CBCP Reaffirms Commitment to Safeguarding and Accountability

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), in a statement released on May 3, expressed its “profound sorrow and solidarity with all victims and survivors of sexual abuse, especially those harmed by members of the clergy. We acknowledge the deep wounds inflicted upon individuals and communities and commit ourselves to healing, justice, and renewal.”

Signed by its secretary general, Rev. Msgr. Bernardo R. Pantin, JCD (a canon lawyer), while the statement on sexual abuse did not say why it was issued this time, it said, “Recognizing the gravity of clerical sexual abuse, the CBCP initiated the drafting of the Pastoral Guidelines on Sexual Abuses and Misconduct by the Clergy in the early 2000s, which were circulated in September 2003.”

They were “developed to address allegations and actual cases of sexual abuse and misconduct by clergy in the Philippines. They emphasized pastoral care for victims, the healing of communities, assessment of the accused, and appropriate sanctions for offenders.”

It said that “Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, during his tenure as Bishop of Imus and later as Archbishop of Manila, actively participated in the development and implementation of these guidelines. He has consistently advocated for a humble and responsive Church that listens to the cries of the wounded and acts decisively to protect the vulnerable.”

The statement said that “in alignment with directives from the Holy See, the CBCP has established the Office for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Persons, currently headed by Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias.”

“This office aims to promote best practices in safeguarding and assist dioceses in implementing protective measures. Each diocese in the Philippines is mandated to establish its own office dedicated to the protection of minors and vulnerable adults, ensuring that every church institution becomes a safe space for all,” it added.

“According to Canon Law, diocesan bishops bear the primary responsibility for addressing allegations of sexual abuse by clergy incardinated in their dioceses. They are required to conduct preliminary investigations and, if warranted, report cases to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith for further action,” it said.

“For clergy belonging to religious congregations, their superiors hold similar responsibilities. Filipino priests serving abroad fall under the jurisdiction of the bishops in the dioceses where they are incardinated. Should such a priest return to the Philippines, it is incumbent upon the foreign diocese to inform the relevant Philippine diocesan authorities to ensure proper oversight and prevent unauthorized ministry.”

The statement clarified the jurisdiction of Cardinal Antonio Luis Tagle, who is seen to be among those possibly to be the next Pope at the start of the conclave on May 7.

“Since his appointment to a full-time position in the Roman Curia, Cardinal Tagle no longer holds direct authority over any diocese in the Philippines. Consequently, he is not involved in the governance or disciplinary matters of Philippine dioceses. The responsibility for addressing allegations of misconduct by clergy rests with the respective diocesan bishops or religious superiors,” it said.

In conclusion, the CBCP said it “remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of all members of the Church, especially the most vulnerable. We continue to seek guidance from the Holy See and collaborate with civil authorities to ensure that justice is served and that the Church becomes a beacon of hope and safety for all.”

It further gave its contact for further information or to report concerns: Office for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Persons through the CBCP Headquarters, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) 470 Gen. Luna Street Intramuros, 1002 Manila Philippines, with Landline Number (02) 8527-4054 and Email: cbcpsecretariat@gmail.com.