31/01/2025
STATEMENT OF THE SANGGUNIANG LAIKO NG PILIPINAS
ON ACCOUNTABILITY AND SAFE SPACES IN THE CHURCH
The Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas firmly supports the call for greater accountability and stricter policies in ensuring that all Church institutions remain safe spaces, especially for minors and vulnerable adults.
We echo the concerns raised by Cardinal Pablo “Ambo” David and stand with Pope Francis’s vision of Synodality, which emphasizes co-responsibility, transparency, and accountability within the Church. The tragic history of clerical abuse scandals in different parts of the world has deeply wounded the faithful and damaged the moral credibility of Church institutions. It is, therefore, imperative that our bishops and Church leaders take decisive action to uphold justice, protect the vulnerable, and restore trust in the Church.
The commitment to accountability must include:
1. Firm and consistent enforcement of Church laws to discipline erring clergy and ensure that those who commit abuses are held responsible.
2. Strict screening and monitoring of clergy members, both within the country and those returning from abroad, to prevent individuals with histories of abuse from evading justice.
3. Closer collaboration between dioceses and religious orders, both in the Philippines and internationally, to share critical information and prevent the transfer of abusive priests from one jurisdiction to another.
4. Implementation of safeguarding policies in every diocese and religious institution to train clergy, lay leaders, and volunteers in child protection and abuse prevention.
The faithful deserve a Church that is a place of refuge, not fear. It is the moral obligation of every bishop and Church leader to ensure that no individual—especially minors and vulnerable adults—suffers harm within our spiritual communities.
We commend Cardinal Ambo and all Church leaders who are taking bold steps to enforce accountability. At the same time, we call upon all lay faithful to pray and support our priests, remain vigilant, speak out against abuses, and actively participate in fostering a culture of transparency and justice within the Church.
May the Holy Spirit guide the Church in fulfilling its mission to be a true sanctuary of faith, love, and safety for all.
