Santosh Digal

The government wants to set up small groups tasked with promoting natural family planning methods. More than four million couples are expected to take part in the initiative, including those living in some of the remotest corners of the country. The Catholic Church looks favourably to the initiative.

There is a rising number of women in key socio-economic positions in the country, thanks to a greater level of education. But the press TV and magazines continue to treat them as “sexual objects”.

Despite the monsoon rains, entire areas of the country are facing the risk of drought. Cardinal Rosales has written an Oratio Imperate that will be recited in all churches of the archdiocese. Among the causes is an ever increasing demand for water for a population in a state of constant growth.

The former Senate President and tireless oppose of the dictator Marcos is among the seven winners if the 2007 edition of the “Ramon Magsaysay” prize, for his fight for democracy and human rights. A South Korean protestant pastor is also awarded for his dedication to helping the blind.

The archbishop of Manila allows religious services in shopping malls in order to meet the needs of those who shop on the day of rest or statutory holidays.

The body will be instituted in the regional charter which member nations are due to sign in November. The 10 foreign ministers ask Myanmar for greater democracy and freedom for Aung San Suu Kyi.

Unique initiative launched by the diocese of Jaro: from July 30 at 4 each afternoon parish bells will sound a reminder to citizens to drain the lands were the fever develops. So far this year over 1000 cases found across the country.

Government adopts ‘zero tolerance’ policy against pornography, calls on Catholic Church to help in campaign to educate youth and prevent violence against children.

The Philippine army and MILF are once again on a war footing. People abandon villages in fear of being caught in the cross fire. Appeal from Christian and Muslim leaders for peace and dialogue.

Joyful Christians and Muslims come together to welcome PIME missionary home. Freed priest celebrates mass in his parish church, thanks all those who prayed for him during his captivity.

A series of digs for seismic research could accelerate the search for new oil reserves. The diocese denounces the lack of consultation of local people, recalling that the area in question is protected and needs to be preserved “for future generations”.

The macabre remains were found yesterday in an abandoned sack. The man had collaborated with the Philippine army providing them with information on Abu Sayyaf and other Muslim rebels. The risk of hostilities re-starting is high: the army will carry out “punitive action” against the rebels who killed and decapitated a group of marines.