Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
encourage vocations,
B1 ‘ItOurSpeaks to Us of
Very Destiny’
C1 The Cross
A Supplement Publication of KC
Life and the Order of the Knights
Pope says of Columbus
regularly releases statements, there were trained in Canon law but few dare work
debates from several prelates. in matrimonial tribunals.
The first occasion, according to him, There are 16 archdioceses in the
when the bishops stood united was in Philippines and every archdiocese has
Displaying Philippine flags, placards and banners, a huge crowd of Filipinos, composed of parents, lawmakers, students, and religious leaders,
1986 when they said the February 7 snap voiced their concerns over the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) bill during a protest rally at the PICC complex in Pasay City, February 13, a judicial vicar who heads the tribunal.
People Power / A6 2011. The pro-lifers warned of more protests in the coming days if Congress passes the measure. (Melo M. Acuña)
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media
www.upi.com
and congressional agreement for The bishops’ representative He asserted, “It merits prompt
over 35 years,” he stated. “The noted, “So secure is this legal and and overwhelming support by
federal government should not political consensus, in fact, that this congress.” (Zenit)
and his older brother also lost his life to be respected.” transferring a “legal-technical competence, such as dispensa-
six years earlier to scarlet fever. He was All these experiences, Svidercoschi con- tion from a ‘ratified and non-consummated marriage,’” from
“alone,” said Svidercoschi. cluded, resurfaced again when he became the congregation to the Roman Rota. (Zenit)
“And this,” he explained, “brought Pope. (CNA)
company’s contract
accusations of massive misuse out from the ranks of the PNP,” and possible harm to the mem- fund mess will not only end
of funds hound some military the EBF said. bers of their respective families in the revision of laws “but
officials, an ecumenical group Aside from corruption, the is certainly commendable,” ac- to the prosecution of the per-
called on the government to group said the reported in- cording to the statement. petrators of these anomalies
conduct similar probe into volvement of police officers in “They are both driven by the and the restitution of public
CAGAYAN DE ORO City, Feb. the Human Rights situation in the Philippine National Po- human rights violations and the desire to put a stop to the mal- funds.”
13, 2011—The Commission on Didipio with the view in mind lice (PNP). commission of heinous crimes practices in the military which “The expose of Col. Rabusa
Human Rights en banc has that all reports of violations be In a statement, the Ecu- should also be investigated. adversely affect the military and Miss Mendoza can lead to
recommended the “probable verified and acted upon; (4) menical Bishops Forum (EBF) The interfaith group has also institution, especially the foot right the wrongs and injustic-
withdrawal” of the Financial or advise OceanaGold to consider said the investigation is nec- thrown its support to former soldiers who are in the front es being done by our so-called
Technical Assistance Agreement the Commission’s findings and essary to unearth allegations state auditor Heidi Mendoza and lines in the battle fields, as well ‘public servants’ so that our
(FTAA) the government signed conduct a policy reorientation on of corruption in the police former military budget officer Lt. as the public funds which are nation and our people may
with Australian mining com- the conduct of mining operation hierarchy “whose reputation Col. George Rabusa exposing al- supposed to be judiciously put be freed from systematic and
pany OceanaGold Philippines, taking into conscious account the has gone down.” leged irregularities in the Armed to proper use,” it said. systemic injustice and truly
Inc.over gross human rights observance of human rights of “We also pray that some- Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The EBF is also hoping that tread the path of righteous-
violations in the mining firm’s the community involved; and (5) thing similar to this (investi- “Their courage to tell the truth ongoing congressional investi- ness,” it said. (CBCPNews)
concession in Didipio, Kasibu, direct the CHR Region II Office to
Nueva Vizcaya. actively advocate for the Human
EDITORIAL
RH in social networks
www.cbcpmonitor.com
cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net Rev. Eutiquio ‘Euly’ B. Belizar, Jr., SThD
Unmasking the ‘Crab
By the roadside Mentality’
A MAN in San Francisco, it is quiet. The reason? Every time a so-called ‘crab mentality’. known to practice ‘crab mental-
told, once received notice that his crab climbed up it was dutifully But what is it about? Why ity’ in regard to rich Pinoys; and
Pedro C. Quitorio Kris P. Bayos brother in Manila sent him one pulled down by the others. The do we have it? What do we do the opposite is unthinkable. The
Editor-in-Chief Features Editor huge basket full of crabs from the man’s face lit up into a smile. about it? ‘crab mentality’ seems to thrive
Philippines. But when he went to Triumphantly he said, “This is Some critics say that the ‘crab best when Pinoys are in the same
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Gloria Fernando claim it a customs officer had the it! This third basket is the one mentality’ is basically positive; social, professional, work, family
Associate Editor Marketing Supervisor names and labels accidentally from the Philippines!” So goes it’s about Pinoys’ collective de- and local conditions.
mixed up. The man ended up be- one more legend of the Pinoy sire for justice and equality. No Other critics say that the ‘crab
Melo M. Acuña Ernani M. Ramos ing made to choose from among ‘crab mentality’. one must be given special treat- mentality’ is nothing but pure
Managing Editor Circulation Manager three huge baskets full of crabs The first time I heard this story ment, all persons being equal (in and simple envy. Nothing else
LAYOUT BY KRIS BAYOS
Roy Q. Lagarde the one sent to him. At first, the from a priest in a conversation, dignity); all must be treated as explains better, for instance,
Marcelita Dominguez
News Editor Comptroller man appeared upset; then he spiced up with other hilarious such before the law etc. Under- when a very successful Pinoy or
hit upon an idea. He opened all details and embellishments, I standably then, when someone Pinay is showered accolades by
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Communica- three baskets and watched. In remember all six of us laughing thinks he’s better and deserves everybody but fellow Pinoys. Or
tions Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and business offices no time two of the baskets had so loudly my sides ached. But better, Pinoys pull him down. when a Pinoy neighbor reacts
at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. crabs climbing up to the rim we all agreed. There’s nothing This seems fine except that it to a kabayan who acquires the
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612.; ISSN 1908-2940 unbothered. The third basket, so Pinoy, so real, so human and doesn’t apply in all the social latest SUV or high tech ‘toy’ by
on the other hand, was oddly so destructive of unity as our classes. Poor Pinoys are seldom By the roadside / A5
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
Opinion A5
Bp. Broderick S. Pabillo Fr. Roy Cimagala
spaces of hope Spaces of Hope actually serve to guarantee the success of a divine mission. So
they should not be afraid of the amount of blood, sweat and
tears involved.
Of course, together with them should be the laity who share
the responsibility of defending these truths of faith and mor-
An Earnest Auditor prefer to play the ostrich. Yet, wisdom of peoples and faith Heidi deals with ultimate
als. In fact, given the nature of their status in the Church, they
I first met Heidi Mendoza in not once do I recall hearing her communities provide some ob- values that undergird the integ-
should be more prominent in the streets and other forums
Makati on May 2004. A com- bad mouthing her colleagues or jective basis for evaluating this rity of institutions. I fail to see
where these matters are discussed. They don’t play a secondary
mon acquaintance from Cebu claim any monopoly on virtue. interior voice. Conscience must the truth in those accusations
role. Theirs is as important as that of the clergy.
had introduced us to each other. She was just doing her duty. be formed correctly since there that put her in a negative light.
So it’s a welcome development for me to hear groups of
Heidi had been promoting her This, I believe, made her stick are many discordant voices. It is truth spoken in love that
concerned citizens who are actively organizing and promoting
booklet, A Guide to Investiga- out like a sore thumb in a bu- Heidi is no plastic believer. strengthens, rather than weak-
various protest actions against this notorious bill, even without
tion of Common Procurement reaucratic culture that values Humanly flawed like the rest ens, institutions.
direct prodding from the clergy. This is a sign of Christian
Fraud and Irregularities, and conformity and mediocrity, and of us, she can even be hard on
maturity. I hope this trend continues.
our mutual friend at once saw uncomfortable with rocking the herself (she even has some choice Faith-Impelled Social Trans-
For a long period of time, this bill has been talked about,
a highly effective, dedicated, boat. I believe it when Heidi tells words in Tagalog to describe her- formation
dissected, analyzed, etc., etc. A lot of dialogue has taken
and trustworthy public servant me that a former COA chairman self). But she knows how to listen Being in the limelight can be
place. And everytime it’s done, the proponents always cannot
who was willing to go the extra tells her not to be too serious to that inner voice of duty and too glaring for comfort. Roy,
defend their position in the moral aspect without redefining
mile in her work. Golly, our about the plunder case since conscience. Her parents certainly Heidi’s hubby, puts it this way:
morality itself.
friend, excitedly swapped our even Jesus himself was not able have something to do with this. “Those who want to shed light
They can ooze with a plethora of practical reasons. And their
cell phone numbers. to solve the world’s problems. Once she told me her late father, must endure the fire of burning.”
strongest point seems to be, “what do we do with the poor that
Heidi gave me a copy of her Heidi eventually visits Cebu a retired policeman, engrained on It is not easy to go public about
are growing in number?” Well, if they are truly consistent with
book while I opened my laptop several times to speak before our her and her siblings this saying: the truth, not when one is going
their position, I suppose they will end up proposing that we kill
computer to show her some emerging network about gov- Ang pagsasabi ng katotohanan, against the current. Humanly
the poor, the weak, the old, and other “useless” citizenry.
slides on advocacy work against ernment procurement. It is an daan sa kaginhawaan.” speaking, Heidi has everything
The most likely reason why they stop short of that radi-
graft and corruption. The red awkward start for us as we have The plunder case involved to lose and nothing to gain by
cal, extreme measure is that many of the RH Bill proponents
booklet gives a straightforward no blueprint on what exactly to meticulously examining 12 ba- going public. She had to quit her
are there mainly for the money. In fact, that view has been
presentation of government pro- do. In corporate terms, we are likbayan boxes of papers for a job from the Asian Development
expressed a number of times in several encounters with politi-
curement, civil works contracts, in the “product-development” paper-trail. It led to sleepless Bank and she could no longer
cians and officials.
alternatives modes of procure- stage, better yet, “what-did-we- nights and, God only knows, live a “normal” life.
There’s a powerful bloc behind all this move, and it seems to
ment, common procurement get-ourselves-into” stage. numbers that are forever seared It is no mere coincidence that
gather unlikely partners from both the political right and left
fraud and irregularities, red Mrs. Mendoza leaves a posi- in the consciousness of Heidi public truth-telling about the
who coincide in addressing this so-called problem by practical
flags of procurement fraud, and tive imprint on our advocacy and her dedicated team. It also plunder case coincided with the
means that ignore the indispensable moral requirement.
practical tips on investigation. group – first of all, as a dear meant attending court hearings Beatitudes in Matthew 5:1-12.
While we should give everyone the benefit of the doubt and
Each chapter contains actual case friend, an adopted Cebuana who where the accused is surrounded Each beatitude is actually com-
accord respect to all, we neither can be naïve to the reality that
studies that, one surmises, came speaks Tagalog like a modern- by a battery of high-handed posed of a congratulatory note of
more than human, as in devious, forces can be at work here.
from the auditor’s actual experi- day Balagtas; secondly, as an lawyers. These were lonely and a religious nature (“blessed”), a
We have to be extra wary of this possibility. Pieces of evidence
ences in documenting procure- anti-graft, good governance even fearful moments for her. human condition that elicits this
seem to be emerging.
ment fraud. champion who enjoys a good This was also hard work. What blessing (“poor in spirit”), and a
They have developed a powerful and attractive ideology,
The cut-and-dry descriptions laugh; and, thirdly, a wife and a made this even more so was that promised action to be made by
again catering to the more practical and shallow aspects of
did not really do justice to the mother who is also a patriot and since 2006, Heidi was actually God (“the kingdom of heaven
the issues. They have organized themselves quite well, grow-
author and one caught glimpses has to balance time, not always doing this as a volunteer. is theirs”).
ing in leaps and bounds in many parts of the world, and have
of the author’s disarming, out-of- successfully, between family One can say that Heidi was Two beatitudes highlight the
generated a massive war chest.
the-box personality only here and and work. borne on the wings of prayer of realities of Heidi, the truth-teller.
