Pres. Rodrigo Roa in the province of Cavite which is in uniform. arrested drug suspects and spiritual
even find their deaths as fitting and Duterte was under fire for allegedly under the territorial jurisdiction of “How to balance would depend help for the “internal cleansing” of
just; passing swift judgment to their bashing the Christian concept of the Imus diocese of Bishop Reynaldo on them but I keep reminding the police force.
dead bodies instead of consoling God but later said he already “asked Evangelista. (Jonald Justine them that before they are there The theme of this year’s PCNE
the grieving loved ones they left God for forgiveness.” Itugot/CBCPNews) as chaplains, they are priests,” is “Moved with Compassion: Feed
Florencio said. the Multitude,” which coincides
Unite / A1 The prelate made the statement with the Year of the Clergy and
never a number”. at the sidelines of the ongoing Consecrated Persons as declared by
“When you see that their Philippine Conference on New the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
needs are so many, don’t Evangelization (PCNE) at the the Philippines.
think you will accomplish UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in The event also aims to tackle the
that work but say what Manila on July 18. primary tasks of the clergy and
you can do and give what He was accompanied by several consecrated persons “in bringing
you have and what you are chaplains assigned in different all their creativity, imagination and
to Jesus. He will perform police regional offices. enthusiasm for the Gospel to the
miracles,” Caccia said. There are currently 130 active ministry”.
The liturgical service police and military chaplains in the “So more or less this would
ended with the distribution country. help them with the theme about
of at least 6,000 pieces of The police institution has been the renewal of the clergy for the
bread shaped into fish. hounded by a series of controversies new evangelization,” Florencio
PCNE Director Fr. amidst the increasing number of also said.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle gestures while delivering his homily at the closing Mass of the Philippine Conference on
Jason Laguerta said the New Evangelization at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila, July 23, 2018. MARTINA SUMMER DAGAL drug-related killings in the country. PCNE was introduced by Cardinal
fish reminds everyone of The bishop admitted that there Tagle in 2013 as a local response to
what has been written which will be distributed symbol of fish called ichtys the basic identity of every are situations when the chaplains the call for the new evangelization.
in the Gospel where the to the congregation is a to identify fellow believers. Christian to be bread, are “caught in the middle” of the (CBCPNews)
evangelists underscored symbol of one’s generosity The image was used as a broken and shared for all.”
the generosity of the boy and the power of Jesus symbol of Christianity. This is also in solidarity Commentary / A5
who shared five loaves of to multiply the meager The priest said one of with the poor because
Indeed, the pill has been a bitter to the Catholic School Textbook
bread and two pieces of resources they had,” he the reasons they chose the bread and fish are the fare
one, with many evil consequences, Project, and served in the Moreau
fish which Jesus Christ said. theme was to highlight the of the poor, Laguerta said.
all foretold by this little known Seminary (1983-84) as the “Voice
multiplied and fed to In Church history, at the mission of the Church “to (Roy Lagarde with
Polish doctor, wife, mother and of the Family”. Her article on
thousands of believers. time of the persecution of feed the hungry world with reports from Melo
concentration camp survivor. contraception and sterilization,
“The fish-shaped bread Christians, believers used a love of Jesus and highlight Acuña)
(Ruth Lasseter lives in a “Sensible Sex”, appeared in
three generation household in “Homiletic and Pastoral Review”
Widow / A1
St Paul, Minnesota. Mother and also in Why Humanae Vitae
As shepherd of a diocese that has mere hireling who remains very David said. of six and grandmother of 17, was Right (1993) by Dr Janet E.
become a “killing field”, the bishop safe and very secure, who can get After the killing of Taborada, he she contributed with her late Smith. This article is sourced from
said he is saddened that he cannot a good night’s sleep in his warm said that the killers just moved a few husband Dr Rollin A. Lasseter MercatorNet)
protect his flock from the “wolves”. bed while his sheep are being blocks and killed Alvin Teng, 36, at
Spaces of Hope / A5
“And so today in utter shame and slaughtered. And this is what I around 11:30pm.
frustration I declare I have not been was saying in tears to myself last He recalled that Taborada was with clear eyes. The rest missed my them, there is no humility or
a good shepherd to my flock,” David night,” he said. one of the widows who applied for point. This is about 150 individuals, holiness.”
