CBCP VP David slams ban on religious gatherings

Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, also the vice president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), criticized the government's decision to ban religious gatherings while allowing gyms and spas to operate at limited capacities in NCR Plus.

David expressed anger that churches are being locked down during the Lenten season, questioning if the ban violated religious freedom as churches were adhering to strict protocols.

The order was issued "in an instant" without prior dialogue, according to David, who hoped churches would be allowed to operate at 20-30% capacity with strict health protocols.

The ban on mass gatherings, including religious activities, in NCR Plus is in effect from March 22 to April 4.

Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo echoed the criticism, stating that the ban violates religious freedom and the separation of church and state, as the church was not consulted.

Pabillo announced that the Archdiocese of Manila will hold religious worship at 10 percent of a church's capacity starting March 24, emphasizing the use of health protocols and allowing worshipers to be spread apart.

Religious activities outside of churches, such as senakulo, pabasa, processions, motorcades, and visita iglesia, will not be held.