Cardinal David Vows to End Controversial Pigeon Use in Malabon Easter Rite
Kalookan Bishop Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David has made a firm commitment to implement significant changes in the Easter Sunday presentation at the Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception in Malabon City. The announcement came on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, following widespread controversy over the treatment of a pigeon during traditional Salubong rites.
Immediate Cessation of Harmful Practices
In a detailed statement, Cardinal David explicitly vowed to order the complete cessation of practices involving animal restraint during religious ceremonies. "Please assure everyone that this practice will be discontinued. There will be no more balloon-flying in future celebrations, and the pigeon will be released immediately after the unveiling," David declared with conviction.
The Cardinal expressed strong disagreement with certain aspects of the church's traditional Salubong celebration, emphasizing both animal welfare and environmental concerns. "Had I known of the incident, I would have objected because this is not only cruel to the animal, but also harmful to the environment, especially to marine life that may ingest deflated balloons," David explained, highlighting the broader ecological implications.
Controversial Incident Details
During this year's Salubong ceremony, a disturbing practice unfolded where a pigeon was tied to a string with its wings spread using a stick. The restrained bird was then hoisted upward to remove the cloth covering the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Subsequently, the pigeon was attached to balloons that were released into the sky, resulting in the bird's tragic death.
Cardinal David admitted that while he was physically present during the event, he failed to witness the specific details of the pigeon's treatment. "I had honestly presumed that the pigeon was released immediately after the unveiling," David acknowledged, expressing regret over the oversight.
Parish Response and Historical Context
In a separate development, Diocesan Shrine & Parish of the Immaculate Conception Rector Fr. Mariano Bartolome issued a public apology regarding the incident. The priest revealed that the parish has historically used a live pigeon instead of a child dressed as an angel during Salubong ceremonies, a tradition now under scrutiny.
"As Rector and Parish Priest of the Diocesan Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, I wish to convey my sincere apology regarding the reported balloon-flying incident during the Salubong ritual this past Easter Sunday," Bartolome stated formally. The priest extended additional apologies to Cardinal David for inadvertently implicating him in the controversy.
Animal Welfare Concerns
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society immediately condemned the practice of using live animals in ways that cause distress or harm. This incident has sparked broader conversations about the ethical treatment of animals in religious and cultural traditions, with many calling for modernization of practices that may cause unnecessary suffering.
Cardinal David's decisive action represents a significant shift in how religious institutions approach traditional ceremonies that involve animals. The commitment to change demonstrates growing awareness of animal welfare principles within religious communities and sets a precedent for more compassionate practices in future celebrations.