lamented in his homily during a Citing a report from his informant a scholarship for her kids just a few since many had repeated comments. ***
Mass for the Philippine Conference who was at the crime scene, the months ago. It is noticeable that most of them “Dili na siya ‘Sir’, si ‘Father’ na,”
on New Evangelization in Manila on prelate said what’s appalling was “At that time I remember how she were hiding behind pseudonyms. (“He is not ‘Sir’ but ‘Father’) my
Thursday. the killers were not even rushing narrated her husband’s death, how Why fear the truth? friend Edgar blurted out. He was
“The wolves, they have been and just took their “sweet time”. Ryan was mutilated by the killers. Then I looked at the icons: reacting to a 7-11 clerk who was
prowling the streets and alleys of He claimed that the police seemed He had to be abducted and tortured there were 154 hearts, 46 smileys, inquiring about the food I bought
Caloocan, Malabon, and Navotas to be alerted about presence of first. They gouged his eyes and cut and 928 thumbs up symbols. The for him. Edgar is a beggar at our
for almost two years now! They have the killers “because they are not off his private parts,” added David. latter had the real names of the parish-church who waits for people
killed hundreds already, and I am supposed to meddle”. “Now her two children, senders. Each thumb-up, from at the gate. He is lame from birth
unable to protect them with my life.” “If the police wanted to pursue named Princess and Prince, are someone with a real name who and walks by moving his legs whose
“I will bow in shame if the Good them, they could have, because they complete orphans,” he also said. knows me, is worth more than knees are pretty much touching the
Shepherd will denounce me as a stayed for more than three hours,” (CBCPNews) all the 150 negative comments ground.
from people afraid of their own He is always cheerful although
Federalism / A1
names, striking at an imaginary I seldom stop by to talk to him.
Facebook accounts, and a dying number of netizens No more go signal from Malacañang enemy. But this time I did. And I am glad
with legitimate accounts, observed Jeston Mercado. Known pro-administration friends of his with Then something beautiful I did so. His words reminded me
“Netizens with legitimate Facebook account who legitimate accounts, however, have reservations about happened. One of the 150 of my calling as a priest, gently
support federalism are mostly victims of fake news and expressing support of federalism, he said. individuals actually had a change admonishing me to do more.
black propaganda that have started during the 2016 Under the proposed charter change, there will be 17 of heart. Someone retracted her Yes, one more new expression
election campaign,” he said. federal regions with the National Capital Region as the or his earlier ‘harsh’ comments: ‘I which has actually always been
Most of them are Facebook free data users and federal capital. have read the letter in its entirety there right from the start of the
overseas Filipino workers who have no access to The According to a post by Rappler on Jan. 21, 2016, the and I complete agree with it.’... Christian faith. This is the universal
Filipino Channel (TFC), added Mercado. proposed shift to federalism will allow federal regions Then it dawned on me that our language of love and compassion.
“They cannot distinguish the legitimate news from the to design and execute solutions to their local concerns dear brothers and sisters who are The gift of “wasting” time and
fake, which are propagated online by fake news sources,” he without the go signal from Malacañang; more power so combative are so because of their allowing oneself to be interrupted.
said. “It’s depressing that the impact of fake news and black over local resources; and decongestion of Metro Manila, fears. Nangahadlok intawon na sila As Pope Francis puts it in Gaudete
propaganda led them to question the Church as well as God.” among others. mao nang gawarawara. They fear et Exsultate 26: “It is not healthy to
Ramon Delos Reyes suspects “massive troll But according to a July 13 GMA News Online post, the loss of their only concrete hope love silence while fleeing interaction
recruitment” to push federalism online to give the former senator Juan Ponce Enrile said federalism in recent years. Fear is useless, with others, to want peace and quiet
public an impression that it is widely supported. would mean more bureaucracy and taxes. what is needed is trust. My prayers while avoiding activity, to seek
“Aside from being costly, there is no need for a shift “You duplicate the bureaucracy of the national here...” prayer while disdaining service.” I
to federalism,” he said. “What we need is make the government to the federal level,” he said. It will burden Yes, there are conversions even shall always treasure the reassuring
Constitution work by electing good leaders, especially the people too much with taxes.” A GMA News Online in FB. As Pope Francis writes in words of Edgar and hope that one
God-fearing ones, and help and watch them do their job.” May 22 report showed that 66 percent of Filipinos do Gaudete et Exsultate 118: “Humility day it will the same voice that will
Delos Reyes observed how several counterfeit not favor a shift to federalism, according to a Pulse Asia can only take root in the heart advocate my entry into the kingdom
Facebook accounts continue to push federalism online. survey. (Oliver Samson/CBCPNews) through humiliations. Without of God.
