ascmcdo

2008-03-25T01:49:00.000-07:00

Cardinal Rosales ‘happy’ as Sumilao farmers get back their land

MANILA, March 24, 2008—Manila Archbishop Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales is “happy” that a 144-hectar land dispute between Sumilao farmers and San Miguel Foods Inc (SMFI) “has been resolved.”

The cardinal was delighted to know the happy development that took place this Holy Week regarding the forging of a deal between 144 farmers from Sumilao, Bukidnon and SMFI, the Cardinal’s private secretary Fr. Reginald R. Malicdem, told CBCP News today.

SMFI, a subsidiary of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), Southeast Asia’s largest food and beverage company, bought from Norbeerto Quisumbing, Sr., the contentious land in Bukidnon, Mindanao.

According to a media report, SMC president and CEO Ramon Ang confirmed that an agreement has been reached between the two parties to resolve the issue; the Catholic Church led by Rosales played a key role in facilitating the deal.

Rosales will be joining the Sumilao farmers in offering a thanksgiving mass sometime this month in Malaybalay where he was once the Bishop, said Malicdem.

Manila Archdiocese communications director Peachy Yamsuan told CBCP News today that after the formal agreement was signed between the farmers and SMFI today or later this week, a joint statement will be made on this issue.

When asked if Cardinal Rosales could also issue an independent statement, Yamsuan said that he might do it, but not prior to the joint statement.

The details of the negations for the formal signing of the deal are underway, said Elgine Merida, an official of Caritas Manila and spokesperson of San Miguel Landless Farmers Association (SALFA) for Sumilao farmers.

In his response Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick S, Pabillo, head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ National Secretariat for Social Action, told CBCP News that the “persistence and perseverance of Sumilao” is to be admired and the “generosity of SMFI was great.”

“The Catholic Church and Cardinal are very much appreciative of SMFI’s cooperation with the Sumilao farmers,” said Pabillo who is also the bishop-in-charge for Manila Archdiocesan for Social Services.

The Church “mediated” between the two parties to make sure that they “co-exist” in the area, he said.

The farmers staged a two-month protest march in December 2007 from Sumilao in Bukidnon to Manila to press their demand. Following this, President Gloria-Macapagal-Arroyo directed the revocation of the conversion order, which declared the disputed land as an agro-industrial site from agricultural land covered by the covered by the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.

The Arroyo administration declared that the revocation of the Conversion Order issued last December 18, 2007, was only the first step for returning the land to the farmers. This encouraged the Sumilao farmers to return home to Sumilao to give the government time to execute the order.

After Arroyo passed the Conversion Order, SMFI had filed its appeal challenging the revocation order in the Supreme Court.

During the administration of former president Fidel V. Ramos, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) had offered the land to the farmers. However, his executive secretary Ruben Torres reversed the DAR’s ruling, a decision that the Supreme Court upheld.

Later the land was bought by SMF from its earlier owner, Norberto Quisumbing Sr., and began developing it into an agro-industrial farm.

Government’s lethargic attitude and slow action caused in the loss of land for the Sumilao farmers.

Meanwhile, SMFI started building their hog farm and more structures, according to the farmers.

Since, Arroyo’s revocation order was not executed immediately, the farmers returned to Manila on March 1 in a bid to force Arroyo to accelerate their demand to reclaim their land as owners.

Until both the parties agreed to settle the dispute, the farmers did lots of prayer vigils at Caritas Manila premises, different churches around Metro Manila and marched almost daily to the Malacañang and DAR office. (Santosh Digal)

from: http://www.cbcpnews.com/?q=node/1520

Newswriting Seminar-Workshop

2008-03-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

Social Communications Apostolate
Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro

in cooperation with the

CBCP Media Office

invite you to a

Newswriting Seminar-Workshop
(from a Catholic Perspective)

April 25-27, 2008
MASS SPECC, Tiano-Yacapin Streets,
Cagayan de Oro City

For details, please contact:
Sr. Mary Anne M. Padilla, FSP
Directress
Contact Nos. 309-5877 // 0928-988-2094

Lozada respects CBCP statement

2008-02-28T01:24:00.000-08:00

Lozada respects CBCP statement

MANILA, February 27, 2008—Senate witness on the National Broadband Network (NBN) deal probe Rodolfo "Jun" Lozada yesterday said he respects the "collective wisdom" of the Catholic Bishop's Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) when it decided not to join calls for President Gloria Arroyo's resignation.

Speaking before a forum of the Makati Rotary Club, Lozada said he felt no remorse over the CBCP's statement that merely recommended the abolition of Executive Order 464, which requires Cabinet members to secure permission from Malacañang before attending any legislative hearing involving matters of the executive branch.

"I would accept the collective wisdom of the bishops but I would continue to follow my conscience," he said, apparently pertaining to his aggressive campaign for truth on corruption of the Administration.

But Lozada said he recognizes the differences in perspective of the bishops, saying "the bishops have their own mind."

"I'm sure the bishops have their unique opinions. Different bishops, different strokes," he said.

Although the prelates were not able to meet the nation's expectation over calls for Arroyo to resign, Lozada said the bishop's recommendation for the abolition of the EO 464 may lead the Palace to allow Commission on Higher Education chair Romulo Neri to further reveal details of alleged bribery and overpricing of the anomalous NBN deal with China's ZTE Corporation.

"I believe Sec. Neri is only waiting for the Supreme Court ruling over his appeal to invoke executive privilege. But with the repeal of EO 464, he can now speak about the truth he is carrying for a long time already," he said.

Neri was the director-general of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) at the time the NBN-ZTE deal was approved. He once appeared before the Senate to speak of the P200 million commission offered him by resigned Elections Commissioner Benjamin Abalos, Sr.

But when asked to divulge the further conversations he had with the President regarding the bribe attempt, Neri invoked executive privilege to offset further inquiry. In questioning the authority of the Senate, Neri appealed before the Supreme Court to justify his invocation of privacy.

(Kris Bayos of cbcpnews.com)

CBCP position may still change says CDO Archbishop

2008-02-28T01:07:00.000-08:00

CBCP position may still change says Cagayan de Oro Archbishop

MANILA, 27 February 2008—A prelate said Wednesday the Catholic bishops’ hierarchy position on the current socio-political crisis might still change if the situation calls for it.

Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma said the bishops could still issue another statement anew if alleged rampant corruption in the government will not be rightly addressed.

Ledesma made the statement amid attacks from various groups who were expecting the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines to finally call for President Arroyo’s resignation.

The CBCP held an “emergency” consultative meeting yesterday in the wake of alleged anomalies in the national broadband network government project with China’s ZTE Corp.

In the recent pastoral statement, the CBCP merely urged the Arroyo to take the lead in combating corruption.

After the meeting that many had hoped would inject fresh energy into efforts to topple Arroyo on allegations of corruption, the CBCP merely urged Arroyo to lead in fighting corruption.

The bishops also called on Arroyo to revoke Executive Order 464 and allow her officials to attend any investigations and tell the truth.

The CBCP said the President should act immediately especially now that “questions about the moral ascendancy are being raised” against her administration.

Arroyo critics tagged the EO 464 as a notorious gag, which the government has clamped on the mouths of executive officers who are in a position to reveal incriminating truth.

“At present this was really the reflection made by the bishops and I’m glad that there was a majority of the bishops that came and answer that call for a special meeting,” he said.

But “everything is open in the since that we have to judge the situation according to its own merits at the proper time,” said Ledesma, a former CBCP vice-president.

The prelate also clarified that calling for Arroyo’s resignation is a “political call,” and the bishops themselves are aware that they cannot make political options for the public to follow.

“What we can stress is the moral aspect and that’s why we were stressing the pursuit of truth to fight corruption at all levels,” he said.

