Sorsogon Bishop Renews 'civil disobedience' Threat vs RH Bill

MANILA, Feb. 3, 2011— At least two Catholic bishops urged the people to rise up in a campaign of ‘civil disobedience’ against the reproductive health (RH) bill if it becomes a law.

Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes and Archbishop Ramon Arguelles said over church-run Radyo Veritas that they have no choice but to resort such action but in a peaceful way.

“We will have a civil disobedience! Those laws that are immoral, we will tell the people not to obey,” Bastes said.

Arguelles, however, clarified that their civil disobedience is not meant to topple the government but rather a move to strongly reject the RH bill.

“Let’s make it clear that we are not against any person. We are not against the government. We are not subversives,” Arguelles said.

The Sorsogon prelate added they will be not be cowed of any penalties of the law saying it is their duty to promote morality.

“We bishops, are willing to be imprisoned, together with our priests, and protest the immoral things there (RH bill). To be firm with our teachings, let them imprison us!” said Bastes.

“We are just saying what is right! We are going to proclaim whatever it is,” Arguelles also said.

In a new pastoral letter, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) called on the people to oppose the bill and act against its passage.

The statement, CBCP President Bishop Nereo Odchimar said it would be up to the people whether they will hold protests or not. (CBCPNews)