Catholics in Cebu, Philippines, are preparing for a significant prayer rally to oppose the proposed legalization of divorce in the country. The Archdiocese of Cebu announced the event will take place on July 27, emphasizing the importance of family and marriage.
Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu underscored the genuine intent behind the rally. “This is a thanksgiving to the Lord for the gift of family, the sacrament of marriage, and the many who have witnessed the strength of marital commitment, contributing to the welfare of numerous families,” he stated. He refuted any notion of hypocrisy, highlighting the sincere gratitude and hope the rally represents for couples enduring difficulties through faith.
The rally will commence with a procession from Fuente Osmeña Circle to the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu, where Archbishop Palma will preside over a Mass.
The Philippines remains one of the few countries without a divorce law, following Malta’s legalization of divorce in 2011. This distinction is a point of pride for many in the predominantly Catholic nation, according to Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones of Cebu. He expressed hope that the Philippines could serve as a “beacon of hope” for the world, maintaining strong family values.
In May, the Philippine House of Representatives passed House Bill 9349, which would legalize absolute divorce. This has sparked considerable debate, with Bishop Alberto Uy of Tagbilaran urging lawmakers to reconsider the bill. He advocated for policies that support and strengthen marriages rather than legalizing divorce, warning that divorce could weaken societal fabric and lead to increased social issues.
In addition to the prayer rally, the Archdiocese of Cebu has been conducting a signature drive against the divorce bill, gathering over 122,000 signatures to date. These will be submitted to the Senate alongside a position paper opposing the proposed legislation.
Monsignor Raul Go, the archdiocese’s judicial vicar, called on the public to take marriage seriously as a means to fortify both family and society.
The prayer rally and associated activities reflect a strong stance from the Cebu Archdiocese against the legalization of divorce, aiming to uphold traditional family values and provide a united front in support of marriage.
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By Nerus Akatsa
