FABC, CELAM, and SECAM, the three continental episcopal conferences, released a paper that is also a shared commitment, calling on world governments to adopt a non-proliferation fossil fuel treaty. For Caritas International, the role of women is crucial in addressing climate change.
Asian bishops express concern over the escalation in the Middle East. In communion with Leo XIV, they call for stability, dialogue, and reconciliation that “prioritize human dignity.” They also call for prayers for civilians and migrant workers affected by the conflict; meanwhile, prayer initiatives for peace are growing at the diocesan level.
There have already been several victims among the many expatriate communities. The first death in the Jewish state from an Iranian missile was that of a Filipino caregiver. The conflict has also spread to the seas, with a seafarer killed on an oil tanker off the coast of Oman. A Pakistani, a Nepalese and a Bangladeshi citizen are the three people killed in the United Arab Emirates.
12.5% of Filipino families still rely on remittances sent by relatives who have emigrated abroad for their livelihood. However, international instability, the more stable forms of residence abroad for many migrants and economic changes in Manila are changing the overall picture, with a significant decrease in the percentage contribution of this form of income to gross domestic product.
Today the country celebrates the anniversary of the Rosary Revolution. A nun speaks about what went on in the streets against the Marcos dictatorship in February 1986 and the passing of the torch to Generation Z. For the president of the Bishop’s Conference, Cardinal Garcera, “People can still change society if they choose honesty”.
Building a place of worship on Pag-asa (Spratly Islands) is expected to begin in late March. The vicar of Puerto Princesa and a Philippine official met yesterday to discuss the matter. The island’s small Catholic community includes civilians, members of the armed forces, coast guard personnel, navy personnel, and police. The area has long been in China's sights.
