Philippine Diocese Calls for Prayer, Vigilance and Action Amid Severe Flooding

As heavy rains and flooding affect parts of the Diocese of Parañaque, in Metro Manila, Philippines, the Church is calling on parishes to remain vigilant, mobilize assistance and give special attention to vulnerable communities.

In a pastoral message issued August 15, Apostolic Administrator Bishop Elias L. Ayuban Jr., urged the faithful to prioritize safety while ensuring that those most affected by the inclement weather are not left alone.

“As we continue to experience inclement weather, with heavy rains and flooding already affecting some areas of our Diocese, I appeal to everyone to remain vigilant and to give priority to the safety of our people,” Bishop Ayuban said.

He specifically called for attention to the elderly, children, persons with disabilities, families living in flood-prone areas and people who may have been displaced or otherwise affected by the rains.

Bishop Ayuban also directed the Diocese’s Commission on Service to Human Promotion (COSHP) to work with parish pastoral councils and volunteers in responding to the situation on the ground.

“I ask our Commission on Service to Human Promotion (COSHP) in our parishes to be mobilized and to work closely with the Parish Pastoral Councils and other parish volunteers,” he said.

The parish groups, he said, should monitor conditions in their communities, identify people who need assistance and coordinate available help with local authorities and relief organizations.

The apostolic administrator also reminded the faithful that the Church’s response should include prayer, particularly for those directly affected by the flooding and severe weather.

More than providing immediate assistance, Bishop Ayuban urged Catholics to see the crisis as an opportunity to express Christian solidarity through concrete acts of concern for others.

“In moments such as these, may we continue to be a Church that is present, attentive, and ready to help,” he said.

He encouraged communities to look after one another and keep safety at the center of their response as the rains continue.

“May our concern for one another become a concrete expression of our Christian faith and solidarity,” Bishop Ayuban said.

He concluded his message by asking the faithful to pray for the protection of families and communities, entrusting them to the care of Mary, whom he described as their Mother.

The Diocese’s appeal comes as flooding and heavy rains continue to pose risks to communities, particularly those in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Through parish volunteers, pastoral councils and its social action structures, the Church is urging Catholics to turn concern into practical assistance while maintaining prayer as a source of strength and solidarity.