Pope Benedict XVI must still accept the resignation. Vidal is one of two Philipino cardinals. From 1985 to 1994, he chaired the standing committee of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences.
According to the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, the priority should be the honesty amongst political elites. Reform would turn the existing presidential system into a parliamentary one.
The event, which is jointly organised by Catholics and Protestants, is celebrated every year "to stress the importance of the Word of God in national renewal and people's lives.
The country's prelates meet at the end of the month for their 92nd plenary assembly. "God is with us . . . but . . . we must do our part," says the chairman of the Bishops' Conference.
The council is the most important consultative body in the country. Among those invited to join the meeting is Cardinal Vidal. A government official said "the religious leaders can serve as a bridge to unite political currents in the country. We will listen carefully to their advice".
An international delegation of United Methodist church has called for justice to guarantee "civil freedoms under threat".
"The Catholic Channel" will start broadcasting 24 hours a day on January 1. It plans to break down barriers of misunderstanding among people.
Muslim leaders in the region, which has seen violent inter-religious clashes, have urged collaboration and tolerance, the only path to development and peace.
Born to allow farmers to attend the Advent Liturgy, they are a time of unity and sharing for the population.
The island's Christians and Muslims want to continue promoting peace in the wake of a "Mindanao Peace Week".
The theme of three-day conference is "Celebrating the Gospel of Life issues in Bioethics". Mgr Elio Sgeccia, president of the Pontifical Academy for Life, will be present.
A Catholic MP told AsiaNews about the limitations, contradictions and risks inherent in laws controlling family planning: "Look at the West or Japan. They are rich nations but without youth.
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