CBCP Monitor July 23 - August 5, 2018, Vol 22, No. 15
Lumads’ appeal to Duterte: ‘Pull out military’
DAVAO City— “The land is ours.
And yet, we cannot go back to our
land because we are being treated as
enemies of the state. We only want
to live in peace.”
This was the appeal made by Datu
Tungig Mansumuy during a recent
Franciscan Dialogue program held
from July 5 to 9 in Barangay San
Isidro, Tagum City.
He expressed hope President
Rodrigo Duterte will work to
resume peace talks and order the
pull-out of military troops from
Lumad communities.
‘Subversive teachings’
Mansumuy-at said they were
appalled when President Duterte,
in a press briefing after his State
of the Nation Address (SONA) last
year, said he will order the military
to bomb Lumad schools for “its
subversive teachings.”
“We just want our children to
continue their studies to learn
how to write and read. We want
the future of our children different
from us. But what the government is
doing is to refuse us the education,”
he said.
According to Mansumuy-at, the
Lumads experienced threats and
harassment from soldiers who
accused them of being New People’s
35th year since Fr. Romano’s
disappearance marked
TACLOBAN City— Members of the
Redemptorist community marked
in a special way July 11, the same
day Fr. Rudy Romano disappeared
35 years ago.
Romano, a native of Villareal,
Samar was abducted by armed men
on July 11, 1983 in Brgy.Tisa, Cebu
City and since then, has no longer
been seen and remains missing to
date.
Our Mother of Perpetual Help
parish priest Fr. Leo Armada,
CssR., officiated a Mass Wednesday
afternoon in honor of the
disappearance of Romano.
“The Church is not about the
bishops, the priests and the
religious, we are the Church and we
are always for the challenge to speak
for the truth and fight for justice
and the oppressed,” said the priest.
Armada said Romano is
remembered for working and
helping the poor of Cebu.
He said 35 years since the
disappearance of Romano, nothing
has changed and many priests and
religious continue to get killed and
oppressed till today, but the Church
will not be cowed.
Duc in Altum / A5
safe and very secure, who can get
a good sleep in his warm bed while
his sheep are being slaughtered.”
Bishop Ambo continued that
in his prayers, he heard the Good
Shepherd whispering: “You are
right, Ambo. You are not the Good
Shepherd. I AM. YOU ARE NOT
THE GOOD SHEPHERD. I only
entrusted the flock to you; they
are mine, please continue to look
after them. If you love me, feed
my lambs; if you love me, tend my
sheep; if you love me, be ready to
give up your life for my sheep. Do
it for no other reason than for love
of me. You do not have to substitute
for me; you are not the Messiah, I
am; you do not take my place. I only
asked you to represent me. Speak
Candidly Speaking / A4
just to get us back to him.
This point, I believe, is worth
reiterating. It is what truly grounds
us to the foundation of our life
and nature, giving us the meaning
and purpose of our existence. It’s
a source of joy, confidence and
serenity. It tells us what our filial
rights and duties are.
More importantly, it tells us who
we are and gives us an abiding sense
that we are never alone, or worse,
just on our own. It fills us with the
conviction that we are children of
God, that no matter what happens
God will always be with us and for
us unless we reject him.
We have to be wary of our
tendency to think that we are just on
our own. That would be an attitude
that can be suggested only by the
devil who will always tell lies. Sad
Some 300 Manobo Lumad from Talaingod and Kapalong towns in Davao del Norte sought refuge in Tagum City due to intensified military operations in the
area. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Army (NPA) supporters.
He also lamented, “We are being
tagged as NPA members and our
schools are tagged as NPA schools.”
Intensified military operations
Some 300 Manobo Lumad from
Talaingod and Kapalong towns
in Davao del Norte sought refuge
in Tagum City due to intensified
military operations in the area.
“Our challenge nowadays is
to be vigilant and be aware on
what’s happening today, not
to be mute and deaf and quiet
but speak and stand out for
the truth and spread the Good
News for the kingdom of God,”
stressed Armada. (Nestor L.
Abrematea/CBCPNews)
to your flock and tell them to grow
from lambs to fellow shepherds.
