MANILA (PHILIPPINES)
CBCP News Service (Catholic Bishops of the Philippines)
May 2, 2025
By Rev. Msgr. Bernardo R. Pantin, JCD Secretary General
Statement of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) expresses profound sorrow and solidarity with all victims and survivors of sexual abuse, especially those harmed by members of the clergy. We acknowledge the deep wounds inflicted upon
individuals and communities and commit ourselves to the path of healing, justice, and renewal.
Historical Commitment to Safeguarding
Recognizing the gravity of clerical sexual abuse, the CBCP initiated the drafting of the Pastoral Guidelines on Sexual Abuses and Misconduct by the Clergy in the early 2000s. These guidelines, circulated in September 2003, were developed to address allegations and actual cases of sexual abuse and misconduct by clergy in the Philippines. They emphasized pastoral care for victims, the healing of communities, assessment of the accused, and appropriate sanctions for offenders.
In particular, Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, during his tenure as Bishop of Imus and later as Archbishop of Manila, actively participated in the development and implementation of these guidelines. He has consistently advocated for a humble and responsive Church that listens to the cries of the wounded and acts decisively to protect the vulnerable.
Ongoing Efforts and Structures
In alignment with directives from the Holy See, the CBCP has established the Office for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Persons, currently headed by Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias. This office aims to promote best practices in safeguarding and assist dioceses in implementing protective measures. Each diocese in the Philippines is mandated to establish its own office dedicated to the protection of minors and vulnerable adults, ensuring that every Church institution becomes a safe space for all.
Accountability and Canonical Responsibilities
According to Canon Law, diocesan bishops bear the primary responsibility for addressing allegations of sexual abuse by clergy incardinated in their dioceses. They are required to conduct preliminary investigations and, if warranted, report cases to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith for further action. For clergy belonging to religious congregations, their respective superiors hold similar responsibilities. Filipino priests serving abroad fall under the jurisdiction of the bishops in the dioceses where they are incardinated. Should such a priest return to the Philippines, it is incumbent upon the foreign diocese to inform the relevant Philippine diocesan authorities to ensure proper oversight and prevent unauthorized ministry.
Clarification on Cardinal Tagle’s Jurisdiction
Since his appointment to a full-time position in the Roman Curia, Cardinal Tagle no longer holds direct authority over any diocese in the Philippines. Consequently, he is not involved in the governance or disciplinary matters of Philippine dioceses. The responsibility for addressing allegations of misconduct by clergy rests with the respective diocesan bishops or religious superiors.
Conclusion
The CBCP remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of all members of the Church, especially the most vulnerable. We continue to seek guidance from the Holy See and collaborate with civil authorities to ensure that justice is served and that the Church becomes a beacon of hope and safety for all.
For further information or to report concerns, please contact the Office for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Persons through the CBCP Headquarters, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) 470 Gen. Luna Street Intramuros, 1002 Manila Philippines Landline Number • (02) 8527-4054 Email: cbcpsecretariat@gmail.com