Ledesma likewise added that the CBCP will closely monitor and will keep asking the government for “concrete compliance” with their recommendations.

“We will certainly be expecting that and in fact in earlier statements we were asking for a closure of many of these high profile cases of alleged graft and corruption,” he said.

(from cbcpnews.com)

2008-02-26T19:55:00.000-08:00

CBCP wants EO 464 scrapped

MANILA, February 26, 2008— The Catholic bishops’ hierarchy has called on President Gloria Arroyo to dismantle Executive Order 464 and allow her officials to attend any probe and tell the truth.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines issued the statement Tuesday night after a whole day consultative meeting in a bid to discuss current political issues.

In a 2-page pastoral statement, the bishops are convinced that letting her officials testify in investigations could somehow help bring back credibility to her administration.

The CBCP said Arroyo should take the move immediately especially now that questions about the moral ascendancy are being raised against the government.

Various groups described the EO 464 as a notorious gag, which Arroyo has clamped on the mouths of executive officers who are in a position to reveal incriminating truth.

“We strongly recommend the abolition of EO 464 so that those who might have knowledge of any corruption in branches of government may be free to testify before the appropriate investigating bodies,” the bishops said.

The prelates urged Arroyo to let her subordinates to reveal any corrupt acts, particularly about the ZTE-NBN mess, without being obstructed in their testimony, “no matter who is involved.”

The bishops noticed that, whenever government officials are called to testify in any probe, rarely do such officers claim the lame excuse of executive privilege.

The law, the CBCP said, remains the biggest obstacle to the discovery of truth, which must be pursued.

Some Church leaders believe that the total abandonment of EO 464 can be the kick off of nursing somehow her ailing presidency.

Saying that the country is facing a “crisis of truth and the pervading cancer of corruption,” the prelates also urged Arroyo and other government agencies to lead in fighting corruption.

“We condemn the continuing culture of corruption from the top to the bottom of our social and political ladder,” the statement read.

The CBCP likewise appealed to senators and the Ombudsman to use their distinct and different powers of inquiry into alleged corruption cases "not for their own interests but for the common good."

They also asked the media to be a positive resource of seeking the truth and combating corruption by "objective reporting without bias and partiality."

For the long term, the prelates renewed its call for “circles of discernment” at the grassroots level, recognized lay organizations, religious institutions and in the academe.

Such “communal action” at the grassroots level, the statement added, will perpetuate people power so brilliantly demonstrated to the world at EDSA 1.

"It is people power ... at the grassroots will find out the culture of truth and integrity we so deeply seek and build," it said.

A Call for Emancipation

2008-02-26T18:17:00.000-08:00

A Statement from Concerned Citizens of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro

A CALL FOR EMANCIPATION
FROM THE BONDAGE OF CORRUPTION

“For authority was given you by the Lord,
your kingship is from the Most High…”

Wisdom 7:3

Lent is a season of reflection, penance, and self-renewal. Can it be providential that during this time of lent, we are hounded once again by deep and disturbing scandals affecting us individually as citizens and collectively as a nation?

The dismal state of corruption in government as revealed by recent revelations should now impel us to seek and pursue the truth. Actually, the truth is out. Corruption is rampant: in the use of public funds, among friends, in our dealings with foreigners, in public offices, among high and low officials.

The essential thing now, is for us to reflect on what has become of us Filipinos. And by “us” we mean all, both in and out of government, private and public individuals. For there seems to be a presupposition that corruption is bred by government and government alone. Nothing can be farther from the truth. Corruption exists even in the private sector which should likewise get its share of condemnation. Corruption is present even in churches and schools, among adults and youth. Moreover, like cancer it is not confined to just one part. It affects and pains from wherever it emanates. Rizal, a century ago, once alluded to a metaphor of the motherland as being sick. Did we ever reflect and ask ourselves why until this very day we have the same diagnosis?

On a brighter side however, we are grateful to God. With His grace, we still exist as a nation. Many times over, we have been given another lease on life as Filipinos, with our country-the Philippines. But our nation is still a work-in-progress. We’ve had numerous pre-colonial uprisings, modern day coup de etats, and people power revolts. We seem to be endlessly rolling the rock of Sisyphus up and down the hill of our destiny. But by the grace of God, we have survived.

And so we ask: Why are we corrupt? Why do we have this debilitating and enslaving sin? And this question we can only ask ourselves. Is it just our leaders? How about us? Do we put the blame on others only?

Are we indeed sovereign and responsible citizens? There is among us a cry of dismay over corruption. And there is a growing clamor for both immediate and long term actions. But before we leap, let us pause to reflect, to discern, to do penance, and pray for renewal done on a national level during this time of lent. Let us resolve to emerge from this period, discernment renewed at Easter time.

We respectfully request President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who is conscience bound as a symbol of our sovereignty, to pronounce herself on the allegations hurled against her administration and her very family. The allegations are very serious and even point to her as being the core of all the anomalies happening in her government. We ask her, devout Catholic as she is, to level with us her people, to take us into her confidence in the spirit of lent, with God as her witness – but spare us the legal/technical jargons of politicians. We ask her to share her innermost sentiments and reflections with the people. What has she to say about why our country has become so corrupt? Let the blind eyes of justice prevail. If she’s still worth being our president, then let it be. But if she finds herself wanting, then in all humility, let her resign as an act of penance, and pave the way for national self-renewal eventually to evolve into a renewed nation embarked on high moral grounds and not just on power and self aggrandizement alone.

We pray that in this season of lent, we can reflect more on the causes of sin, do penance, and collectively renew our life as a nation by eradicating corruption around us in our personal life and in the life of the community.

LEADERSHIP SEMINAR

2008-02-08T00:48:00.000-08:00

The Christian Family and Life Apostolate
of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro
will be holding a
CFLA Leadership Seminar
on March 1, 2008, at Lourdes College Auditorium.

This is a once in a lifetime seminar
for all the members of the CFLA in the Archdiocese.

Come One, Come All!!!

All for the Glory of God!

NATIONAL BIBLE WORKSHOP

2008-02-08T00:33:00.000-08:00

The Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro
will be hosting this years
National Bible Workshop
on February 11 to 13, 2008
at Chali Beach Resort, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City.

This seminar is hosted by the
Episcopal Commission on Bible Apostolate (ECBA)
of the
Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

SEMINAR WORKSHOP

2008-02-01T19:14:00.000-08:00

To: All Diocesan Clergy
From: Social Communications Ministry
Re: Seminar-Workshop

The Social Communications Ministry in cooperation with CBCP Media Office, Manila, is inviting all Diocesan Clergy and representatives of their parish to attend the two (2) day intensive seminar workshop on Newsletter Making on March 8-9, 2008.

For details, please leave your comments here or contact the Social Communications Ministry at these numbers, Bayan (3) 3095877; Samsung (08822) 722-420; PhilCom (088) 856-4392. You may e-mail us at ascmcdo@yahoo.com.ph

NATIONAL BIBLE WEEK

2008-01-13T18:40:00.001-08:00

NATIONAL BIBLE WEEK

January 21-27, 2008

Theme: God’s Word: Source of Justice, Reconciliation, and Peace”

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

January 21, 2008

A Walk for Peace, Reconciliation and Justice.

5:00 AM Assembly at Provincial Capitol Grounds

5:30 AM Procession to the Cathedral

6:30 AM Holy Mass at the Cathedral

January 23, 2008

Inter-Campus Bible Quiz

2:00 PM San Jose de Mindanao Seminary

January 27, 2008

National Bible Sunday

5:00 PM Mass Culminating the National Bible Week

click Bible Reading Guide

FORUM

2008-01-01T19:23:00.000-08:00

FORUM ON EXORCISM

Venue : St. John Vianney Theological Seminary

Date : January 18, 2008 (7:30 PM)

Speaker: Fr. Syquia, Director on Exorcism (Mla.)

