San Pablo Media Ministry

Laguna bishop to ordain a new priest

2010-04-22T12:58:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – The bishop of San Pablo Diocese is scheduled to ordain a new priest for the Diocese on April 22, 2010.

In invitation programs sent to all priests in the diocese, His Excellency Bishop Leo M. Drona named Deacon REV. FREDERICK M. OBCEMIA to be raised to the Order of Priesthood during a solemn ceremony and Concelebreated Mass at 9:30 a.m. on April 22, Thursday in the Parish
Church of Sto. Nino de Cebu in Binan City.

According to his Facebook Account, Obcemia posted that he was born in Pagbilao, Quezon, raised in Malibay, Pasay City and now residing at Binan City.

He took up Philosophy at Letran Manila and Theology at the University of Sto Tomas where he finished a Bachelor’s Degree in Canon Law.

“Priesthood is not an ambition to be achieved, but a grace to be received,” Obcemia wrote in the facebook.

He also said he is “not in haste, my heart. Have faith in God and wait. Although it seems to linger long, it never comes too late. The Lord stretches our patience to enlarge our soul.”

Based on diocesan records, Obcemia’s ordination would raise the number of Diocesan Priests in Laguna to a total of 125.

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2009-01-18T12:55:00.001+08:00

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Jollibee, McDonalds management not affected over use of their company names for Cemeteries

2008-11-01T10:53:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – The two giant Fast food companies here namely Jollibee and McDonalds are not affected negatively by the common practice of people in this city to call two “rival” cemeteries as “Jollibee” and “McDonalds.”

A Crew Officer of Jollibee who identified himself as “Jes Rain” told the Barangay Newsweekly Wednesday that their company remains very productive in terms of customers and there was no indication that business slowed down.

“What I know is that the use of our company’s name is for people to locate without difficulty the said memorials. Our crews are also benefited because when somebody orders food products from those areas, customers would just say: ‘our house is few meters away from or before “Jollibee” (San Pablo Memorial Park).’”

The other memorial just opposite “Jollibee” is called “McDonalds” (or San Gabriel Memorial Garden).

“If the use of our company’s name is to help people facilitate their smooth and easy identification of the place and not any way violating or intended to malign our company’s identity, then it would just be alright,” a McDonalds’ San Pablo Branch officer who requested anonymity told the Barangay Newsweekly by phone.

The McDonald spokesman admitted that he did not even know that such practice is happening in San Pablo City. “Our food business remains strong since its establishment in the city. Sa palagay ko okay lang yan kung nakakatulong naman sa mga tao (I guess it’s just okay if it (use of McDo) would be at the service of the people.”

Jes Rain said, this practice of the San Pablenos is just a testimony that we are very popular in the consciousness of the people. And we are happy to know that we are being treated as “co-equal” or one which can be competitive of the food chain giant Mc Donalds.

The San Pablo Memorial Park and San Gabriel Memorial Garden are both located just after Teomora Village, Brgy. San Gabriel, which is about one kilometer away from the city proper.

There are two other cemeteries in the city which are also being named after two popular restaurants/food chains in the locality. One is “Prosperity Restaurants” in reference to the centuries-old San Pablo City Public Cemetery located along M. Leonor St. Cor. Maharlika Highway. The other one is the Himlayang San Pableno cemetery located at Brgy Wawa (Del Remedio), near the railroad area. It is called “Welcome” in reference to Welcome Restaurant located at the heart of the city.

Residents said, most of those who can’t afford the high cost of burial in the other three cemeteries are usually buried here.

The practice of naming the cemeteries with aliases, according to residents, started with the PSAF (Police Special Assistance Force) who made it easier for them to assign escorts to funeral processions by using short names of popular food chains rather than the cemeteries’ lengthy names.

The PSAF had noticed that San Gabriel Memorial Garden’s main gate is an Arc shape resembling the famous McDonald’s Arch symbol, this gave them the idea to use McDo as its name. What followed was the assigning of names for the rest of the cemeteries.

Meanwhile, the Parish of St. Gabriel Archangel, in Brgy. San Gabriel has announced its schedule of Masses in the parish Church and in the cemeteries and subsequent simultaneous blessings of all the tombs right after each Mass in the cemetery on All Saints Day and All Souls Day.

On All Saints Day, November 1, the First Mass is at 7:45 am at the Parish Church; Second Mass at 2:00 pm at the San Pablo Memorial Park (Jollibee); and Third Mass at 3:00 pm at San Gabriel Memorial Garden (McDo). On All Souls Day, the First Mass is at 7:45 am and second Mass at 6:30 pm both at the parish Church in San Gabriel.
FR. ROMULO PONTE

Jubilee Celebration of the San Pablo Catechists

2008-10-30T16:30:00.003+08:00

These are some of the photos taken during the 40th Jubilee Celebration of the Catechists of San Pablo Diocese held last October 27, 2008 (Monday) at Montevista Hotspring Resort, Pansol, Calamba City. (FR. ROMY O. PONTE)

Bishop-Peasant Forum 2008

2008-10-29T17:13:00.000+08:00

Hacienda Yulo Farmers Alliance (HYFA) leader Romeo Olaez speaking during the Bishop-Peasants Forum led by Laguna Bishop Leo M. Drona, DD, the Diocesan Social Action Center, peasant leaders & members with the presence of some government representatives including officers and elements of the Philippine Army on Friday (October 24) in Sta. Cruz town. Olaez expounded in detail during the assembly, among others, issues involving Laguna farmers particularly those tilling inside Hacienda Yulo. He also expressed group demands for the extension of CARP (Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program), violence inflected against farmers struggling for land reform the failure of the the Department of Agrarian Reform and the Arroyo Government to help solve their land problems. The bishop and the Social Action director in their turn reminded the about 1000 farmers and multisectoral group members to always apply the peaceful means in seeking redress for their various predicaments and promised that more dialogues and consultations would be conducted in the future for more and various other sectors to give them venue to communicate their difficulties to the proper authorities. Video shot by FR. ROMULO O. PONTE

Tatlong Obispo, 32 mga pari, mahigit 1124 katekista,mga madre sa Ruby Jubilee ng mga katekista

2008-10-28T16:40:00.000+08:00

CALAMBA CITY – Ang Diosesis ng San Pablo, Laguna ay nagdiriwang ng ika-Apat na pong taong (40) selebrasyon or Ruby Jubilee ng Catechetical ministry na maghapong dinaluhan ng tatlong Obispo, tatlong po’t dalawa (32) ka mga pari, at mga isang libo’t isang daan at dalawampu’t apat na mga katekista na ginanap kahapon Lunes sa Montevista Hotspring Resort sa Pansol, lungsod ng Calamba.

Ang mga Obispong dumalo ay Kinabilangan nina Kagalanggalang Obispo Leo M. Drona, Obispo retirado Pedro N. Bantigue at Obispo Bernardino C. Cortez, Auxiliary Bishop ng Manila Arsidiosesis.

Sinimulan ang maghapon hanggang hatinggabing selebrasyon kahapon (Lunes, Oktubre 27, 2008) sa motorkada ng mga katekista sa mga alas siyete ng umaga mula sa mga bayan ng San Pedro at Santa Maria patungo sa pinagdausang lugar sa Montevista, Calamba City.

Sinundan ito ng Misa Konselebrada sa pamumuno ni Obispo Drona kabilang ang dalawang Obispo at mga miyembro ng San Pablo Clergy.

Tampok sa pagabihang Ruby Jubilee Celebration ang panayam ni Obispo Cortez na tumalakay ng “Retrospect and Prospects in Catechetical Ministry and Life” at ang panayam ni Msgr. Gerry Santos na masiglang tumalakay ng “Updates on Catechesis and Commitment.”

Sangayon kay Padre Totsie C. Ubarco, ang Diocesan Catechetical Director at pinakapinunong abala sa buong selebrasyon, ang pinakamabigat na hamon ng mga katekista sa kasalukuyan ay kung paano nila maituro sa mga batang estudyante ang mga pangaral ng simbahan at maisagawa ito sa konkretong buhay.

Sa mahalagang Jubilee Celebration na ito minabuti ring isinagawa ang pagbigay parangal sa pinakamatiyaga, pinakamatanda at pinakamahabang nagturo bilang katekista sa buong diosesis na nagsimulang nagturo nuong katorse anyos pa lamang siya bago ang Second World War.

Siya’y si Lola Cesaria o’ “Nanay Saria” Tetular, otsenta y siyete anyos (87), balo, na nakatira sa brgy Bautista sa Parokya ng San Gabriel Arkanghel, Lungsod ng San Pablo. At sinabi niya na wala pa siyang balak magretiro sa pagkakatekista.

Sa programang umabot ng halos hating gabi na ng umaga naaliw ang lahat nang sumayaw ang pari at mga madre ng Missionary Catechists of St. Therese (MCST) ng modernong sayaw sa bulwagang pinagdausan.

Itinampok din bilang panghuling pasiklab ang Raffle Draw at pagkorona ng Ginoo at Ginang Katekista na kung saan nanalo ang candidate ng District IV sa Baybay Area ng Laguna. FR. ROMULO O. PONTE

Good Governance Movement Refused to Support any candidate for 2010

2008-10-27T16:49:00.000+08:00

San Pablo City—Maintaining its position to remain as a tool for awareness and a movement to raise consciousness among voter citizens in the coming national elections in 2010, the Movement for Goood Governance (MGG) convenors refused to support any candidate for the coming elections despite proddings from participants and media personnel for the group to be truthful and transparent.

Celia Conducto-Lopez, national coordinator of the Movement, told reporters on Monday’s press conference here that the MGG would not fill any candidate for any political positions but it supports candidates who may have the potentials of promoting good leadership and governance.

Lopez mentioned some few Political leaders worth emulating namely: Governor Fr. Among Ed Panlilio of Pampanga, Governor Grace Padaca of Nueva Ecija and the like.

Dr. Tomas Meneses, educator and businessman and spokesperson of the MGG on his part admitted that Makati City mayor Jejomar Binay was an old friend being a fellow former street parliamentarian and has good qualities as a leader, he did not categorically state that the movement supports him as candidate for any political position.

Lopez, clarified that as a Movement, there is no official declaration that any candidate is being groomed for 2010.

Romulo Ponte

MOVEMENT FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE, LAUNCHED

2008-10-27T16:46:00.000+08:00

San Pablo City, Laguna/October 27, 2008- The Movement for Good Governance was launched here today by a group of Filipinos most of whom were veteran street parliaments of the 80’s.

In a press conference held at Max’s Restaurant along Maharlika Hiway, Brgy. San Francisco, Mrs. Celia Conducto-Lopez, a businesswoman from this city and the national coordinator of the Movement said “Good governance leads to good management in the delivery of basic social services.”

Aside from Lopez, others who belong to the movement’s convenor group and acting as coordinators are Philip Araneta of Batangas; Roy Cervantes for Region 5; Rey Lacunas for Albay; Abner Lim for Quezon; Atty. Alvin Arevalo for Region 4B; Atty. Gil Sotto for Laguna; Bro. Criz Bagsic for Religious group; Evangeline Mendoza, deputy national coordinator of UNORKA (Ugnayan ng mga Nagsasariling Organisasyon sa Kanayunan) for People’s Organization; and Tom Meneses , spokesman for the Movement.

Also present as convenors include Mr. Eve Jalos of UNORKA member.

“Good governance also means good stewardship of public money and good public engagement which ultimately results to good outcomes for all the stakeholders,” said Lopez.

According to Lopez, the Filipinos has to act now saying in vernacular, “Dapat makialam ka na!”

“For more than twenty years after Edsa I, we’ve been dreaming for a good governance. But all we got is unstoppable graft and corruption by the men and women we call mga utusan ng bayan in almost all government offices,” Lopez said.

“Bad governance is being increasingly regarded as one of the root causes of all evil within our societies,” Lopez added.

Lopez said, good governance in some cities of the country are no longer a dream. She cited some of the few local government executives she believes practices good governance in their area-Fr. Ed Panlilio, governor of Pampanga and Grace Padaca of Nueva Ecija.

Future plans activities of the Movement includes holding of seminars and forums advocating good governance to different schools, colleges and universities.

Meanwhile, TAMA NA! SOBRA NA! MAKIALAM KA NA! according to MGG serves as the battlecry of the Movement for Good Governance during the press conference on its launching here.

Lopez said , the Filipinos have been wanting for the realization of good governance in the country after Edsa I.

" Good governance leads to good management in the delivery of basic social services . It’s the under priviledge who needs to be cared by the government because the haves can take care of themselves,” Lopez said.

The convenor group encouraged the media present on the said event to join the Movement since , The voices of the Filipino people must be heard-Yes to good governance! No corruption!”

Romulo Ponte

Peasants appealed for government and Church's help during the Bishop-Peasants Forum

2008-10-27T10:47:00.000+08:00

STA. CRUZ, LAGUNA --- Farmers, industrial workers, fishermen, women who expressed various problems subjected to their respective sectors have appealed for help from the government and the Church for the solution if not the end of their long-time struggle against poverty and social injustice during the church-initiated Bishop-Peasant Forum on Friday here.

The forum initiated by the Diocesan Social Action Center of the Diocese of San Pablo facilitated the dialogue and exchange of views, grievances, proposals between leaders of the multi-sectoral groups, namely farmers, industrial workers, fishermen, women and the government represented by the Office of the President (Malacanang), Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Church represented by Don Bosco Bishop Leo M. Drona and Social Action Director Fr. Rene B. Eriga.

Among most thought provoking discourses during the Forum was the one rendered by Romeo "Ka Romy" Olaez of the Hacienda Yulo Farmers Alliance (HYFA) of Canlubang , Calamba City where he revealed and presented statistics of rich people using their influences and power to manipulate the lands they and ancestors had been tilling for decades and the government's failure to protect them from being harassed and exploited.

Olaez said, the land they and their forefathers had been farming since 1905 actually involved 8,000 hectares which their ancestors had been paying taxes to the Americans during the US-controlled government in the country. It was in 1948 that the land suddenly became the property of the Madrigal Family and eventually became the property of the Yulo family.

