by Lito Dar


Baguio-Benguet Vicariate Bishop Carlito Cenzon, in a media forum Wednesday, reiterated the stand of the Catholic Church against the Reproductive Health bill. This came after a number local media asked him about a certain priest’s homily at the Baguio Cathedral that drew controversy and allegedly led to a walkout of some parishioners.

According to Bishop Cenzon, at the moment,he is still investigating or looking for information on what have transpired during the said mass, although he also reiterated that they have been long expressed their contradiction or opposition against the RH Bill.

“We are talking about a very controversial issue here and, among the (Catholic Church) bishops, we have already decided to make a stand against it and make people aware of it. With the RH Bill we are talking about life and death, about moral values,” Cenzon said.

Cenzon also stressed that there are certain guidelines that govern priests like him, and the involved priest may also be just doing what the Catholic church has set him to do, although he might have done it with a stronger stand or in his own style.

Meantime, in a mass he officiated, Bishop Cenzon called on the local media to continue with their work guided by high ethical values, as their work is important for the people to be united and well informed about what is happening around them.


Although the task may be difficult and even includes threats to their security and life, Cenzon prayed for the media that may God continue to empower them and give them strength to perform their duty the best they can.

For this Lenten season, the Bishop also urged the media and all those who attended the mass to do church activities and personal reflections as well. “We have to do prayers and some actions to,” he said.
Aside from the regular Church Holy Week activity, Bishop Cenzon also urged them to reflect and see how they can also help others and the environment as well. (JDP/LD-PIA CAR)