Out of Town Meeting/ Outing

2007-10-16T23:58:00.000-07:00

The meeting was held last October 12, 2007 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Binuangan, Misamis Oriental. This was sponsored by its parish priest, Rev. Fr. Ricardo "Rickettz" Dancela, SSJV

REGULAR MEETING

2007-10-16T23:54:00.000-07:00

The Social Communications
meet regularly every Thursday, 6:00 in the evening
at Our Lady of Fatima Chapel, del Pilar-Velez Sts, CDOC

2007-09-12T23:45:00.000-07:00

Office of the Archbishop
Archbishop's House
P.O. Box 113
Cagayan de Oro City

September 13, 2007

Recognizing that the case is still appealable, the Sandiganbayan's decision is a reminder that no one even a former president of the land, is above the law. We therefore appeal to everyone to respect the rule of law.

We also enjoin every one to continue praying for peace in our country.

For His Excellency Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD

Msgr. Columbus E. Villamil, HP, SSJV, VG
Msgr. Jose A. Cabantan, STL, SSJV, VG
Msgr. Florencio P. Salvador, STD, SSJV, VG

CDO FIESTA MESSAGE

2007-08-26T19:46:00.000-07:00

Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro
Archbishop's House
P.O. Box 113
9000 Cagayan de Oro City
Philippines

August 28, 2007

Dear Kagay-anons,

During this feastday of the patron of our city and archdiocese, St. Augustine, we can ask for his special intercession regarding three current concerns.

The first concern is that we continue to promote a culture of peace through interreligious dialogue, despite the escalation of hostilities in Jolo and Basilan. We regret the loss of lives on both sides of the conflict and pray that peace talks be resumed as soon as possible.

The second concern is about the protection of our environment against unregulated mining operations reported in the upstream areas of Dansolihon, Pigsag-an , and other nearby places. In particular, the irreversible erosion of the topsoil through flush mining has polluted Iponan River and nearby waterways. Sooner or later, this will have a negative impact on the city’s premier tourist attraction, whitewater rafting.

Thirdly, we are concerned about the inability of COMELEC to accommodate all the eligible young voters during the limited registration period last July. A conservative estimate of 100,000 young voters may have been “disenfranchised” throughout the city and province simply because of the cumbersome procedures of COMELEC. A manifesto from the young voters of the city recommended a school-based registration campaign instead.

These then are our three wishes for the present and future wellbeing of our region – to preserve the peace, to conserve the environment, and to empower our young voters for coming elections.

Through the example of St. Augustine, may we learn to fashion the City of Man in the light of our higher calling in the City of God.

In our Lord,

(Sgd.) +Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J.

Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro

2007-07-31T00:53:00.001-07:00

July 24, 2007

To: Archdiocesan Clergy, Religious, Lay
leaders, Educators, & Seminarians

From: Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J.

Re: APPOINTMENTS

As part of the reshuffling of parish assignments, I am making the following appointments for our archdiocese offices and ministries:

1. Vicar-General and Oeconomus: Msgr. Columbus E. Villamil (Overseer of the archdiocese’s standardization process)

2. Vicar-General: Fr. Florencio P. Salvador (Coordinator of Ad Intra Ministries)

3. Vicar-General and Social Action Director: Fr. Jose A. Cabantan (Coordinator of Ad Extra Ministries)

4. Treasurer: Sr. Claire P. Cinco, RVM

5. Chancellor: Fr. Roel V. Buntol

6. Commission on Clergy: Fr. Othelo P. Polinar

7. Matrimonial Tribunal: Msgr. Rey S. Monsanto

8. Commission on Doctrine & Faith: Msgr. Cirilo L. Isnani

9. Land Records Office: Fr. Lyndon G. Zayas

10. Prefect of Health: Fr. Gil G. Escalante

11. Social Communications Commission: Sr. Mary Anne Padilla, FSP

12. Archdiocesan Center of Concern and Social Services (ACCESS): Ms. Myrna Siose (Facilitator)

13. Archdiocesan Pastoral Formation Center: Fr. Florencio P. Salvador (Director)

These appointments take effect on 1 August 2007 and will be until May 2010. Any turn-over transition may take place until Aug. 14^th.

The heads and members of the various ad intra and ad extra ministries are being consulted by the two Pastoral Coordinators.

On August 14^th, the clergy will have their regular meeting at 8:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in San Jose de Mindanao Seminary. After lunch time, at 1:30 we are inviting all religious and lay co-workers in the ad extra ministries to join the clergy to conduct some strategic planning by particular ministries.

Whenever I am out of the archdiocese, one of the vicars-general will take over on the basis of seniority.

Earlier, the Vicar-Forane of our six districts had been appointed. The District fathers are asked to choose an assistant vicar-forane.

We thank all those who have rendered service over the past years and welcome those who are beginning or continuing their services.

2007-07-24T00:48:00.000-07:00

Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting

23 July 2007

For: All Diocesan/ District/ Parish Coordinators

Re: Extension of Registration for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections

Warm greetings!

COMELEC Chairman Benjamin Abalos has extended the registrations for Barangay and SK Elections on the following dates:

Registration for the Barangay Elections has been extended up to 31 July 2007 inclusive of Saturday and Sunday.
Registration for the Sangguniang Kabataan Election has been extended to these dates: July 28 & 29, 2007 and August 4 & 5, 2007. Registration will be on weekends only since students who compose the majority of SK voters have classes during the weekdays.

Please mobilize all your units/ members/ volunteers to disseminate this information to as many people as possible, and as soon as possible. God bless you and your efforts.

With prayers and love,

SGD. Amb. Henrietta T. de Villa
PPCRV National Chairperson

2007-07-14T01:23:00.000-07:00

Pope brings back Latin Mass

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI issued a decree Saturday allowing greater use of mass in Latin, signaling a bid to heal a decades-old split in the Roman Catholic Church.

Priests are to meet requests by the faithful to hold mass in the traditional Church language, which had widely been dropped after the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s.

"In parishes where there is a stable group of faithful who adhere to the earlier liturgical tradition, the pastor should willingly accept their request to celebrate the Mass according to the rite of the Roman Missal published in 1962 ..," said the decree.

The decree was released "motu proprio," Latin for "of one's own accord", meaning the pope did not take counsel from others.

"The pastor, having attentively examined all aspects, may also grant permission to use the earlier ritual for the administration of the Sacraments of Baptism, Marriage, Penance, and the Anointing of the Sick, if the good of souls would seem to require it," it added.

The virtual abandonment of the Tridentine mass after the Second Vatican Council in 1965 was one of the causes of a breakaway led by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre in 1970.

The move was to allow the greater use of mass in local languages, one of a series of reforms made by the council in a bid to modernize the Church.

Traditionalists say the Tridentine mass, named after the town of Trento, now in northern Italy, is more spiritual and historically authentic than the modern version. But under the current rules a bishop had to give approval for its use.

Traditionalists want to celebrate the Tridentine mass according to a 16th-century ritual with the priest facing away from the congregation.

10 Commandments for Drivers

2007-06-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

VATICAN CITY (AP) -- Got road rage? The Vatican on Tuesday issued a set of "Ten Commandments" for drivers, telling motorists to be charitable to others on the highways, to refrain from drinking and driving, and to pray you make it before you even buckle up.

An unusual document from the Vatican's office for migrants and itinerant people also warned that automobiles can be "an occasion of sin" -- particularly when they are used for dangerous passing or for prostitution.

It warned about the effects of road rage, saying driving can bring out "primitive" behavior in motorists, including "impoliteness, rude gestures, cursing, and blasphemy, loss of sense of responsibility or deliberate infringement of the highway code."

It urged motorists to obey traffic regulations, drive with a moral sense, and to pray when behind the wheel.

