Santosh Digal

Everyone remembers him as a missionary ready to talk with and help anyone, but the needy first of all. He was active in numerous initiatives to alleviate the misery of the local people.

Fr Reynado Jesus Roda, 54, pastor of the church of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary in Tabawan (Mindanao), was shot in the head while resisting his kidnappers. Years ago, in the same region, the bishop of Jolo - also an Oblate of Mary Immaculate - was slaughtered.

More than 1,300 Filipino youths have already registered for the event set for 15-20 July of this year. Episcopal Commission on Youth expects the number to rise, warns against those participating in Church life only on such occasions.

The faithful gather in the traditional procession of the black wood statue representing the Christ carrying the cross to Calvary. Local worshippers believe it works miracles. Vast security measures are taken to prevent attacks.

In the predominantly Muslim island of Mindanao in the southern Philippines ordinary citizens have started nightly patrols in the streets around churches to allow Catholics to celebrate “dawn masses” until Christmas.

A company took 144 hectares of land for building. But the farmers set out on protest march to Manila lasting over two months, and they have been camped outside the Agricultural Commission for weeks. The Church throws its’ weight behind the protest. Now Arroyo has ordered that the land be restored.

During the rural Congress held in Jaro, the president of the Catholic bishops conference underlines the terrible situation of the rural population who have no access to education health care or employment. 11 million people live on less than one dollar a day across the country.

House of representatives decides funding in 2008 budget because high birth rate adversely impacts public welfare. Bishops oppose initiative, calling instead for greater commitment against unemployment and poverty, promoting natural methods of birth controls.

Following a bomb attack in the capital on October 19, the authorities are not taking any chance and beefing up security in preparation for All Saints and All Souls celebrations. Some 9,000 police agents will be deployed. Manila’s Cardinal Rosales urges the faithful to celebrate the two holy days according to tradition. But the situation remains tense.

The political leader is pardoned by President Arroyo. He will not purge the sentence of life in prison for corruption. His first thoughts go to the prelate who worked for this release and comforted him during his time in prison.

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines stresses Filipinos’ closeness to the Burmese people since both experienced violence under martial law. They offer prayers and massed for a peaceful solution to the crisis.

In a stern reminder the prelate calls on the population and the authorities to act now against the consequences of global warming. He urges Filipinos to reduce waste, asking the government to favour renewable energy resources that are abundant in nature.