The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has expressed profound sorrow and solidarity with communities affected by a powerful earthquake that struck Sarangani Province and other parts of Mindanao yesterday morning. In a statement, the CBCP conveyed grief for families who lost loved ones, prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured, and spiritual communion with those displaced from their homes and livelihoods.
Call for Prayer and Action
The CBCP also remembered rescue workers, medical personnel, government agencies, and volunteers laboring tirelessly in response to the tragedy. The Church is called to be a sign of hope and a witness of charity, especially in such moments of crisis. As one family in Christ, the bishops emphasized that the pain and loss of affected communities are shared by all.
Archbishop Gilbert A. Garcera, D.D., President of the CBCP, requested all dioceses, parishes, religious communities, and Catholic institutions nationwide to offer a special Prayer of the Faithful during all Masses next Sunday for the victims, those engaged in rescue and relief operations, and the swift recovery of affected communities.
Second Collection for Relief Efforts
Archbishop Garcera appealed to all bishops to authorize a second collection in their respective dioceses during the Sunday Masses of June 14, 2026. The proceeds will be transmitted through diocesan social action centers and Caritas Philippines to support emergency relief and rehabilitation efforts for affected brothers and sisters.
In his message, Archbishop Garcera invoked the Lord Jesus, who calmed the storm and strengthened those who were afraid, to grant comfort to mourners, healing to the injured, protection to those in danger, and courage to all extending help. Through the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the CBCP prayed that the people find strength, consolation, and hope amid this calamity.
The CBCP urged continued prayer and generous response to this urgent call of Christian charity.
