Archbishop says hierarchy 'not enemies' of new president in Philippines

July 01, 2016

As Rodrigo Duterte begins his 6-year term as president of the Philippines, the president of the country's episcopal conference has promised that Church leaders will not regard the new leader as an adversary.

"We will offer our critique and denounce error," said Archbishop Socrates Villegas; "but kindly look at us not as enemies wanting governments to fall, but as brethren and friends wishing politics to succeed."

The conciliatory statement from Archbishop Villegas contrasted with the rhetoric of President Duterte, who has vowed to fight the Catholic hierarchy-- most recently, on the issue of family planning. However, the archbishop gave evidence of his discontent with the country's political climate when he asked: "How does it happen that politics becomes a septic tank rather than a mine of gold?"

 

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Further information:

• CBCP: We’re not enemies, but we’ll remain vigilant on new government (AsiaNews)
• Duterte promises to promote contraception in Philippines (CWN, 6/27)