Santosh Digal

The Catholic Church is asking for an extension of the law on the distribution of land, scheduled to expire at the end of December. The norm has led to the distribution of 9.12 million hectares of arable land.

Bishop Jumoad denounces the trend, expresses apprehension about the situation. Young men are in fact taking up arms to defend themselves as a result of the growing violence between the army and MILF rebels. Villagers are fleeing their homes fearful of new attacks.

Religious leaders, activists and students take part in an interfaith prayer rally on the eve of the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Interfaith prayers and torchlight processions are held in memory of those who died or disappeared in the struggle for democracy. The Catholic Church calls for integrity and honesty among the country’s ruling class.

A report by the Children’s Rehabilitation Center slams the army and rebel groups for recruiting minors. A United Nations envoy visits the country to start rehabilitation programmes. In Mindanao the Silsilah movement launches a special programme for malnourished children.

30% of girls between 13 and 15 years old smoke regularly. 90% of women say they are aware of the risks of smoking, but aren't quitting. At the university hospital of Manila, a strict anti-smoking rule is in effect: those who are caught smoking are suspended.

Rafael Seguis, with a long diplomatic career behind him, will be in charge of resuming peace negotiations with the rebels of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Relations were broken off last September 3, following the failure to sign the Memorandum of Agreement. During the week for peace in Mindanao, Christian and Muslim leaders are visiting churches and mosques.

In advance of the world day against AIDS, a forum has been held, dedicated to young people. Activists emphasize that there is "awareness" of the risks related to the disease, but there is a lack of "concrete initiatives to prevent infection." AIDS cases are on the rise among migrants, who are often unable to get medical care.

The editorial initiative is promoted by the Communication Foundation for Asia. It is intended to help young people rediscover the relevance of Christianity, and to participate in the life of Filipino society.

According to the Philippine National Red Cross, 11,734 families have had to abandon their homes and property, destroyed in fighting between the army and rebels of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The displaced are being welcomed in refugee camps, while reconstruction work begins. In Jolo, a bishops-ulemas summit despite threats from Abu Sayyaf.

From November 21-28, religious and social organizations are traveling through various locations on the archipelago. The "caravan for peace" is intended to sensitize the population, raise assistance, and call for an end to the conflict between the MILF and government forces. The initiative has the support of the Filipino bishops' conference, together with the presidential advisory council for the peace process.

Two days of meetings organized by Catholic education associations in the Philippines, and by the parish schools of the archdiocese of Manila. More than two thousand young people from both Catholic and public institutions. Organizers affirm: "It is time that they realize their stake in this, as young Filipinos, and take action towards helping reform our nation."

Security measures have been stepped up for priests, sisters, and volunteers working in the region. Armed gangs and groups affiliated with Abu Sayyaf are threatening new kidnappings for the purpose of extortion. The rebels of the MILF, at war with the Filipino army, are asking the leaders of the bishops and ulemas conference to remain neutral.