Never shepherd my flock alone.
Only by uniting yourself with your
flock that you can grow together
into the Church, which is my body,
the Body of the Shepherd. Only then
can you truly say, I AM THE GOOD
SHEPHERD.”
The Diocese of Kalookan is in
deep gratitude to the bishops,
the clergy and the consecrated
persons who donated a total of
P300,474.30 during the special
collection at the Mass on Day 2 of
PCNE 5. The amount will be the
seed fund for the two children of
Jennifer who are now complete
orphans. Thank you for your
compassion and mercy.
to say, many people are succumbing
to this trick of the devil. That’s
why many now fall into some deep
despair when misfortune comes
their way. They feel there’s no one
else to run to anymore.
God’s ever-ready mercy and
compassion cannot be doubted at
all. In spite of all our sins, he in
Christ is willing to die for us, to
assume all our sins for us, and to
render death to our sins with his
own death and conquering them
with his resurrection.
This divine mercy should never
be lost in our mind. We however
should try to avoid being spoiled by
it. Rather, the assurance of divine
mercy should prod us all the more
to be more generous, more fruitful,
more faithful in our love for him and
for everybody else.
“We are not terrorists, we
are indigenous people,” said
Mansumuy-at, who has been at
an evacuation site for almost a
year.
The Lumad leader added that
peace talks between the government
and the National Democratic Front
of the Philippines should continue.
He said the negotiation table is
still the best venue to talk about
Illogical / A1
was directed against
the correct individuals,
specifically the big time
drug suppliers.
“How come the supply
of illegal drugs remains
steady in spite of all the
killings?” he said. “Is it
not obvious that addicts
and small-time peddlers
and pushers are not the
root cause of the drug
problem? Isn’t it obvious
that they are also victims,
and that they also need to
be saved, not killed?” Nandiyan din na huwag
“The fight against
illegal drugs must indeed
be relentless, but the
killings—either by the
police or by masked
vigilantes—must be
stopped! This will remain
as our stubborn and
relentless plea,” said
David.
10 Commandments
At a Mass held at the
St. Peter Church along
Commonwealth Avenue
in Quezon City few hours
before Duterte’s SONA,
Manila Auxiliary Bishop
Broderick Pabillo urged
Filipinos to go back to
consciously or unconsciously fall
in the ambit of the bishop’s graces,
at the expense of other brother
priests. This becomes worst if it
motivated by careerism and love
of financial gains. On some cases,
there is the element of secrecy and
the seeming knowledge of these
secrets appear to be the key to
salvific joy.
Of course, as was noted, this
is only the least manifestation
of neo-Gnosticism. Other forms
could be more dangerous like the
theoritical ones: the pharisaical
resort to extreme traditionalism
that freezes the gospel from being
creative and active in today’s time.
The Pope says: “when somebody
has an answer for every question,
it is a sign that they are not on the
right road.” Indeed, “someone
who wants everything to be clear
and sure presumes to control
God’s transcendence.” He insists,
that “doctrine, or better, our
understanding and expression of it,
is not a closed system, devoid of the
dynamic capacity to pose questions,
doubts, inquiries… The questions
of our people, their suffering,
their struggles, their dreams, their
trials, and their worries, all possess
an interpretational value that we
cannot ignore if we want to take
the principle of the incarnation
seriously.”
This is not the unity which St.
Ireneaus of Antioch is talking
about. In the local church, his
words are normative even to
the bishops, priests and the
consecrated persons: “It is
impossible to live without life,
ending armed conflict in the country
and how to address its roots.
Mansumuy-at said they longed to
go home but feared soldiers would
go after them.
“The military troops are still in the
area and they continue to threaten
to kill us,” he explained.
Manobo resistance
He added, “We decided to go
God’s commandments “Is it not obvious
amidst continued killings
in the country. that addicts
He emphasized that and small-time
people, especially the
government leaders, peddlers and
tend to neglect the basic pushers are not
commandments of God.
“Dapat iniisa-isa
the root cause of
natin ang utos ng the drug problem?
Diyos. Huwag kang
magnanakaw. Ngayon,
Isn’t it obvious
hindi lang pagnanakaw, that they are also
nandiyan din huwag
kang magsinungaling.
victims, and that
they also need to
kang papatay kasi be saved,
pinapatay na ang mga
tao na wala sa proseso,” not killed?”
Pabillo said in his homily.