The Yulo patriarch who became Mayor and Administrator of Calamba City had successfully applied for the re-classification of the "Yulo Lands" in 1993 from being Agricultural into Industrial, Commercial and Residential.
Today, said property or parts of it is now being claimed by another owner since the land became converted into Industrial, Commercial and Residential in 1993.
From that year on, farmers and their families had been subjected to various forms of harassments and violence. They also read in the papers and heard in different news that "NUVALI Project, Aurora, Eton City" will soon be established in the area to dabbed as "New Makati in the South".

Prior to the talk of Olaez, his fellow farmers including women and youths presented in artistic display their sad and bitter ordeal as people being forced to vacate their farms of about 100 years in the "name of progress."

The farmer leader also aired complaints that they have no assurance for CARP extension from the house bill 4077 which is supposed to be benefiting the farmers.
He also aired farmers' continued problem with DAR (Department of Agrarian Reform) and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo they seemed not to be addressing the Farmers concerns. "We have lots of unused land areas which we can use but there has been no permission for us to work since there is no law that will support our claim."
"We are thankful for the support given by the Diocese of Laguna and local officials supporting us in our rights and claims. Special thanks to Bishop Leo Drona and Fr. Rene Eriga [SAC] director and all the priests involved in this endeavour."
Another provocative discourse was the one delivered by Labor Union Leader Noel Alemania who expressed how the Government contradicts itself from the Constitution in dealing with workers in the country. He cited an example of workers' harassment by those in power like the big companies, his colleague and former president of their Union at Nestle Philippine in Cabuyao town (Diosdado Fortuna) was shot to death.
He also expressed workers fears and disappointments as their ranks have been subjected to all kinds of repressions and violence each time they went to the streets for their legitimate demands.

He also expressed dismay that as though companies and government institutions at present have connived to enforce contractualization policy and prohibited their rights to create a labor Union that will be against the Company's interest.

He said that government are even protecting the companies against the workers suffering from companies injustices. Nestle for example was given protection by the government by putting a police detachment at the company's site. Such practices are also the same at Toyata wherein a Police detachment was placed inside the company's compound for the company's protection against the mal-treated workers.
Many of the workers as are suffering from forced labor rendering work beyond 8 hours. There were also cases wherein Leaders of Labor Unions were brutally killed for fighting for the workers' rights and welfare.

The labor leader appealed to the Bishop, the Social Action Center, government personnel (represented by under-secretary Seguerra) and the military present (202nd Brigade Commander Col. Tristan Kison and Col. Ricardo Visaya based in Laguna) during the forum to organize regular dialogues/consultations like this one so that they would be given venues for mutual understanding with authorities and to give them opportunities to ventilate their problems.

Another farmer leader from Pila, Laguna Jojo Gonzales Province of Laguna in his talk, revealed that the province which used to be abundant of its natural resources has now been reduced into a place where farmers have limited areas to cultivate or to apply agriculture due to the conversion of agricultural lands into industrial, commercial, residential lands. "There is lack of government support for the farmers of Laguna, who are now bracing with economic difficulties."

Representing the Women Sector, Sis. Bombet Malinao of Calamba City expounded on the role of women in society. She said, the women in the society have shared their husbands responsibility in supporting the family and children. Hence, said most of the private and public offices including businesses have been ruled by women. She also presented the women sector's concern in the society particularly concerns like the lack of education, poverty, unemployment, peace and order situation and the like.
The forum which started at past 9:00 am on Friday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Sta. Cruz, Laguna and ended at about 3:00 pm, was also participated in by students from the Laguna State Polytechnic University, Sta. Cruz Campus who performed cultural presentations during an intermission portion of the day. The total number of participants is estimated at about 1,000.

The nuns of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Face of Jesus and the host parish of the Immaculate Conception led by Fr. Ricardo De Luna and parish personnel were also on hand to support the half-day activity.

The women also presented their all-female dance numbers prior to the talk delivered by the women leader Ms. Malinao.

The Hacienda Yulo farmers who came in full force presented the most heart-stunning number that portrayed their ordeal of being threatened at losing their lands which they have allegedly inhabited since 1905 into the hands of the rich and powerful who just appeared in the scene later in 1948.

Their drama presentation consisted of men and women Yulo farmers bringing placards, streamers, banana leaves where all their grievances were written in bold letters to reveal their plight as farmers living and tilling their lands for decades and being suddenly told to vacate and leave because those lands have new owners.

2 Million worth commercial building gutted by fire

2008-10-27T10:40:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – Calamba City public market’s commercial building worth about two million pesos was gutted by fire close to midnight on Thursday, said the city’s fire department.

Deputy Fire Marshall Nestor Gorio, identified over the phone the owner of the ill-fated two-storey “RC Grocery” building located at the Trade Center along Calamba Crossing as one Raquel Clara of Calamba City.

Nobody was injured during the fire, he said.

Gorio said authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire which reached up to 3rd Alarm level that needed fire fighters from seven municipalities and three cities to control the conflagration in four hours.

Fire fighter assistance came from as far as Tanauan City and Sto. Tomas both in Batangas; and nearby towns of Bay, Los Banos, Calauan, Pila, Binan, Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa City, San Pedro and local Calamba city fighters.

ROMULO O. PONTE

Priest brother killed in an accident

2008-10-27T10:01:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – The elder brother of the newly appointed priest-secretary of the San Pablo Bishop Leo M. Drona was killed in a motorcycle accident in the early morning on Friday at the national highway near his residence, said the parish secretary of St. James parish in Paete town.

Michael Cadapan, assistant secretary of Paete parish identified the victim as Leo Fadul, 34, single and the elder brother of newly ordained priest Fr. Francis Eugene A. Fadul, a native of Paete.

Fadul was appointed by the Bishop as his personal secretary just about two weeks ago.

Cadapan said there were two versions circulating about the victim's death.

One is that, at about 6:00 to 7:00 am, the victim mounted his motorcycle and was leading into the municipal market. But few meters away, along Barangay 7, Bagumbayan, the motor suddenly experienced trouble causing the motor and the victim to crush into the road sustaining severe head injuries which resulted to his fatal killing.

Another version was that, the motorcycle –riding victim was bumped from behind by a speeding vehicle that sent him and motor crushing into the concrete road that caused the victim's instant death.

Due to his severe head injury, the victim expired before he was being brought into the nearby hospital for treatment, said Cadapan.

It was noted that the Fadul family's patriarch had just died of natural causes about five years ago.

Meanwhile, two more separate motorcycle accidents had caused the deaths recently of the Bishop's kin in Pangil town and the demise of the parish secretary of Our Lady's Nativity Parish in Pangil.

Killed in the motorcycle accident last July 25, 2008 was a former Overseas Filipino Worker and husband of the Pangil Church choir member, the late Toyti Drona, a relative of the prelate.

Reports said, that Drona was then heading home early in the evening of July 25, after attending the Fiesta Celebration in Paete when he and his motor had crushed into the national road in an accident. He went on coma right after the accident and died a week later in a hospital.

The parish secretary of Pangil Parish named Benilda "Nhyl" Baybay, 30, had died when her newly bought motorcycle which she was driving together with a passenger friend had cause some imbalance while in motion, that suddenly sent the victims crushing against a concrete cement inflicting Baybay severe head and body injuries which caused her eventual death, later during the day in the hospital.

Her passenger who sustained some fractures in her legs had luckily survived the fatal accident.

ROMULO O. PONTE

67th Birthday Celebration of Bishop Leo M. Drona

2008-10-22T23:09:00.004+08:00

Pictures during the 67th Birthday Celebration of Bishop Leo

M. Drona, SDV, DD last Monday with the San Pablo Clergy and Religious in the Diocese of San Pablo. The Concelebrated Mass was presided by the prelate at the San Pablo Cathedral (October 20 at 10 am) and then followed by a sumptuous banquet at the Bishop's Residence.

Cardinal, 7 bishops to grace Laguna celebration of Holy Rosary

2008-10-17T22:51:00.000+08:00

Cardinal, 7 bishops to grace Laguna celebration of Holy Rosary

SAN PABLO CITY – A Cardinal and seven bishops will spearhead this year’s celebration of the Most Holy Rosary Fiesta of Sto. Rosario Parish in Pacita Complex 1, San Pedro town on Sunday.

Fr. Mario P. Rivera, newly installed parish priest said, this is the first time that Main Celebrants of their eight (8) Holy Masses for the Fiesta are all bishops including a Cardinal. The theme of the Fiesta is: “Until now, wise men find Jesus with Mary.”

The priest said, on the Feastday, Sunday (October 19) the Main Celebrant for the Concelebrated Mass at 10:00 in the morning would be no less than San Pablo (Don Bosco) Bishop Most Rev. Leo M. Drona, DD to be assisted by some members of the clergy and religious.

His Eminence, Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal, Archbishop of Cebu is main celebrant for the 8:30 a.m. Mass; Most Rev. Deogracias S. Iniguez, Jr., Bishop of Caloocan for the 6:30 a.m.Mass; Most Rev. Bernardino C. Cortez, a former Laguna Clergy turned Auxiliary Bishop of Manila for the 5:00 a.m. Mass.

Most Rev. Emilio Z. Marquez, Co-Adjutor Bishop of Lucena (Quezon) would be main celebrant of the 3:00 o’ clock in the afternoon Mass; Most Rev. Teodoro C. Bacani, Jr. , Auxiliary Bishop of Manila for the 4:30 p.m. Mass; Most Rev. Francisco C. San Diego, former San Pablo Bishop and currently Bishop of Pasig for the 6:00 p.m. Mass; and Most Rev. Antonio R. Tobias, Bishop of Novaliches for the last Mass at 7:30 in the evening.

Assisting the parish priest in the preparation of the Fiesta are the Grand Hermano & Hermana Councilor Raffy & Mrs.Connie Campos and the Parish Pastoral Council led by its President Sis. Sunny Cruz-Rico.

Aside from the Novena Masses (9 days), prior to the Fiesta Day, several activities were prepared, which include the Blessing of Animals, Photo Exhibit “Balik Tanaw”, Marian Grand Procession, Scriptural Rosary, Living Rosary, Marian Songwriting Contest, Drum & Lyre Competition, Grand Coronation Night of Ginang Pacita 2008; Medical, Dental & Optical Mission; Search for the Pacita Idol; and Fireworks Display on Fiesta Day evening.

ROMULO O. PONTE

Laguna Churches conduct simultaneous signature drive vs Reproductive Health Bill

2008-10-17T22:50:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – The 80 parishes all over the Diocese of San Pablo, Laguna with Catholic populations numbering more than 2.3 million conducted a simultaneous Signature Drive starting Sunday to oppose the proposed controversial Reproductive Health Bill now pending approval in the Halls of Congress.

Fr. Eduardo Arupo, head of the Diocesan Commission on Family and Life said, the signature drive in the diocese which is simultaneous throughout the province of Laguna is an expression of the resounding support of the local church to the nationwide clamour to reject the bill (RH BILL 5043) to protect the dignity of human life and the family.

Don Bosco San Pablo Bishop Leo M. Drona, has given instructions to his clergy specially those heads of Commissions and Apostolates directly or indirectly involved in the care of life and family, in line with the Church’s stand against the bill which was perceived by Church experts as gravely disastrous to both the individual human life, the family and the entire national population in the long term.

Arupo in a meeting Wednesday with fellow priests in San Pablo City Vicariate said, aside from the ongoing Signature Drive another seminar on Family and Life for parishioners throughout the diocese would be held at University of the Philippines at Los Banos(UPLB), Laguna on October 18 to step-up awareness about issues involving life and family particularly related to the controversial RH BILL 5043 and the corresponding action necessary against it. Previous related seminars had been conducted in various areas of the diocese to increase awareness among families and individual parish constituents.

The Family and Life Commission Director also distributed to parish priests throughout the diocese a 7-Disc DVD setentitled “S.A.F.E. (Subtle Attacks Against the Family Explained) ABOARD” for them to educate their respectiveparishioners. The DVD expounds on seven relevant issues affecting family life such as: Demography, Sex Education, Violence and Pornography in the Mass Media, The New Age Spirituality, The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, The Gospel of Life, and Marriage and Family in God’s Plan.

The Inquirer reported earlier that four Canossian of Daughters of Charity schools/college in Laguna and Batangas had launched their protest Signature Campaign few weeks ago against the same bill which school officials call as very treacherous and very much loaded with falsehood.

Rev. Fr. Gregory D. Gaston, SThD a former Official of the Pontifical Council for the Family, Vatican, for five years, wrote his comments and clarifications in relation to some claims made by proponents of the controversial bill.

Concerning suggestions made by proponents of the bill saying that “contraceptives should be listed as essential drugs”, Gaston said, “They should not be listed as essential drugs, but as dangerous drugs and devices.”

He said, “ Pills have been shown to cause abortion of a 5-day old baby, cancer, premature hypertension, heart disease, etc. IUD's are abortifacient and may cause intrauterine trauma, pelvic infections and ectopic pregnancy. Condoms have high failure rate even against pregnancy and thus do not guarantee protection against AIDS and other STD's. Tubal ligation and vasectomy (especially targeting the poor) leave couples without the chance to have more children (for example, in case of improved economic situation, or death of their present children) and little or no support in their old age.” Concerning claims of the bill authors that “Condoms have

no holes. They provide truly safe sex, as advertised,” Gaston contradicted by saying “"CONDOMS DO NOT

GUARANTEE PROTECTION FROM AIDS AND OTHER STD'S", PILLS HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO CAUSE CANCER AND ABORTION OF 5-DAY OLD BABIES," and, "IUD'S MAY CAUSE TRAUMA OF THE UTERUS AND ABORTION OF 5-DAY OLD BABIES," etc.”

ROMULO O. PONTE

> 15 October 2008

PGMA signed into law a measure that helps delinquent housing loan borrowers

2008-10-14T17:42:00.005+08:00

PGMA signed into law a measure that helps delinquent housing loan borrowers

LUISIANA, Laguna – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo signed into law the Housing Loan Restructuring and Condonation program Monday morning at a barangay here to give relief to families that are in danger of losing their homes due to their delinquent payment of their loans.

Accompanied by Vice President Noli de Castro, some government stalwarts and local executives, Arroyo signed the Republic Act No. 9507 otherwise known as An Act to Establish a Socialized and Low-Cost Housing Loan Restructuring and Condonation Program, in the presence of about a thousand of cheering villagers, government workers, students, folks at Sitio Dapi, Brgy San Jose in this town.

