The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), through a pastoral letter released during its 130th Plenary Assembly, called on Filipinos to uphold justice, peace, and accountability amid growing challenges in the country and across the world.
Signed by CBCP President Bishop Pablo Virgilio S. David of the Diocese of Kalookan, the letter urged the faithful to respond with prayer, solidarity, and responsible citizenship in light of ongoing struggles both at home and abroad.
Condemning the violence in Gaza and the suffering of innocent civilians, the CBCP called for prayers, fasting, and sacrifices for peace, and appealed for an immediate ceasefire to allow serious negotiations and humanitarian aid. “We advocate for a sustained culture of peace rooted in justice, mercy, and our shared humanity transcending race, religion, and politics,” the letter stated.
Addressing domestic concerns, the bishops highlighted the plight of Filipino workers whose wages remain below the living wage threshold. The CBCP emphasized the Church’s responsibility to “lead by example in ensuring fair salaries, benefits, and dignified treatment of workers in our Church institutions.”
“We appeal for dialogue among employees, employers, and the government to arrive at mutually acceptable solutions,” the bishops said, encouraging open conversations to secure just compensation and job security, in line with the Church’s social teachings.
The CBCP also expressed alarm over what it described as “delays” in the Senate concerning the impeachment proceedings of the Vice President. The letter reaffirmed that impeachment, when pursued in truth and justice, is a constitutional and democratic tool for ensuring accountability in government. The bishops urged the public to reject indifference, engage in honest dialogue, and promote a culture of responsible citizenship rooted in faith.
As the Catholic Church observes the Jubilee Year, the CBCP invited clergy, laity, workers, and political leaders to collaborate in the pursuit of justice and peace. Quoting the prophet Micah, the letter called on all to “do justice, love goodness, and walk humbly with God.”
“Let us rekindle our hope, strengthen our solidarity, and remain vigilant in our stewardship of truth, justice, and the dignity of every human person,” the bishops wrote.
The pastoral letter concluded by invoking the intercession of Our Lady of Peace and entrusting the country and the world to God’s justice and love.
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