Santhos Digal

Between 31 December and 10 January, the rites of the novena and the Traslación, the procession of the venerated statue in the Quiapo district of Manila. It was the longest procession ever, lasting over 30 hours. Devotee tells AsiaNews: ‘The huge crowd strengthens my faith.’ Bishop Rufino Sescon Jr. against corruption: ‘Humble yourselves for the sake of mercy.’

The Philippine president urges Congress to focus on four reforms, including a bill limiting the power of large political clans. The Church welcomes the initiative, but doubts remain as to whether a Congress dominated by powerful clans will agree to curb their own influence.

At least 119 initiatives across the country coincide with the anniversary of the birth of national hero Andrés Bonifacio. Cardinal David calls for ‘intensifying’ the fight and invites people to take “steps” towards justice. Solidarity with the ‘Second Trillion Pesos March’. Among the objectives of the fight is the ‘excessive greed’ of those who manage power and public goods.

The Catholic Church is at the forefront of relief efforts for the population affected by Tino, which has caused over 90 deaths and 400,000 displaced persons. Nearly 400 people have been welcomed into the classrooms of the Maria Ausiliatrice school. The archbishop has ordered churches to be opened to provide shelter. Over 20,000 schools have suspended classes.

The Anti-Pogo Act of 2025 is now in force, repealing the provisions of the previous law on gambling taxation. The government wants to prioritise ‘the protection of life and general welfare’, as well as supporting ‘human dignity’. Prison sentences and progressive fines are envisaged. The Church has also long called for an all-out fight against the scourge of gambling.

From 20 to 24 October, the 18th edition of the Mspc is taking place in Iligan City, under the theme ‘pilgrims of hope’. An opportunity for prayer and reflection on the challenges of a region with a large Muslim and tribal population. Among the unresolved problems are poverty, unemployment and terrorism.

A large crowd took part in the ‘Trillion Peso March’, united by churches, civil organisations and students to denounce the scandal of flood control funds allegedly involving some 30 parliamentarians and officials. The Church Leaders Council for National Transformation presented five urgent demands, from the return of stolen money to the end of political dynasties.

The president has set up an independent three-member body to vet dodgy flood prevention projects of the past 10 years. The Conference of Superiors of the Philippines warns that corruption deprives youth of an education, favours the neglect of the sick, and traps millions in poverty.

The warning issued by the Bishops' Conference on the occasion of the ‘Season of Creation 2025’ scheduled from 1 September to 4 October. Cardinal David: becoming ‘responsible stewards of the earth’ on a ‘path of justice, peace and love’. Corruption and malfeasance are denounced as ‘the real disaster’ that is ‘sinking the Philippines’.

The 2025 Ramon Magsaysay laureates have been announced. Dubbed the Nobel Prize of Asia, the award was established to honour the memory of the late Philippine president. Fr Villanueva has been recognised for his work with the poor. One of the staunchest critics of Duterte's brutal policies, which have caused thousands of deaths in the country, he exemplifies the real possibility of changing lives, an example of “faith that acts in love”, according to Cardinal David. Also honoured by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation are Shaahina Ali, a Maldivian activist, and Indian NGO Educate Girls.

ahead of the vote, they play a ‘crucial role’ in guaranteeing the electoral process. On 5 August, a MiRLeC meeting was considered a ‘moment of shared introspection’ and a ‘project for a fairer electoral future.’ StAengthening the process of knowledge, especially among young people, to prevent ‘manipulation.’

In the Jubilee Year, a group of 12 Catholics is promoting pastoral care in prisons. “Mission in Prison” wants to give prisoners “hope and faith that God loves them even in the darkest moments.” The project is led by Manuben, himself a former prisoner who wants to “make prison a place of prayer.”