The president also spearheaded the Energicization (Electrification) Ceremony of three Sitios: Namely Sitio Dapi, Luisiana town; Sitio San Francisco, Bubucal,Brgy Macatad, siniloan town; and Sitio Mayputat, Brgy Libis ng nayon, Mabitac town.

The Chief Executive together with De Castro and government officials also inaugurated the newly constructed Tibatib

Bridge in Brgy Tibatib, Cavinti town before proceeding to Caliraya Resort from which she was expected to leave for

Manila.

At Sito Dapi the Chief Executive with the assistance of Vice Pres. Noli de castro also spearheaded the lowering of the time capsule of the proposed low-cost housing site in sitio Dapi. PGMA also distributed millions worth of checks for

scholarship fund, low-cost housing, local cooperatives and assistance to Local Government Unit projects.

The new low aims to help low-income families not to lose their homes due to difficulties in paying for their housing loan amortizations. Under the program, housing loan borrowers who have at least three months of unpaid monthlt amortizations with government financial institutions and hosing agencies may apply for loan restructuring and condonaton.

The law covers housing loan accounts with institutions like GSIS, SSS, Pag-ibig fund, National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation, Social Housing Finanace Corporation, Home Guarantee Corporation at Mational Housing Authority with principal loan amounts not exceeding 2.5 million pesos. The program is open even to accounts that are already availed of a previous restructuring a.d condonation program. All penalties and surcharges of a loan approved for restructuring under this program shal be condoned. A reasonable portion of te accrued interest may also be

condoned at the discretion of the respective of the concerned GFI’s or Housing Agencies.

The remaining accrued interest will be treated as a non-interest bearing principal to be equally paid during the term of the restructured loan The restructured loan will also be charged an interest rate equal to that of the original loan, or more than 12%,whichever is lower.

To further lower the monthly amortizations, the payment period may be extended up to the borrowers 70th year. No processing fees or downpayment shall be paid to apply for loan restructuring and condonation. The program will be implemented for 18 months from the issuance of the implementing rules and reglations, but the governing boards of the respective institutions are given the authority ti continue the program beyond that period.

An inter-agency committee composed of the concerned GFI’s and agencies and headed by the Housing and Urban Development Coordination Council is tasked to promulgate the IRR within 60 days from the signing of the law. Concurrent HUDCCchairman and Vice President Noli de Castro committed to issue the IRR as soon as possible.

President Arroyo lauded the timeliness of the law for the nearly 370 thousand families with delinquent loans especially during this time of Global economic crisis.

Meanwhile De Castro assured that the law will not threaten the financial stability of the concerned institutions and agencies as there are specific provisions that will safeguard the program from abuse. He also emphasized that the law empowers the governing boards of lending institutions to give reasonable discounts on loan interest as an incentive to borrowers who pay their amortizations on time.

Vice President expressed displeasure at the newly filed Impeachment Complaints vs the Chief Executive

2008-10-14T17:36:00.002+08:00

LUISIANA, Laguna – Vice President Noli “Kabayan” De Castro expressed displeasure at the newly filed Impeachment Complaints against President Gloria Macapal Arroyo because it distracts efforts and resources from being focused in dealing with the existing global economic crisis which gravely affects the nation.

Responding to a reporter’s interview right after the signing of the Republic Act No. 9507 otherwise known as An Act to Establish a Socialized and Low-Cost Housing Loan Restructuring and Condonation Program by President Arroyo, De Castro said, “although it seems that we are still alright here today economically, but the truth is our nation today is facing an impending grave economic problem as a result of the worldwide crisis now wrecking havoc against rich nations in Europe, the USA and neighboring countries.”

The Vice President said however, that the complainants are free to do what they are doing if they believe that they have new evidences to present to the Impeachment Court in Congress.

De Castro expressed suspicions that the complaints could be connected to the approaching National Elections so that those politicians involved in the complaints could gain media mileage. “Sige magsampa sila ng complaints, anyway, malapit na nga rin ang (National) elections eh.”

The Vice President with some government stalwarts and local executives accompanied President Arroyo in the signing of the Republic Act No. 9507 otherwise known as An Act to Establish a Socialized and Low-Cost Housing Loan > Restructuring and Condonation Program, in the presence of cheering about a thousand of villagers, government workers, students, folks at Sitio Dapi, Brgy San Jose in this town.

De Castro also assisted the president in the symbolic Energicization (Electrification) Ceremony of three Sitios: Namely Sitio Dapi, Luisiana town; Sitio San Francisco, Bubucal,Brgy Macatad, siniloan town; and Sitio Mayputat, Brgy Libis ng nayon, Mabitac town.

The Chief Executive together with De Castro and government officials also inaugurated the newly constructed Tibatib Bridge in Brgy Tibatib, Cavinti town which connects the municipality to the rest of the towns in the province. At Sito Dapi the Chief Executive with the assistance of Vice Pres. Noli de castro also spearheaded the ground breaking ceremony and lowering of the time capsule of the proposed low-cost housing site in the area.

PGMA also distributed millions worth of checks for scholarship fund, low-cost housing, local cooperatives and assistance to Local Government Unit projects.

ROMULO O. PONTE

14 October 2008

Health Alert Medical Mission

2008-10-12T17:06:00.000+08:00

Health Alert Medical Mission at San Gabriel Arkanghel Parish, October 11, 2008...Conducted by STO. DOMINGO DIAGNOSTIC AND MEDICAL CENTER CORP.and sponsored by the Knights of Columbus St. Gabriel the Archangel Council no. 13995

Perpetual Profession of Holy Face Sisters

2008-10-12T16:58:00.001+08:00

PERPETUAL PROFESSION NG MGA HOLY FACE SISTERS NA SINA SR. LORNA TUICO NG MAJAYJAY AT SR. EVELYN DE GALA DE RAMOS NG SINILOAN. Ilan lang ito sa mga larawang kuha nuong sina Sr. Lorna at Sr. Evelyn ay manumpa ng kanilang PERPETUAL VOWS nuong Oktubre 1, 2008 na ginanap sa Holy Face of Jesus Chapel sa Brgy San Antonio I, San Pablo City. Pinamunoan ang okasyong ito ni Kagalanggalang Obispo Leo M. Drona, SDB.DD. kasama ang ilang mga pari at relihiyoso ng diosesis. Matandaan na nuong Hunyo 28, 2008 tatlong madre din ng Holy Face ang gumawa ng kanilang PERPETUAL PROFESSION na kinabibilangan nina SR. MYLA MALLARI BARREDO, SR. MA. VENUS GULMATICO LIM, AT SR. JOSEPHINE TUBIRRA TARNATE.

Photos during the Perpetual Profession of Vows of Sr. Lorna Montalbo Tuico and Sr. Evelyn de Gala de Ramos, both members of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Face of Jesus on 1st October 2008.

KAPISTAHAN NI SAN FRANCISCO DE ASIS 2008

2008-10-12T16:34:00.001+08:00

KAPISTAHAN NI SAN FRANCISCO DE ASIS NG CALIHAN, SAN PABLO.
Ito ang ilan sa mga larawang kuha ng ipinagdiriwang ang
Kapistahan ni San Francisco de Asis sa Calihan. Pinamunoan ang Misa Konselebrada ni Kagalanggalang Obispo Leo M. Drona kasama ang mga pari at relihiyoso habang ang punong abala sa buong Pista ay ang Kura Paroko na si Reb. Padre Dodie Arupo
katulong ang ang mga parish leaders.

Feast of St. Gabriel 2008

2008-10-12T16:31:00.000+08:00

Why don’t they get it?

2008-10-11T12:05:00.000+08:00

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban,Cebu City

Email:roycimagala@hotmail.com

IT’S a question whose answer I really do not know. I guess one has top lumb deep into the hearts of the people concerned to get a glimpse of the reason.

I’m referring to why, in spite of all the explanations on the subject given by the Church Magisterium, even highly placed priest-professors in seminaries and other ecclesiastical centers of learning do no understand the true nature and role of conscience in our life.

It would be very easy to brand them as incorrigible modernists and relativists whose congenital defect is their overpowering self-confidence that they hold the ultimate key to the answers of our faith’s mysteries and moral questions. But that, I’m afraid, would still be off the mark.

By the way, wonder of wonders, there are quite a number of them dangerously lodged in these formation centers, giving rise to fears that the training of our future priests and other religious men and women could be seriously compromised.

In many published papers and commentaries, posted even in the Internet,they affirm that conscience is our ultimate arbiter to know what isright and wrong in our actions.

They can go so far as to admit that we can consider and make inputs from other sources, even from the Church teaching, but in the end, it’sour conscience that makes our actions moral or immoral.

Theyunderstand conscience not only as the ultimate judge of the moral quality of our actions. It is also an independent and supreme judgewho makes its judgments alone and no authority can question it.That’s how they understand the freedom of conscience.

In this set-up, it would seem that even God has to defer to the judgmentof one’s conscience. As to the Church authority over it, one better has to forget it. In their mind, our conscience is supreme and infallible.

Thus,they tend to flaunt the reasoning that in spite of how wrong theiraction is if judged according to Church-taught moral principles, they still would feel it was right, since it’s their conscience thatsaid so. No question can be asked, period. You have reached the end of the line!

This is really strange, because ever since I became aware of the existenceof conscience, I always understood it as a judgment I make about themorality of my actions according to a law that is not mine. It’s a law written in my heart, definitely not by me, but by someone else.

Later,I was convinced that this law must have come from my creator, God. Iunderstood conscience as a judgment I make always with God, no matterhow poorly I perceive him. Even if I read him wrongly, it can never be a judgment arrived at by my lonesome self.

Everything tells me I do not and cannot live alone, by myself, though I canfoolishly think that I am alone, which sadly happens from time totime. I’m always into some relationship. That’s how I understandmy life or anybody’s life to be.

Thus,I was happy to learn years later on that the Catechism, for example,upholds this childhood insight of mine just as it the insight of manyothers. Some relevant points could be the following:

*1776 – “Deep within his conscience man discovers a law which hehas not laid upon himself but which he must obey. Its voice…soundsin his heart at the right moment… For man has in his heart a lawinscribed by God.”

*1779 – “Return to your conscience, question it… Turn inward,brethren, and in everything you do, see God as your witness.” (St.Augustine)

*1795 – “Conscience is man’s most secret core, and hissanctuary. There he is alone with God whose voice echoes in hisdepths.” (Gaudium et spes 16)

I suppose with this understanding of conscience, what we have to do isto improve our sensitivity to discern God’s presence, praying,developing the virtues, mastering Christian doctrine taught by theChurch, etc.

These will improve our most important, basic and pattern-forming relationship with God and our skill to apply his law to our actions.We have to do everything to insure that we always pursue this ideal.

We have to be wary with our tendency to just intellectualize our understanding of conscience, which can give us impressive but not life-transforming lights, since it is detached from the true and ultimate Light.

Thisis the usual Achilles’ heel of our bright boys.

Catholic Mass Media Awards slated for Oct 29

2008-10-11T12:01:00.001+08:00

MANILA, October 6, 2008—The annual Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) of Philippine Catholic Church will be held on October 29, 2008.

The Communication Foundation for Asia (CFA), a Catholic media center, is helping the Asian Catholic Communicators Inc. to coordinate the screening of entries for the 2008 Cardinal Sin Catholic Book Awards for the family life, youth and children category, according to a CFA press release.

CMMA gives its trademark rock trophies to honor the country’s best values-oriented work in student communications, radio, print, television, cinema, music, the internet, and advertising.

The Catholic Media Awards have had a strong influence upon commercial media in the Philippines, over the last 20 years. They have won great prestige, and are the most coveted awards in the country, because of the integrity of the judges.

CFA’s main task was to select the judges for the category as well as to organize and host the meeting to consolidate the judges’ results.

The panel of judges consists of three educators/communicators well-versed in the subject. These are: Ms. Marion Cruz, school directress of Cradle of Joy and a former judge for the same category during last year’s awards; Dr. Clodualdo del Mundo, award-winning film scriptwriter/director and former dean of Communication Arts of De La Salle University and Fr. Arsenio Lumiqued Jr., MSC, counsellor and faculty member of the Center for Family Ministries, Loyola School of Theology, the press statement said.

In a meeting at CFA on July 23, 2008, the judges discussed their choices and decided on the final winner. There were five books submitted to ACCI for the category, published from May 2007 to April 2008. The winner was judged according to content (originality of development of topic, accuracy, clarity and organization) - 60%, writing style - 20%, and book design - 20%.

The following core values were taken into consideration in choosing the final winner: love of God, love for humanity, love for creation, love of country and love for the poor and disadvantaged. (Santosh Digal)

Prison awareness Sunday slated on Oct 26

2008-10-11T11:57:00.001+08:00

MANILA, October 5, 2008—The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines–Episcopal Commission on Prison Pastoral Care headed by Puerto Princesa Bishop Pedro Arigo will be celebrating its 21st annual celebration of Prison Awareness Sunday (PAS) on October 26, 2008.

The theme is: “Pag-ibig Mo: Tanglaw, Gabay at Lakas Ko” (Your Love is my light, guide and strength).

According to Bishop Arigo, “This year’s celebration focuses on the role of the community to facilitate the healing of the wounds caused by crime by being instrument of God’s love.”

Posters for the celebration and a liturgy guide would be used during the October 26 Eucharistic celebration, said Fr. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr., chancellor of Manila Archdiocese.

The Episcopal Commission on Prison Pastoral Care will announce the activities of the forthcoming event. (Santosh Digal)

More activities vs repro bill needed, says prelate

2008-10-11T11:52:00.000+08:00

MANILA, October 6, 2008 --CBCP Commission on Health Care Chairman and Mati (Davao Oriental) Bishop Patricio H. Alo said more activities launched by various Catholic church-based groups are needed to counteract the supporters of the Reproductive Health Bill in Congress.

In an interview over Catholic-run Veritas 846 early Monday morning, the prelate said aside from the lobbying being made by Catholic bishops and organizations, the signature campaign against the consolidated Reproductive Health bill is in order.

He added the government should heed the people’s call against the controversial consolidated reproductive health bills now up for plenary debates at the House of Representatives.

“The government should represent the people, they should favor the voice of the people and if they do not carry the voice of the people, they are not government of the people,” the 68-year old prelate said.

He added people in government should not pretend to represent the people if they do not represent the people’s sentiments. “Dapat kung ano ang boses ng tao ay kanilang papanigan,” the prelate added.

