CBCP might take up social issues in plenary assembly

MANILA, Philippines - An official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) yesterday said social issues such as the efforts of allies of the Arroyo administration to push for a constituent assembly (con-ass) as well as the prevailing peace and order problem in Mindanao might be taken up in the 99th Plenary Assembly.

CBCP spokesman Monsignor Pedro Quitorio III said that these two social issues could be raised during the meeting of the bishops because these are the two most pressing issues at present.

“By experience whenever there is a pressing issue, they really discuss it. (Kalookan) Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez already said before that con-ass would be part of the agenda,” said Monsignor Quitorio.

“Since peace and order is very urgent because of the bombings, the Mindanao bishops might raise it during the privilege hour,” he said.

Apart from tackling these issues and listening to the reports of every CBCP committee, they are also scheduled to elect their new set of officers. Jaro, Iloilo Archbishop Angel Lagdameo is stepping down after completing a four-year term.

The next set of officers will serve until 2012.

There are speculations that the incumbent vice president, Tandag Surigao del Sur Bishop Nereo Odchimar, who has been rumored to be close to President Arroyo, might assume the presidency. He also reportedly enjoys the support of the 20 Mindanao-based bishops and some bishops assigned in Luzon.

But there are other contenders such as Tagbilaran, Bohol Bishop Leonardo Medroso, Palo, Leyte Archbishop Jose Palma, and Zamboanga del Sur Archbishop Romulo Valles.

Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales reportedly turned down offers for him to assume the position.

The 99th Plenary started yesterday and ends tomorrow.