By Roy Lagarde
July 27, 2020
Manila, Philippines
A Catholic bishop called on Filipinos not to be afraid to speak out and act against social injustices in the country.
Bishop Broderick Pabillo, the apostolic administrator of Manila archdiocese, said that biblical justice demands transformation of unjust systems.
“So let us not be afraid to speak and act. We must tell the truth. Justice must prevail,” Pabillo said.
“We do it because we love our country. With these actions we hope that peace and order will come,” he said.
The prelate made the statement in his homily during the “Mass for Justice and Peace” at the Quiapo Church on Monday.
Since the bishop is under self-quarantine after contracting coronavirus, his homily was read by Quiapo Church rector Msgr. Hernando Coronel, who officiated the liturgy.
The Mass was held as President Rodrigo Duterte will deliver his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) later today.
Pabillo is expecting Duterte will discuss the real state of the country and present concrete solutions to the nation’s problems, particularly on the socio-economic impact of the pandemic.
“That is not the time to brag, or criticize or flatter the people. We want to know the real score,” he said.
The bishop also encouraged the Filipinos “to listen carefully” and “analyze conscientiously” Duterte’s address.
“We are interested in knowing them because we are Filipino citizens. We are interested in following them because we are Christians. We cannot be good Christians if we are not good citizens,” Pabillo added.
“Unfortunately in our times, not everything that is said, even by the highest official of the land and his official spokespersons, is credible and true. So we will examine,” he also said.
SOURCE: https://cbcpnews.net/cbcpnews/bishop-dont-be-afraid-to-act-against-injustices/