Cardinal Renato Martino, who heads the office, told a news conference that the Vatican felt it necessary to address the pastoral needs of motorists because driving had become such a big part of contemporary life.

He noted that the Bible was full of people on the move, including Mary and Joseph, the parents of Jesus -- and that his office is tasked with dealing with all "itinerant" people -- from refugees to prostitutes, truck drivers to the homeless.

"We know that as a consequence of transgressions and negligence, 1.2 million people die each year on the roads," Martino said. "That's a sad reality, and at the same time, a great challenge for society and the church."

The document, "Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of the Road," extols the benefits of driving -- family outings, getting the sick to the hospital, allowing people to see other cultures.

But it laments a host of ills associated with automobiles: Drivers use their cars to show off; driving "provides an easy opportunity to dominate others" by speeding; drivers can kill themselves and others if they don't get their cars regular tune-ups, if they drink, use drugs or fall asleep at the wheel.

It also pointed the finger at traffic problems particularly to teens that can drive without full driving licenses, and "the reckless use of motorbikes and motorcycles."

It called for drivers to obey speed limits and to exercise a host of Christian virtues: charity to fellow drivers, prudence on the roads, hope of arriving safely and justice in the event of crashes.

And it suggested prayer might come in handy -- performing the sign of the cross before starting off and saying the Rosary along the way. The Rosary was particularly well suited to recitation by all in the car since it’s "rhythm and gentle repetition does not distract the driver's attention." The document is intended for bishop’s conferences around the world, and as such offered recommendations for their pastoral workers.

Drivers’ Ten Commandments’

1) You shall not kill.

2) The road shall be for you a means of communication between people and not of mortal harm.

3) Courtesy, uprightness and prudence will help you deal with unforeseen events.

4) Be charitable and help your neighbor in need, especially victims of accidents.

5) Cars shall not be for you an expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin.

6) Charitably convince the young and not so young not to drive when they are not in a fitting condition to do so.

7) Support the families of accident victims.

8) Bring guilty motorists and their victims together, at the appropriate time, so that they can undergo the liberating experience of forgiveness.

9) On the road, protect the more vulnerable party.

10) Feel responsible toward others.

2007-06-11T18:11:00.001-07:00

Media Literacy Education Seminar-Workshop

EVALUATIONS

What do I like most?

· Versatility of the facilitator on the subject (media)

· Methodology of Film Analysis

ü Obtaining each participants understanding/ perception.

ü Sharing of personal experiences and thoughts on the topics

· The sharing and workshop that synthesizes the seminar as what MLE is all about

· The Prince of Egypt because we learn to be considerate in dealing people. The love and faith in God was always there.

· The use of visual media symbols like DLP Projectors, Laptop, VHS and DVD Players as mediums for seminar instructions.

· The film showing and its Analysis, Assessment, Evaluation.

· The process of the workshop and the speaker is well equipped and knowledgeable.

· The whole topic in general. It gives/ creates social awareness and advocates change.

· Analyzing movies of the story and its technical aspects.

· Awareness on the importance of good and balance programming to be watched.

· The input as integrated with workshop: Film analysis and sharing, exchange and listening of opinions.

· The eight (8) principles of media literacy and its implications for us to be more sensitive and responsible in the kind of medium that the children of today must use and the responsibilities of parents must impose to their children.

· Awareness on the importance of being critical and analytical.

· Very timely and necessary.

· The greater sense of realization that media is a gift from God and therefore should be devoted to His divine purposes. With this greater sense of realization comes the urgency of my Christian duty to ensure that, within the sphere of my personal influence in my own family and office. All forms of media are used in manner that is redeeming and enlightening.

What do I like less?

· Virtual presentations are too long, hopes it may be shorten to have more time on the workshop and sharing.

· The “Maging Sino Ka Man” because there are so many criticisms made by viewers.

· None that I can think of given “no standard” to compare

· Small time allotted for sharing. Very limited.

· Too short and lacks support/ reading materials for reference on echo trainings.

· The missing topic about the advertisement analysis.

· The food.

What do I recommend on the next seminar?

· That this seminar will be carried and facilitated to all not only in religious sector but to schools.

· Allow time to let a greater number to do the sharing of thoughts and perception

ü Offer possible guide or direction on contended moral or spiritual issues.

· Give seminar to Lay Leaders.

· Two (2) days is not adequate for a big group.

· Supplementary reading materials and videos.

· Another seminar be given and request others to attend especially to religious who are running schools.

· Request the ASCM to do the MLE workshop to schools in this city.

· MLE may give emphasis on the new media especially on the effects on children and how to handle the challenge for the parents, educators and the children themselves.

· More materials and course be made available locally.

· To include advertisement analysis.

· Music to add up on the media topic

· Conduct MLE seminar-workshop to youth organizations.

· Recommended for teachers, students, film producers and directors, scriptwriters.

· Plan of action should be formulated at the end of the workshop.

· Strongly recommended this seminar to be spread among priests and parents and young people in all our parishes.

Others:

· Excellent

· Exciting!

· The presentations were great; I look forward for the next seminar.

· KODUS! Count me in… the crusade. May your kind increase!

· To the sponsoring commission/ organizers, thank you for coming out with this kind of seminar-workshop. Congratulations!

41st World Communications Day Homily

2007-06-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

Homily of Most Reverend Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD
Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro City
41^st World Communications Day (May 20, 2007)

This afternoon, we are celebrating a special mass for World Communication Sunday on Ascension Day which is celebrated in the liturgy of the church, and the theme is about; “Children and the Media: a Challenge for Education”.

We are glad to see many representatives of the media channels, and organizations who are here with us; we are also glad to see the children that performed earlier and have done some of the readings and are here also are their parents.

In many ways, the role of media and our upbringing of children are two folds in the educational process, and this is what the message of the Holy Father that was pictured earlier meant for reading today reminds us that we are concerned of our first, the formation of children, but also with our concern about the responsibility of media in the formation of children.

In one sense, the little ones with us in our homes, in our communities have a very small world to live in. They depend directly on the love they share with their parents, and brothers and sisters and their world rose as they move on in their school.

On the other side, we have the media, people in the press, the radio, on tv, now on internet and they have the whole wide world before them. It is they who come and through the various media sources and channels they enter the hook through the tv set, radio, through the newspaper, through the computer and it is they that also helped in the formation of our children. Someone had said that in the past the education of humanity took place first in the two, then as man began to progress we also have the schools, the academes, that in the history of the church, the church itself became of a ripper of the young and even today as we come together every Sunday or everyday and as we listen to the word of God, this educational process within the church continues. But now, in our modern age, it is really man’s immediate that it has reach out to the corners of the globe and that it has reach out to the most intimate part of our voice that seems to be persuasive and in a sense for better or for worse the media are also the molders of the education of the young.

So it is on this sense that we have two pictures given us in this message of the Holy Father, perhaps contrasting, the embracing arms of Jesus around the little children as it go even to His apostles not to prevent the little ones to come to Him. But the contrast is its own warning about those who cause scandal to the little ones how it will be better for them to be thrown into the deep with the mill stone around their neck. In many ways, the scandal that we can also provide in terms of the wrong kind of information and the wrong kind of influence is a heart that is done to the little ones, and it is in this sense that the concern of our Lord, and the concern of the church is also the great mind, the great responsibility, and the great task of people in media today to help in the formation of the little ones.

In many ways, the church itself is communication, we are ask to share the gospel which literally means the good news, and this is what we keep on repeating in our readings, in our reflections during homily time, in our worship to share the good news of Gods love for all of us, to share the good news that God said “yes” to humanity, to share the good news that human dignity, the work of every human person starts first in our care for our children an as they grow up to bring to fullness the meaning of human dignity as they exercise the fullness of their physical and spiritual powers. And it is in this sense that you as parents or as teachers or as people in media or even as members of the church can help in the formation of the little ones.