“[A]t nandiyan din,
igalang ang pangalan ng “Si Hesus ang
Diyos, hanggang ngayon pinapahalagahan natin sa
ay hindi naduduwag, ating pananampalataya.
gamitin ang unang utos, Kaya manalig tayo
isa lang ang Diyos na ating sa kaniya. Namatay si
sasambahin. Bakit may Hesus para sa atin, hindi
nagsasabing iba ang Diyos Niya tayo pababayaan.
mo sa Diyos ko? Ilang Higit pa siya kaysa anong
Diyos ba? Isa lang ang pamahalaan, kaysa
Diyos,” he added. pamahalaang ito,” he said.
The bishop also
reminded the faithful to ‘Restless, barbaric
not be afraid to fight for the Philippines’
right for Jesus is greater Julieta Wasan, president
than any governments. of the Sangguniang Laiko
and the actualization of life comes
from participation in God, while
participation in God is to see
God and enjoy his goodness.”
Why are some of us do not enjoy
or experience the true joy? Why
is it that among the priests and
religious there is “in-groups and
out-groups”? Priests who are in the
graces of the bishop and outside
the circle of the the bishop’s circle
of love? Why is it that even among
priests there is a glaring dis-
equality even in terms of standard
allowances? How could we ignore
“questions of our people, [also our
priests or consecrated persons],
their suffering, their struggles,
their dreams, their trials, and their
worries?”
Actualization of our lives comes
from the participation in God.
This participation could not but be
presbyterial and communal. The
first and original community is the
community of the divine persons in
the Holy Trinity which is the true
model of any authentic community
and local churches. Participation
in God is participation inside this
Trinitarian life: a life of equal
dignity if freedom and joy. This
process of actualization in the life
of the presbyterium based in the
life of God, is the process towards
equality in dignity, not so much in
authority (for authority is service),
but a working out together—priests
and bishops alike—in humility
and mutual respect towards true
equality in dignity that eliminates
“clicks” and a tendency towards
neo-Gnosticism or at least its
manifestation.
DIOCESAN NEWS A7
down and leave our land for safety.
We also want our plight to be heard
by the government and the public.”
Mansumuy-at said the Manobos
in Talaingod have long been fighting
to defend their ancestral land.
In 1994, the entry of the logging
company Alcantara and Sons Inc.,
in Talaingod sparked resistance
from the Manobo communities.
He said many of their fellow
Manobos were killed for defending
their land.
“Alsons was interested [in] the
resource-rich Pantaron range,” said
Mansumuy-at.
Meanwhile, the Franciscan
brothers also conducted a medical
mission at the evacuation site.
“It is heart breaking to see
the suffering of our Lumad
brothers and sisters because of the
militarization in their ancestral
domain. Furthermore, the various
incidents of red tagging contradict
their identities as peace-loving
people. They are just but victims of
the immense power and capacity
of those people who wants to
dominate their ancestral domain,”
said Br. Mark Anthony Zarate,
OFM one of the participants of
the Franciscan Dialogue program.
(Mark Joy Basallajes/
CBCPNews)
ng Pilipinas, also called
on Filipinos to stand up
against the continued
killings.
“Nananatiling
madilim ang panahon,
ang kasalukuyan nating
pamahalaan ay naghahari
hindi dahil sa batas
ang batayan bagkus ay
pananakot at karahasan,”
she said.
“Tayong lahat, bilang
Pilipino ay may tungkulin
sa isa’t isa. Ang ating
liwanag ay pamamaraan
para magising ang
ating pamayanan sa
paniniil na labis-labis na
nararamdaman na,” said
Wasan.
Benedictine nun Mary
John Mananzanan
lamented that in two
years of the Duterte
administration, the
country has “gone down
so low into barbarism and
uncivility”.
“It’s incredible!” she
said. “Tinututulan natin
ang kultura ng karahasan
at pagpatay na parang
ang pagpatay lamang
ang solusyon sa lahat ng
problema.”
“Life in man is the glory of God;
the life of man is the vision of
God”. Some would translate this
phrase as: the glory of God is man
fully alive. In the face of death
and the threats of death towards
priests, it seems that the reality
which our saint wishes us to live
is the best antidote in our present
times where even those of our
brothers are killed twice by more
deadly malignant propaganda.