They have established a formidable network of leaders and
there. In the closing paragraph of The visits slowly bear fruit. an expanding network. One is that those who mourn
workers, and continue to proselytize among the prominent
the introduction, for instance, she Heidi and others are instrumen- will be comforted. Bible scholars
sectors of society. They have even won over some religious
writes: “I am not a writer, I am an tal in helping us conceptualize Not Institution Bashing tell us that the kind of mourning
leaders. They have employed tremendous means like polls and
auditor. While I may be expert at the LASER test which we even- Heidi has become quite visible mentioned here has more to do
surveys, knowing that while these can give them favorable re-
numbers, I am inept with words. tually promote as a basic tool for these days. If she had her way, about grieving that the values
sults, these cannot make what is inherently immoral moral.
Starting with numbers, I search discernment by voters and even I know she would prefer a quiet of God’s kingdom have not yet
So, what’s wrong with the RH Bill? In plain language, it
for words until some numbers candidates. The acronym stands life. But this is not to be so. After been fully adopted and less about
promotes a contraceptive lifestyle that destroys the family and
give meaning to some words for lifestyle, action or accom- all, the mouth is not just for tak- personal losses. A believer weeps
debases the true nature and meaning of human sexuality.
and some words deepen the plishment, supporters, election ing in food but also for telling because human beings have not
The world’s leading scientific experts have also claimed that
meaning of the numbers I have conduct, and reputation. Her the truth. And in contemporary yet surrendered to God’s sover-
artificial contraceptives kill children since many of them do
gathered and then this book is input during a strategic planning Filipino society where many sub- eign will and the result is conflict
not prevent fertilization. They simply prevent implantation.
written…” Heidi could be blunt, session helps yield the image of cultures have given in to out- and lack of peace.
They also injure women’s health since the pill, for example,
yet also playful. She also tends to citizens standing behind, stand- right lies and half truths, telling A second beatitude is about
causes cancer, as well as stroke, and increases the risk of heart
underestimate herself. Whatever ing alongside, and standing in the truth rocks the boat is often the meek inheriting the earth.
attacks.
dimension of Heidi comes out, it front of public servants in soli- unappreciated. Those who do so Aristotle tells us that meekness
Condoms have been found to promote, not stop, the spread
is never dull. darity with one another. are even painted as contrabida is the half-way point between
of AIDS. Economists also claim the RH Bill is based on wrong
She notes in the introduction Last May 2010 elections, we and of not being pakisama. irascibility and sluggishness.
economics. We need to expose the myths.
that “the creativity of the corrupt requested the former COA audi- They can also be accused of under- Those prone to anger and those
finds a way to channel public tor to submit a list of situations mining institutions. This, I believe, is who are apathetic are not meek.
funds for private gain all the or instances that would confront farthest from Heidi’s mind. Meekness for Christians is ac-
while presenting a legal basis for elected officials as they assume At the end of her first con- tive waiting for the Lord to act, By the roadside / A4
such.” I soon discover that this office – situations that offer op- gressional hearing, she said: “I not passivity. When I reflect
auditor could more than match portunities for transparent or am part of the system. I tried to upon what Heidi is doing I himself buying a similar, better and receiving equal services, in
wits with those who misuse this accountable service, or for ob- fight the system. I am not per- recall Psalm 37. Verses 5-6, for and/or more expensive one. seeking equal treatment before
gift of creativity. Soon I was taining easy money. We call this fect. Spare me from attending instance, say: “Commit to the Or when a Pinoy/Pinay who the law, then the ‘crab mental-
listening intently to her relate a “list of vulnerabilities” and we the hearing. I am not destroying Lord your way; trust in him, and becomes an elected leader in a ity’ is the right mentality. But if
stories of actual experiences in have been disseminating these. It institutions. I am for reforms he will act. He will make justice community of kabayans sud- it represents envy, then we had
the field. It seems an auditor’s is really like an examination of within the system. I want a clean dawn for you like the light; denly loses very good friends better listen to our conscience
job is never done and this audi- conscience, only that the com- government. Never did I fear the bright as the noonday shall be who later form other Pinoy and the voice of our faith. Those
tor certainly ventures into areas missions and omissions have AFP because I believe I am fight- your vindication.” groups in which they maneuver who are the object of the ‘crab
where others fear to tread. to do with the role of an elected ing for the ordinary soldier.” After the beatitudes, the next themselves to leadership posi- mentality’ do very well when
This was no ordinary public official and conversion is not I believe Heidi. Sunday gospel calls on Christians tions. “I hate to tell you this,” they put on humility because
servant. necessarily a good thing. Several years ago, when cer- to be salt of the earth and light an American husband said to his the success, wealth or power that
Yes, Heidi makes time for the tain government institutions to the world (Matthew 5:13-16). Filipino wife, “but what’s keep- set them up above fellow Pinoys
Sharing Dreams and Exchang- country. were shaken due to high-profile Christians are to shed their light ing you guys from being united are passing gifts in a temporary
ing Gifts resignations, Heidi would ex- in public so that God may be is that every time you form an existence; they do even better
It was now my turn to share. I Voice of Conscience press strong concern that the glorified. Without salt and light, association everybody wants to when they use these things gen-
opened my laptop computer to It was with a heavy heart that institutions would be weakened. there would be no life and, if life be president!” Indeed our ‘crab erously to express compassion
show a very rudimentary power Heidi resigned from COA in What many people do not realize remains, it would be tasteless. mentality’ has nowhere better to and service to others. When we
point presentation on a newly- 2006. She had been involved in is that Heidi, a reserved officer in God, it seems, has chosen a be than the Hall of Shame. are tempted to adopt the ‘crab
emerged advocacy group called auditing a plunder case and had the Philippine Air Force, has her simple person and a simple fam- There’s not a single explanation mentality’ we must listen to St.
Barug Pilipino (Cebuano: “make been handpicked by the Om- life deeply intertwined with gov- ily to embody a response to the why Pinoys have it or particularly John Chrysostom when he said:
a conscience-stand, Filipino”) budsman to do the job in 2004. ernment institutions. One sees call of the beatitudes. associate Pinoy culture with it. In “Would you like to see God
whose goal was “to mobilize However, when he unexpectedly this, for instance, in a series of I believe the figures of Heidi fact, an Australian, upon reading glorified by you? Then rejoice in
and develop a critical mass of resigned in 2005, it seems she poems she published in 2004 on Mendoza and that of Roy and it being talked about in Manila, your brother’s progress and you
awakened, vigilant, and com- was left holding the bag. This the life of soldiers. In one poem, their three children symbolize promptly called the ‘crab men- will immediately give glory to
mitted citizens nationwide who was a low moment in her life. entitled Sundalo ng Bayan, she the journey towards fulfilling the tality’ an Aussie reality too. Or God. Because his servant could
will help establish, achieve, and She, however, persisted, despite writes: unfinished businesses of People maybe an American who comes conquer envy by rejoicing in
sustain good governance for a all the odds. Some people would Sundalo ng Bayan, kung ikaw Power. They deepen—if not pu- to understand it would also say the merits of others, God will be
transformed Filipino nation.” call this dogged determinism. ay tawagin, rify and strengthen—the mean- it’s an American reality. In truth, praised.” St. Thomas More saw
The group was to be composed She was actually responding to Lahat ng panganib iyong susu- ing of EDSA (i.e. “the manifesta- it’s a human reality. Perhaps we the things that invite envy dif-
of Filipino citizens with faith the call of conscience fuelled by ungin. tion of the saints”). In the New Pinoys have it only to a greater or ferently. “If we were to…esteem
in God. Heidi became ecstatic her Christian faith. Ilang ulit na nga bang nalagay Testament, particularly in Paul’s lesser degree than others. I have everything according to its true
as she viewed the slides and We are told that conscience is sa alanganin letters, all baptized believers are a sense that, if we delve into our nature, rather than according
pictures. She later told me these the voice of God embedded in Sa pagtataya ng buhay para sa referred to as “saints.” history a little more deeply, we to men’s false opinion, then we
resonated with a dream that she each human being regardless of bayan natin… People Power is not a three- might discover in our colonial ex- would never see any reason to
had. Little did she know that, race and religion. Even atheists day affair. It is not really about perience of being regarded a race envy any man, but rather pity
nearly seven years later, she is have this embedded voice that Sariling pamilya ay iyong inii- asking people to step down; well below that of our colonizers every man—and pity those most
to contribute to this critical mass says: “Do good, avoid evil.” We wan, rather, it is the call to step up part of the explanation. who have the most to be envied
of awakened and awakening can decide to shut this voice out Buhay ay itinataya ng dahil sa to the continuing challenges But deal with it we must today. for, since they are the ones who
citizens! or to listen to it. When we listen, bayan of building a nation. It is very Let me suggest that, first of all, will shortly lose the most.”
I soon discover someone with we become our better selves. Sadyang sa tulad mo, nararapat ordinary citizens, impelled by we must name what it really rep- ‘Crab mentality’? For crabs
an eye for details and a passion When we fail to do so, we go ay pagpupugay, their faith, who provide accom- resents. If it represents the real maybe. For us Pinoys, I think
for public service. Already then, from bad to worse. Concrete Sundalong Pilipino…ikaw ay paniment to public servants in aspiration for justice and equal- there’s only one option: ‘Pinoy
she had taken risks where others experiences and the collective MABUHAY! Spaces of Hope / A7 ity in social relations, in giving mentality’.
Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
www.usjr.edu.ph
Bullecer, Chair of the Cebu City Anti- rally, the Archdiocese of Cebu together
Indecency Board and the Philippine repre- with other Pro-Life Organizations are
sentative to Vatican City for the Pontifical planning this February against RH bill.
Council for Life, as resource speaker. (CBCPNews)
ARMM / A1 Teens / A1
It said elections in ARMM is still de- on Feb. 15. and social issues, the real issue here included. of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P).
termined by traditional and “warlord The group believes that that there can is character and leadership crisis. The She said they are open to other politi- The event comes at the heels of the
politicians” who use money and guns be no credible and honest polls in the quality leadership is what we don’t cal leaders who share similar vision for Catholic Bishops Conference of the Phil-
to cling to power. war-ravaged region when the bases of have,” she added. the good of Mindanao as long as they ippines’ pastoral letter titled “Choosing
In a manifesto, iPAD-Mindanao warlordism are still intact. The organization already has a short are not part or allies of the “Ampatuan Life, Rejecting RH Bill” issued last Janu-
chairperson Janree Pundato-Disomimba Disomimba said a caretaker govern- list of candidates that they want to lead and Mangudadatu” clans. ary 31, 2011.
said that the ARMM election has never ment is also necessary to pave the way for the caretaker government they are “Even the people from the grass roots Ed Sorreta of Pro-Life Philippines
been truly the reflection of the real senti- for an “engagement” or consultation proposing. level don’t want them anymore,” the and Jason Evert of “Romance Without
ments of the people. with the people in the grass roots level Nash Pangadapun, secretary general iPAD-Mindanao chief said. Regret” fame will be the affair’s prin-
Voluminous cases of ghost and flying to find out who they really want to of Bangsamoro Freedom Alliance, said It will be remembered that the Am- cipal speakers on life and love, chastity
voters, massive vote buying, harass- lead them. the short list contains nine civil society patuan clan was accused of a massacre and sexuality. Evert has been going
ment, electoral violence in the ARMM She said they are not for hold over ca- leaders, politicians and religions lead- of 57 persons, including the wife, sisters around the United States giving talks
election are always “the order of the pacity, but for a leadership and system ers. and supporters of Esmael Manguda- to more than 100,000 young people
day,” she said. change. “We need to change the leaders He, however, refused to identify the datu on Nov. 23, 2009. every year.