It is a noble task; it is the way that our Lord invited the apostles themselves especially during this day of Ascension when going up to heaven in that word that the apostles themselves remit on earth to be become witnesses of God presence of the divine in all of us. The search for what is true, and what is good, and what is beautiful, continues in our call daily lives, and in our call daily communication with one another. Hopefully, those in the mass media can multiply this communication of what is indeed true, what is indeed good, and what is indeed beautiful, not only for the little ones but for all of us.

May this invitation then of World Communications Day and Ascension Sunday remind us that we and you, as parents as educators, and members of media profession exercise a very noble profession of sharing the good news of Gods love for each one of us.

2007-06-08T00:18:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Sr. Mary Anne M. Padilla, FSP
Mr. Wilson C. Amad
June 9, 2007

CONGRATULATIONS!

2007-06-08T00:14:00.000-07:00

Rev. Fr. Medallo R. Valmores, SSJV
25th Presbyteral Anniversary

2007-06-06T23:27:00.000-07:00

The Archdiocesan Social Communications Ministry would like to thank all those who participated the Media Literacy Education Seminar-Workshop.

We would also like to thank

the Directress of Paulines Institute of Communication in Asia,

Dr. Maria Consolata Manding, FSP, PhD-Communication

for her time and expertise as our Resource Speaker.

Above all, to God, we give glory and honor.

Group/Organizations/Schools

5 Students
5 Government workers
50 Pastoral workers (schools & religious organizations/religious women)

Government Workers/ Media Sector:

ﺀ CEPALCO

ﺀ RMN DXCC

Parishes Represented:

ﺀ Immaculate Conception Parish (Bulua)

ﺀ Jesus Nazareno Parish (CM Recto Avenue)

ﺀ Our Lady of Fatima Parish (Camaman-an)

ﺀ Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish (Villanueva)

ﺀ San Antonio de Padua Parish (Nazareth)

ﺀ San Isidro Labrador Parish (Gusa)

ﺀ St. Agustin Metropolitan Cathedral

ﺀ St. Rita de Cascia Parish (Balingasag)

ﺀ Sto. Nino Parish (Cogon)

Religious Nuns:

ﺀ Carmelite Missionaries

ﺀ Daughters of St. Paul

ﺀ Hijas de Jesus

ﺀ Missionary Sisters of the Holy Family

Religious Organizations:

ﺀ ACCESS

ﺀ Archdiocesan Social Communications Ministry

ﺀ Association of Pauline Cooperators

ﺀ Basic Ecclesial Community Formators

ﺀ Catholic Family and Life Apostolate

ﺀ Charismatic

ﺀ Couples for Christ

ﺀ Kahayag sa Dios Community

ﺀ Knights of Columbus

ﺀ Neo Catechumenate

ﺀ Oasis of Love

ﺀ Tingog Pamilya

Schools/ University:

ﺀ Kong Hua School

ﺀ Sacred Heart Montessori School

ﺀ St. Francis Learning Center

ﺀ Xavier University-Psychology Department

MLE SEMINAR-WORKSHOP

2007-05-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

On the occasion of the 41^st World Communications Day last May 20, 2007, the Archdiocesan Social Communications Ministry (ASCM), in cooperation with the Daughters of Saint Paul, is organizing a Media Literacy Seminar-Workshop on May 28-29, 2007, 8:00am – 5:00pm at Max Restaurant, Cagayan de Oro City. Our resource person is the Directress of the Paulines Institute of Communication in Asia (PICA), Manila,

For more information and reservations, please contact Sr. Mary Anne M. Padilla, FSP, of the Daughters of Saint Paul with these numbers (08822) 722-420 or (088) 856-4392.

PASTORAL ASSIGNMENTS

2007-05-22T02:55:00.001-07:00

ARCHDIOCESE OF CAGAYAN DE ORO

Pastoral Assignments Effective June 2007-May 2010

=============================================================

HIS HOLINESS, THE POPE

Benedict XVI

Bishop of Rome, Successor of St. Peter

Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church

Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province

Sovereign of the State of the Vatican City

THE APOSTOLIC NUNCIATURE

His Excellency, Most Rev. Fernando Filoni, DD

Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines

THE CATHOLIC BISHOP’S CONFERENCE OF THE PHILIPPINES

His Excellency, Most Rev. Angel N. Lagdameo, DD

Archbishop of Jaro

President, Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines

Rev. Fr. Juanito S. Figura

Secretary General and Assistant Treasurer

Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines

General Secretariat

His Excellency, Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD

Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro Metropolitan

Ecclesiastical Province of Cagayan de Oro

=============================================================

PARISHES and PAROCHIAL CLERGY

CAMIGUIN

Mambajao	Fr. Enerio C. Tacastacas	Parish Priest
	Fr. Remargin J. Ubalde	Parochial Vicar
Mahinog	Fr. Marlo S. Acenas	Parish Priest
Guinsiliban	Fr. Saturnino S. Lumba	Parish Priest
Sagay	Fr. Jose Isagani E. Villamil	Parish Priest
Catarman	Fr. Wilfredo Y. Tuquib	Parish Priest

GINGOOG

Magsaysay	Fr. Roberto C. Balsamo	Parish Priest
	Fr. Pagatpatan, R	Parochial Vicar
Anakan	Fr. Roger E. Almonia	Parish Priest
Gingoog	Fr. Joel M. Lusat	Parish Priest
	Fr. Harren B. Salon	Parochial Vicar
	Fr. Balacuit, L.A.	Parochial Vicar
Medina	Fr. Benecio Z. Andohon	Parish Priest
Talisayan	Fr. Neil B. Limbaco	Parish Priest
Balingoan	Fr. Ismael Scott N. Escanilla	Parish Priest
Kinoguitan	Fr. Bernard Elvin Q. Simene	Parish Priest
Sugbongcogon	Fr. Elcon V. Magtrayo	Parish Priest

BALINGASAG

Binuangan	Fr. Ricardo A. Dancela	Parish Priest
Salay	Fr. Nestor D. Caduyag	Parish Priest
Lagonglong	Fr. Roniedon P. Valmoria	Parish Priest
Balingasag	Fr. Nilo T. Aguiman	Parish Priest
	Fr. Elmer S. Empinado	Parochial Vicar
Baliwagan	Fr. Sacris O. Recoleto	Parish Priest
Bobontugan	Fr. Mario B. Arazo	Parish Priest
Jasaan	Fr. Filomeno P. Cabulosan	Parish Priest
	Fr. Ronald H. Ledesma	Parochial Vicar
Claveria	Fr. Ruel M. Buhisan	Parish Priest
Villanueva	Fr. Jojo Joel S. Oga	Parish Priest
Malitbog	Fr. Renerio Sabuga	Parish Priest

CITY EAST

Tagoloan	Msgr. Abelardo S. Cabillan	Parish Priest
	Fr. Raul S. Bagongon	Parochial Vicar
Bugo	Fr. Alexander E. Borres	Parish Priest
Agusan	Fr. Richard Pankratz	Parish Priest
	Fr. Dales, J.	Parochial Vicar
Cugman	Fr. Isidro T. Apduhan	Parish Priest
Gusa	Fr. Fermin P. Tan	Parish Priest
Nazareno	Msgr. Rey M. S. Monsanto	Parish Priest
	Fr. Fredberto E. Ranan	Parochial Vicar
	Fr. Jessie P. Namocot	Parochial Vicar
Macabalan - Puntod	Fr. Noel A. Ebana	Chaplain
Consolacion	Fr. Gerard Joy Montiague	Parish Priest
	Fr. Laroga, W.	Parochial Vicar
Cogon	Fr. Raoul P. Magracia	Parish Priest
Camaman-an	Fr. Nathaniel C. Lerio	Parish Priest
Aluba	Fr. Pedro A. Sombilon	Chaplain
Nazareth	Msgr. Tex M. Legitimas	Parish Priest
	Fr. Stephen A. Olario	Parochial Vicar
	Fr. Ramon L. Hinlo	Parochial Vicar
Cathedral – U. Balulang	Msgr. Columbus E. Villamil	Parish Priest
	Fr. Jose Daniel D. Coronel	Parochial Vicar
	Fr. Roger Gabac	Parochial Vicar
	Msgr. Rodolfo C. Roa *	Parochial Vicar
	Fr. Cesar A. Ramantin	Parochial Vicar
	Fr. Rolando A. Gabutera *	Parochial Vicar
Chinese Community	Fr. Gil Escalante	Chaplain

