Catholics urged to join Cebu anti-‘pork’ rally

MANILA, Philippines - Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma yesterday urged Catholics in his archdiocese to take part in today’s anti-pork rally at the city’s Fuente Osmeña Circle.

The CBCPNews said Palma, the head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), appealed to the faithful to support the rally against pork barrel that would begin with a mass at 1:30 p.m.

After the mass, the protesters will march to Osmeña Boulevard, Sanciangko, and back to Fuente Osmeña Circle where a program will be held.

Palma asked Catholics in Cebu to support moves that call for transparency and accountability in the country’s political landscape.

“In view of the pork barrel controversy, the CBCP exhorts the Catholic faithful to fulfill the Christian duty to transform society and restore all things in Christ,” Palma said.

The bishop encouraged priests to concelebrate the mass and asked schools, lay organizations, and religious groups to send delegates to the gathering.

In a separate video message, Palma said he would not be able to attend the rally as he has prior commitment. He gave his assurance though, that he supports the movement and its cause.

The Cebu Coalition against Pork Barrel System, a group calling for the abolition of lump-sum appropriations in government finances, is organizing the march.