Santosh Digal

Directed by the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul ,it is the oldest institution for orphans and needy in the Philippines. Over 300 people assisted.

The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate inaugurate their new media centre. Through news, music and entertainment, they plan to spread a culture of peace among the people in one of the most violence-stricken regions of the Philippines.

The first hearing in the trial of Andal Amputuan Jr ended today in Quezon City. He is charged with the murder of 41 of the 57 people killed on 23 November. The presiding judge rejects application for bail made by the defendant's attorneys. The next hearing is scheduled for 13 January. The Church calls on Filipinos to back initiatives that help defeat the country's culture of impunity.

Drop of 7% employment in industry in the second quarter of 2009. However slight recovery in agriculture. The Philippine government promises 5 million jobs for 2010. Bishop: the corruption of the political class is the real problem of the country.

A Filipino domestic worker describes as "a prison" her experience in Saudi Arabia. For seven months she was not allowed to leave or have a bed to sleep on. Because of her Christian faith her salary was reduced. Forced to fast during Ramadan.

Poverty, unemployment and corruption of the military still pushing many farmers to support the rebels of the Communist New People's Army, despite the amnesty of 2007 and integration programs and development offered by the government. A priest calls on the Government to nurture the faith of these people to lead them towards peace.

Catholic associations and government agencies take emergency steps to help refugees. Priests celebrate daily Masses. Legazpi bishop visits the area to see things first hand. Alarm is sounded over possible epidemic outbreaks in evacuation centres.

State and Catholic universities are promoting cultural exchanges and a culture of peace. Expert in Islamic-Christian dialogue says, “Peace is more than silencing the guns”. Silsilah is an example.

Separation from wives and husbands working abroad deprives children of education and work. More than 10,000,000 Filipinos live overseas. So far this year, they have sent home US$ 14.3 billion.

The traditional novena Simbang Gabi or Dawn Mass, began yesterday and will continue until 24 December. The gesture is also celebrated by tens of millions of Filipinos living abroad. Organized in all the parishes of the Archdiocese of Manila charity drives to provide the basic necessities for more than 4 million displaced.

Protest by the local population and accusations of unconstitutionality force President Arroyo to lift martial law imposed on 5 December. Some 529 people are arrested during the seven days in which it was in place. Several cases of multiple murders left unsolved by local police are uncovered. Filipino bishops urge the government to bring to justice those responsible for the Maguindanao massacre.

In Copenhagen, the Filipino delegates denounce damages for 4 billion dollars generated by typhoons the result of global warming. Developed countries urged to make greater efforts to reduce emissions. In Nepal Buddhists and Hindus offer prayers for the success of the conference.