“We believe that the postponement from top to bottom,” according to her. personalities “because we also don’t The massacre was committed when Chairman of the Episcopal Com-
of ARMM election is a decisive step to “Let us listen to the people and let’s want to preempt the decision of Presi- the wife and supporters of Manguda- mission on Family and Life and San
institute immediate political and elec- give them a venue where they can truly dent Aquino.” datu was supposed to file his candidacy Fernando, Pampanga Archbishop
toral reforms. We are for reform first participate and choose what and who What is clear in the shortlist, Di- for gubernatorial seat. At least 34 jour- Paciano B. Aniceto will preside
before we agree to hold an election,” they really want,” said Disomimba. somimba said, is that the former and nalists who were in the convoy also per- over a concelebrated Mass with
Disomimba said in a forum in Manila “More than the environmental, legal current ARMM leaders are no longer ished in the massacre. (CBCPNews) San Fernando Auxiliary Bishop and
CBCP Episcopal Commission on
Youth Vice Chair Roberto Mallari.
People Power / A1
The world-famous Madrigal Sing-
elections was marred with fraud. Dimaporo said that promotion of bill, would be among the priority bills of “Let’s make it clear that we are not ers will provide the solemn music
The Vatican was cautious as it called contraceptives in family planning would the government. against any person. We are not against for the Mass.
on the bishops to be careful with the risk women’s health and would not solve Recently, though, the 17 priority list the government. We are not subver- Among Catalyst’s partners are the
statement they would release. the country’s problem on poverty. of the administration did not include sives,” Arguelles said. Couples for Christ and the diocesan
It also asked one certain condition: RH bill foes, including many Chris- the RH/RP bills as the Palace cited its The Sorsogon prelate added they will be youth commissions. Interested par-
“that in every decision, we should al- tian and Muslim groups, trooped to the ongoing dialogue with the Catholic not be cowed of any penalties of the law say- ticipants may get their tickets from
ways be unanimous,” said Bacani. venue to croon songs such as “Say yes Bishops Conference of the Philippines ing it is their duty to promote morality. the Catalyst of the University of Asia
But this time, he said, during the most to life, no to RH bill” and “We strongly as the main reason. “We bishops, are willing to be im- and the Pacific at telephone numbers
recent plenary assembly, the 90 or so reject abortion” during the four-hour Manalang said the “flip-flopping” po- prisoned, together with our priests, and 6370912 local 277 or call 09088648491.
bishops unanimously agreed to choose rally. sition of the government only indicates protest the immoral things there (RH More details can be accessed at Face-
life and reject the RH bill. Not a single Melisa Miguel of Quezon City carried that it is not sincere in dialoguing with bill). To be firm with our teachings, let book “Pro-Life Youth Conference: Jason
soul disagreed with the decision because the sign that read “RH bill destroys hu- the church. them imprison us!” said Bastes. Evert at SMX.” (Fr. Mickey Cardenas/
it was a moral issue. man dignity” and she said she vowed to “It did not happen only one time. It “We are just saying what is right! We Melo Acuña)
“Now, even without Rome’s asking join more rallies against the measure. happened several times. It’s about time are going to proclaim whatever it is,”
for a unanimous stand on the issue at “We’d rather support life than death,” that they tow the line. If you are here Arguelles also said. Pork / A1
hand, the bishops already delivered a said Miguel, a mother of five. (dialogue) on bad faith… we will not
unanimous stand against the controver- talk,” said Manalang. US bishops support barrel will be abolished and the
sial RH bill,” Bacani said. Draw the line Among the personalities in the rally The head of the United States Confer- funds given directly ins tead to
Organizers of the rally, on the other were former Senator Aquilino Pimen- ence of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) earlier the concerned local and national
Just the beginning hand, directly accused the Aquino ad- tel, former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, called on the CBCP to strongly fight the agencies.
Organized by the Coalition for the ministration of taking the country “for Bacolod Rep. Anthony Golez, Cebu passage of the bill. “Who will be in favor if you are in a
Family and Life against RH bill, the a ride” over the RH bill. Rep. Cutie del Mar, and election lawyer USCCB President Cardinal Francis good mind and in a good sense? Our
rally was in response to the CBCP’s Pro-Life Philippines President Eric Romulo Macalintal. George called up Archbishop Paciano country is in need actually and many
pastoral letter calling on the people to Manalang said President Benigno Aqui- Other religious leaders from other Aniceto on Feb. 7 expressing his explicit of our poor people are languishing in
“act together” against the measure and in no III should make a firm position on Christian and Evangelical churches were support for the CBCP’s campaign against poverty,” said Pueblos over church-
what they foresee to be just the beginning RH bill. also present during the rally including the measure. run Radio Veritas.
of more street protests if the measure “I think it’s time for us to draw the line Muslims led by Padel Hassan and the Aniceto said Cardinal George assured “It’s sad that only politicians are
would be passed. and stop all of this because we are just Grand Imam of the Philippines. him of their prayer that the CBCP would getting richer while millions of people
Fr. Melvin Castro, executive secretary being taken for a ride,” Manalang said. win the battle against measures that at- are getting poorer,” he said.
of the CBCP’s Commission on Family He said it would be more acceptable ‘Civil disobedience’ tack the sanctity of life. The prelate was reacting to a pro-
and Life, said the church is grateful for for the people if Aquino would just give At least two Catholic bishops urged “He told me that they are praying for posal by Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez
the support of the lay people in the bish- a more definitive stance on the contro- the people to rise up in a campaign of the Philippine Catholic Church and our for an additional pork barrel funds for
ops’ RH bill stance. versial measure. ‘civil disobedience’ against the reproduc- advocacy against the RH bill,” Aniceto Congressmen and senators.
“The power emanates from the people, “At the end of the day, is he pro-RH or tive health bill if it becomes a law. said over church-run Radyo Veritas. Suarez, in a proposed bill, seeks
so here they are and I hope they rec- not? Let’s get away from putting in this Archbishop Ramon Arguelles and “(So) the Catholic bishops of America P30 million for pork inflation for each
ognize this sentiment of the people,” responsible parenthood bill whatever. Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes said over are one with us in pushing for protecting lawmaker and P60 million for each
stressed Castro. Yes or no? Are you or are you not?” church-run Radyo Veritas that they have the sanctity of life, dignity of the family, senator.
More than a dozen lawmakers ad- asked Manalang. no choice but to resort to such action but and the health of our women,” he said. To date, lawmakers in Congress
dressed the crowd during a rally to observe “If you are pro-RH, then we draw the in a peaceful way. Aniceto chairs the CBCP’s Episcopal are receiving some P70 million PDAF
“Prolife Month.” The lawmakers called on line. We stop there. If you are not pro- “We will have a civil disobedience! Commission on Family and Life which while the senators are allocated with
their colleagues to reject the bill and said RH, he has the power to call the Speaker Those laws that are immoral, we will tell is at the forefront of the church campaign P200 million each.
they would work to derail its passage. of the House and tell him ‘let’s drop this the people not to obey,” Bastes said. against RH bill. As proposed, the additional pork
“We stand with you for life,” Lanao bill against life’,” he said. Arguelles, however, clarified that their According to him, the church will barrel funds will be taken from the
del Norte 2nd District Rep. Fatima Aliah To recall, Malacañang officials have civil disobedience is not meant to topple do everything to block the passage of income of the Motor Vehicle User’s
Dimaporo, a Muslim, told around 10,000 been quoted as saying that the RH bill, the government but rather a move to the measure that pushes “the culture Charge (MVUC) or road user’s tax.
protesters. renamed as responsible parenthood (RP) strongly reject the RH bill. of death.” (CBCPNews)
Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
A7
Borongan diocese to give more flood aid
BORONGAN, E. Samar— The canned goods and noodles to the
Diocese of Borongan will reallo- relief goods.
cate more of its budget towards “We’re still in the process of
relief funds, a local church of- gathering resources. Even the
ficial said. local parishes are raising funds
Fr. Juderick Calumpiano, di- to help,” Calumpiano said.
rector of the diocese’s Social “(And) because there has
Action Center, said they are been an increase in the number
targeting some 6,000 more fami- of families affected, we might
lies affected by recent flooding increase the target, too,” he
across the province. said.
The priest confirmed this dur- Officials of Eastern Samar
ing a recent consultation with the provincial government said as-
ed by NEA Deputy Adminis- to the Pulangi 5 Hydro-electric Plant Project to the detriment
trator for Electric Distribution, of the lumad communities. (Bong D. Fabe)
Engr. Edgardo Piamonte, Albay
Gov. Joey Salceda and a handful ARMM official wants August polls postponed
member of ALECO Board of Di- CAGAYAN DE ORO City— An official of the Autonomous
rectors met in a closed door con- Region in Muslim Mindanao is pushing for a postponement
ference and with tight private of the August 2011 ARMM elections citing unresolved issues
security barring the presence of that could spawn violence. “It is the most practical alterna-
the media. ALECO hands over management of the facility to National Electrification Administration (NEA) during a meeting on Feb. 11. tive that the national government can adopt,” said ARMM
After an hour, through Sal- Acting Gov. Ansaruddin Alonto-Adiong. Continuing with
ceda’s intervention, the media the problems hounding the ing it are not investigated. been the same again, until after the elections will “only complicate unsolved social issues”
were allowed to witness the lone electric cooperative will be ALECO has been in the hands typhoon Reming hit Bicol in 2006 such as the absence of a negotiated political settlement with
ceremonial turn-over of manage- solved including its financial ob- of the NEA since 1990 up to the when all ALECO power lines the MILF, aside from worsening the conduct of the polls, he
ment from Engr. Jose Abiera, ligations now reaching to more time of former NEA Adminis- were down and B-CARE funds said. (CBCPNews)
operation-in-charge designated than P2 billion. trator Fr. Francisco Silva who of P500 million was infused by
by the ALECO board, to Pia- Piamonte, on the other hand, pushed for the privatization of former President Gloria Arroyo Ban magnetite mining in Regions 5, 8—Pamalakaya
monte. openly mentioned his debt of ALECO to a Singaporean based to rehabilitate the power coop. QUEZON City—The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mama-
Earlier, ALECO Board of Direc- gratitude to Salceda for allowing business mogul, SALCON. The Records show that the manage- malakaya sa Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) urged the DENR to stop
tors chaired by Rene Tronqued the NEA to take over ALECO move was opposed by Albay ment contract between ALECO the magnetite (black sand) mining operations on the shores
resigned from their posts fol- again. Consumers Watch who exposed and the National Power Cor- of Eastern Visayas, saying it would lead to environmental
lowing a resolution from Albay “We are here not to investigate the questionable contract that poration in 2009 was the point destruction. “We ask President Aquino to recall all these
Mayors League calling for their but to make the cooperative was hidden to the public. the cooperative has started to Public-Private Partnership led escapades in Region VIII and
resignation to pave the way for viable,” Piamonte said. But he From the hands of Adonay, meet its financial obligations stop black sand giants from destroying the livelihood and
the takeover of NEA. backtracked when asked how Rosales, Cruz and to Misael under the management of Engr. the national patrimony of the people,” said Pamalakaya chair
During the hand over, Sal- the ailing power facility will turn Moraleda, all NEA designated German Silva. (Elmer James Fernando Hicap. (Noel Sales Barcelona)
ceda expressed optimism that around when problems hound- managers, ALECO has never Bandol)
Reyes’ death must not hamper probe on military
to celebrate Holy Mass at the lauded Mendoza, Rabusa and Lim for risking their lives
four Major Basilicas of San Pi- and the security of their families just to expose alleged
etro, Santa Maria Maggiore, corrupt military officials.
San Paolo Basilica and Basilica It’s just right, it said, for Filipinos to be vigilant and
Naval Bishop Filomeno Bactol, Borongan Bishop Crispin Varquez, Calbayog Bishop Isabelo Abarquez and Capiz Arch-
Laterano. bishop Onesimo Gordoncillo. strengthen their support for the ‘truth-tellers’ such as
On their day off, the bishops hanging banners on the face or at the gate of school
will take a pilgrimage to Padre personal prayer and communal buildings.
the Collegio in the duration of the Philippines to visit the Pope
Pio Shrine, Pompeii and Monte vespers and rosary at PCF crypta “We encourage our members to publicly manifest their
ad limina visit which ends on and to renew their commitment
Cassino. together with the resident priests support for truth-tellers: hang banners of support in their
February 19. to shepherd the Faithful in our
Back in PCF, the bishops, and nuns. schools and release statements of solidarity,” the CEAP
The ‘ad limina’ visit is an op- local Church in the Philippines.
priests, and guests, participate in The bishops are staying at said in a statement.
portune time for the bishops of (Garret Alfonso Ulanimo)
military corruption
The CEAP also enjoin all its members to continuously
educate their students towards “Christian conscience.”
