Santosh Digal

The traditional procession of the wooden statue of Christ through the streets of central Manila on 9 January includes strict security measures. The mayor issued an order closing schools and public offices. A ban on carrying arms and selling alcohol will be in place.

Some 4,000 to 5,000 homeless families live in covered sidewalks, under bridges, or in cemeteries. Kariton Empowerment Center (KEC) is a charity whose goal is to empower homeless families, “helping them to help themselves”. Some of the beneficiaries tell their stories.

Locals thank Caritas and NASSA for the assistance they provide. The Marawi reconstruction programme was redirected to help affected communities. More bad weather threatens the country.

The Blessed Virgin is the country’s main patroness. To allow Filipinos to celebrate Mary’s Immaculate Conception, the government will give schools and offices the day off. Some of the faithful react.

Vinta hit the island of Mindanao violently displacing 118,596 families,leaving 164 victims and 176 missing. The affected communities already suffering from the devastation of the Marawi siege. The prayer of Pope Francis and the appeal of Card. Tagle.

The event dates back to the 17th century and is also celebrated abroad. During the novena, Filipinos pray for their families, as well as peace in the country and in the world. Card Tagle calls for an end to bickering and discrimination against different cultures and beliefs. Unemployment, drugs and human rights violations are some of the country’s most serious social problems.

The executive director of the Capacity Building Initiative expects the historic apostolic visit to “boost our hearts and mind to work for the common good”. Buddhists will also attend the solemn Mass on 29 November at the Kyaikkasan Ground in Yangon.

The country faces numerous social problems, from human trafficking to teen pregnancies. In this context, young people seek the guidance of the Church. Some programmes educate them in spirituality and their faith.

Human Trafficking is a profitable business, involving a large network of organized crime associations. Women and children in indigenous communities and remote areas are the most vulnerable. The experience of the Visayan Forum Foundation and Sister Cecil Espenilla's commitment to fighting the phenomenon.

The Grace to Be Born Maternity Home and Nursery is a haven for mothers and orphans, providing hope, food, care and spiritual nourishment during pregnancies. The facility has helped more than 263 mothers and spared the lives of 221 babies. About a thousand women die each year from abortion-related complications.

The prison congestion rate is 583 per cent, the highest in the world. Priests, nuns and lay people provide psychological, spiritual and religious assistance to prisoners. For one volunteer, “Let the light of Christ shine on them through us”.

Sanlakbay is a response to the government’s violent war on drugs, providing addicts with counselling, spiritual training, and job opportunities. Parish communities are involved in the healing process. Pope Francis likes the programme.