DoH to release new list of melamine-tested products

2008-10-11T11:50:00.003+08:00

Manila (6 October) -- The Department of Health (DOH) announced it will release on Tuesday another list of milk and milk products from China tested for melamine contamination.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on Saturday said the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) personnel is working overtime this weekend to accelerate the testing of more than 200 milk and milk-based products for traces of melamine.

"The tests on products will be faster and smoother now that we already have the reference standards," he said.

The DOH and BFAD earlier issued a partial list of items which totally banned two milk products -- Greenfood Yili Fresh Milk and Mengniu Drink -- for melamine contamination.

The two products were tested through high-pressure liquid chromatography and showed it contained melamine of more than 1.0 parts per million (ppm).

The list issued also contained the 28 items which health authorities delisted from the banned China products after they were found safe for human consumption.

Duque said the two milk products could have been smuggled into the country. He also urged the Bureau of Customs (BoC) to intensify their guard against entry of such kind of contrabands.

The DoH chief said he will recommend to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), BoC and Chinese embassy officials the filing of appropriate charges against persons involved with the distribution of smuggled milk products.

Criminal and administrative charges in violation of Article 18 Section b of the Consumer Act will be filed against those who will be found distributing and selling the banned milk and milk products, he added. (PNA)

Varied positions on RH bill ‘not a religious conflict’

2008-10-11T11:43:00.000+08:00

MANILA, October 6, 2008—The head of the Catholic bishops’ hierarchy urged the media not to overstate the varied stand of Church groups on the issue ofreproductive health bill as war between religions.

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines president Archbishop Angel Lagdameo said although the Catholic Church is against the bill, they’re respecting the position of other religious groups on the matter.

“This is not a war between religions just because each religion happens to have their own position o this RH bill,” he said Monday over Church-run Radyo Veritas.

Lagdameo said they respect the position of other religious groups “in the same way that they also have to respect the position of the Catholic Church against the destructive RH bill.”

“The media should stop making a conclusion that the RH bill issue is a war between religions,” he said.

The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) of Felix Manalo and the Bro. Eddie Villanueva’s Jesus is Lord Church have earlier expressed support to the controversial health measure that seeks to control the population.

The CBCP head said they are against the bill because it promotes the use of contraceptives such as condoms and pills which is contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church.

“The Catholic Church has been very clear in its position on this RH bill that’s why we have been opposing its passage into law,” he said.

The Catholic Church’s “uncompromising position” against contraceptives is based on one of the most controversial of seven encyclicals published by Pope Paul VI in 1968.

The encyclical led to protests around the Catholic world but still the Pope refused to budge an inch on the issue of birth control.

The rule has stood ever since, with no sign of change from the Vatican. In fact last week Pope Benedict XVI reaffirmed the support for Pope Paul’s view on birth control. (Roy Lagarde)

Undergoing MyBlogLog Verification

2008-10-10T21:19:00.000+08:00

Undergoing MyBlogLog Verification

Battle for normality

2008-10-09T11:33:00.000+08:00

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@hotmail.com

THIS is an unavoidable aspect or front in the fast-spreading culture war taking place in many countries today, including ours. The clash of values, beliefs and lifestyles has led to conflicting ideas about what is normal and natural in us.

Just recently, for example, someone asked me what exactly is being obscene, since there’s apparently a bill in the Senate on anti-obscenity, and he thought he did not quite agree with the definition placed in the bill.

Of course, right now we are familiar with questions like whether homosexuality is normal or nor, whether one has the right to contraception and abortion or not, whether masturbation is natural or not, etc. All these are expressions of what’s known now as the battle for normality.

This is our world today! If you are not aware of it yet, then welcome to it, and be prepared, equipped and armed to take part in it, since you can’t avoid it anymore.

This battle for normality is, of course, a distinctively human phenomenon. The plants and the animals do not have to worry about this problem, because they don’t think and shape their own lives. Theirs are already pretty much defined.

Other than what the slow process of natural evolution can alter, the plants and animals are pretty much the same from the beginning of time till the end. They don’t have to worry about lifestyle and fashion. Culture is unknown to them, simply because they’re incapable of developing it. It’s just not for them.

Not so with man. To define what’s normal and natural for us is a very dynamic affair. It does not come to us in an automatic and static way. It has to be studied and learned, lived and developed, promoted and defended by us.

It’s true that there’s some immutable law governing our nature. But it’s a law that not only allows but also requires our consciously and freely living it. What is normal and natural in us is also a matter of what we make out of it.

Besides, this effort is not simply a personal and individual one. It necessarily involves a social and cultural exertion, a kind of communal and even global task.

More importantly, it involves not just earthly elements and values. It entails things spiritual and even supernatural, since we, if we go by an objective assessment of our nature validated by Christian faith, are not merely material. We are also spiritual with a supernatural destination.

Of course, before and even up to now, this battle for normality has not bothered us. We are not even quite aware of it, and much less, of our responsibility towards it. It largely has been taken for granted. That’s because our culture then has been for the most part simple and homogeneous.

Not so now. With the advent in our society of multiple cultures bought about among other things by the Tower-of-Babel effect, we cannot escape this battle for normality. Our intelligence and freedom can spout not only numerous but also conflicting views about what is normal and natural in us.

Of course, in an attempt to appease this phenomenon, some people have resorted to a kind of détente, where everyone, no matter how diametrically opposed to each other their views are, is respected. This, of course, is a very Christian attitude.

But that attitude should not be allowed to deteriorate into a tyranny of relativism, where everything is relative, nothing is absolute.

What it lacks is the effort to really find out what is normal and natural. For unless we believe that there is no universal human nature, common to all, then we cannot rest in identifying those necessary, as opposed to contingent, elements that go into our nature.

The battle for normality now has to be keyed properly to a clear point of reference. Is it just our personal opinions and beliefs that should be the ultimate arbiter, is it something just cultural, popular, convenient, practical?

I think we have to tackle first a most basic question. And that is if whether we believe or not in a God who is eternal and who has eternal law that governs all the universe. Do we realize that everything has to be conformed to him and his laws? Is he someone who can be known by us? Can his will be known by us?

In the end, this battle for normality is a matter of faith—in God or in oneself.

Church’s stand on reproductive bill uncompromising

2008-10-09T09:57:00.001+08:00

MANILA, Oct. 5, 2008—The Catholic Church’s position on the Reproductive Health bill is absolute, said an official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

CBCP spokesperson Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III said there’s no way that the Church will soften its position against the controversial bill currently pending in Congress.

“As of now, the stand of the CBCP on the RH bill is absolute. There’s no way to compromise,” he said in a forum in Intramuros, Manila.

Quitorio, however, admitted that they haven’t come up with a plan yet on what their next move will be in the event the bill is approved in Congress.

“The leadership hasn’t thought of what will happen afterwards. I can just surmise that if it gets approved, the CBCP will definitely do something,” he said.

At present, he said, they are concentrating on lobbying against the bill because of its anti-life provisions.

On Thursday, it was reported that the number of legislators in favor of the Reproductive Health, Responsible Parenthood, and Population Development Act of 2008 or House Bill (HB) 5043 climbed to 108 from 103, only 12 votes shy of approval in the House of Representatives. The bill needs 120 votes to be approved on second reading.

On the other hand, CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Family and Life head and Pampanga Archbishop Paciano Aniceto said he is not in the least bothered by the development as he expressed confidence that the lawmakers would eventually make the right decision in the final voting.

“This is not a statistical contest. Above all our strategy here is a prayerful campaign. We will pray for the whole church that they will ask for divine assistance and we also pray for our legislators. They are men and women who are educated and they have their own conscience. This is also a test of maturity for our legislators,” he said.

The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) also joined the Catholic Church’s voice in opposing the bill.

"We stand by the Church as she respectfully signified her strong objection to the contraceptive program the Bill promotes, considering the practices which it shall engender," CEAP said in a statement posted on their website (www.ceap.org.ph).

"Both Sacred Scripture and Reason proposed that the best form of birth regulation is self-discipline," it added.

Instead of allotting P2 billion from taxpayer’s money for the purchase of contraceptives, the CEAP has urged lawmakers to use the money for education, livelihood and basic public services.

The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) is the biggest organized group of Catholic schools in the country, with about 1,252 member schools. (CBCPNews)

Kumpilan ng Bayan

2008-10-09T09:45:00.001+08:00

KUMPILAN NG BAYAN. Si Kagalanggalang Obispo Leo M.Drona. SDB, DD ang namuno sa paggawad ng Sakramento ng Kumpil para sa mahigit 150 ka mga parokyano ng San Gabriel Archangel Parish nuong Linggo (Sept. 21) ng hapon. Katatapos din lamang ginanap ni Obispo Drona ang Kumpilang Bayan sa San Miguel Archangel Parish ng Rizal nuong Sabado (Sept. 20).

Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows 2008

2008-10-09T09:35:00.003+08:00

FEAST OF OUR LADY OF SORROWS. Ito ang ilan sa mga larawang kinuha nuong ipinagdiriwang ng Canossa College of San Pablo ang Pista ng Our Lady of Sorrows sa pamamagitan ng Misa Konselebrada na ginanap sa San Pablo Cathedral, sa ika-15 ng Setyembre. Ang Misa ay pinamunoan ni Msgr. Melchor Barcenas kasama si Fr. Boyet ng Missionary of Faith at Fr. Romy Ponte ng San Gabriel Parish. Dito rin sinimulan ang Signature Drive laban saReproductive Health Bill. Kasabay ding ginawa ang Signature drive sa tatlo pang ibang paaralan ng Canossa sa Calamba City, Sta. Rosa City at sa Lipa, Batangas.

Pictures

2008-10-09T09:28:00.008+08:00

Priest Day 2008

2008-10-09T09:13:00.001+08:00

"MICHAEL JORDAN" SHOT! WHO IS HE? He is no less than our beloved Bishop Leo M. Drona, SDB, DD who led the San Pablo Clergy and Religious during the "Priests Day" celebration hosted by the Cannosian Sisters, Canossa San Pablo Faculty and students.

St. Augustine Feast Day

2008-10-09T09:06:00.000+08:00

Fr. Gabby Delfino blesses the altar during the afternoon Mass he presided together Fr. Romy Ponte as concelebrant last August 28 Fiesta of St. Augustine in Bay, Laguna.

Catholic media center revives pastoral music

2008-10-09T08:54:00.001+08:00

MANILA, October 5, 2008--The Communication Foundation of Asia (CFA), a Catholic media center, is set to re-launch all of its music productions in time for the Christmas season.

The decision was taken in CFA’s recent gathering of its Catechetical Congress and church communication workshops where there has been a noticeable demand for original pastoral and catechetical music, a CFA press note said.

The CFA initiated its Pastoral Music Program in 1979 with a workshop for budding composers, who created original music with the Christmas themes of faith, love and joy.

According to the press note, the consultant for the program and the workshop, was the late composer and arranger late Fr Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ.

The result was the album “Diwa ng Pasko,” which was produced with full orchestra in 1980.

Hontiveros’ next workshop with CFA resulted in an album of songs of praise, joy and inspiration, entitled “Magsaya, Magalak,” produced in 1981. The songs were performed by the well-known group Saringhimig, and professionally arranged by Bert Robredo.

The third Pastoral Music album was “Mahal Ako ni Hesus,” which was a collection of liturgical songs for children.

The consultant for the composers’ workshop this time was Sister Jesusa Enginco, OP, who is now the secretary of the Episcopal Commission onCatechesis and Catholic Education of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

Over the next few years, CFA produced other titles for the Pastoral Music series: “Sigaw ng Kalayaan,” which contained the theme music of the 1986 EDSA Revolution, extolling freedom, peace and justice, and “Habang Buhay,” which featured songs on love and marriage performed by Marco Sison.

CFA will also reproduce on CD its two albums that have proved to be very popular in catechetical gatherings: “Making Melodies” Volumes 1 and 2.

This year’s compilation of catechetical songs, “Kalipaya,” composed by Albert Saldajeno and his team, will also be re-released after all copies have been sold out.

The eight music CDs will be available at CFA and at Catholic bookstores. (Santosh Digal)

Bishop to lawmakers: Reject RH bill or resign

2008-10-09T08:51:00.001+08:00

MANILA, Oct. 6, 2008—A Catholic bishop has said that lawmakers must either listen to the voice of their constituents or quit their posts.

Mati Bishop Patricio Alo said the choice applies to the lawmakers who are backing for the passage of the Reproductive Health bill in Congress.

Alo, in an interview over Church-run Radyo Veritas, said public officials should represent the people and adhering to their moral demands is but necessary.

“If they do not represent the people, they should not pretend to be the representatives of the people. It should be the voice of the people that they should side with,” he said.

“If they don’t carry the voice of the people, they’re not the government of the people,” said Alo who also chairs the Episcopal Commission on Heath Care of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.

The Church strongly opposes the passage of the RH bill which aims to promote the artificial family planning. The Church is only for the promotion of thenatural family planning method.

Alo said by supporting the bill, the lawmakers are actually favoring “murder”.

“They might be favoring murder because abortion is murder therefore a law which is immoral is not a law,” he said. (CBCPNews)

Bishop fears people’s money would be spent on reproductive scheme

2008-10-09T08:48:00.002+08:00

MANILA, October 4, 2008—Antipolo Auxiliary Bishop Francisco M. de Leon expressed fears taxes derived from the Filipinos, most of whom are Catholics, would be spent to implement the Reproductive Health programs should the controversial bill gets enough votes to be enacted.

Speaking over Catholic-run Veritas 846 Friday morning, Bishop de Leon said there’s even a possibility the government would introduce new tax measures to fund their controversial program.

“I recall during my college days when they introduced Entertainment tax from every moviegoer to finance flood control programs yet the floods remained,” the 61-year old prelate said.

He added the government may improve its collection strategies but would still be short of their target due to graft and corrupt practices.

“The people can no longer afford more taxes,” he quipped.

The prelate said it is Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes who talks with legislators from Rizal province and Marikina City to gather more support in opposing the Lagman bill now subject of plenary debates.

“We will know when the voting comes but I appeal to them to think of the country’s future,” he said.

The prelate said Singapore is having a hard time to increase their population growth rate after their successful birth control program some decades ago. He said the Philippines stands to gain from Singapore because most of their workers today come from other countries most of whom come from the Philippines.

