‘Church not insensitive to needs of poor’

CEBU, Philippines – Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma clarified that the Church is not “insensitive to the needs of the poor and the plight of women” as allegedly shown in their strong opposition to the passage of the Reproductive Health Bill in congress as implied by some pro-Reproductive Health Bill advocates.

“Its not that we’re insensitive… Because, we believe that this can be approached in another way,” he said.

The prelate stressed that the RH Bill is an anti-cultural entity which can deter basic Filipino family foundations.

Aside from threats to the Filipino family, Palma also said the RH Bill promote a “questionable economic approach” which is not feasible in our current economic framework.”

According to him, if “we follow all provisions of the RH Bill, they are just like killing,” which, he added in time will harm the unique Filipino values.

“Without even them knowing it (parents), using any of the means of contraception proposed by the RH bill are abortive passion and therefore is killing,” he added.

With the alleged inappropriate teaching approach expressed by the bill, Palma is also concerned on its probable societal effects that can affect Filipino families especially the relationship between the parent and the child.

“The RH proponents say that we are poor because we’re many…I thought we’re poor because we’re corrupt…there’s no direct correlation between number and economic prosperity,” Palma said.

Lawmakers are promoting the RH bill in a “wholesale approach,” said Palma, and such compacted bill can change the society.

According to him, instead of being divided on pressing issues concerning the RH Bill, he “hopes and pray” for the good of our country and for the entire people.

As congress promised to pass the RH bill before the Holy Week, the Archdiocese has organized a penitential procession on the feast of the St. Joseph on March 19, which also happened to be the birthday of Palma.

The walk will commence at the Fuenta Osmeña rotunda at 5 p.m. going to the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral for the closing Pontifical Mass that would be officiated Palma.

Dr. Rene Bullecer of Human Life International encourages the faithful to participate in the event to show their “love for the country” against the impending threat of the RH bill.

Bullecer also said that we have to “offer everything for the future of our country” by securing it from the RH bill, adding that just like their previous efforts, they will not allow such bill to corrupt our society.

“Miracles will happen for the Philippines as a pre-dominant catholic country,” he said.

The Church calls all family groups, pro-lifers, private institutions and various lay organizations to join them with the event to show to congress the unwavering opposition of the church to the RH bill. (FREEMAN)