“Discuss corruption in all academic circle; form our
students in truth, integrity and courage,” the statement
further read.
AMID the corruption controversy hound- The church official said they are also hoping Benilde Augusto Rosario Gonzalez Theater, In the statement, the CEAP also appealed to the govern-
ing the military, several Catholic nuns and that the public will be inspired by the “cou- Solomon Hall 5th floor from 1:30pm to 5pm. ment to ensure that those “who dared speak to reveal the
priests formed a human chain on Feb. 11 rageous deed” of former state auditor Heidi Aside from Rabusa, a former military bud- truth” be protected.
along with whistleblower retired Lt. Col. Mendoza “to do a service to the country.” get officer, other persons in the forum were It likewise called on the judiciary, particularly the Om-
George Rabusa. “We also aim renewed unity in our quest former UP Dean Luis Teodoro and Philip- budsman and the Sandiganbayan, to uphold the truth
Sr. Mary John Mananzan, co-chairperson for truth, accountability and justice,” accord- pine Air Force Capt. Joenel Pogoy. “without fear or favor.”
of the Association of Major Religious Su- ing to Mananzan. Pogoy was released October 2010 from jail “We urge the legislature to ensure that this investiga-
periors of the Philippines (AMRSP), said it Those who participated in the formation after a two-year detention for posting videos tion results in concrete measures to curb corruption and
was a symbolic action of their unity for truth of human chain in Taft Avenue include some of his views on corruption in the popular improve the justice system in the country,” the CEAP
and justice. artists, students, and members of various video-sharing website YouTube. added.
“It is also our wish that our students, civil society groups. The three speakers gave their insights on “Let it not degenerate into a circus for political vendetta
faculty members, professionals and church The activity was the culmination of a forum the alleged corrupt practices in the Armed and empty grandstanding,” it also said. (CBCPNews)
people be aware of the problems besetting dubbed as “May Pabaon ka ba diyan?” that Forces of the Philippines as recently revealed
our society,” she said. was held at the De La-Salle-College of Saint in the Congressional hearings. (CBCPNews)
www.benediktxvi.ru
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, of the Synod of Bishops of Conference referred to by the Council for the Interpretation of
J.C.D. 1990 dedicated to the topic of Directory─has laid down the Legislative Texts─the competent
as clerics. I consider this a setback “In a secularized and tropical climate. general norm complimentary
for us ordinary faithful for several materialistic society, where the 2nd: Clergyman suit. Given to c.284 of the CIC, with the
reasons: (1) we cannot have easy external signs of sacred and the tropical climate and local characteristic proper to general
access to them when we are in dire supernatural realities tend to custom, it would seem that this executory decrees (cf. c.31). It is
need of them, since we cannot identify disappear, it is particularly option is suitable for more formal therefore a norm which clearly
them easily; (2) when we do identify important that the community occasions of a non-liturgical enjoys juridic enforceability, as
Q: At what point in time during Mass it is considered too late be able to recognize the priest, nature (e.g., conferences, formal can be deduced even from the
them, it is not easy to give them the
for anyone coming into the Mass to receive Communion? man of God and dispenser of his banquets and the like) where tenor itself of the text and the
reverence due them because─as a
These days I see a lot of people who enter the Mass even as mysteries, by his attire as well, airconditioning would make the place where it is included: under
diocesan priest blurted once─he
Communion is being given and they head straight to receive. which is an unequivocal sign of attire comfortable. the rubric “Obedience” (n.4).
thought the priest was the driver;
Is this right?—E.M., Port Harcourt, Nigeria his dedication and his identity 3rd: Dark one-tone colored Furthermore, the Note urges,
(3) it is quite disconcerting to see
denims with a really casual T-shirt as a public minister. The priest trousers (or white) and one-tone with a categorical declaration,
A: Like most priests, I am loath to give a straight answer to should be identifiable primarily colored shirt with clerical collar. the right observance of the
peeking from under the flowing
this question because, in a way, it is a catch-22 question for through his conduct, but also by Otherwise known as the Roman discipline regarding ecclesiastical
liturgical garb of a priest during
which there is no right answer. his manner of dressing, which collar, this is a distinctive collar garb, stating that “for their
Mass; worse if he is wearing rubber
It is true that before the Second Vatican Council some moral makes visible to all the faithful, equipped with a white plastic inconsistency with the spirit
shoes or sandals. What does Church
theology manuals placed arrival before the offertory as the indeed to all men, his identity (or stiffened cloth) strip running of this discipline, contrary
Law say about this matter?
dividing line in deciding whether one fulfilled the Sunday and his belonging to God and through the front. practices cannot be considered
obligation of assistance at Mass. But after the liturgical reform, the Church” (n.66). 4th: Dark one-tone colored as legitimate customs and should
THIS is not the first time that
with its emphasis on the overall unity of the Mass, modern Hence, it is not a question trousers (or white) and polo- be removed by the competent
a layman has expressed this
theologians shy away from such exactitude. of blending in, as some would barong (or barong tagalog) with authority” (n.5, c).
sentiment to me; laywomen,
Mass begins with the entrance procession and ends after the propose in a misguided pastoral a Roman collar. On the other hand, the Note
on their part, are even more
final dismissal and we should be there from beginning to end. desire to make the priest more 5th: Dark one-tone colored specifies the subjects of the
expressive and disconcerted.
Each part of the Mass relates and complements the others in present in secular environments. trousers (or white) and polo- aforementioned norms of Art.66
Of course, the more comic
a single act of worship even though some parts, such as the For as St Josemaría Escriva used barong (or barong tagalog) with of the Directory on the Ministry
opposite is what happened
consecration, are essential while others are merely important. to say, such attempts would a distinctive cross (in lieu of the and Life of Priests as “all those
to me once when I visited the
To say that there is a particular moment before or after which result not in a priestly presence, Roman collar). who are obliged by the universal
former bishop of Sorsogon,
we are either “out” or “safe,” so to speak, is to give the wrong but rather in a priestly absence─in With the foregoing, it is very norm of c.288, namely the
whom I had never met at that
message and hint that, in the long run, some parts of the Mass the sense that it would make the clear that casual T-shirts and Bishops and priests, but not the
time. Upon arrival at the bishop’s
are really not all that important. It may also give some less priest’s presence unrecognizable polo shirts (of whatever color), permanent deacons (cf. c.288)”
residence late in the afternoon,
fervent souls a yardstick for arriving in a tardy manner. because of the absence of any whether with or without collar, (n.7). This is worth underlining,
I and my companion─a well-
Although I prefer not to hazard giving a precise cutoff outward sign of the priest’s do not constitute proper priestly because─as can be easily
known professional who was
moment, certainly someone who arrives after the consecration identity. attire. Neither do shorts, of observed─the aforementioned
going to deliver another lecture
has not attended Mass, should not receive Communion, and whatever color or style. The norms on ecclesiastical garb are
with me─were met by a man in
if it is a Sunday, go to another Mass. The Proper Priestly Attire impropriety of such attire is being violated not only by priests
his 50s, in T-shirt, casual pants
Arriving on time is not just a question of obligation but of The Directory continues: “For even more pronounced during (rampantly in the Philippines),
and slippers. My companion, a
love and respect for Our Lord who has gathered us together this reason, the clergy should liturgical ceremonies, especially but unfortunately on occasion
layman with great respect for
to share his gifts, and who has some grace to communicate to wear suitable ecclesiastical dress, since the common use of the even by Bishops.
the clergy, immediately took the
us in each part of the Mass. in accordance with the norms chasuble-alb makes what is worn This is doubly unfortunate
hand of the middle-aged man and
It is also a sign of respect for the community with whom we established by the Episcopal under it to be more obvious because, as the Note adds,
kissed it, saying “Good evening
worship and who deserves our presence and the contribution of our Conference and the legitimate and incongruous. It stands to “The Diocesan Bishops are
bishop” or something to that
prayers in each moment. The liturgy is essentially the worship of local custom. This means that reason that all these norms the competent authority for
effect; my clerical sense made
Christ’s body, the Church. Each assembly is called upon to represent the attire, when it is not the do not apply when the priest demanding obedience to the
me hesitate. At that moment, the
and manifest the whole body but this can hardly happen if it forms cassock, must be different from is in a private recreational aforementioned norms and for
good bishop appeared, dressed in
itself in drips and drabs after the celebration has begun. the manner in which the laity activity─e.g., doing sports, going removing eventual contrary
clergyman, welcoming us with
Thus people who arrive late to Mass have to honestly ask dress, and conform to the dignity on outdoor excursions, and the practices as regards ecclesiastical
great affability. It turned out the
themselves, Why? If they arrive late because of some justified and sacredness of his ministry. like. Nevertheless, common sense garb (cf. c.392, §2).” For its
other fellow was his driver!
reason or unforeseen event, such as blocked traffic due to an The style and color should be and sensitivity might dictate that part, the Note concludes “The
accident, they have acted in good conscience and are not strictly established by the Episcopal the priest limits his movements Episcopal Conference should
The Purpose of the Ecclesiastical
obliged to assist at a later Mass (although they would do well Conference, always in agreement in these latter conditions, being help the individual diocesan
Garb
to do so if they arrive very late and it is possible for them). with the dispositions of the sufficiently discrete as not to Bishops in the fulfillment of this
On 1.I.1994, John Paul II
Likewise for many elderly people, even getting to the church universal law” (n.66). be too public when he is not in duty” (n.7).
approved and authorized the
is an odyssey, and one must not burden their consciences by The Code of Canon Law─the ecclesiastical garb. Since we are demanding more
publication of a very important
counting the minutes. universal law referred to by the There is nothing mentioned compliance with the law on the
document emanating from the
If people arrive late due to culpable negligence, and especially Directory─precisely stipulates about footwear, leaving it to the part of our politicians and civil
Congregation for the Clergy,
if they do so habitually, then they need to seriously reflect on that “Clerics are to wear suitable common sense and sensitivity of servants, this simple matter of the
signed by its Prefect then, Filipino
their attitudes, amend their ways, and if necessary seek the ecclesiastical garb in accord each priest to choose whatever norms regarding ecclesiastical
Cardinal Jose T. Sanchez. Titled
sacrament of reconciliation. with the norms issued by the is fitting to the occasion and garb give food for thought for
Directory on the Ministry and
Depending on how late they arrive they should prefer to conference of bishops and in circumstances. priests and Bishops alike.
Life of Priests, it came as the
honor the Lord’s day by attending some other Mass, or, if accord with legitimate local
juridic expression of the rich
this is not possible, at least remain in the Church after Mass is custom” (c.284). The Binding Force of
teachings of John Paul II’s Post- FOOTNOTES:
over and dedicate some time to prayer and reflection on the For its part, the Catholic the Directory as regards
Synodal Apostolic Exhortation 1
SCB, Prot.n.35/84.
readings of the day. Bishops Conference of the Ecclesiastical Garb
Pastores dabo vobis of 25.III.1992, 2
Cf. Communicationes, 27 [1995],
which in turn gathered the results Philippines─the Episcopal On 22.X.1994, the Pontifical pp.192-194.
Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
B3
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materialize. He reminded us that all of visit to Inwaloy to lack of budget, only 2 kms from Bolhe
those three choices of ours whether first, during fourth had been finished. But continuous rain
second or third are always considered Sundays of the brought landslides and erosion, which
to be first choice. Mesmerized and month. After eventually damaged that 2 km stretch of
enchanted by the beauty and culture the 9:30 a.m. widened road. We have to pass through
of the Cordilleras, I immediately wrote cliffs, climbing up and down an uneven
Northern Province, although I know terrain because of soil erosion caused by
that I can be assigned anywhere in the too much degradation of the place due
north and not in the very place that to the ‘kaingin system’. Hiking becomes
captivated my adventurous spirit. a challenging activity for me. However,
That particular summer assignment despite the difficulty of going there,
in Calanasan, Apayao provided me culture of the hidden between the forested areas of
a glimpse of the life that I would be Cordillera Inwaloy is the enchanting Tenogtog
embracing as an SVD missionary. people, seeing Waterfalls, cascading from a height of 50
Though, at first I was dismayed by it as God’s ft or even more through the fertile land
the result of my application because greatest gift of Inwaloy. Water is life for the people
none of my first two choices were given to us. of Inwaloy, not only because they are
to me, I was able to overcome it by I was sent to getting their drinking water from the
accepting that maybe the Lord wanted the Our Lady falls but all the more because it irrigates
me to be rooted first and learn about of Assumption their centuries-old rice terraces.
my identity as a Filipino before being M i s s i o n In one of my earliest visits to Inwaloy,
sent to a foreign country. S t a t i o n , we started the Mass with a fair weather
After ordination to the priesthood, I Mayoyao, when suddenly the rain poured down
was sent to Claveria, Cagayan to learn Ifugao to heavily. The wind blew so hard that
how to say mass in Ilocano for more than substitute we had to use the blackboard to shield
a month. I was told already that I will be and continue us from wind and rain. We also had to
assigned in Tabuk District particularly the last year squeeze ourselves at the opened-portion
in Sadsadan, Bauko, Mountain Province of Fr. Romeo of a small native house where we hold
as Asst. Pastor to Fr. Bong Garay, SVD. Benitez, SVD’s masses. We formed a circle around the
Sadsadan is the newest SVD Mission term who was “altar-table” and continued with the
Station under the Vicariate of Bontoc, re-assigned Mass. That rain gave me something to
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and one of the coldest in Cordillera, to Claveria, ponder for my homily and I said: ‘This
even colder that Baguio. Cagayan. is a blessing for each of us. With this
I arrived in Sadsadan on July 2009. I The Mayoyao rain, it is good that we became closer to
enjoyed my stay with the Kankanaey Catholic each other physically instead of being
people, learning and appreciating their Mission was divided. Just like in times of crisis, this
‘culture.’ I once said to them in my established is also the best time for us to become
homily during the Indigenous People’s by the CICM closer to God. When we are in crisis,
Sunday, “Be proud of being an Igorot, Fathers (Congregatio Immaculati cascading water and other factors that Mass in the Poblacion, I would leave the more we remember Christ. And at
be proud of being a Kankanaey... your Cordis Mariae) sixty-plus years ago. As render one helpless. The Poblacion the rectory at 12:30 p.m. for my 2:00 this very moment, the more we come
culture is God’s greatest gift to you and of now, it is under the administration (BEC) is composed of five BECs, they p.m. Mass in Inwaloy. Most often, our closer to Christ, the more we become
to the Philippines as well. I am very of the Divine Word Missionaries usually have their mass in the main Mass starts at 2:30 p.m. or even 3 p.m. closer to each other.’ The hut is too low
fortunate that I was able to see, feel (SVD). It is composed of 16 BECs (Basic church. A BEC is composed of one as we wait for others to arrive because so we had to sit down for the whole
and live the very life of our forefathers Ecclesial Communities) including the or two or sometimes three barangays they are still coming from the outskirts duration of the mass. Everybody was
of which the Spanish Conquerors had Assumption Academy. Most of these depending upon the numbers of the of the barangay. sitting. But, what struck me most was
deprived us “lowlanders” due to the BECs can be reached only by walking faithful in the said barangay. Once a I see to it also that I visit them Ifugao / B7
de Oro. Some delegates being shared appointed had reported that the bishops
though failed to represent in the dioceses, coordinator in Mindanao were not that
their respective dioceses due although in who started open yet to migration issues
to heavy rains that inundated Mindanao, the program and their focus was the BEC
parts of Mindanao. most of them that had program and peacekeeping
The consultation meeting had not yet established their own of evangelization concerning a establishing their own migrant’s focused on education and work.
started at about 9:30 in the migrant ministry. Burmese seafarer whose ship he desk or commission. During the information dissemination In 2004, ECMI officially
morning with Sr. Diane At the end of the consultation, was working in happened to dock consultation, the participants as a preventive approach to shifted its focus from the
Cabasagan, RGS of Davao a simple statement was produced at Iligan seaport. Just like him, all were reminded to come up with solve the various problems program on PEMS to structure
Archdiocese, leading the by the participants expressing other pastoral workers had stories a doable plan especially when born from labor migration. building. The Mindanao
opening prayer. Fifteen their sincere concern on the to share during the workshop and they started to talk about their The title of such program ECMI coordinator eventually
participants representing worsening effects of labor at the plenary sessions. They respective diocesan plans in was Preventive Education on resigned, leaving no progress
the dioceses of Cagayan de migration to the affected families. all agreed that the families of shaping their future migration Migration Seminar (PEMS) on the work among the
Oro, Davao, Digos, Iligan, They had also articulated their migrants need to be guided and ministry in Mindanao. While it which was targeting students migrant ministry until only
Malaybalay and Tandag earnest yet humble desire to taken care of, while their loved is not easy to plan for the future, and teachers especially among recently when new diocesan
participated in the meeting. continue what they had done ones work far away from home. they were able however to make catholic administered schools. directors had been appointed
Msgr. Tex welcomed the so far among the migrants The participants acknowledged some feasible commitment There were also reports that the by their bishops.
Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
Bible Campaign A
Cristobal Sr., Dr. Philip C. Flores,
grandmother in Dipolog City and her granddaughter find strength, Mr. Dante M. Lanorio, Fr. Oscar
healing and wisdom in the Bible. Nimfa Sularte is an active Basic A. Alunday and Fr. Antonio B.
Ecclesial Community (BEC) leader from Saint Anthony de Padua Navarrete.
Help Put a Bible in Every Filipino Home Parish at Gulayon, Dipolog. In October 2009, she went through an
ordeal when her granddaughter Charity Faith Sularate Saleinte was May They Be One (MTBO) is a
diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. Nimfa stood by Charity as 5-year (2009-2013) joint project
the child submitted herself to a series of chemotherapy treatments. By of Episcopal Commission for the
June 2010, through the May They Be One (MTBO) Bible Campaign, Biblical Apostolate (ECBA), the
Nimfa and her BEC group received a copy each of the Bible. Nimfa began Philippine Bible Society (PBS)
regularly reading the MTBO Bible, which brought her a lot of comfort and and Christian churches/groups
encouragement. She took courage to continue to lead the BEC “Sagrada which aims to bring the Bible
Pamilya” group in their Bible sharing and Charity always joined them. to every Filipino home, thereby
By December 2010, through continuing medication, prayers and trust in facilitating moral and spiritual
the Word of God, Charity was healed. The reading, studying and sharing transformation throughout the
insights from the Bible have enriched Charity in other practical aspects country. To learn more about
of life. She is now 11 years old in fifth grade and a topnotch student in how you can be part of the
her class at Gulayon Integrated School. Up to now this precious child Campaign and make significant
still attends Bible sharing with the BEC group which continues to witness change, call us at PBS 526-7777,
God’s work in her life. ECBA 527-9386 or visit www.
bible.org.ph and www.ecba-cbcp.
No. of Dioceses participating in the Bible Campaign – 80 out of 86 Dio- com. Donations can be made by
ceses making a deposit to the follow-
Bibles Distributed (Jan 1, 2011 – Feb. 7, 2011): 16,303 cps ing bank accounts: PBS-MTBO
Bible Sharing of Tolda 4 BEC Sagrada Pamilya Group with Nimfa Sularte, BEC Group Leader Bibles Distributed by Languages - Tagalog (5,907 cps.); Cebuano (4,503 Account#393-0649-34 (BPI Sta.
cps.); English (833 cps.); Ilocano (748 cps.); Hiligaynon (1,341cps.); Mesa Branch) Fax deposit slip
Bicol (773 cps); Pangasinan (8 cps.); Pampango (62 cps.); Samarenyo to 521-5803 or ECBA-CBCP
Praise God for the endorsement given by the CBCP President Most Rev. Nereo (1,513cps.) Account #0251-021376 (BPI-
P. Odchimar, DD for the May They Be One (MTBO) Bible campaign. Pray Parishes/Communities served: 42 Tayuman Branch) Fax deposit
that the Lord will open doors for a strategic promotion of May They Be One Total Bible Distribution: (Jan 2009- Feb 7, 2011): 324,911 cps slip to 527-9386. For credit card
Target No. of Bibles for Distribution for 2011: 400,000 cps. payments – go to PBS website
in Europe and other parts of the world. Total Funds Needed for Printing and Transport of Bibles in 2011: P60M (www.bible.org.ph)
Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
B5
Mindanao Regional Speak the Truth
Consultation on the from the Heart!
Pastoral Care of Migrants
“LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent?
Who may live on your holy mountain?
The one whose walk is blameless,
who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart. (Psalm 15:1-2)
part of the island, were killed. ‘Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.’ But for one’s vindictiveness. Love in the east to the west, and
The revolutionaries sowed the I tell you, ‘Do not resist an evil is shown in suffering (cf 1 Cor some in the west to the east,
wind, they reaped the whirlwind person” (Matt 5:39). In Jewish 13:4-7). Abraham Lincoln agreed and
(Hosea 8:7). law, retaliation was a right, but that sought to dislodge the Jewish Revolt Against Rome in Of course, Jesus walked his told the committee to see Edwin
Is this the way for Christians for Jesus even this right has to hegemony of Rome, and it is not 66-70 AD. Here was an empire talk. When one of his companions Stanton, the Secretary of War.
to respond to those who do them be renounced. The force of this impossible that some in Jesus’ that used violence against reached for his sword, drew it Hearing that the President was
violence—almost unlimited saying can be well appreciated audience were being recruited its subjects; and would it be out and struck the servant of the Deal / B7
WHATEVER
we do need to be careful that the nothing is attempted unless it is the
message is not lost in the poetry. result of a thorough consultation,
The underlying message of this today’s gospel affects us the
passage is pointed to those who same way it affected the sages of
are weak in faith, certainly me, Jerusalem. It seems irresponsible
perhaps also you. The theme of
little faith, found throughout the
Gospel of Matthew, strengthens
to put our full trust in God and not
to worry about tomorrow, but this
is the radical faith demanded of
Of mentors and ‘dementors’
those of us whose faith in the Risen all Christians. We are challenged
Lord is continually assaulted by the to live as individuals of faith
situation of our daily needs. We in a materialistically orientated HOMER’S ancient epic poem the Odyssey work. They are often “missed at home” by will be models (i.e. learning the family’s
are called to faith not just in times society. We are challenged to tells of a man who left his country Ithaca to their children. These parents have become household traditions and norms) for their
of great spiritual experiences, or live out the Lord’s prayer. We fight in the Trojan Wars. It took ten long years literally invisible, and have been replaced younger siblings.