CITY WEST

Carmen	Fr. Perseus P. Cabunoc	Parish Priest
	Fr. Julito S. Cabactulan	Parochial Vicar
Balulang	Fr. Glenn P. Pimentel	Parish Priest
Lumbia	Fr. Jose A. Cabantan	Parish Priest
	Fr. Rene D. Soldevilla	Parochial Vicar
Calaanan	Fr. Vicente D. Cervantes	Chaplain
Canitoan	Fr. Floro A. Barsobia	Chaplain
RER	Fr. Joel Lasutaz	Parish Priest
	Fr. Hermie Garcia	Parochial Vicar
Kauswagan	Fr. Roel V. Buntol	Parish Priest
	Fr. Harnifer L. Godinez	Parochial Vicar
Bulua	Fr. Eddie V. Magtrayo	Parish Priest
	Fr. Diosdado L. Ladera	Parochial Vicar
Iponan	Fr. Wilson R. Legaspi	Chaplain
Dansolihon	Fr. Cabaluna, J.K	Chaplain

INITAO DISTRICT

Opol	Fr. Rufino L. Cabatingan	Parish Priest
El Salvador	Msgr. Cirilo L. Isnani	Parish Priest
	Fr. Ceballos, M	Parochial Vicar
Alubijid	Fr. Cleto Z. Tañajura	Parish Priest
Laguindingan	Fr. Raul G. Sesante	Parish Priest
Gitagum	Fr. Juliano O. Retiquez	Parish Priest
Libertad	Fr. Rhutenberge D. Develos	Parish Priest
Initao	Fr. Doroteo S. Rabuyo, Jr.	Parish Priest
	Fr. D’ Souza, S.	Parochial Vicar
Naawan	Fr. Joseph G. Schwegmann	Parish Priest
Manticao	Fr. Ramer M. Colanse	Parish Priest
Lugait	Fr. Aurelio B. Jaranilla	Parish Priest

SEMINARIES

San Jose de Mindanao Seminary

Fr. Othelo P. Polinar	Rector
Fr. Nemesio A. Pacaña	Formator
Fr. Raul A. Ricacho	Counselor
Fr. William A. Salva	SFY Director
Fr. Renato B. Lomonsod	Treasurer

St. John Vianney Theological Seminary

Fr. Florencio P. Salvador	Professor
Fr. Jose A. Cabantan	Professor
Fr. Jose Alan P. Pulgo	Treasurer
Fr. Lyndon G. Zayas	Administrator

Special Studies

Fr. Raul B. Dael	Rome
Fr. F. Wagner N. Nalitan	Rome
Fr. Demli R. C. Valmores	LST, Q.C.
Fr. Julius B. Clavero	LST, Q.C.
Fr. Gabutera, R.	IDEA, CDO

In Philippine Dioceses

Fr. Remar S. Dagoc	Parañaque
Fr. Pete F. Ubalde	Tandag
Fr. Manolito Antiporta	Cebu
Fr. Roy Barros	Ipil
Msgr. Elmer S. Abacahin	CBCP-BEC

X. Overseas

Fr. Allan B. Chabit	MSP
Fr. Reno L. Alima	New Zealand
Fr. Ronald Gadrinab	New Jersey, U.S.
Fr. Elias M. Salomon	San Francisco, U.S.
Fr. Felipe Paraguya	Sacramento, U.S.
Fr. Walter B. Tabios	Sacramento, U.S.
Fr. Aldrin G. Basarte	Sacramento, U.S.
Fr. Rolan R. Pabellan	Sacramento, U.S
Fr. Mario Valmorida	Sacramento, U.S.
Fr. Alfredo Heyrosa	San Diego, U.S.
Fr. Gary P. Igot	Canada
Fr. Cornelio Cadenas	Italy

XI. Sabbatical

Fr. Medallo R. Valmores

Fr. Ramon L. Hinlo (pending)

XII. On Leave

Fr. Melvin P. Clapano

Fr. Alexander A. Hora

* Part-time

Notes:

1) Terms of parish priests and seminary formators are for three years, renewable for another three years after review.

2) Terms for parochial vicars are normally for one year. Parochial vicars may be assigned to other places or given special assignments, depending on circumstances.

3) Macabalan and Puntod will be considered as two chaplaincies administered by one chaplain.

4) Upper Balulang will be attached to the Cathedral Parish under its Parish Priest, while a Pro-Cathedral is being planned and built in Pueblo de Oro.

5) As part of their regular ministry, seminary fathers will continue to help out with Sunday Masses in large parishes.

6) Parochial vicars are still needed for parishes like Anakan, Baliwagan, Claveria, Malitbog, Opol, and Manticao.

7) Kinoguitan and Sugbongcogon parishes will join Gingoog District.

8) The transfer to new assignments can be done any time during the last week of May, upon mutual arrangement between incoming and outgoing priests. The new Pastoral Year begins on 1 June 2007.

9) Regardless of location or assignment, it would be good to keep in mind that each priest participates in the collective ministry of the archdiocese – as an extension of Our Lord’s own shepherding of his flock.

+ Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., D.D.

Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro

2007-05-14T17:41:00.001-07:00

Agusan update:

Volunteers are documenting the incident. Legal assistance is needed in the area.

2007-05-14T17:31:00.001-07:00

Agusan update.

PPCRV volunteers found tampered or ‘doctored’ ballot boxes in the Agusan counting area.

PPCRV Volunteers found ‘anomalies’ in Agusan

2007-05-14T17:07:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. An overnight watch of PPCRV in Agusan, CDO has led to a discovery of an ‘anomaly,’ volunteers said. Fr. Dick Pankrats, pastor of the parish was in the area to investigate. LENTE lawyers are requested in the area. [Story is unfolding, investigating] PPRVC, Agusan.

MisOr’s 1st District PPCRV stays up late to protect ballots

2007-05-14T08:45:00.001-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. PPCRV volunteers in the 1st congressional district in Misamis Oriental stays up late watching and protecting ballots. A report from Sugbongcogon says that counting all 5,959 registered ballots is almost finished. Related stories from 1st district will follow. PPCRV, Sugbongcogon.

Camiguin PPRCV watches late night count

2007-05-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

Camiguin. PPCRV in Camiguin watches counting even up until this time, 11:30 pm. There was a short electrical blackout early this evening. Some precincts are still counting while others are already done. Volunteers from the area are now asking the 6th copy. PPCRV, Camiguin

MisOr’s 2nd District PPCRV guards vote count

2007-05-14T08:12:00.001-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. PPCRV in the 2nd district of MisOr guards late night counting. In Naawan alone, as of 11pm counts 2nd 100 ballot boxes, 10848 registered voters, 70-75% actually voted. PPCRV, Naawan.

Press Conference on CDO’s election atmosphere set

2007-05-14T07:01:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. A prescon is set up at XU gym for updates on the consolidated election observation of the CDO NAMFREL, PPCRV, NASSA/LENTE and ASCM. The prescon starts at 10pm tonight. It is expected that Fr. Nathan Lerio and other responsible persons would give the update. Media are invited. ASCM.