The words of the former bishop
of Antioch reechoes even to his
brother bishops of today: “The
glory of God gives life; those
who see God receive life. For
this reason God, who cannot
be grasped, comprehended or
seen, allows himself to be seen,
comprehended and grasped by
men, that he may give life to those
who see and receive him.”
We are all invited to live as
shepherds and encourage our own
shepherds to discover if we are
all giving this life to one another;
others wise, we allow the spirit of
death to conquer the local church
from the center through petty
intrigues, malicious slander and
sometimes even through the sin
of detraction.
True unity in our local churches
depends so much on the true
unity of the bishop and its
presbyters where they could
together participate in the life of
the Trinitarian God and enjoy His
goodness. In this, we could be glad
and be joyful and even death in
all its forms could not separate us
from Him who continuously gives
us true unity and life.
A8 PEOPLE, FACTS, AND PLACES July 23 - August 5, 2018, Vol 22, No. 15 CBCP Monitor

New Bayombong bishop installed

KNEE-DEEP flood did not
stop the installation of the
new shepherd of the Diocese
of Bayombong in Nueva
Vizcaya province.
Bishop Jose Elmer
Mangalinao was formally
installed as the third head
of the diocese during a
solemn ceremony in the
Saint Dominic Cathedral in
Bayombong City on July 25.
Mangalinao replaced
retired Bishop Ramon
Villena who retired in 2016
after serving the diocese for
30 years.
Present at the ceremony
were a number of bishops led
by Papal nuncio Archbishop
Gabriele Caccia, who served
as the installing prelate, the
religious, and government
officials.
In his homily, Archbishop
Socrates Villegas of
Lingayen-Dagupan reminded
Mangalinao to love his priests
for they are the “reflection”
among the faithful and the
whole diocese.
“The holiness of the priests
will reflect on the holiness of
the Catholic faithful, and if
there’s corruption among
the faithful, it will only be a
reflection of the corruption
of the presbyterium, [and]
if there’s holiness in the
parish, it can only be a
reflection of the sanctity of
the parish priests,” Villegas
said.
“Your priests are your face,
your hands, and your voice.
[I]f you want to love God, love
your priests because your
priests were configured to the
image of God himself. [L]et
the holiness of every priests
be reflected on the sanctity of
every Catholic faithful in this
diocese,” he said.
The archbishop also said
Mangalinao even rode a
garbage truck from Dagupan
to Bayombong in order to be
present at the scheduled time
of his installation.
For his part, Caccia
reminded the new
Bayombong bishop to
Bishop Jose Elmer Mangalinao speaks after his installation as the head of the Bayombong diocese at the St. Dominic Cathedral
in Bayombong City, July 25. TV MARIA/SCREEN GRAB
nourish the diocese as the
gift from God and he urged
the faithful to be “better
disciples of God.”
“Take care of this which is
the treasure of God that has
gone to you but is not your
property, it’s the property of
God,” Caccia said.
“If we want to help him, let
us start today and say, “Lord,
help me become a better
person.” In that way, he will
find his task easier and more
are grateful, you do it. You
respond to love with love.
You respond to everything
that God gives you with
wholehearted mind and
soul,” he said.
“Without His holiness,
which is also a gift and a
responsibility, there is no way
we will be able to reflect this
goodness. I pray once again
for the courage to embrace
God’s gift of holiness and the
responsibility,” he added.
Pope Francis on May 24
appointed Mangalinao as the
new bishop of Bayombong,
a 36-year-old diocese with
more than half a million
Catholics in 20 parishes.
Upon his appointment,
Mangalinao has been
serving as auxiliary bishop
of Lingayen-Dagupan since
joyful,” he added. 2016.
In his message, Mangalinao Mangalinao was ordained
sought prayers from the priest of Cabanatuan on Oct.
faithful as he takes on his 15, 1985 and was ordained
new task. bishop on Aug. 22, 2016.
“When you are thankful, (Joselle Dela Cruz/
you say it but when you CBCPNews)

Vatican grants plenary Book launched to mark 300th

indulgence to First Mass year of Paete church dedication
of Laoag’s first IP priest
LAOAG City—The Vatican’s
Apostolic Penitentiary has issued
a decree granting a special
Plenary Indulgence to those who
will attend the First Solemn Mass
of a soon to be ordained priest
of this diocese at the end of this
month.
The Rev. Metchell Valdepeña of
St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish
in Nueva Era, Ilocos Norte will be
ordained priest on July 31 Bishop
Renato Mayugba of Laoag.