in times of personal crisis, we are are challenged to put faith in God for Odysseus to return to his homeland and by “visible” material substitutes (i.e. money, • “Yaya Mentors.” Very peculiar to our
called to faith in the face of our first, to make his kingdom our rejoin his beloved family. food, entertainment gadgets, etc.). culture is the strong presence of nannies
typical daily needs. priority, to trust in him not in our Odysseus could be considered the The growing absence of parents from the or “yayas” who spend a great deal of their
Last Sunday’s Gospel was stuff. Today’s Gospel is not just a predecessor of today’s many foreign overseas home—whether they live abroad or spend a time in household maintenance and care of
the passage in the Sermon on poetic image of God’s love, it is a workers. He left home, however, not to earn great deal of their time at the office—has grim the children. Parents, have to make sure that
the Mount that immediately challenge to trust in this love. a living—since they were pretty well off—but emotional and psychological consequences these “household members” are also properly
precedes today’s Gospel. It The radical demands of to fight in a war he was reluctant to join. He upon children. Unfortunately, unlike oriented, not only to care for the material needs
contains warnings about limiting Christianity. They are full of tried feigning madness by sowing salt in his Odysseus, many parents often do not have of the family, but to also become effective
the growth of holiness through life and love. When we put God field to avoid being drafted into the army. This anyone competent enough to whom they can guides to the children. Thus, they also have
a strict adherence to the letter first and have faith in Him, our was discovered and he had no choice but to entrust the formation of their children. to be taught how to respect and abide with
of the law without going to the happiness is no longer dependent fight in Troy. The decision to leave behind his Thus, children are often “home alone” the norms and traditions of the family. This
heart of the law. You remember on the contents of our closets, our family and country was truly difficult. and become captives of “digital mentors” may entail teaching them temperance and
the precepts: it is not enough to bookshelves, our cars, boats or Before leaving for Troy, since Odysseus like the T.V. or cable, the Internet, movies, sobriety in the use of personal and family
avoid murder, we cannot hate, houses, or even the people who was not sure about the length of his absence, video games, and other gadgets. Thus, resources (i.e. texting, listening to the radio,
and so forth. That passage was move in and out of our lives. When he made sure that his son Telemachus would children today are arbitrarily exposed to or watching T.V., and also in fostering piety,
first pointed at the establishment we put God first our happiness receive proper education. He entrusted him to almost anything—both the good and the bad modesty and decency at home)
thought of the Pharisees and flows from the experience of the a faithful teacher: his name was Mentor. When things—about life. These new mentors, or shall • “Visible Material Mentors.” Once
Sadducees, the wise men or sages presence of God’s love in our lives. Odysseus returned to Ithaca, he was overjoyed we call them “dementors,” are sinister forces the family’s peculiar lifestyle has been
of Jerusalem. The limitation of the When we put God first we have to find a mature and faithful son. that sap the young of their ability to maturely consolidated, visible material mentors can
wisdom of these same sages is the time, no, more than that, we Telemachus possessed a deep love for develop their character and personality. be effectively put into place. For example,
confronted with the enthusiasm a have the ability to look at the birds his parents and their family traditions. He a written schedule of weekly chores or
Christian must have in God. The of the sky and flowers of the fields had a balanced personality and character. *** activities for the weekend. These gradually
bottom line is that we are to trust and say, “God, how beautiful they He courageously resisted the bad example Parents are the primary educators of their help the family and its members acquire
in God to provide. We should are. How good You are. How of his mother’s many vile suitors, and later children, and no one can substitute what constant “bonding power”. It may be helpful
not base our trust on our money. caring You are.” on he helped his father to drive away these they can offer. But when this isn’t possible, to have a schedule sheet that defines these
Today’s Gospel must have been In today’s Gospel the Lord calls evil-minded men. Finally, he didn’t develop what can they do to address the trend of activities, as well as a visible bulletin board
seen as thoroughly irresponsible us to enjoy life by trusting in him. a wrong attachment to Mentor as some sort “invisible parents” and minimize to some that displays each member’s crucial role in
to the Sages of Jerusalem, but it If we could only develop that of “father figure or substitute”. Mentor extent the bad effects of “dementors” within the family (i.e. their duties, responsibilities
is an accurate demonstration of attitude of faith, then whenever the had successfully educated Telemachus to their own homes? and reminders for important events).
the faith we must nurture. “Don’t events of our lives become heavy, engage life. • Parents First. This requires a sincere • “Invisible Mentors.” These come in the
worry about tomorrow. Let when calamity strikes individuals examination of their personal sacrifice to form of the virtues transmitted constantly
tomorrow take care of itself. Seek or relationships in a family, we can *** make their home and children the genuine through good example and advice. There
first God’s kingdom over you and call on the presence of the Lord to Today, there are more and more parents life priority. It may entail discerning what is also fostering prayer individually
his way of holiness, and all will be care for us, to share our burdens. who spend less and less time with their they have to lessen as regards their time for or as a family. Maintaining the lines of
given you.” What irresponsibility “Come to me all you who are children. Many spend a considerable number work and leisure in order to spend more time communication at all levels of the family is
the ancient and modern sages of weary and find life burdensome,” of years working away from home to support at home. This also includes cutting down on also very helpful.
the world would claim! What a Jesus will say later on in the Gospel their family. Undoubtedly, theirs is an urgent “superficial expenses and whims”, so that These are some of the possible “mentors”
thorough faith in God’s love, the of Matthew, “My yoke is easy, my and reasonable concern when financial the rest could be funneled to support the that parents can institutionalize in their
Christian must reply. burden is light.” obligations (e.g. tuition, board and lodging) family’s real needs. homes. At least to begin with, they will help a
The passage is itself a practical May the Lord give us the faith are not getting any easier. • “Sibling Mentors.” For parents with great deal in offsetting the bad influence that
living out of the Lord’s prayer. In to trust in the power of his love Likewise, there are parents, who may not children, a great deal of help comes when children receive arbitrarily from “the virtual
the Lord’s prayer, which begins in our lives. work abroad but are intensely absorbed with they have formed the older children who dementors” plaguing our homes today.
Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
B7
www.nazcapictures.com
and driven inland. below 2C, then we can expect the worst. saves the soil, provides shade, cools the
With the ice diminished, the natural That is the tipping point when one event earth, conserves water, and prevents
reflectors gone, the sunbeams can triggers another and the domino effect landslides. Everything is connected
penetrate the oceans and scorch the kicks in. The permafrost marshland on this God-given planet, be a part of
earth. This year alone, millions of people and bogs of Siberia and North Canada something really good, let’s save it.
Piracy / B4
eggplant. Piracy has also claimed the Gutierrez, 2003, 34; cf. Bautista, 2007, for a more explicit education on the government, retired Associate Justice community should encourage scholars
Philippine Yew Tree [,] which has been 26-27). reality of piracy of IPs, the detection of Romero noted that the government “has to document the many biological
reported by the DENR [Department of In the end, the biopiracy of Philippine pirated goods, and the weighing of the taken some crucial steps” (F. Romero, resources in the country and their
Environment and Natural Resources] as resources wreaks more havoc on pros and cons of buying pirated goods. 2006, 149) in the direction of proper and medicinal and other uses. This literature
having been patented by the University Philippine society than the piracy of Such education will promote mores of adequate enforcement. can be used as evidence against novelty
of Philadelphia. The tree, which can be songs and films on CDs and DVDs behavior based on honesty, integrity, The country’s judges are already being when multinational corporations from
found only in Mt. Pulag, contained taxol, from the North to South and South- responsibility, and a will to excel. trained through programs designed by the North acquire patent on genetic
a cancer-curing chemical. (Sandoval- South because in biopiracy the whole Because there will always be the Philippine Judicial Academy, and resources obtained from exclusively
Gutierrez, 2003, 33-34) country is robbed, not merely individual individuals who are morally bankrupt the Departments of Justice and Interior Philippine flora or fauna.
Associate Justice Sandoval-Gutierrez owners of IPs. Moreover, many of these and who will try to make a living and Local Government to have their own Everybody should work hand in hand
continues: songs and films are easily accessible out of other people’s ignorance and training modules for prosecutors and towards the elimination of material
The biopiracy of plants and and downloadable on the internet free moral weakness, legitimate business law enforcers. (F. Romero, 2006, 149) and moral poverty, which is a threat
animals [from the Philippines] placed of charge. establishments should “provide The Armed Forces of the Philippines to intellectual property anywhere (cf.
ownership of these valuable resources difficult-to-counterfeit hologram and the Office of the President of the http: //www.ilo.org/ilolex/English/
into the hands of the few companies Recommendations stickers to protect” (Penna et al., 2004, Philippines need to make better use of constq.htm http: //www.ilo.org/
[,] which can control their storage, The first one is education in justice 104,) their IPs. As it is, the businesses their intelligence funds through updated ilolex/English/constq.htm). Better still,
patenting, licensing, reproduction from the earliest stage of growth and with interests in IPs need to be vigilant education of the concerned agencies instead on focusing on the concept of
and sale. More often, biopiracy is development of a child in the family. about infringements on their IPs. and responsible individuals on the property be it of token or type, there
committed by multinational firms and The child is taught at home the value of To discourage potential buyers of latest information and communication is a need to make a paradigm shift
[g]overnments of developed countries justice, i.e., to render to each his or her pirated domestic products, Filipino technologies, which are being used by to the concept of stewardship of IPs
which patent and map chromosomes due, and integrity. This value formation entrepreneurs and businessmen need TOCGs for their illegal and morally and other forms of property and its
of genetic resources without informing, should be reinforced in the schools and to find a way to make copies of their destructive activities, which for the equitable sharing in the global village
consulting, acknowledging and duly should be observable in the lives of CDs and DVDs affordable to the daily most part remain uncurbed in the for the material and moral well-being
compensating the poor countries which people around the growing child. As wage earners. Philippines. of all, thereby establishing “a society of
own the resources. [sic] (Sandoval- he or she grows older, there is a need On the level of the Philippine The government and the academic equals.” (Wilson, 2010, 460)
Sr. Diana J. Madulara, RGS Sr. Ma. Carmen Diana T. agreed to the plan, Stanton told Would it be Christian to destroy the opportunity that made us to the Catholic faith when she
Diocese of Malaybalay Cabasagan, RGS the congressmen that Lincoln Basilan or Jolo on account of the closer to each other. married a Catholic, while she
Archdiocese of Davao “was a d-d fool.” When this was evils that the Abu Sayaf fighters During communion, we was in the hospital. She even
Sr. Leah G. Tulod, ADM related to the President, Lincoln have been engaged in? Would passed both the ciborium and expressed her desire to get
Diocese of Digos Mr. Leonilo V. Solon commented, “He [Stanton] must it be right to obliterate a country chalice around. Each took the married in the Catholic Church.
Diocese of Iligan be correct, as I have yet to know because the followers of Saddam sacred Host from the ciborium But, unfortunately she died a
Sr. Mary Grace M. Barci- of Stanton being wrong.” True, Hussein continue to upset the and dipped the Host into month after. With her family’s
nas, DC Mr. Ernie B. Neri one might say that the principle work of peace? Of course, the the chalice that contained the permission, I officiated Mass
Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro Diocese of Malaybalay is applicable at the personal level, logic of power would dictate that Blood of Christ. One person in her wake in their house
but can this be applied in other that would be right approach, commented that it was his first just beside the chapel of the
Mrs. Naomi R. Labalan Mrs. Arlene D. Neri situations, like the relationship but one wonders whether it can time to experience such way of Espiritistas.
Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro Diocese of Malaybalay between nations? But, why not? claim to be Christian. “sharing”, by passing on the The People of Inwaloy are
bread and wine, receiving it and always looking forward for the
Youth / B5 having the chance to pass it over monthly Masses. I also try to
to another person. Usually, I do visit them twice a month and join
spirit. We believe that sex education should access to contraceptives will increase risky and on the side of life, in general. We believe such way of officiating the mass them in their seminars if time
stress that it is only when we have healthy sexual behavior. We ask the same question: that the idealism associated with the youth if the congregation is not too big. permits. They are truly grateful
and meaningful relationships that we If coke were handed out for free everyday, is not one of blindness to reality. We stake I invite the communicants to take for the Catholic services granted
can have healthy and meaningful sexual would it increase coke consumption? We our claim on a future brighter and more full the host and wine to give them to them which we usually hold
relations. The sex education proposed, on thought so. of life. a feel of receiving the Body and in the native house of a generous
the contrary, promotes a contraceptive 4. We are for natural methods of family We made this statement because we are Blood of Christ contextualizing couple. Given the difficulty of
sexuality by choosing to focus on subjects planning. Even though the RH Bill is not not taking this matter lightly. Through what Jesus spoke during the gathering in their place, they
like the “use and application of natural and pushing for the legalizing of abortion, it is this statement, we are fully supporting Last Supper ‘This is My Body... wish to have a chapel where we
modern family planning methods to promote undeniably promoting contraceptives as the pastoral letter of the Catholic Bishops’ eat it, this is My Blood, drink can hold Masses, BEC seminars
reproductive health, achieve desired family an ideal family planning instrument. Aside Conference of the Philippines on ‘Choosing it...do this in remembrance and other church activities.
