Philippines

The association of Superiors of Religious Congregations asks Manila to use dialogue and not violence to pacify the south. Clashes between the army and Abu Sayyaf have displaced over 80 thousand families.

Over 80 thousand police officers throughout the country contributed to the reconstruction of public schools in Albay province, destroyed by a series of typhoons last year. The funds collected, which amount to over 46 thousand euro, will also finance food and medical programs.

President Arroyo announces peace talks with MILF rebels but launches a major military offensive against other rebel groups. Bishop of Jolo says Church ready to help the population.

Moved by the welcome and thinner after his ordeal, the missionary met his family at the airport. He will be heard by the Public Prosecutor’s Office. After a period of rest he will meet the Pope and young people.

Despite economic growth in some areas of the continent, poverty levels remain high. The Asian Bank demands “new strategies” for development and a more equitable wealth distribution, as well as sanctioning 800 million dollars for development programmes.

Abu Sayyaf militants attack a military convoy headed to Maimbung; MILF rebels join the ambush.

The missionary returns to Italy midday Sunday, on a flight from Dubai. In Manila, PIME together with the local Church debate the future of missionaries in the Philippines: the danger of abductions remains high, but their presence is “fundamental”.

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.

PIME Superior General Father Zanchi leaves for Manila tomorrow to participate in a four-day reflection and prayer meeting and share in the celebrations for Father Bossi’s release. All PIME missionaries in the Philippines will take part in the event. Right after his return to Italy Father Bossi will visit the crisis unit of the Italian Foreign Affairs Ministry where he will meet the press.

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.