Poll-watcher gets inside voting area

2007-05-14T04:48:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. In Kinoguitan, Misamis Oriental, as reported by Fr. Alan Chavit, a poll watcher was observed getting the serial numbers of ballots inside a precinct. An RVM nun, Sr. Hallazgo, allegedly confiscated the list from the poll watcher. The list posted in the precincts is for public usage, anyone can see and use it.
From the same municipality, there is still an on-going power interruption. Said brown-out started at 2PM today. ASCM.

Initial Election Observation from NAMFREL-PPCRV-NASSA/LENTE

2007-05-14T04:40:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. As reported by volunteers, a number of voters in several precincts, particularly in Macabalan, Lapasan and Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City, found their names missing in the list of voters. Reports to this effect had been coming in at the Archdiocesan Social Communications Center at the X.U. Gym since this morning.
In a related development, rampant vote-buying is reported in many places all over the province of Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de Oro City. Cases of vote-buying had been reported as early as Thursday of this week.
Moreover, complaints from voters had been received regarding several irregularities in the voting procedures and some incompetencies of the Board of Election Inspectors assigned in the different precincts.
Lastly, several violations of election laws were also reported. ASCM.

PPCRV volunteers ready for counting

2007-05-14T00:38:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. Volunteers from PPCRV in different parishes in the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro make themselves ready for the counting of ballots this 3pm. It is expected in the precincts that by 3pm voting ends and counting begins. Due to the limited number of volunteers in Tagoloan, MisOr, PPCRV volunteers in the area found it hard to stay in just one precinct and so they devised to rove around the poll area to watch. The same story is also happening in some areas of the Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de Oro nevertheless, everything is going well. ASCM.

LENTE-NASSA calls for vigil

2007-05-14T00:16:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. The Legal Network for Truthful Elections in coordination with the Archdiocesan Center for Concern and Social Services will spearhead a vigil at 6 pm tonight until 6 am tomorrow at the City Hall. It calls on all concerned citizens to help protect all ballot boxes from the different polling places and to guard the canvassing process. To those interested, please inform the ACCESS office of the Archdiocese of the vigil schedules you and your group would like to fill up between 6 pm - 6 am tomorrow. 1-2 hours will be allotted per vigil time. Contact Aling of ACCESS office tel no. 8571192 for confirmation or coordinate with John Ocaya Cell phone no. 09276654341. - ASCM

Voters lost names in Macabalan precinct, CDO

2007-05-13T23:58:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. 62 legitimate voters in Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro are unlisted in the precincts. Story to follow. LENTE

Lente volunteer-lawyer responded to the a vote buying incident in Corrales, CDO

2007-05-13T23:53:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. An alleged giving of money by a politician in Corrales Elementary School precicnts was observed. People were complaining. Fr.Butch Zayas visited school but the politician has already left site. According to CFC volunteers, the said politician was at Corrales Elementary School around 7:00 in the morning. But the politician is not a voter in that place. At around 11:00 AM, Atty. Jun Trimor responded to the request from Corrales Elementary School and instructed LENTE volunteers to ask BEI to document all the incidents. LENTE

PPCRV volunteers’ name lost in Macabalan

2007-05-13T23:33:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. More or less 200 PPCRV volunteers found their names missing on the Volunteers list in Macabalan Elementary School this morning. Attorney Stalin Baguio, CDO Comelec supervisor said in an interview with DXCC that the volunteers' names might be misplaced in other precincts. He added that the volunteers should check their names in other precinct number. (further details will follow) – ASCM.

Group circulated papers, Moreno withdraw from gubernatorial race

2007-05-13T23:28:00.001-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. A group circulated a letter ‘signed’ by Gov. Oscar Moreno addressed to the people in Misamis Oriental saying he gave up gubernatorial race. The letter says that the incumbent governor has already accepted a cabinet position from PGMA. However, his followers says “Dili ni tinood,” [This is not true]. ASCM

Voters’ name lost in Lapasan precincts

2007-05-13T23:22:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. 81 voters who are voting in Lapasan precincts in Cagayan de Oro City cannot vote. Their names listed in COMELEC and PPCRV could not be found in the precincts' list. Many asked, "Is this another election fraud?" ACCESS.

Tagoloan PPCRV corrects teachers’ faulty voting process.

2007-05-13T23:12:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. PPCRV volunteers in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental corrected teachers for wrong voting procedures. It is said that the teachers and other COMELEC staff have the voters thumb marked and blackened with indelible inks even before they had voted. The teachers replied that it is to make the voting process fast. But PPCRV volunteers insisted and prevailed. PPCRV, Tagoloan, MisOr.

Vote buying in Villanueva

2007-05-13T23:03:00.001-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. An alleged vote buying incident in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental is observed by PPCRV volunteers. It is reported that before the voters proceeds to the precinct they are held up in a house fronting the school [central?] and are given 500 pesos. PPCRV, Villanueva, MisOr.

CDO calls for vigilance

2007-05-13T22:42:00.000-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. CDO’s responsible citizens call for vigilance in this election times. Tonight at 6pm will start a vigil activity at the city hall to guard and protect ballot boxes from different polling precincts. It is expected that by 3pm this afternoon the counting will start, then canvassing follows. The vigil parallels canvassing tomorrow. Different groups will be assigned at certain times, ‘relyebo’ system is devised. ACCESS, Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro.

Peaceful election atmosphere in CdO hoped

2007-05-13T22:12:00.001-07:00

Cagayan de Oro. The congressional elections has started at 7 am this morning today, May 14, 2007 in all precincts in the Cagayan de Oro City districts, Misamis Oriental Districts, and Camiguin Districts as expected. So far the election atmosphere is peaceful. ASCM

Shoot out in Camiguin

2007-05-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

Camigiun. The driver of Atty. Narido of Catarman, Camigiun Province was shot dead last night after an ambush. They are from the liberal party, opposition. Details will follow. [Access]

Erratum: Missing in Camiguin

Camiguin Province. The unidentified person who was allegedly dead in Catarman, Camiguin is Atty. Norido’s personnel. It is not yet confirmed if he was shot in an ambush as first reported this morning. He is gone missing up until this moment. It is said that he was on his way to deliver packages of noodles last night, May 13, 2007 at 8pm and had not returned until now. ASCM.

CBCP Dares Upcoming Gov’t Leaders to Solve Labor Crisis

2007-05-10T22:50:00.000-07:00

April 30, 2007 - CBCP President and Jaro (Iloilo) Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo said candidates should prove they’re worth the peoples’ vote by addressing the country’s labor crisis.
In the statement, “Reflection for Labor Day,” CBCP president Archbishop Angel Lagdameo said future government leaders must consider the labor condition in the country as one of their priorities.
“We hope that the future leaders in the country—from the bottom up—in solidarity with the business sector, will ensure through implementation of just legislation the workers’ rights as well as the just development of the world of work,” he said.
While the country has laws that are “pro-workers”, Lagdameo noted that many of them remain unimplemented.
The CBCP head also contested government’s claim that the country’s labor condition has improved with the generation of 5 million jobs from 2001 up to date.
Citing a survey, he said that in January 2006 the unemployed individuals have reached 3.9 million and still increasing, while the underemployed were 5.4 million of 31.7 million employed.
“The poverty of labor could be a sign indicating the genuine level of economy,” said Lagdameo.
The prelate also lauded the contribution made by millions of Filipinos working abroad “mitigating the employment problem in the country."
“It is an accepted fact, their remittances have provided an important source of income for a great number of Filipino families,” he said.

http://www.cbcponline.net/news/html/news1-apr302007.html

CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

2007-05-07T00:39:00.000-07:00

CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY
Republic Act No. 9371

District 1
Bonbon
Bayabas
Kauswagan
Carmen
Patag
Bulua
Iponan
Baikingon
San Simon
Pagatpat
Lumbia
Canitoan
Balulang
Pagalungan
Tagpangi
Taglimao
Tuburan
Pigsag-an
Tumpagon
Bayanga
Mambuaya
Dansolihon
Tignagpoloan
Bisigan

District 2
Macabalan
Puntod
Consolacion
Camaman-an
Nazareth
Macasandig
Indahag
Lapasan
Gusa
Cugman
F.S. Catanico
Tablon
Agusan
Puerto
Bugo
Balobal
Brgy. 1- Brgy. 40

PPCRV comes up with commandments for responsible voting

2007-05-07T00:38:00.000-07:00

Televisions are bombarded with political ads, streets are full of posters of candidates, and people are distributing millions of flyers of their supported candidate. Because of this, many might consider popularity and public exposure the only basis to elect a political candidate. The truth of the matter is fame isn’t everything. For those who cannot do away with this “popularity syndrome”, here’s a checklist, or rather commandments provided by the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) for us to deliberately choose people who deserve to earn a seat in the government.