He added the Philippine cannot afford to employ foreign workers should we reduce the current population growth. (Melo M. Acuña)

Pinakamatandang katekista,San Gabriel

2008-10-02T17:27:00.000+08:00

PINAKAMAHABANG NAGTUTUTORO BILANG KATEKISTA. Si Cesaria de Luna Tetular, (Nanay Saria), 87 anyos (gitna nakatayo) ay pinangaralan kamakailan bilang pinakamahabang nagtuturo (72 anyos) na katekista sa buong Laguna at marahil sa buong bansa. Siya'y nagsimulang magturo nuong siya'y 14 anyos pa lamang bago ang 2nd World War hanggang sa kasalukuyan at ang sabi niya sa Barangay: "Wala pa akong balak magretiro".

Si San Gabriel Arkanghel, ang patron ng Parokya ng San Gabriel, San Pablo City at si San Miguel Arkanghel patron naman ng Bayan ng Rizal, Laguna at ng Barangay San Miguel, San Pablo City ay parehong pinoprosesyon sa Kapistahan nila nuong Setyembre 29, araw ng Lunes. Kasabay ding pinahalagahan sa okasyong ito ang kasama pang mga Arkanghel sa sina San Rafael, Uriel, Jehudiel, Beraquiel.

Laguna farmers cry harassments, appealed to Church for help

2008-09-24T17:13:00.001+08:00

Laguna farmers cry harassments, appealed to Church for help

SAN PABLO CITY – Laguna farmers who claimed their ancestors had been cultivating since 1901 the 943 has. Farm belonging to Hacienda Yulo landholding have appealed to Church leaders for help for being subjected to harassments by security forces as they persisted to stay in their homes and cultivate their farms in defiance to developers claiming ownership of the area.

Saturnina Mangubat, 61, whose husband was paralyzed for 20 years due to an accident, complained to Laguna Bishop Leo M. Drona and the Social Action Center (SAC) Director that security forces allegedly employed by the Ayala Developers would not allow entry of Nepa (Pawid) materials and other construction/repair needs through the gates of their outposts as the family is not allowed to repair their damaged roofs anymore.

She said, what will happen to us when typhoons destroy our little houses if security guards would prevent us from repairing the damages? “Kahit baga naman pag-kukumpuni ng mga sirang gamit ng aming tahanan ay ipinagkakait nila sa amin? Masyado po namang sobra ang ginagawa nila sa amin.(It’s too much that even our simple needs of repairing damages of our homes is being deprived of us. What they (guards) did to us is too much).

Mangubat was among 12 farmer leaders who made representations before the Laguna prelate and SAC Director Fr. Rene B. Eriga at the Bishop’s Residence here on Monday (September 22) morning to appeal for assistance pertaining to the present ordeal being suffered by the farmers in the hands of the developer’s security forces.

Romeo Olaez, 67, one of the farmer leaders, told the Inquirer in an interview following the forum with the Bishop, that their group represents some 256 family members of the Hacienda Yulo Farmers Association (HYFA) which occupy the 943 has. Farm located at Brgy. Putol Majada, Canlubang, Calamba City.

The contested area (Putol Majada) is located in a remote portion of Canlubang which is just adjacent to Brgy. Hornalan, the site of the massacre of eight (8) victims and wounding of six (6) farmers last May 19.

He said, “our main petition to the authorities is to grant us rights and ownership of the land we were tilling since time immemorial. My parents and fore-parents had been here since year 1900 hence it would be too much for us to bear if we would be kicked out from the land we used to live and cultivate for years.”

Vangie Mendoza, 40, another farmer leader reminded the group during the forum that they are still hoping that the ongoing review of the issue on conversion by the Department of Agrarian Reform would result to the stoppage of the conversion of the agricultural land they are tilling into commercial areas.

Bishop Drona, after hearing the ordeal of the farmers suggested that they report to the proper authorities any harassment subjected at them and they be open to dialogue with the government, the land-owner and the developer to be able to thresh out problems and finally reach solutions acceptable to all parties involved.

Commissioned by the prelate, SAC Director Fr. Eriga assured the farmers that the San Pablo Diocese is ready to help them facilitate a dialogue once more with the Department of Agrarian Reform, the City Government of Calamba, the Philippine National Police of Calamba City, the security guards and the developer of the contested land to finally end the farmers’ problems.

Eriga reminded the farmers to be ready with their written complaints and petitions, prepare available documents necessary to support their claims if any and to avail of the services of a lawyer who will deal with the technicalities, legalities involving the case or claims they are pursuing.

In an Inquirer report last February, the same group of Hacienda Yulo farmers had embarked into two-week march to Manila to appeal to the government to stop the conversion of the land they are tilling into commercial zones.

On that protest march from Calamba, members of the Hacienda Yulo Farmers Association (HYFA) denounced the establishment of Eton City on 1,000 hectares in Sta. Rosa, which its developers have dubbed the future “Makati of the South.”

Eton City was part of the extensive Hacienda Yulo owned by the late Speaker and Supreme Court Justice Jose Yulo Sr. His descendants have broken up the hacienda and have sold, leased, or are developing the land which straddles Calamba, Sta. Rosa, Cabuyao, and Biñan.

ROMULO O. PONTE

24 September 2008

Canossa schools/colleges in Laguna, Batangas have launched simultaneous signature campaigns vs Reproductive “Health” Bill

2008-09-23T07:59:00.001+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – The Canossa schools and college in Laguna and Batangas provinces have launched a simultaneous signature campaigns on Monday as they celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows to oppose the passage into law of the controversial Reproductive “Health” Bill now pending in Congress which according to organizers is a subtle attack on the dignity of human life and the family.

Sr. Jovy Benavidez, Assistant Directress of the Canossa College of San Pablo City, shortly after the Concelebrated Mass held at the San Pablo Cathedral on September 15 at about 8:00 am, spoke over the microphone to announce the launching of the Signature Campaign against the bill which she said is “mapaglinlang” (subtle) and disastrous to life and family.

Sr. Joy Densing, a top official of the Canossian Daughters of Charity (FDCC) told the Inquirer that similar campaigns also took place in other Canossian Schools in Laguna namely in Canossa Academy of Calamba City and Canossa School of Sta. Rosa City. The same signature campaign was also conducted at Canossa Academy in Lipa City, Batangas.

The San Pablo Cathedral Holy Eucharist presided by Parish Priest Msgr. Melchor Barcenas with two priest concelebrants was the grand highlight Fiesta Mass (Our Lady of Sorrows) to culminate the 7-day Settenario Masses held earlier in the chapel of the Canossa College which reflected on the seven sources of sorrows of the Blessed Mother.

The Mass was attended by about 3,000 students, faculty, nuns, pastoral communities and San Pableno folks which jampacked the huge cathedral church.

Fr. Gregory D. Gaston, Doctor of Sacred Theology and a former Official of the Pontifical Council for the Family in the Vatican told about 120 members of the Laguna Clergy recently that the Reproductive “Health” Bill after scrutiny revealed that it was not thoroughly being studied well by its Congressmen proponents hence passing this bill into law is very disastrous.

He said many of the facts being brought about by the proponents of the bill were either false or inaccurate.

Some salient data are as follows: The Bill says “Overpopulation is a scientific fact.” But the reality according to Gaston, is “not overpopulation, butpopulation ageing and under-population as seen in the following sample articles: “Underpopulation, Not Overpopulation, the Real Global Problem”, in Washington Post, March 18, 2001; “Developed Nations Warned on Aging Crisis Time Bomb”, Manila Bulletin, Aug. 30, 2001; “In address to Estonians, President (Arnold Ruutel) Calls on Citizens to Make More Babies”, in New York Times, January 2, 2003.

The Bill says, “we should aim for a Zero Population Growth Rate” but Gaston explained that aiming for a “Zero Population Growth Rate will make the Filipino race at first extremely old, and then rare, and finally extinct (endangered)”.

The Bill claims that “The Catholic Church is not concerned with the plight of the poor in the country.” But the priest retorted that “The Catholic Church dedicates a huge part of its efforts at the service of the poor, helping the government: education, microlending, orphanages, feeding programs, social action projects, Pondo ng Pinoy, Caritas, etc….Whenever the Church talks against graft and corruption, she does so also out of concern for the poor….Each time poverty is blamed on the ‘population problem, its real and root causes are conveniently tolerated or covered up: graft and corruption in the public and private sectors, burden of foreign debt servicing, and bad governance, resulting in failed development programs” (A Manifesto of Filipino Families on July 25, 2008).

The Bill suggests that “Condoms are effective in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS in a country.” But true facts, said Gaston, revealed that for example “In Thailand and in the Philippines, the first HIV/AIDS cases were reported in 1984; by 1987, Thailand had 112 cases, while the Philippines had more, with 135 cases. Today, in the year 2003, there are around 750,000 cases in Thailand, where the 100% Condom Use Program had relatively great success. On the other hand, there are only 1,935cases in the Philippines- and this, considering that the Philippines’ population is around 30% greater than Thailand’s!” This is owing to the “relatively low rates of Condom use” by the Filipinos in general and “strong opposition from the Church” and some government leaders.

Kamulatan III

2008-09-21T17:18:00.000+08:00

Dagdag larawan ito tungkol sa KAMULATAN III Media Literacy and Awareness Seminar na ginanap kamailan sa Montevista Hotspring Resort, Pansol,Calamba City.

ABC News: Pharmacist stops selling all contraceptives in his pharmacy

2008-09-14T21:47:00.007+08:00

The Administration of this site received a letter concerning the vide and a site of a Pharmacist who stop selling all contraceptives in his pharmacy in U.S.. The Administration wishes to share with you the content of the letter. Here is the letter :

My name is Mike Koelzer and I am the owner of Kay Pharmacy in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

I thought you might be interested in seeing the recent coverage on ABC's World News with Charles Gibson of our pharmacy's policy to not sell contraceptives. You will find the link to the ABC video atwww.prolifepharmacy.com.

Ours is a very important story on the abortifacient properties of birth control pills and why we no longer carry them in our third-generation, family-owned pharmacy.

I am available at anytime for an interview. My email is mike@prolifepharmacy.com. I promptly respond to all emails. I am also available at 616-901-8445.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
--
Mike Koelzer, R.Ph.
National speaker/Founder

www.prolifepharmacy.com

300 dumalo sa KAMULATAN SEMINAR na ginanap sa Montevista

2008-09-13T00:03:00.003+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – Malake ang pasasalamat at tuwa ang naging tugon ng mga mahigit kumulang tatlong daan (300) na mga magulang, kabataan, estudyante, professionals, guro, mga madre at pari matapos nila marinig ang nakatutuwa ngunit malaman na panayam ng Main Speaker na kapatid nating Bro. Bernard F. Canaberal nuong Sabado tungkol sa usaping Kamulatan sa Mass Media at mga panganib na hinaharap ng pamilya pag ang panukalang Reproductive Health Bill sa Kongreso ay maisabatas.

Sa kanyang mahigit dalawang (2) oras na panayam nuong ika-anim (6) ng Septyembre, araw ng Sabado na ginanap sa Montevista Hotspring Resort & Conference Center pinaliwanag ni Bro. Bernard ang mga benepisyo ng pagamit ng Mass Media ngunit binalaan din niya sila tungkol sa mga hinde tamang paggamit nito. Sila’y kanyang pinaaalahanan na maging makilatis, kritikal sa mga pinapanuod na mga Commercials sa Television at mga pahayagan na nagpapababa sa dignidad ng tao at sa mga binabasang magazines.

Si Bro. Bernard at isa pang tagapagpanayam ay parehong gumamit ng statistics at mga patunay na dokumento upang patunayan na mapanganib at lubhang nakakabahala ang panukalang Reproductive Health Bill na pilit ipapasa ng mga nag enendorso nito sa Kongreso sapagkat ito’y lihim (subtle) na maging dahilan upang unti unting sirain ang dignidad ng buhay ng tao at wawasakin ang pamilya.

Sa reaction na ginawa ni FR. Dodie Arrupo, ang Diocesan Director ng Family Life Apostolate ng San Pablo pagkatapos ng panayam, malake ang kanyang pasasalamat at nagmungkahe siya sa mga partisipante na basahin nila upang lalong maunawaan ang dokumento na sinulat ng eksperto na si Fr. Gregory D. Gaston na pinamagatang: “MISCONCEPTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS ON ISSUES RELATED TO HUMANAE VITAE AND THE REPRODUCTIVE ‘HEALTH’ BILL IN PHILIPPINE CONGRESS”

Ang dokumentong ito ay kasalukuyang naka publish bilang series sa Diocesan Newspaper ng San Pablo na “TheBarangay” na maaring makuha sa opisina nito sa Lungsod ng San Pablo.

Perpetual University chaplain died

2008-09-13T00:00:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – The Perpetual University Chaplain Binan, Laguna branch passed away on Sunday morning due to natural causes, according to Church authorities.

Fr. Paul Bugay, the Oeconomus of the Diocese of San Pablo identified the priest chaplain as Rev. Fr. Rolando “Olan” Ardes, 49 who died of Cardiac Arrest at the Perpetual University Hospital where he served for about two years now.

Ardes completed a course in Veterinary Medicine at the University of the Philippines Los Banos before finishing his Theology Studies at the Holy Apostles Senior Seminary at San Carlos Seminary Complex in Makati City. He was ordained priest by then San Pablo Bishop Pedro N. Bantigue, DD in 1990.

The late priest’s remains lie in state at his parents’ residence in Liliw town. He will be interred at a local cemetery following the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, at the town’s St. John the Baptist Parish Church.

2008-09-09T09:33:00.001+08:00

Media awareness, threats vs. life and family taken up at seminar

2008-08-26T13:29:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLOCITY – The Diocese of San Pablo under the stewardship of His Excellency Most Rev. Leo M. Drona, DD and the Diocesan Social Communications Ministry will be holding a seminar on Media Awareness and Literacy on Saturday in Calamba City.

The seminar dubbed as KAMULATAN III has for its theme: “Mary, Media and the Rosary,” and it aims to promote across the diocese awareness of the problems resulting from imprudent consumption of mass-mediated messages. It would also tackle topic on some “Subtle Attacks Against Life, Family and Society.”