After his ordination, he will
then preside over his First Solemn
Mass at 3pm of the same day in his
home-parish of St. Gabriel.
The decree granting a special
Plenary Indulgence was signed
on June 28, 2018 - in the name
and authority of the Holy Father
Pope Francis - by Cardinal Mauro
Piacenza, the Major Penitentiary.
It was attested to by Msgr.
Krzysztof Nykiel, Regent of the
Major Penitentiary.
The decree mandates that
whoever attends the First Mass
of Valdepeña would receive a
special Plenary Indulgence while
praying for the intentions of the
Pope, who truly does penance
motivated by charity, purifying
themselves in the Sacramental
Confession, and reception of the
most holy Eucharist. Plenary
Indulgence removes all the
temporal punishment due for
sins already forgiven.
Borongan clergy to promote
vocation through music
BORONGAN City— A local concert
tour by the clergy of the Diocese of
Borongan is one of the highlights
in their local celebration of the
Year of the Clergy and Consecrated
Persons.
Dubbed as “Dayaw” or Praise,
the theme of the concert is
inspired by Psalm 52:9: “For
what you have done I will always
praise you in the presence of your
faithful people.”
Fr. Jan Michael Gadicho, the
chair of the diocesan Commission
on Clergy and the overall director
of the concert, said “our life and
ministry as priests is a total praise
to God, leading and serving our
people to give praise to the Lord.”
He said the main objective of the
activity is “to evangelize people
about vocation and priestly life,
and to thank the faithful for their
support”.
While the concert is free for the
public, there will be paid seats
to help organizers defray the
production cost.
“The proceeds from this concert
shall be used in the ongoing
formation of the clergy so that truly
we may become renewed servant-
Valdepeña, who will be the
first to be ordained priest for the
Diocese of Laoag coming from an
indigenous community, is the first
to receive this Vatican privilege
in the Northern Luzon region and
from the diocese of Laoag, noted
Diocesan Chancellor Fr. Rey
Respicio.
“This is a special privilege
that the Apostolic Penitentiary
accords to deacons who request
for the privilege for the benefit
of the faithful,” the Chancellor
explained.
“The Diocese of Laoag is again in
great jubilation and thanksgiving
for this rare privilege granted by
the Vatican,” the priest said.
The “ordinandus” is very
thankful to his bishop for the full
support and fatherly concern to
him and his fellow members of the
clergy,” Respicio added.
Nueva Era is the
southeasternmost town of Ilocos
Norte and is inhabited mostly by
the indigenous communities of
Tinguians and Itnegs.
Valdepeña, who is from the
Indigenous People (IP) called
Itneg, expressed his overwhelming
joy for the special gift he has
received for his ordination.
“This is a gift not only for me
but for the entire people of God
for whom I am ordained,” he
said. (Fr. Mickey Cardenas/
CBCPNews)
leaders,” Gadicho added.
Fr. Andiy Egargo, the concert’s
musical director, said “the
repertoire of this concert is
centered on the ‘life and love of
a priest.’ The songs hopefully will
capture our story, our life, our love
as ministers of God.”
“You’ll Never Walk Alone,
for example, is a theme that we
have always shared together as
Borongan clergy, even while we
were seminarians. Waray mag-
uusaan ngadto han altar ni Kristo;
The Lord’s Prayer, and Ave Maria
are prayers close to our hearts,” the
musician-priest said.
Asked what people may expect
from the concert, Egargo said: “It
will be an evening of wholesome
fun where we see our priests
not as presiders of sacraments
or servant-leaders engaged in
pastoral ministry but the human
priest, always in love with God
and his people.”
The concert shall be held in the
following towns and dates: Dolores
on August 13, Borongan on Aug.
29, Balangiga of September 27,
and Guiuan on October 4. (Edmel
Raagas/CBCPNews)
SAN PABLO, Laguna— On the
occasion of the 300th anniversary
of the dedication of the St. James
the Apostle Parish Church in this
town, Fr. Francis Eugene A. Fadul,
a devotee and a pilgrim of the
“Camino de Santiago”, launched
the book Apostol Santiago sa Mata
ng Isang Peregrino on Saturday,
July 14.
The book focuses on the life of St.
James, apostle of Jesus Christ, son
of Zebedee and brother of St. John.