1. Thou shalt vote according to the dictate of your conscience.

2. Thou shalt respect the decisions of others in choosing their candidates.

3. Thou shalt seek to know the moral integrity, capabilities and other personal qualities of the candidates you will vote for.

4. Thou shalt strive to understand the issues, platforms and programs of candidates and parties seeking your vote.

5. Thou shalt not sell your vote.

6. Thou shalt not vote for candidates using guns, goons and gold.

7. Thou shalt not vote for candidates with records of graft and corruption, and human rights violation.

8. Thou shalt not vote for candidates just because of utang na loob, personal appearance, popularity and pakikisama.

9. Thou shalt not vote for candidates living an immoral life.

10.Thou shalt put the welfare of the country above all else in choosing the candidate you will vote for.

NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF POLLING PLACES IN CDO

2007-05-07T00:37:00.000-07:00

Know where to vote in Cagayan de Oro City…

City Central School
Velez-Yacapin St., Cagayan De Oro City

Corrales Elementary School
Corrales Extn., CDO
Misamis Oriental Comprehensive High School (MOGCHS)
Velez St., CDO

Agusan National High School
Agusan, CDO

Agusan Elementary School
Agusan, CDO

Baikingon Elementary School
Baikingon, CDO

Balubal Elementary School
Balubal, CDO

Balulang Elementary School
Balulang, CDO

Upper Balulang Elementary School
Balulang, CDO

Bayabas Elementary School
Bayabas, CDO

Bayanga Elementary School
Bayanga, CDO

Besigan Elementary School
Besigan, CDO

Bonbon Elementary School
Bonbon, CDO
Bugo Central School
Bugo, CDO

Cagayan De Oro Bugo School of Arts and Trade
Bugo, CDO

Suntingon Elemementary School
Bugo, CDO

Bulua Elementary School
Bulua, CDO

Bulua National High School
Bulua, CDO

Camaman-an Elementary School
Camaman-an, CDO

Canitoan Elementary School
Canitoan, CDO

Calaanan Elementary School
Canitoan, CDO

West City Central School
Carmen, CDO

Sacred Heart Village Elementary School
Carmen, CDO

Macanhan Elementary School
Carmen, CDO

Upper Carmen Elementary School
Carmen, CDO

Consolacion Elementary School
Consolacion, CDO

Cugman Elementary School
Cugman, CDO

Malasag Elementary School
Cugman, CDO

Dansolihon Elementary School
Dansolihon, CDO

Balongkot Elementary School
Dansolihon, CDO

F.S. Catanico Elementary School
F.S. Catanico, CDO

Gusa Elementary School
Gusa, CDO

Indahag Elementary School
Indahag, CDO

Taguanoao Elementary School
Indahag, CDO

Iponan Elementary School
Iponan, CDO

Kauswagan Central School
Kauswagan, CDO

Bongbongon Elementary School
Kauswagan, CDO

East City Central School
Lapasan, CDO

Lapasan National High School
Lapasan, CDO

Lumbia National High School
Lumbia, CDO

Macabalan Elementary School
Macabalan, CDO

Xavier Grade School
Macasandig, CDO

Mambuaya Elementary School
Mambuaya, CDO

South City Central School
Nazareth, CDO

Pagalungan Elementary School
Pagalungan, CDO

Pagatpat Elementary School
Pagatpat, CDO

Cagayan de Oro College-PHINMA (COC-PHINMA)
Carmen,CDO

Pigsag-an Elementary School
Pigsag-an, CDO

Puerto Elementary School
Puerto, CDO

North City Central School
Puntod, CDO

Puntod National High School
Puntod, CDO

San Simon Elementary School
San Simon, CDO

Agusan National High School (Annex)
Tablon, CDO

Tablon Elementary School
Tablon, CDO

Linangohan Elementary School
Tablon, CDO

Taglimao Elementary School
Taglimao, CDO

Tagpangi Elementary School
Tagpangi, CDO

Tignapoloan Elementary School
Tignagpoloan, CDO

Tuburan Elementary School
Tuburan, CDO

Tumpagon Elementary School
Tumpagon, CDO

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

2007-05-07T00:35:00.000-07:00

May 3
3 pm --Managsilingan Ta CDO
@ Sunriva Restaurant and Café

May 7
list of all volunteers sent to Manila

May 10
Prosbyterium Meeting
@ San Jose

Set up gym (Namfrel)
@ Xavier University

May 11
1 pm – 7 pm - Archdiocesan and PPCRV General Meeting
@ Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Camaman-an

Conversation General Meeting

Ecumenical Service for all
@ Democracy board grounds

May 12
1 pm – 5 pm – City wide Caravan

May 13
6 pm – candle lighting of poll places (PPCRV)
(Simultaneous)

General Meeting and Mass (NAMFREL)
@ XU gym

CBCP calls for prayer for clean polls

2007-05-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

April 26, 2007 - The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has appealed to Filipinos to remain steadfast in prayer as the country prepares for the May 14 polls.
According to CBCP president Archbishop Angel Lagdameo it is significant to seek God’s intercession to prevent “evil from getting in control” and avoid others from doing evil things during polls.
Lagdameo, who is also the archbishop of Jaro in Iloilo, said this in his latest pastoral statement about the next month’s synchronized local and national elections.
“We exhort everyone to be vigilant, to pray and to offer penance for this intention,” the CBCP said. “May the hand of God stop evil from getting in control. We need the Lord’s help, without which our best efforts will come to nothing."
The bishops urged Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) and the parishes nationwide to organize “Holy Hours” of prayer vigils from May 5 to 14, election day.
“Humble and trusting prayers are needed to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot and of the entire electoral processes,” the statement read.
The prelate likewise encouraged contemplative men and women in more than 100 monasteries nationwide to pray for the country—“especially for all voters, candidates and election officials and workers."
The CBCP also urged lay faithful in this predominantly Catholic country to take seriously their role as citizens by taking active participation and choosing right people to run the government.
It said people should not just vote but out to practice vigilance and monitor the election processes to ensure credible results.
The CBCP also called on their flocks to reject violence, cheating and other forms of immoral acts that could possibly happen during the election period.
It singled out “dagdag-bawas” or vote padding and shaving as the common forms of poll fraud that should be “disapproved and condemned."
“Let both candidates and their supporters face the judgment of democratic election with humility and magnanimity,” the CBCP said."
The pastoral exhortation was released during the signing of the “Covenant of H.O.P.E” at the Pope Pius XII Center in Manila on April 24.
The Covenant for Honest, Orderly and Peaceful Elections was the brainchild of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ National Capital Region Command.
Among the signatories of the covenant were the CBCP, Commission on Human Rights, Department of Education, National Capital Region Police Office, Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, the Filipino Alliance Movement-Support Group, Bantay Bayan Inc., and DeltaCom, a civic group. (CBCPNEWS)