The seminar will be held on September 6, 2008 (Saturday) at Montevista Hotspring Resort & Conference Center in Pansol, Calamba City at 1:00 in the afternoon until 6:00 p.m. There will be no Registration Fee.

The main speaker, Mr. Bernard F. Canaberal, is a veteran media practitioner and former ABS-CBN Studio TV Host of the Family Rosary Crusade, now aired over Channel 5.Hestudied graduate courses like, Electronic Media in Hatchend, England and Media Evangelization in Lyons, France.

It was learned that KAMULATAN, a diocesan-initiated activity known as KAMULATAN I was first held two years ago (August 19, 2006) in San Pablo City at the Bishop’s Residence. The second seminar KAMULATAN II was held at the Sto. Rosario Parish in Pacita Complex 1 in Pedro town.

The seminar is fully supported by the management of Montevista headed by its manager Mr. Benedicto “Benny” Dela Luna.

ROMULO O. PONTE
26 August 2008

Seminar tungkol kamulatan sa Mass Media at mga panganib na hinaharap ng Buhay ng tao at Pamilya isasagawa

2008-08-25T21:54:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLOCITY– Ang Diosesis ng San Pablo sa pamumuno ni Kagalanggalang Obispo Leo M. Drona, DD at ang Social Communications Ministry ng Diosesis ay magsasagawa sa pangatlong pagkakataon ng seminar tungkol sa Kamulatan sa Mass Media at mga panganib na hinaharap ng Buhay ng tao at ng pamilya sa darating na ika-anim (6) ng Setyembre, araw ng Sabado taong kasalukuyan.

Ang seminar na idadaos sa Montevista Hotspring Resort & Conference Center sa Pansol, Calamba City sa ika-alauna (1:00) ng hapon ay isasagawa ng Main Speaker na beteranong Mediaman na si Mr. Bernard F. Canaberal, na dating TV host ng ABS-CBN Studio 23 at kasalukuyang pinuno ng Family Rosary Crusade sa buong Pilipinas.

Ang tema ng seminar ay “Mary, Media and the Rosary” na may layuning ipabatid ang mga problemang idinudulot ng hindi tamang paggamit ng media at mga mensahe sa media. Tatalakayin din dito ang mga palihim na pagaatake ng Buhay at Pamilya sa mga isinusulong sa Kongreso na Reproductive Health and Rights Bill.

Wala pong bayad ang seminar na ito at ito ay lubos ng sinusuportahan ng management ng Montevista Hotspring Resort & Cenference Center na isa sa mga masugid na tumutulong sa mga gawaing pangsimbahan.
Ang seminar ay bukas para sa lahat (mga magulang, kabataan, professionals, studyante, workers atb.)
Para sa detalye at iba pang impormasyon tungkol sa seminar, makipagugnayan lamang sa tanggapan ng Diocesan Media Director. Tel. no. (049) 5612144 or Celfone No. 0919 3689067.

Misconceptions and Clarifications on Issues Related to Humanae Vitae and the Reproductive "Health" Bill in Philippine Congress.

2008-08-25T21:48:00.018+08:00

Rev. Fr. Gregory D. Gaston, STD

(This primer was written for Avenues, the Journal of San Carlos Seminary Graduate School of Theology. Copyright © 2008 by the author, a priest of the Archdiocese of Manila, assigned since January 2008 at the Holy Apostles Senior Seminary, Makati City, Philippines, and was previously an Official of the Pontifical Council for the Family, Vatican, for five years. For consults and resources on related topics, please visit www.safe.ph.)

MISCONCEP-TIONS	CLARIFICATIONS (underlined texts come from the Reproductive Bill currently [August 2008] filed in Congress; emphasis in bold letters added)
The world is overpopulated. Global population will soar to 11.9 billion by 2050.	"Yet this is not the full story. To the contrary, in fact. Across the globe, people are having fewer and fewer children. Fertility rates have dropped by half since 1972, from six children per woman to 2.9. And demographers say they're still falling, faster than ever. The world's population will continue to grow—from today's 6.4 billion to around 9 billion in 2050. But after that, it will go sharply into decline. Indeed, a phenomenon that we're destined to learn much more about—depopulation—has already begun in a number of countries. Welcome to the New Demography. It will change everything about our world, from the absolute size and power of nations to global economic growth to the quality of our lives." [Michael Meyer, "Birth Dearth," in Newsweek, September 27, 2004, p. 58. Since the 1970's, several demographers, economists, and other experts have been informing the public of these trends.]
Overpopulation is a scientific fact.	Not overpopulation, but population ageing and underpopulation, as seen in these sample article titles: * European Pension Systems Set to Collapse. Low Fertility Blamed, in Friday Fax, May 4, 2000. * Underpopulation, Not Overpopulation, the Real Global Problem, in Washington Post, March 18, 2001. * Developed Nations Warned on Aging Crisis Time Bomb, in Manila Bulletin, Aug 30, 2001. * Have Three Babies to Sustain the Population, in Daily Telegraph, Dec. 12, 2003. * Asian Economies Desperate for Babies, in Daily News Express, Feb. 2, 2004. * Have More Babies, Say the Tories, in Daily Mail, September 22, 2003: "Women should have more babies to stave off the looming crisis of an ageing population, the Tories will say today. The call to 'go forth and multiply' comes from work and pensions spokesman David Willetts, who wants couples to send birth rates soaring." * In address to Estonians, President Calls on Citizens to Make More Babies, in New York Times, January 2, 2003: "Worried about a declining population, Estonia's president has urged the country's 1.4 million residents to make more babies. 'Let us remember that in just a couple of decades the number of Estonians seeing the New Year will be one-fifth less than today,' President Arnold Ruutel said in a speech broadcast live on national television Wednesday."
Our population growth rate of 2.04% is extremely high.	The CIA gives a much lower estimate of 1.728% (World Factbook Country Listing of 2008, available on the internet).
We should aim for a Zero Population Growth Rate.	Zero Population Growth Rate will make the Filipino race at first extremely old, and then rare, and finally extinct.
Filipino families have too many children.	"The UN Population Division figures indicate that it is not an exaggeration to say that as early as now the Philippine Total Fertility Rate [children per woman] is already dangerously low. Whereas in the early 1970's the average Filipina had six children, today she has around three, and in another 20 years, only two. Shortly after 2020, or just fifteen years from now, the Philippine TFR will sink below its replacement level of around 2.29." [Rev. Fr. Gregory D. Gaston, STD, World Population Collapse: Lessons for the Philippines, in Familia et Vita, vol. XII (2007) no. 2, pp. 84-113, paragraph no. 22. Henceforth referred to as WPC and paragraph number.]
Having two children should be the ideal family size.	SEC. 16. Ideal Family Size. – The State shall assist couples, parents and individuals to achieve their desired family size within the context of responsible parenthood for sustainable development and encourage them to have two children as the ideal family size. As of now the Philippines' total fertility rate, or children per woman, is projected to go below replacement (2.29 children per woman) by 2025. After that we will experience the population ageing and collapse taking place today in rich countries, and like them, we will also wish to pay parents to have more children--but unlike them, we will have no money to do so. Pushing for only two children per family will make all this occur even earlier. (Note that two children per family would give a total fertility rate of much lower than two, since women without children would have to be included in the computation of "children per woman," or total fertility rate.)
Intensified population control programs will slow down population growth, improve the economy soon, and thus solve poverty.	"The effect desired by population controllers, the slowing of population growth, will not immediately take place, due to population momentum, decreased mortality and longer lifespan. By the time population growth will have slowed down, the Total Fertility Rate will be way below the replacement level, and the average population age will be extremely high. In other words, the solution proposed to solve poverty, that is, population control programs, will just create more economic difficulties in the long run. Nor may one say that we should limit population growth now, hope for rapid economic development, and finally try to solve whatever problem might come up in the future. It will simply be too late by then. Countries that were already rich 30 to 40 years ago when their TFR's started to decline, and are now ageing, encounter extreme difficulty in solving their economic problems today. Their efforts to encourage their citizens to produce more children have not yielded acceptable results after a decade. They depend on immigration to maintain their population growth. The Philippines is not a rich country today, and may or may not be rich within 50 years. How will it support its ageing population? Will it also invite workers from other countries to replace its dwindling workforce? How will it attract immigrants if it has no jobs to offer to its people in the first place? Even if it becomes rich by then, it will have to face the same problems rich countries face now, and will have to tell the people to raise more children. We simply cannot afford to fall into the trap rich countries have fallen into 30-40 years ago, and from which they desperately try to escape today. Graphically speaking, we cannot afford to have in the future a population pyramid like theirs now, and then, like them today, wish to regain the population pyramid we have now." [WPC 26]
In ruling out population control as a solution to poverty, the Catholic Church teaches that the people should beget as many children as they can, following God's command, to "go forth and multiply."	"'Ruling out population control' simply means not encouraging people to have few children, which is entirely different from telling them to have all the children they can possibly produce. Parents should instead be guided and supported to attain the number of children they can generously and responsibly raise and educate. For some spouses, this means having one child or two; for others, five, ten, twelve, fifteen or even more. Neither the government nor the Catholic Church may compel, instruct, or encourage spouses to raise a specified number of children, as what population control programs definitely try to do, either through massive propaganda, or through deceptive and coercive policies. Rather, the government and the Catholic Church should form and guide the people to reflect on their actual circumstances, and to freely, generously and responsibly decide whether to have another child now, or not to have another child for the time being or indefinitely. This is one aspect of responsible parenthood, which the Catholic Church has always taught, and which takes into account both the real capacities of individual spouses and the national demographic situation." [WPC 27]
The Catholic Church has always recognized the existence of a "population problem," and the government's intervention in the decision-making of spouses as to the number of children they beget.	In recognizing that it is legitimate for the state "to intervene to orient the demography of the population," it immediately adds that, "This can be done by means of objective and respectful information, but certainly not by authoritarian, coercive measures. The state may not legitimately usurp the initiative of spouses, who have the primary responsibility for the procreation and education of their children. In this area, it is not authorized to employ means contrary to the moral law" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2372). Humanae Vitae (no. 2) describes some changes taking place in 1968. "In the first place there is the rapid increase in population which has made many fear that world population is going to grow faster than available resources, with the consequence that many families and developing countries would be faced with greater hardships." Note that while Humanae Vitae in this point observes that there is the rapid increase in world population, it merely expresses the fear of many, without owning that fear, that world population is going to grow faster than available resources. Today, forty years later, we can see for a fact that while population has grown, food production has grown even more. "Since 1965 to 1994 the population of the world has nearly doubled, but food production has kept well ahead... United Nations figures show there has been a rise of over 30% in the period 1951-92 in food production per capita, that is to say the amount of food which would be available to each person in the world if it were divided equally. This has occurred in spite of the fact that Western farmers are paid millions of dollars a year to keep land out of production. If these European and American farmers were to produce to their capacity, food prices would collapse as a result of the glut (Population Facts and Myths, published on the Internet in 1994 by the National Association of Catholic Families in the UK). The problem then is not food production but proper distribution. Hence the solution should not be to reduce the number of consumers, but social justice. In recent years, Church documents have focused greatly on the fall of fertility, which, "very significant in almost all parts of the world, is irrefutable and evident from the facts published by specialized organizations. It is, nontheless, frequently disregarded (Pontifical Council for the Family, The Ethical and Pastoral Dimensions of Population Trends, March 25, 1994). Such fall in fertility is the real "population problem" today.
The Catholic Church is not concerned with the plight of the poor in the country.	The Catholic Church dedicates a huge part of its efforts at the service of the poor, helping the government: education, microlending, presence in slum areas and garbage, orphanages, feeding programs, social action projects, calamities, opposition to destructive mining and destructive logging, Pondo ng Pinoy, Caritas, environmental ecology concerns, human ecology, family empowerment. Whenever the Church talks against graft and corruption, she does so also out of concern for the poor. Poverty will be very quickly eradicated if graft and corruption are eradicated, so that taxpayers' money will go to the poor (especially in terms of education, which is the long-term solution to poverty, and livelihood programs) and not to those rich who steal from the poor. "Each time poverty is blamed on the 'population problem,' its real and root causes are conveniently tolerated or covered up: graft and corruption in the public and private sectors, burden of foreign debt servicing, and bad governance, resulting in failed development programs" (A Manifesto of Filipino Families on July 25, 2008).
Contraceptives should be listed as essential drugs.	They should not be listed as essential drugs, but as dangerous drugs and devices. Pills have been shown to cause abortion of a 5-day old baby, cancer, premature hypertension, heart disease, etc. IUD's are abortifacient and may cause intrauterine trauma, pelvic infections and ectopic pregnancy. Condoms have high failure rate even against pregnancy and thus do not guarantee protection against AIDS and other STD's. Tubal ligation and vasectomy (especially targeting the poor) leave couples without the chance to have more children (for example, in case of improved economic situation, or death of their present children) and little or no support in their old age. Hence, it is the right of the citizens to be forewarned of these, even in the form of government warnings, as in the case of cigarette smoking ("is dangerous for your health"), alcohol ("drink moderately"), and infant milk formulae ("mother's milk is best for babies under two years old")—not out of religious concerns, but as part of consumers' rights. Possible warnings could state: "CONDOMS DO NOT GUARANTEE PROTECTION FROM AIDS AND OTHER STD'S", "PILLS HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO CAUSE CANCER AND ABORTION OF 5-DAY OLD BABIES," and, "IUD'S MAY CAUSE TRAUMA OF THE UTERUS AND ABORTION OF 5-DAY OLD BABIES," etc. (For the medical data on these dangerous drugs and devices, see also John Wilks, A Consumer's Guide to the Pill and Other Drugs, 3^rd Ed., National Bookstore, Inc., Manila 2000.) Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II, in denouncing sustematic anti-childbearing campaigns, described posoning the lives of defenseless human beings as similar to a form of "chemical warfare" (Paul VI, Address to the participants of the World Food Conference, Nov. 4, 1974. Pope John Paul II, Centessimus Annus, no. 39).
Condoms have no holes. They provide truly safe sex, as advertised.	"'Condom manufacturers in the United States electronically test all condoms for holes and weak spots. In addition, FDA requires manufacturers to use a water test to examine samples from each batch of condoms for leakage. If the test detects a defect rate of more than 4 per 1,000, the entire lot is discarded. The agency also encourages manufacturers to test samples of their products for breakage by using an air burst test in accordance with specifications of the International Standards Organization.' [Mike Kubic, New Ways to Prevent and Treat AIDS, in FDA Consumer, Jan-Feb 1997 (revised May 1997 and Jan 1998; available at http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/1997/197_aids.html).] "If four leaking condoms are allowed in every batch of 1,000, there could be hundreds of thousands or even millions of leaking condoms circulating all over the world, either sold or distributed for free, and most probably contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS and STD's. Does the public know this? Does the public know that the risks increase the more often and the more promiscuously one is exposed, considering the cumulative risk factor, as explained earlier?" [from Family Values Versus Safe Sex. A Reflection by His Eminence, Alfonso Cardinal López Trujillo (then President of the Pontifical Council for the Family), December 1, 2003. Note that the first paragraph above came from the US Food and Drug Administration website.]
Condoms are effective in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS in a country.	"In Thailand and in the Philippines, the first HIV/AIDS cases were reported in 1984; by 1987, Thailand had 112 cases, while the Philippines had more, with 135 cases. Today, in the year 2003, there are around 750,000 cases in Thailand, where the 100% Condom Use Program had relatively great success. On the other hand, there are only 1,935 cases in the Philippines - and this, considering that the Philippines' population is around 30% greater than Thailand's! Relatively low rates of condom use by the people in general, and staunch opposition from the Church and a good number of government leaders against the condom program and sexual promiscuity, are well-known facts in the Philippines." [from Cardinal Alfonso López Trujillo (then President of the Pontifical Council for the Family, Vatican), Family Values Versus Safe Sex, December 1, 2003. The quoted text cites the following references: Rene Josef Bullecer (Director of AIDS-Free Philippines), Telling the Truth: AIDS Rates for Thailand and the Philippines; Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, Pastoral Letter on AIDS: In the Compassion of Jesus, January 23, 1993; and Jaime L. Cardinal Sin, Pastoral Letter on Subtle Attacks against Family and Life, July 9, 2001.]
The Catholic Church teaches that contraceptives, including condoms, cause abortion.	Abortion is the termination (killing) of life, not simply of pregnancy. Life begins at conception when the sperm and the egg meet. Killing the new life at any moment after this, and before it is born, is considered abortion. The new life develops as it goes down the fallopian tube, and implants onto the mother's womb when the tiny baby is around five days old. Condoms do not directly cause abortion because they prevent conception—if there is no conception, there is nothing to kill in the first place. But they can lead to abortion if, because of high condom failure a woman gets pregnant, she decides to kill the baby in her womb. Pills and IUD's make the womb's lining unhabitable for the new baby. ; hence, in case they fail in their contraceptive actions, the five-day old baby will be unable to attach to his or her mother's womb. This has to be called "abortion," for the five-day old baby dies in the process, and such action of pills and IUD's is called "abortifacient."
Natural methods are not effective.	The modern natural methods (e.g., Billings, Sympto-Thermal, Basal Body Temperature) can be more effective than contraceptives, if they are learned and practiced as a way of life and not as "natural contraceptives." Hence, communication, love, respect, self-discipline, and formation in the values are necessary for the natural methods to work—values that are not exclusively religious, but very human and natural as well, and values that are not necessary in the use of contraceptives. The obsolete calendar and the rhythm methods, and their modern repackagings, should not be taught (including by the DOH) because of their high failure rates. Withdrawal is not a natural method, and has extremely high failure rates. It is sad that many doctors (including Ob-Gyn's) are not even familiar with many of the facts regarding benefits of the natural methods and the medical ills of contraceptives.
The Catholic Church teaches that in each sexual act, the couple should aim for a new child.	No. Rather, the Catholic Church teaches no action, whether before, during or after the sexual act, should close the possibility of new life or kill the new life that arises. Hence, in the woman's infertile periods, or if one of the spouses is sterile, the couple may still perform the sexual act since they do not do anything to prevent the possibility of, or kill, new life.
The Reproductive Health bill does not promote or pave the way to abortion, since it even states that abortion remains illegal in the Philippines.	The bill does not legalize surgical abortion, but it does PROMOTE all types of abortion, and DOES LEGALIZE abortion of 5-day old babies. SEC. 4. Definition of Terms. h. Reproductive Health Education – is the process of acquiring complete, accurate and relevant information on all matters relating to the reproductive system, its functions and processes and human sexuality; and forming attitudes and beliefs about sex, sexual identity, interpersonal relationships, affection, intimacy and gender roles. It also includes developing the necessary skills to be able to distinguish between facts and myths on sex and sexuality; and critically evaluate and discuss the moral, religious, social and cultural dimensions of related sensitive issues such as contraception and abortion. To "critically evaluate and discuss the moral, religious, social and cultural dimensions of related sensitive issues such as contraception and abortion" paves the way to abortion because it will present abortion as a hypothetical (hypothetical as of now in the Philippines, while practical in other countries) solution to an unplanned pregnancy. The next step will be to push for safe and legal abortion. This reflects the mentality presented in some sex education modules, which could very well go this way: "Ang pagkontrol sa kakayahang mag-anak ay isang karapatang makabago para sa kababaihan... May dalawang uri ng batas na nagkakaroon ng impluwensiya sa gawaing ito. Ang una ay may kinalaman sa paggamit ng kontraseptibo, kusang-loob na pag-papa-opera upang hindi magkaanak at paglalaglag ng sanggol. Ang ilegal na paglalaglag ng sanggol ay ipinagbabawal ng batas sapagkat hindi makabubuti sa kalusugan ng ina. Ang pangalawa ay nagbibigay ng karapatan sa kababaihan sa pagpaplano ng pamilya." Note than in such a formulation, illegal abortion is considered wrong because it is bad for the woman's health. The child being killed is insignificant. The solution insinuated is to legalize abortion so that it could become "safe"--safe for the mother (they claim, though abortion is always traumatic for her), but not for the baby. Some candidly say that if legislators and teachers insist on asking their student to discuss the pros and cons of abortion, then parents should also insist on discussing the pros and cons of killing legislators and teachers (for example, if they are inefficient, involved in graft and corruption, etc.).
The Reproductive Health bill does not promote sexual promiscuity.	SEC. 4. Definition of Terms c. Reproductive Health – the state of physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, in all matters relating to the reproductive system and to its functions and processes. This implies that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life, that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so, provided that these are not against the law. The law will guarantee children and teenagers (since they are "people") the right to have a satisfying and safe sex life with anyone, and to decide if, when and how often to reproduce. Hence children have the right to have information and access to contraceptives, and to learn all possible options in case they get pregnant--including abortion, which "unfortunately" (as they will be made to feel), is still illegal. Parents who object to this "right" act against the law, a law which of course goes against the parents' inherent right to educate their children.
The Reproductive Health bill will strengthen parental rights in forming and educating their children.	SEC. 3. Guiding Principles. L. Respect for, protection and fulfillment of reproductive health rights seek to promote not only the rights and welfare of adult individuals and couples but those of adolescents' and children's as well... SEC. 4. Definition of Terms d. Reproductive Health Rights – the rights of individuals and couples to decide freely and responsibly the number, spacing and timing of their children; to make other decisions concerning reproduction free of discrimination, coercion and violence; to have the information and means to carry out their decisions; and to attain the highest standard of sexual and reproductive health. In the Bill, children and adolescents have the right to have a "satisfying and safe sex life," and "to decide freely and responsibly the number, spacing and timing of their children." In such a case parents (and teachers, public authorities, priests, etc.) who do not want children to have sex with classmates will be going against the children's rights, and hence they can be considered as "coercing" the children to stay away from sex. Earlier bills have even proposed fines and/or imprisonment for similar acts; this is indicative of their real intentions. In some countries, school clinics are prohibited from informing parents if their child seeks or has undergone abortion, whereas they are required to do so for treatment of a minor wound. Reproductive health rights will therefore weaken parental authority and rights over the upbringing of their children. Children are brainwashed into this promiscuous, anti- parent, and anti-authority mentality through Value-free sex education modules.
The Reproductive Health bill is an original idea of Filipino Congressmen.	Reproductive Health bills are pushed by the PLCPD (Philippine Legislators' Committee for Population and Development), a foreign funded NGO with offices questionably located in Congress, precisely where our laws are made. This is in complete violation of our national sovereignty and our pro-family and pro-life Constitution. PLCPD has access to formidable financial resources (including the P2 billion budget this year), and is backed by a powerful conglomerate of NGO's (see A Manifesto of Filipino Families on July 25, 2008).
The Reproductive Health bill promotes health.	"We would rather call them the 'reproductive death' bills. They are totally silent on the aforementioned ills which will bring DEATH not only to the body, but to the person, family and society as well: D-ivorce E-uthanasia A-bortion T-yrannical population control H-omosexual unions" (A Manifesto of Filipino Families on July 25, 2008).
Filipino families cannot do anything to stop the Reproductive Death bills.	"A Call to Defend the Filipino Family against the Reproductive 'Health' Bills We call on all Filipino Families to defend ourselves by defending life. We have so far succeeded in foiling many of the attempts of our lawmakers to enact reproductive health statutes. We believe they are being enticed by monetary and other compensations, but we hope that they will see the grim reality behind reproductive 'health'. But now could be our last chance. Many countries have fallen into the subtle and the blatant attacks against their families. It is time to organize ourselves better and pressure our leaders to come up with pro-family and pro-life legislation and programs. We call on all men and women of good will, of all creeds, social standing, and political affiliations, to further promote the family. Let us patronize family-safe establishments, and complain to our civil authorities against those offering drugs, gambling, pornography and prostitution, especially those surrounding our homes and our children's schools. Let us boycott products and services that degrade sex and women in their advertisements. Let us review the textbooks used by our children for promiscuous and anti-parental content. Let us make the TV stations know that we want wholesome family entertainment. Recovering the Family's True Nature. We hope that in the end, children may see their parents as role models of family warmth and citizenship, and that parents and grandparents may experience the appreciation and respect of their children whom they have truly loved and guided. Humanae Vitae prophetically warned that we could lose our values if we go against God's design on the responsible transmission of life within the family. May the Filipino Family, which is the sanctuary of life and love, rediscover and reclaim the peace and joy that rightly belong to us." (A Manifesto of Filipino Families on July 25, 2008).

