THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) announced plans to offer prayers for peace amid the ongoing territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, CBCP President, emphasized that the Church does not wish to exacerbate tensions.

“We don’t want to add further fuel to the issue; nobody wants war,” he said.

Instead, the bishops will release an Oratio Imperata, a special prayer for peace.

PRAYER FOR WPS. Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Bishop Pablo Virgilio David (center) emphasized that they will offer prayer for peace or the Oratio Imperata to the ongoing tension in the West Philippine Sea and that they don't want to add more fuel to the ongoing geographical tension. Photo by Shiela Mae Butlig

The CBCP, having just concluded a retreat at the Transfiguration Monastery of the Benedictine Monks in Malaybalay, Bukidnon, held its first plenary assembly in Mindanao.

The assembly addressed various issues including mining, water concerns, the season of creation, global warming, climate change, and natural disasters.

In a related move, the CBCP reaffirmed its commitment to divest from financial institutions linked to environmentally destructive practices, notably extractive mining.

Bishop Marcelino Antonio Maralit, Chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Social Communication, urged vigilance against donations from such businesses.

“If you know of any bishops or institutions involved in destructive businesses, inform us so we can address it,” Maralit said.