size and prevent unwanted, unplanned and from the little-known, adverse physiological Life, Rejecting the RH Bill’. We believe that of Me.’ After saying Mass in They are very much willing to
mistimed pregnancies”. side effects of the pill and IUDs, according to to reject the RH bill is not simply a matter Inwaloy, I would hike for two render services only that they
3. Contraceptives that can be bought George Akerlof who wrote “An Analysis on of religious convictions, it is a decision to and a half hours for Mass in don’t have the means to buy
over the counter will encourage young Out-of-Wedlock Childbearing in the United uphold what is truly human, humane and Maga-Magulon BEC, (the place the materials needed for the
people to take more sexual risks that may States”, “contraceptive use leads to the universal. We will be watching with the of Frt. Reniel Nachimma, SVD, construction.
undermine their future. The RH Bill calls downgrading of marriage, more extramarital typical vigor of the young, and we are ready soon to be ordained priest this When I had the chance to go
hormonal contraceptives, intrauterine sex, more fatherless children, more single to be summoned. coming Dec 3, 2011). I have to Manila, some of my friend-
devices, injectables “essential medicines” mothers.” Many of our parents have made to pass through rivers and priests gave me the opportunity
that will be available even to students. Some this mistake, allow us not to do the same. Eilleen Esteban mountain ranges carved into to celebrate Masses in their
people say that it does not follow that better Again, we stand on the side of the unborn President, YouthPinoy majestic and enchanting rice parishes to at least seek help
terraces before reaching the from generous people, for
Chapel of St. Luke at the foot of them to be of help financially
Mt. Amuyao (one of the highest in attaining their goal of having
peaks of Cordilleras). a small chapel of their own. I
The Catholic Church in also shared to them the story
TITLE: The Rite take a Vatican-sponsored course the possessed Rosaria) are equally
Moral Assessment Technical Assessment
CAST: Anthony Hopskin on exorcism in Rome; otherwise impressive in this first outing;
(Father Lucas Trevant), he will roll his four years in the Hauer is credible as the anguished
Claran Hinds (Father seminary over into a $100,000 mortician widower, just as Jones
Abhorrent Poor Xavier), Alice Braca student loan. In Rome, Michael and Hinds are effective in their
Disturbing Below average
(Angeline), Toby Jones (
comes under the tutelage of a priest-characters. It is Hopkins’
Acceptable Average
Father Matthew), Collin
O’Donoghue (Michael Dominican priest, Fr. Xavier Fr. Lucas, however, that strings
Wholesome Above average (Ciaran Hinds). Believing more everything all together into one
Kovak), Rutger Hauer
Exemplary E
xcellent (Istvan Kovak) in psychology than in theology, neat bundle of thrills. Hopkins
DIRECTOR: Mikael Håfström Michael vents his doubts with Fr. seems born to do borderline cases
WRITER: Matt Baglio, Michael Xavier and a classmate, journalist but somehow he escapes the
Petroni Angeline (Alice Braga) who is stereotyping trap. Like Geoffrey
DISTRIBUTOR: Warner Bros attending the course for research Rush or Morgan Freeman, he is
Pictures, New Line purposes. Seeing Michael to be a one thespian whose characters
Cinema
hard case, Fr. Xavier assigns him you cannot but take seriously.
LOCATION: Chicago, USA,
Budapest, Hungary, as a virtual apprentice with the The poster for The Rite says
Rome, Italy eccentric Fr. Lucas who is known that you can defeat the devil only
GENRE: Mystery & Suspense, for his unusual but effective when you believe it. Based on
Drama approach to demon-fighting. this premise, The Rite intrigues
RUNNING TIME: 112 min. Michael comes face to face with its audience with the idea that a
Technical Assessment: evil as he witnesses the aging skeptic can be moved to believe
½ priest drive away demons from in God by seeing the havoc that
Moral Assessment: the possessed. the devil wreaks. The movie is
½ Although it is fiction, The Rite is not a substitute for a theology
CINEMA Rating: Audience based on the life story of a priest— textbook but it is certainly rich
Age 14 and above Fr. Gary Thomas from the Diocese with talking points for those
of San Jose, California—which is fascinated by or simply curious
The only way Michael Kovak the meat of the book “The Rite: about absolute good and evil,
(Colin O’Donoghue) can go The Making of a Modern Exorcist” death of a parent, psychological
through college—as his father released in 2009 by journalist/ disorders vs. demonic possession,
demands—is to continue as a author Matt Baglio. Dubbed as incest, fear vs. faith, and one’s
mortician in his father’s business, “supernatural horror”, Warner intention in answering the call
or become a priest. So, to be Bros.’ The Rite, being a movie on to the priesthood. In spite of an
independent of his father Istvan excorcism, naturally has its share of incidental colorful word uttered
(Rutger Hauer), while getting a bodies contorting and convulsing, by priests, screenwriter Michael
four-year college education for gory scenes, expletives, abusive Petroni and director Mikael
free, Michael enters the seminary. language, physical violence, sexual Hafstrom do not disrespect
Michael is a skeptic and has set innuendoes and disparaging either the priest’s person or the
his mind on leaving the seminary remarks about Jesus and God. Catholic religion. In fact the film’s
right after his ordination as a However, nothing of such affirmation of faith and the value
deacon. But his superior Fr. necessary evil (pardon the pun) of priestly ministry reverberates
Matthew (Toby Jones) who is is exaggerated, thus the movie in its entirety, from the opening
convinced of the young man’s doesn’t descend to the level of frame which quotes Pope John
potential as a pastor despite his an average chillfest. Adding to Paul II to the closing scene which
skepticism will not let him off its technical merits is the spot- will be a spoiler to reveal. Suffice
the hook that easily. He wants on casting: newcomers Colin it to say that in The Rite, a twist of
to send Michael off to Rome to O’Donoghue and Marta Gastini (as fate leads to a turn in faith.
Buhay Parokya
Look for the images
of St. Joseph, Holy TITLE: 127 Hours
Water font and CAST: James Franco
Dove. (Illustration by DIRECTOR: Danny Boyle
Bladimer Usi) AUTHOR: Aron Ralston
SCREENPLAY: Danny Boyle and Simon Beaufoy
PHOTOGRAPHY: Anthony Dod Mantle
MUSIC: A.R. Rahman
GENRE: Thriller
RUNNING TIME: 1 hour and 33 minutes
Technical Assessment: ½
Moral Assessment:
CINEMA Rating: V14
127 Hours is the true and tragic but triumphant story of Aron Ralston, an
experienced mountain climber, as powerfully told by Director Danny Boyle
and excellently portrayed by the talented actor James Franco. Cocky with self-
confidence, twenty seven year old Aron Ralston ventures alone into the Blue
John Canyon in Utah, for some climbing and exploring which he does with
much exhilaration. Moving around with some familiarity of the territory, he
comes across two female hikers Megan (Amber Tamblyn) and Kristi (Kate Mara)
who lost their way and he helps them get to their destination. Shortly after,
Aron has an accident. He falls down to the bottom of a shaft where a big rock
crushes his arm and pins it against a tunnel wall. Unable to free his arm in spite
of all his valiant efforts, survival skills and the use of limited tools, he remains
trapped within a narrow space for 127 hours, a little more than 5 days from
the end of April to the beginning of May 2003. A loner, he left home without
telling anyone. He realizes he can die here without anyone knowing where
he is. Now, he knows no help is forthcoming. With his camcorder, he does a
video of his thoughts and experiences with the hope that whoever finds it may
return his body to his parents. Subjected to vagaries of the weather, hunger
and thirst, he has dreams and visions. But in spite of his “half-crazed state” he
continues his efforts and is determined to live. How does Aron beat the odds?
The viewer may be interested in knowing the details.
The film is based on the autobiography of Aron Ralston entitled Between a
Rock and a Hard Place which focuses mainly on his particular searing ordeal
in the Canyon. Director Boyle has succeeded in transforming a relatively
simple survival tale into a singularly intense cinematic experience. He begins
with striking, brightly colored visuals and awesome landscape shots to the
accompaniment of A.R. Rahman’s throbbing music. These images give us an
early insight into the overweening self-worth of the charismatic main character
as well as show-off the beautifully photographed vast and rugged setting. In his
dynamic storytelling, Boyle successfully captures on the screen the difficulties
of the protagonist (as the latter suffers extremes in temperature, dehydration,
fatigue, and mental anguish in the face of death) and deftly intertwines these
scenes with flashbacks and hallucinations, without much distraction from the
storyline. The film builds in intensity (though not in suspense) and has its apex
when Aron makes his radical decision and performs the painful procedure on
himself in order to live. The scene is unflinching in its realism, stark and graphic.
It is difficult to watch and is not for the fainthearted.
James Franco has been known as a support actor in films like the Spider Man
franchise but in 127 Hours he has most probably given a career-altering performance.
He is on the screen in nearly every frame and often in close-up, so he “carries” the
film for more than an hour. His insightful and very good portrayal of his role keeps
us interested and engaged all the time. The others in the cast like Amber Tamblyn,
Kate Mara and Lizzy Caplan do comeo performances creditably.
As mentioned, the film is not for the faint-hearted. Neither is it for the very
young. The extreme realism with the violence, gore and self-inflicted pain maybe
disturbing for them. But in spite of the negative points, 127 Hours is a life-
affirming film. In these days when life is viewed cheap by abortionists and hired
killers, a film that champions the value of life is most salutary. This is a story of
determination and survival, heroism and courage. When Aron finds himself in the
desperate situation when there seems no reason for hope, he does not lose heart;
he continues to “fight” it out. He does not give up. He is determined to live. He
succeeds but with much pain and sacrifice. He had to give up something in order
to have the greater good – his life. We may not be able to do what Aron did, but
in other instances when we are faced with a desperate situation in life, we may
be reminded of Aron’s predicament. And we remember that the determination
to continue trying, even after many failures, maybe rewarded. Or we may be
called upon to sacrifice or give up something in order to achieve a greater good.
And we might just do that. In a way, he did something heroic: save his life. This
film shows or suggests that when one wants to do what is good, often it can be
done, even in the face of adversity and difficulty, if one is determined to do it.
This film depicts the triumph of the human spirit.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14 - 27, 2011
The Cross
A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI
C1
KCFAPI honors Top Sales Performers Sixty seven (67) fraternal counselors
and eight (8) area managers will
be honored in a fitting awarding
ceremonies to be held on March 4, 2011
at the Boracay Regency Convention
Center in Boracay Island, Aklan.
They will be receiving their plaques of recog-
nition from KCFAPI Chairman Hon. Hilario G.
Davide, Jr., KCFAPI President, Supreme Director
and Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan, Visayas Deputy
Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., and Mindanao Deputy
Sofronio R. Cruz. The formal occasion will be wit-
nessed by the awardees’ families and the members
of KCFAPI Board of Trustees.
Dedication to their work, concern for the finan-
cial wellness of KC families and fervent prayers are
the outstanding attributes of those awardees.
We extend our hearty congratulations to the
following awardees and salute them for a job
well done.
KC, KCFAPI
declares
support for
Church’s stand
vs RH bill
THE 270,000 members of the Order of the Knights
of Columbus and its insurance arm, the Knights
of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philip-
pines, Inc. (KCFAPI) have strongly reiterated its
support to the CBCP’s stance on the Reproductive
Health Bill.
On the February 3 issue of the Manila Bulletin,
the KC and KCFAPI have posted on page 3 the
latest Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines together with their
formal declaration of support to the Bishop and
the Holy Father.
The latest pastoral letter of the CBCP entitled
“Choosing Life, Rejecting the RH Bill” signed by
Bishop Nereo P. Odchimar, President of CBCP,
contained the moral arguments why the Church
rejects the contentious bill.
Also posted on the same page is an official
statement dated February 2, 2011 regarding the
two Associations’ declaration of support for
the church’s stand on Family and life. This was
signed by Sir Knight Alonso L. Tan, Supreme
Director, Luzon Deputy and KCFAPI President,
Sir Knight Hilario G. Davide, Jr., KCFAPI Chair-
man, Sir Knight Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. Visayas
Deputy, and Sir Knight Sofronio R. Cruz, Mind-
anao Deputy.
The declaration states that the Order of the
Knights of Columbus in the Philippines and
their families as a catholic and family-oriented
organization “live by, uphold and support the
magisterial teachings of the Church on family
and life.”