Media Awareness, Literacy Seminar

2008-08-21T09:11:00.000+08:00

Media Awareness, Literacy Seminar

WHAT: (Tema): “Mary, Media and the Rosary” (Tatalakayin din dito ang mga palihim na pag-aatake ng Buhay at Pamilya sa mga isinusulong sa Kongreso ng Reproductive Health and Rights Bill)

WHEN: September 6, 2008, Saturday at 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: Montevista Hotspring Resorts & Conference Center, Pansol, Calamba City

WHO: (Participants) Magulang, kabataan, professionals, studyante, workers atb…

MAIN SPEAKER:

Mr. Bernard F. Canaberal, ABS-CBN Studio TV Host ng Family Rosary Crusade, now aired over Channel 5. Studied Electronic Media in Hatchend, England and Media Evangelization in Lyons, France.

Contract Persons:

Aileen & Minda @ tel. no. (049) 561 2144

Fr. Romy Ponte @ cel. No. 0919 368 9067

Bp. Drona presided profession of vows of 3 nuns

2008-08-21T08:24:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – San Pablo (Laguna) Bishop Most Rev. Leo M. Drona presided at the Eucharistic Celebration within which two nuns professed their Perpetual Religious Vows, while another one her Temporary Religious Vow very recently.

The sisters who belong to the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Face of Jesus (MSHFJ) included, Sr. Myla Mallari Barredo of Mabalacat, Pampanga; Sr. Ma. Venus Gulmatico Lim of Sipalay City, Negros Occidental both to profess Perpetual Vows; and Sr. Josephine Tubira Tarnate of Bato, Catanduanes to profess her Temporary Religious Vows.

The religious profession and Holy Mass took place at the Holy Face of Jesus Convent (chapel) located at Barangay San Antonio 1, San Pablo City last June 28, 2008 (Saturday) at 9:00 a.m.
The Mass was concelebrated by some members of the clergy and religious priests with attendance by nuns of other congregations, nuns’ parents, relatives, benefactors, friends and few others.

375 Metro-Manila relocatee families get help to survive food crisis

2008-08-21T08:20:00.000+08:00

CALAUAN, Laguna – The squatter families from Metro Manila and nearby areas who are now relocated in Calauan Relocation site are bracing against skyrocketing prices of basic commodities like rice and the like and they welcome the proposed building of a Multi Purpose Livelihood center to augment their micro-finance ventures and other income generating activities.

The poor families whose number already reaches about 1,500 individuals are now being assisted to make them productive like providing them livelihood opportunities, through micro-finance activities. They are also actively involved in the free feeding project, the Faith Garden, Bigasan ng Parokya to give them easy access to cheap NFA rice.

Kelly S. Beltran of the San Pablo Diocesan Social Action Center (SAC) told the Inquirer that the former squatters of Manila, Makati, Pasig, Malate, Tondo and nearby areas are being assisted by the joint efforts of the Church, government, private individuals so they can be productive economically.

The construction of the multi purpose building to be spearheaded by the military engineering personnel which would cost Caritas Manila and other supporting agencies the amount of about P250,000 is due to start this week or so, Beltran said.

She said, on Wednesday (June 4) the joint forces of the Caritas Manila, National Housing Authority, the Diocesan Social Action Center led by Director Fr. Rene B. Eriga, and the Philippine Army’s (AFP) 202ND Infantry Brigade led by newly installed Commanding Officer Col Tristan M. Kison have gone to the Angel Ville Relocation site in Brgy Sto. Tomas, Calauan town to figure out the construction of the said Multi Purpose Livelihood Center.

Capt. Peter Garciniego of the 202nd Brigade had told the Inquirer recently that it was through a friendly and casual meeting with SAC Director Fr. Eriga who ventilated his difficulty in building homes with meager resources that the idea of involving the military in the construction of the shelters for free for the Metro Manila relocatees was hatched.

Todate, the military-assisted projects accomplished in the relocation area in Calauan included the completion of the semi-concrete houses for 75 squatter families.

Two months ago (April 7, 2008), some 17 houses were built for the relocatees by the military with some assistance from civilian carpenters, plumbers had been blessed and inaugurated in the presence of San Pablo Bishop Leo M. Drona, who led the blessing, Priest Officials of Caritas Manila and Social Action Center, Usec. Nena Valdez of the Office of the President, Office of Religious Affairs; Brig. Gen. Jorge Segovia, PA; National Housing Authority and several others.

