Church Leaders Ask Government to Bring Back Religious Gatherings
Catholic church leaders call for the lift of the ban on religious gatherings in General Community Quarantine (GCQ) after being banned again due to complaints.
Previously, religious gatherings have been banned again after the government allowed church activities and essential work-related meetings in cities and provinces with low- to moderate-risk of COVID-19 spread.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said local officials of areas under GCQ complain at the initial decision made by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) and approved by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Meanwhile, lots of Catholics seeking a reconsideration of the government on religious activities, particularly mass celebrations in churches. The administrator of the Archdiocese of Manila, Bishop Broderick Pabillo said: “religious services are also essential services.”
Pabillo said that religion is a significant part of every Filipinos life in times of hardships and trials. He added that Filipinos save religious and biblical images first and restoring the community chapel in times of disaster.
Based on the report of GMA News, the head of the Claretian Congregation Fr. Elias Ayuban request for the reopening of churches in areas without COVID-19 cases. He pointed out that physical distancing can be also done in churches.
The Council of the Laity of the Philippines also asked the government to allow people to raise their spiritual well-being, “both humane and important”. The Council is willing to submit its plans to ensure the authorities that they will hold religious assemblies in accordance with the government’s quarantine protocols.
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