Eldest Filipino cardinal criticizes president on family-planning bill

April 25, 2011

Cardinal José Sanchez, who returned home from the Vatican to the Philippines in order to join the fight against approval of an aggressive new family-planning bill, has wasted no time in criticizing President Benigno Aquino for his support of the legislation.

Cardinal Sanchez, the former prefect of the Congregation for Clergy, told a television audience that Aquino is "losing his popularity." Underlining the theme that the Filipino bishops have emphasized--the the legislation is harmful to the family--the cardinal said that Aquino "has no firm idea on marriage." The cardinal said that Benigno Aquino lacks the clear faith shown by his late mother, Corazon Aquino, who worked closely with the Catholic hierarchy during her tenure as president of the Philippines.

Cardinal Sanchez, who is 91 years old, had been living in Rome, but announced last week that he was coming home.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Cardinal urges charm offensive but hits Aquino’s lack of faith (Inquirer)
• Elderly Filipino cardinal returning home to work against family-planning bill (CWN, 4/8