It includes the Filipino translation
of the novena to St. James originally
written in Spanish by Fr. Jose
Fernandez Lago, member of the
Cathedral chapter of Santiago
de Compostela, Spain, as well as
several prayers to the apostle.
Path for spiritual growth,
conversion
It likewise narrates the
development of Fadul’s devotion
and his experiences and realizations
in walking the “Camino de Santiago”.
It also provides a historical overview
of the “Camino de Santiago”.
Msgr. Francisco Perez, the
Archbishop of Pamplona and Tudela,
Spain, made the presentation of the
book and Fr. Elisardo Temperan,
Chancellor of the Archdiocese of
Santiago de Compostela, wrote the
introduction.
The “Camino de Santiago” or
the Way of Saint James in English,
is a network of pilgrimage routes
leading to the shrine of the apostle
Saint James the Great in the
cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
in Galicia in north western Spain
where, Christian tradition says, the
remains of the apostle are buried.
Many devotees follow the “Camino
de Santiago” as a form of spiritual
path, or retreat, for their spiritual
growth or ongoing conversion.
The parish church of Paete,
Don Bosco Center of Studies opens new school year
PARAÑAQUE City— An
affiliate of the Pontifical
Salesian University in
Rome, Don Bosco Center
of Studies (DBCS) in
Parañaque City, opened
a new school year, 2018-
2019, with a votive Mass
of the Holy Spirit on
July 13.
With over 120
students coming from
various religious
congregations, the
DBCS’ Institute of
Theological Formation
(ITF) celebrated a Mass
presided over by the
new president and Dean
of Studies, Fr. Renan
Michael La Guardia,
SDB, together with
concelebrating priests
who are formators and
professors in the said
Fr. Eugene Fadul, at the book launching of “Apostol Santiago sa Mata ng Isang Peregrino” held at the
St. James the Apostle Parish Church in Paete, Laguna, July 14, 2018. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEL FADUL ERCILLO
Laguna, has a spiritual bond of Studies in Civil and Canon Laws at
affinity with the Cathedral of the Graduate School of Law in San
Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Beda University, Manila.
To mark the 300th anniversary He is the current president of the
of its dedication which took place National Association of Diocesan
on July 25, 1717, pilgrims who Chancellors and a member of
visit the grandiose church in the “Archicofradia Universal del
Paete from July 25, 2017 to July Apostol Santiago”.
25, 2018 will be bestowed by the As a pilgrim, he has already
Apostolic Penitentiary with plenary walked the Camino de Santiago
indulgence. twice.
For more information on the
Book author, ‘Camino de book, interested parties may contact
Santiago’ pilgrim the author by emailing him at
Fadul is a priest of the Diocese efadulsp@gmail.com or through
of San Pablo and is presently the Facebook account.
Chancellor of the diocese and
personal secretary of the Bishop.
“Apostol Santiago sa Mata
ng Isang Peregrino” will also
The book’s author completed be made available at Word and
his Licentiate in Biblical Theology
at the Universidad de Navarra in
Life Publications, Catholic Book
Center, Totus Bookstore, and other
Pamplona, Spain, and is presently outlets. (Fr. Mickey Cardenas/
taking up his Master of Legal CBCPNews)
institution. or exercise but a loving The students had their
In his homily, the relationship with God. student council election
priest stressed the This perspective will right after the Mass,
importance of nurturing motivate you to study while the professors and
a relationship with the more diligently.” formators had a meeting
Lord as students who Hailing from with the Dean.
study theology. Mandaluyong, La With over 40 years
Guardia, who holds a of commitment
‘The same Lord’ Doctorate in Philosophy, to theological and
“The Lord you meet in succeeded Fr. Rafael pastoral formation, the
the chapel is the same Dela Cruz, SDB, as dean Don Bosco Center of
Lord you meet in your and president of the Studies offers courses
studies,” said the new institution. in theology, catechetics
dean. “Your studies and youth ministry, and
must be personalized; 40 years of consecrated life.
learning is a personal commitment It also holds a
affair.” The professors, who preparatory course
La Guardia also made their oath of for those religious
emphasized every fidelity and profession preparing for perpetual
student’s need to of faith during the profession, as well as a
recognize the “indwelling liturgy, were formally program of studies of
of the Trinity in their introduced, together theology for the lay and
hearts,” as they study. with the roster of religious. (Fr. John
“Theology is not just students, after the Francis Aberion/
an academic enterprise Mass. CBCPNews)