Mrs. Aida Garchitorena, head of the organization of relocated families, after the inauguration of the homes built for them for free, had said that she was short of words on how to thank the Caritas Manila, the diocese of San Pablo, Social Action Center, the AFP, the government and private donors for their enormous efforts to provide them food, shelters, livelihood opportunites and almost everything to be able to live with human dignity.

5 nuns of media celebrate Golden Consecration, Nuncio presides

2008-08-21T08:10:00.000+08:00

Five sisters belonging to the congregation devoted to Mass Media, celebrated their 50th year of Religious Consecration during a concelebrated mass presided by the Papal Nuncio in Pasay City, recently.

The five Golden Jubilarian nuns belonging to the Daughters of Saint Paul (FSP) included; Sr. Ma. Concettina Armario, Sr. Ma. Agnes Gabito, Sr. Ma. Gemma Lucero, Sr. Ma. Fidelis Singh, and Sr. Ma. Paquita Saligumba Lackar.

The Concelebrated Mass presided by Papal Nuncio Most Rev. Edward Joseph Adams, DD during which the Golden Jubilarians celebrated in praise and thanksgiving their 50th year of Religious Consecration took place at 9:30 a.m. on June 28, 2008, Saturday at the Sanctuary of the Queen of Apostles 2650 F. B. Harrison St., Pasay City.

The golden affair was made possible through the joint efforts of the Provincial Superior and the Sisters of the Daughters of Saint Paul of the Philippines-Malaysia-Papua New Guinea-Thailand Province, where the golden celebrants belong as members.

Canossan Sisters nagdalamhati sa pagyaon ng Dating Mother Provincial

2008-08-21T08:07:00.000+08:00

Samantala, ang mga kamadrihan ng Canossian Daughters of Charity, Servants of the Poor, Philippine Province na kilala sa initials na FDCC ay lubhang nagdadalamhati sa pagpanaw ng kanilang dating Mother Provincial at Superior sa mahabang panahon na si Mother Elsa C. Cosico sa edad na pitumpo’t isa (71) nuong Augosto 1 taong kasalukuyan.

Si Mother Elsa ay nakaburol ngayon sa Kapilya ng Canossa College ng San Pablo City at siya’y dadalhin sa kanyang huling hantungan ngayong araw na ito, Martes, pagkatapos ng Banal na Misa ng gaganapin sa ika-2 ng hapon.

Si Mother Elsa ay dinapoan ng sakit na Cancer sa Colon na siyang sanhi ng kanyang kamatayan pagkatapos ng ilang taong pakikipaglaban dito.

Si Mo. Elsa ay may anim (6) na mga kapatid. Ang dalawang kapatid niyang babae (Sr. Carmel at Sr. Herminia) ay nagging madre ding ng Canossa katulad niya. At ang isang kapatid niyang lalake nagging pari din kabilang ng San Pablo Clergy. Ngunit ito’y yumaon na rin mga ilang taon nang nakalipas.

Si mother Elsa ay apatnapong (40) taon ng naglingkod bilang madre. Sa kanyang pananatili sa Congregation nahirang siyang Mother Provincial sa loob ng anim (6) na taon o dalawang termino. At sa loob ng 30 anyos ng kanyang pagka madre lagi siyang humahawak ng posisyon bilang Superior sa iba’t ibang kapasidad.

Ang katapusan niyang panunungkulan bago siya bawian ng buhay ay bilang pinuno ng Canossian House of Spirituality sa Lungsod ng Tagaytay.

Ayon sa panayam ng Veritas Pilipinas kay Sr. Herminia, bunsong kapatid ng namatay, na bago nalagutan ng huling hininga ang kapatid na madre ito’y naghabilin ng mga katagang sumusunod: “Thank you for walking with me. My journey has ended but yours still continue…Always remember that you are never alone. My prayers are with you. ‘Life is beautiful…’”

Priests Day matagumpay ipinagdiriwang sa buong diyosesis

2008-08-21T08:01:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – Ang mga kaparian ng buong Diyosesis ng San Pablo, Laguna sa pamumuno ni Kagalanggalang Obispo Leo M. Drona ay matagumpay at masayang nagdiriwang ng Araw ng Mga Pari sa magkahiwalay na lugar o iba-ibang Bikaryo sa tulong ng Diocesan Catholic Schools System (DCSS) o mga Katolikong paaralan ng Liceo High Schools sa buong diyosesis.

Dito sa San Pablo City Vicariate, si Obispo Drona mismo ang namuno sa pagdiriwang sa pamamagitan ng Misa Conselebrada kasama ang mga pari at mga relihiyoso na ginanap sa Liceo de San Pablo Gymnasium na masayang inihanda at itinaguyod ng nasabing paaralan na pinamunuoan ni Liceo de San Pablo Principal Ms. Zenaida Buenaseda at katulong ang mga faculty members at mahigit isang libong mga kabataang estudyante.

Sa homiliya ni Obispo Drona sa nasabing Misa, kanyang binigyan diin ang pagpaliwanag tungkol sa kahalagahan ng mga pari sa buhay ng bawat Kristiyanong Katoliko.”Kailangan sila upang ipagpapatuloy at palaguin ang Simbahang itinatag ni Kristo.”

Binanggit din ng Obispo sa harap ng mahigit isang libong mga faculty at mga mag-aaral na ang mga pari ay may kahinaan din bilang mga tao lamang kaya dapat sila’y kilalaning lubos, patuloy na ipagdadasal at kaibiganin.

Napag-alaman ng Veritas Pilipinas na may mga hiwalay na pagdiriwang ng Priests Day ding isinagawa sa Victoria, Laguna Parish, sa Vicariate ng Paete at Siniloan na malapit sa Liceo de Pakil at sa lahat ng mga parokya na may nakatayong Liceo Catholic Schools. Sang-ayon sa 2007 Catholic Directory of the Philippines mayroong 30 ka mga Diocesan/Parochial schools sa buong Laguna at mayroong dalawang daan at limampo’t dalawang (252) mga paring Diyosesano at mga relihiyoso.

Napag-alaman din na ang Canossa College of San Pablo ay magpapahalaga din sa mga kaparian ng Diyosesis sa darating na Augusto 28, Biernes.

Ka Bel’s Legacy of voluntary poverty and simplicity

2008-08-21T07:54:00.000+08:00

by: Fr. Robert Reyes

SAN PABLO CITY -- The recent murders in Laguna, in Cabuyao last Friday, May 16 and in Calamba last Sunday, May 18, 2008 have shaken our already precarious national peace. Reactions range from panic to sheer vengeful rage bordering on chilling blood lust.

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez blurted out that if he could he would issue a “shoot to kill” order. Fortunately, Chief PNP Avelino Razon assures the public that he will not issue any “shoot to kill order.” Columnist Bel Cunnanan lashes out at the killers of the 9 RCBC employees and calls them “beasts.” Nandy Pacheco resurrects his total gun-ban appeal. Senator Miguel Zubiri proposes to reinstate the death penalty.

But many reactions last no more than the publicity given to an incident. The recent disasters in Burma and China are big enough to sustain public interest for some time. But what about the reaction to the spate of fatal violence in Laguna?

Two days after a deranged man murdered an entire family in Calamba, a comparatively minor disaster took place in Bulacan. Early in the morning, Ka Bel of party-list Anak-Pawis falls from a ladder while repairing a leak in the roof. On the day of his death, expressions of grief and loss immediately hit the airwaves.

Both enemy and friend praised Ka Bel from his comrades in the progressive blocs as well as the Presidential Palace. A day after Ka Bel’s death, news revealed how poor and simple the man is. In fact among the 228 members of congress, Ka Bel ranks number 228 or the poorest among his peers. Here was a man who had millions of pesos at his disposal but remained simple and poor to the very last day.

Ka Bel’s death can be considered a quiet disaster with an explosive impact. When the rest of society seems to explode with either senseless violence and equally violent thoughts, feelings and language from “shoot to kill,” “beasts” and “restore the death penalty,” a man dies and ironically, in death, offers an alternative to violence: voluntary poverty and simplicity.

No, Ka Bel did not die in detention or in a violent rally dispersal, which he was always ready for. Instead, he dies from an unexpected cause whose impact is probably deeper than if he died in a way militant leaders usually do. Ka Bel died leaving a legacy of contradiction and counter-witness. He died a poor and simple politician. He died repairing his own leaking roof. He died working, serving and not being served.

What do the Cyclone Nagris in Burma, the earthquake in Sichuan, the murders in Laguna and the sudden death of Ka Bel have in common aside from the wrenching pain of death, loss and separation? They all speak and more, challenge and even question the living.

A question lashes like the angry winds of a storm. It trembles like the tectonic rumblings of a murderous quake. It breaks the stillness of night like the rapid explosions of M-16s. Neither the weak nor the powerful from the Burmese military junta to the Chinese Communist Party to the Philippine Government and the “common tao,” are spared the questions, “How do you live? How do you relate with people , with nature? Are you selfish and greedy? Are you a heavy consumer or do you maintain a low-energy lifestyle?

The overt violence of natural and man-made disasters often distract us and easily divert our attention from the more subtle and hidden forms of violence. Ka Bel’s fall was a brief violent episode that ended one life but unleashed a challenge which may yet be the solution to the carefully camouflaged violence of greed and power.

Worst than creeping Martial Law is the creeping violence which like ivy crawls everywhere. There is a better solution to the various forms of violence from the institutional to the grossly criminal. It is simpler than “shoot to kill,” “capture the beasts,” “restore the death penalty,” “banish and punish the oligarchs,” or classic “revolution.” Ka Bel lived simply and his death was no different. Workers are quietly mourning, militants as well.

Oppressors and rulers cannot be numb. Ka Bel, yes a militant but more a simple and poor man is passing by, no less concerned and committed to changing and rejecting the superficiality, hypocrisy, insanity and sheer inhumanity of the love and worship of power and wealth.

The simple, poor, once taxi driver turned worker leader is passing by. I salute him and more I allow him to challenge and even change me to be simpler and poorer for a freer, less violent and more just Philippines.

Fr. Roberto P. Reyes
Asian Human Rights Commission
Hong Kong
May 22, 2008

Laguna bishop ordained 8 new priests

2008-08-21T07:53:00.004+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY– The bishop of San Pablo Diocese ordained eight (8) new priests for the diocese last June.

In a communication sent to all priests in the diocese, His Excellency Bishop Leo M. Drona named the eight deacons who were raised to the Order of Priesthood, namely:

Rev. Richard V. Buenaventura of Mabitac, Laguna; Rev. Jason C. Caballes of Luisiana town; Rev. Celso S. Gaela of Lucban, Quezon; Rev. Manuel F. Labing of Victoria, Laguna; Rev. Clifford M. Miras of Cavinti town; Rev. Christian Cletus G. Nalda of Ireneville, Binan, Laguna; Rev. David O. Reyes, Jr. of Nagcarlan town; and Rev. Rico A. Villareal of Liliw town.

The ordination, took place on June 26, 2008 (Thursday) at the San Pablo Cathedral, San Pablo City at nine o’ clock in the morning.

Catholic Church supports 143 graders, college indigent scholars

2008-08-21T07:46:00.000+08:00

SAN PABLO CITY – The Diocesan Social Action Center (SAC) of the San Pablo (Laguna) Diocese has now enrolled to various schools the 143 graders to college scholars who belong to the underprivileged sector of society and coming from farflung parishes of the diocese.

Kelly S. Beltran, Bookkeeper and secretary of the Social Action Center quoted San Pablo Bishop Leo M. Drona as saying that the scholarships were granted to indigents to help poor families send their children to school and finish a course or so.

The scholarship is not based on academic excellence but being poor and underprivileged will suffice. The main purpose of the scholarships is for poor children to become assets in society, Beltran quoted the prelate as saying.

The scholarship grantees are residents of the parishes of San Antonio de Padua in the mountain brgy of San Antonio, Kalayaan town; San Isidro Labrador Parish in Brgy Kabulusan, Pakil; and San Sebastian Parish in Famy town, both located in the easternmost portion of Laguna.

There are now three college scholars taking up courses like Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering and Information Technology in various colleges/universities in the province.

There are 60 students who were successfully supported by the scholarship from grade 1 to 6 and are now starting their studies in high school. There are also 58 children enrolled now in grade one, 17 children in grade four and five children in grade three.

The scholarships dubbed as: “Alay Mo Aral Ko Scholarship Program” are part of the projects supported by Alay Kapwa of the Church’s Social Action Center and the Pondo ng Pinoy.

Beltran said the scholarship covers almost everything. For the elementary pupils, tuition, school uniforms (shoes, shirts, dress etc), school supplies are taken cared of. For high school scholars, entrance fee, tuition, upper garments are paide for; and college scholars would be free of their tuitions and provided with their school allowances.

The SAC officer has showed the school supplies, shirts, umbrellas, bags, shoes, slippers etc. worth about P100,000 which were readied at the SAC Office in San Pablo City for distribution to the 143 scholarship grantees of the diocese for the school year 2008-2009.

Announcements

2008-08-19T09:13:00.003+08:00

Commentary

2008-08-19T08:43:00.000+08:00

Ka Bel’s Legacy of voluntary poverty and simplicity

The Beginning

News

2008-08-19T08:37:00.011+08:00

Sezwho

2008-08-18T23:27:00.000+08:00

Articles

2008-08-18T22:03:00.004+08:00

The Beginning

2008-08-18T19:13:00.001+08:00

The Mass Media Ministry met this noon at St. Gabriel Parish, San Pablo City. The Nature of the said meeting is to expand all possible means the use of Mass media to explain the Catholic faith especially here in the diocese of San Pablo. All possible means include interpersonal dissemination, electronic media, print media, radio and television.

For the moment there are two prevailing concern that must be dealt with urgency, the proper use of media and the public information and defense concerning the subtle attacks on family and life. this site will serve as the official site of the ministry of Mass Media of the Diocese of San Pablo as one of the ways of which to expand all possible resources concerning the activities of the said Ministry of the diocese. We have to fulfill the mandate of our Lord Jesus Christ, to teach all nation of what He had handed to us through His apostles and to the Church.

This commission is headed by Rev. Fr. Romulo Ponte