The statement expressed the KC’s solid sup-
port to the dissenting voice of the CBCP on the
Reproductive Health Bill which was clearly
RH bill / C2
Hilario J. Davide
Alonso L. Tan
Chairman’s Message
President’s Message
STRENGTHENED by the foot and ensure that it will Columbus in the Philippines,
AS President of the Knights of Co- grace of Christmas 2010 with keep us on the right path. By commits itself in helping solve
lumbus Fraternal Association of the the fullness of Christ’s love, the end of the year we will be or reduce these burdens. We
Philippines, Inc., It is my distinct we welcome the New Year able to proclaim our victory as should not be remiss in our
honor and privilege to extend my 2011 as a great promise for authentic Catholic gentlemen Christian duties in this regard.
heartfelt congratulations to the 67 genuine change and of peace, and families. Saint Paul tells us: Be on your to give you a future full of hope.
honorees in the upcoming 34th Fr. unity and prosperity of our In the months ahead, difficul- guard, stand firm in the faith, (Jeremiah 29:11).
George J. Willman Annual Family country and our people. Thus, ties and challenges will come our be courageous, be strong. Your It gives us so much comfort
Awards. As the award is a presti- ever grateful to God for the way to test our fidelity to our every act should be done with and assurance to know that the
gious one, the venue for the award- bountiful blessings He has Christian faith as well as our re- love. (1 Corinthians 16: 13-14). Order of the Knights of Colum-
ing is no less prestigious, it will be showered upon it specially in solve and patience to overcome He assures us: affliction pro- bus is a brotherhood to rely on
held at the Boracay Garden Resort 2010, the KCFAPI starts the them with graciousness and duces endurance, and endurance and to work with to make the
on March 4, 5 and 6, 2011. The year new year with high hopes and love. The world today is in the proven character, and proven world a better place to live in,
2010 was a challenging year for KCFAPI, for the sales force and expectations not only in the midst of trials, sufferings, and character hope, and hope does and truly enriched with faith,
especially for the employees but at the end of the year, stellar conduct of its affairs, but, above crises of all kinds and propor- not disappoint, because the love hope and love.
performances were again achieved. First Year Contribution all and more importantly, in the tions. Our beloved country is of God has been poured into our May the year 2011 achieve the
Income reached 106.8 M. while Renewal Year Contribution efforts to further strengthen burdened by them. The KCFAPI, hearts through the Holy Spirit vision of its promise and may
Income was 335 M. and Net Investment income was P227.5 its relationship with brother in unqualified solidarity with the that has been given to us (Ro- the KCFAPI and you and me be
M. Total resources of the Association as of December 31, 2010 knights and their families Roman Catholic Church in the mans 5:3-5). Finally, we should instruments for realizing the vi-
was P3.4 B with an increase of 10.15% from previous year. We through its support in various Philippines through the CBCP, never forget what God assures sion through a much better and
end the year with Net Revenue before Estimated Participation relevant priority, programs and and other Brother Knights of the us: For I know well the plans I strengthened KCFAPI and our
of BC Holders at P 98.2 M which is 68% higher than the target activities. Needless to stress, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao have in mind for you, plans for personal transformation.
and 52% better than last year. The financial stability of your we have to start on the right Jurisdictions of the Knights of your welfare, not for woe! Plans Vivat Jesus!
Association continues and it is our commitment to work dou-
Area Sales
tion is by listening to the heart with your stethoscope. An
athletic person may have a heart rate as low as 50, which Unity / C1
may be normal for him. However, if a person is resting,
and heart rate is persistently above 90 beats per minute, he Airport down to his new resi- tended the reception were the
Meeting of
needs a checkup to rule out thyroid disease, anemia, heavy dence at the Archbishop’s Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop
smoking, and other disorders. During exercises, heart rate Palace located at D. Jakosalem Edward Joseph Adams, Manila
increases but should return to normal within two to four Street. Archbishop Gaudencio Cardi-
minutes of resting. Palma thanked the Cebuanos nal Rosales, Jaro Archbishop
Central Luzon
Listening and understanding the above numbers will help whom outgoing Archbishop Angel Lagdameo and gov-
each one of us to reflect whether we need to modify our diet Ricardo Cardinal Vidal regard- ernment officials led by Gov.
and activities, and let go of bad habits. ed as “a dynamo of faith”. Gwen Garcia and Cebu City
The new Archbishop will Mayor Mike Rama.
slated
lead the 4 million faithful of Knights of Columbus Visayas
the archdiocese which consists Deputy Dionisio Esteban, Jr.
Seminarians / C1 of 282 priests, 400 seminar- and other officers of the Order
ians, and almost one thousand were also present to welcome
ter unity, solidarity, and broth- studies in various seminar- nuns. the new Archbishop. (Knights
erhood among all the Catholic ies nationwide as well as to THE Fraternal Benefits Group skills in underwriting. Among the guests who at- Mirror News ERE)
Diocesan theology seminarians ten priests / scholars pursu- held an area sales meeting Gari San Sebastian, Frater-
in the Philippines, but likewise ing their Licentiate/Doctorate of Central Luzon in Bulacan nal Benefits Services Manager
to enkindle in them the impetus studies locally and to three Paradise Resort last Jan. 22, discussed the 2011 fraternal FBG / C1
to be agents of social renewal priests/ scholars studying in 2011. counselors’ incentive program
making them more aware and Rome. Subject donation to the Among the topics discussed which is expected to help programs, target assignment highlights and 2011 corporate
better equipped to face the lat- SemNet Phils. helped defray during the said meeting were boost up their sales perfor- per area or team and fraternal economic overview. While
est challenges posed by current the costs their food and accom- the review of the sales produc- mance. counselors’ incentives. KCFAPI President and Su-
issues and concerns. modation services, liturgical tion performance for 2010, The said meeting was par- Dr. Jaime Talag, medical di- preme Director Alonso L. Tan
The Fr. Willmann Chari- celebrations, cultural programs and the plans, programs, and ticipated in by the Central rector of KCFAPI talked about delivered his inspirational
ties itself presently provides and small-group workshops for strategies for 2011. Luzon Believers, Central Lu- underwriting skills and tips. message to the attendees.
educational assistance to 40 about 600 seminarians from all During the meeting, the zon Conquerors and Central KCFAPI Executive Vice The closing remark was
seminarians/ scholars who over the country who attended area managers brought up Luzon Diamonds. (KCFAPI President Ma. Theresa Curia given by Gari San Sebastian.
are taking up their Theology the event. (Roberto T. Cruz) the sales techniques, tips and News) discussed the 2010 financial (KCFAPI News)
To continue in the formation of our brother knights into a mature and practical Catholic laymen and leaders of
our Christian communities, the Spiritual Formation group of the Knights of Columbus at Luzon Jurisdiction
organized the “1st Supreme Director Alonso L. Tan Golf Tournament” on April 26, 2011, Tuesday
with Tee off starting at 6:00 am at the Alabang Country Club, Muntinlupa City.
Spiritual Formation is a timely response to the call of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines (PCP II)
which states that “Lay faithful and particularly lay leaders should acquire the knowledge and skills necessary Knights of Columbus
to defend and explain the faith to others.” Please support this Golf Tournament. Luzon Jurisdiction
The Cross
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 4
February 14- 27, 2011
C3
Christ’s presence in us
demands that we be
uncompromisingly pro-life
By Supeme Knight Carl A. … In Christ, the Gospel of life is de- has imparted to each of us.
Anderson finitively proclaimed and fully given” The Church’s proclamation of the
(29). Thus, we know that the value of Gospel of life calls us to enter into
every human person is revealed by the this profound reality—the reality of
IN Evangelium Vitae, Pope John Paul love of Jesus Christ. We might go on the Redeemer’s love for each human
II’s great pro-life encyclical, we read, to say that the value of every human being. This reality is the key to under-
“The Gospel of life is not simply a re- life is measured by Christ’s love and standing who we are as persons and
flection, however new and profound, that Christ’s love is inseparable from our responsibilities to those around
on human life. Nor is it merely a com- each of our lives. us.
mandment aimed at raising aware- Later in his encyclical, the pope Our responsibilities as citizens are
ness and bringing about significant writes, “It is precisely in the ‘flesh’ measured by a calculus of justice, and
changes in society. Still less is it an of every person that Christ continues we must therefore work untiringly
illusory promise of a better future. to reveal himself and to enter into for just laws. But our responsibilities
The Gospel of life is something con- fellowship with us, so that rejection as Christians can only be fulfilled
crete and personal, for it consists in of human life, in whatever form that through a vocation of love as revealed
the proclamation of the very person rejection takes, is really a rejection of by “the Creator and lover of life”
of Jesus” (29). Christ” (104). Christ’s loving embrace (100).
Clearly, the pope was not saying of every human being is so intense that Evangelium Vitae concludes with an
that one must be Christian in order to he is truly revealed in and through appeal to the Blessed Virgin Mary,
be opposed to abortion or euthanasia. each person. According to John Paul “the incomparable model of how life
The obligation of the law to protect II, this “demanding truth” is revealed should be welcomed and cared for.”
the innocent arises from principles to us when the Lord says, “Whoever The pope prays that all those who ac-
of natural justice, which we are all receives one such child in my name cept the Gospel of life may be granted
obligated to follow, regardless of re- receives me” (Mt 18:5). “the courage to bear witness to it reso-
ligious belief. The “demanding truth” of Christ’s lutely, in order to build, together with
The obligation of the Christian, presence in each of us compels Chris- all people of good will, the civilization
though, goes beyond justice. Those tians to be uncompromisingly pro-life. of truth and love” (105).
who follow Christ are called not only With St. Paul, we may truly say that in May Venerable John Paul II continue
to obey the law, but also to fulfill it. the pro-life cause “the love of Christ to intercede for us, and may Mary al-
John Paul II continues, “Through the urges us on” (2 Cor 5:14). This attitude ways obtain for her Knights the grace
words, the actions and the very person is not a political tactic, nor does it to be foremost in the defense of “the
of Jesus, man is given the possibil- arise from intransigence or political sacred value of human life from its
ity of ‘knowing’ the complete truth extremism. Rather, it dares not com- very beginning to its end” (2).
concerning the value of human life. promise the dignity that Christ’s love Vivat Jesus!
Joseph P. Teodoro
Dawal for Customer Satisfac- credited internationally that Gen. Luna cor. Sta. Potenciana Sts., Intramuros, Manila Our compensation and employee benefits are
tion and Executive Vice Presi- certifies the compliance of dif- comparable, if not better than most companies
dent Ma. Theresia G. Curia and ferent organizations to quality of our same size and nature of business.
You may also call 527 – 2223 local 202 for queries and look for Ms. Kristianne or Ms. Juno.
Magdalene G. Flores for Man- management system procedure.
agement Responsibility. (Vanessa Puno)
ALONSO L. Tan, Luzon Deputy and Su- the effort of Columbian Squires of the ment Committee.
preme Director graced the First Squires Diocese of Parañaque led by George The affair started with a Eucharistic
Diocesan Officers’ induction ceremonies Michael T. Tuyay, the Diocesan Area celebration presided over by Fr. Gi-
of the Diocese of Parañaque last January Chairman of the said diocese. anni D. Sandalo, PIME, parish priest
22, 2011. Squire Gamaliel Marco M. Sampedro, of Mary Queen of Apostles.
Tan was the keynote speaker of the State Circle Chief Squire inducted into District Deputies of Parañaque Dio-
said induction ceremonies. office the Diocesan Circle Officers. cese led by Eliseo P. Pacis, Chairman of
Mindanao Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz (second to the left) together with District Deputy Manrico Narvaez, Held at Mary Queen of Apostles Meanwhile, Ramon C. Sanchez, Round Table of District Deputies, were
Newly Appointed Financial Secretary, Abraham Naniong, Sr. Grand Knight Joshua Alquiza and DGK/ Parish in San Antonio Valley, San Executive Secretary of Luzon State present with Luisito M. Wong as Host
FW Porfirio Cudal during the turn-over of Council Jewels from KCFAPI
Isidro at Parañaque City, the induction Squires Management Committee led District Deputy and Eric R. La Guardia
ceremonies was made possible through the induction of the Diocesan Manage- as Host Grand Knight. (KC News)