Isang parokya sa Malabon, naglabas ng public apology kaugnay sa kontrobersyal na viral video

• The Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception in Malabon issued a public apology over a viral Easter Salubong video
• Rector and Parish Priest expressed regret over a pigeon tied to balloons during the ritual
• Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David had earlier called for an end to the use of live animals and balloons in celebrations
• The parish emphasized that devotion should reflect compassion and responsibility toward all life

The Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception in Malabon publicly apologized after a video showing a pigeon tied to balloons during the Easter Salubong ritual went viral.

"As Rector and Parish Priest of the Diocesan Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Malabon, I wish to convey my sincere apology regarding the reported balloon-flying incident during the Salubong ritual this past Easter Sunday," the parish said in a statement.

The apology also addressed Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, who attended the event but only witnessed the initial unveiling.

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"He was not aware of what took place afterward," the statement added.

The parish explained that using a live pigeon instead of a child dressed as an angel has been a decades-old practice, dating back to after World War II. It was intended as a safer and less distressing alternative. However, the Cardinal was reportedly dismayed to learn that the pigeon had its wings restrained and was tied to a cluster of balloons before being released.

Cardinal David has since voiced his objection, emphasizing that such practices are not only cruel to animals but also environmentally harmful. Deflated balloons pose a risk to marine life, he noted.

The parish acknowledged the need for compassion in all rituals.

"As a community of faith, we are reminded that our devotion must always be guided by compassion and responsibility," the statement said.

"In caring for God's creation, we honor the Risen Lord who calls us to protect and cherish every form of life."

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The incident has sparked discussions on tradition versus ethical treatment of animals in religious ceremonies. Parish officials said they are reviewing practices to ensure that future celebrations align with both faith and humane standards.

In separate news, PAWS strongly condemned the use of a pigeon in an Easter display at the Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception, expressing concern after discovering the bird’s wings had been forcibly tied and stretched to expose the Virgin Mary statue. While acknowledging the church’s effort to enhance the holiday experience, the organization stressed that harming animals contradicts humane values. PAWS urged religious institutions to find safer, more compassionate alternatives for celebrations, promoting creativity without putting animals at risk.

Meanwhile, a viral video captured a dog tied to a moving tricycle in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, prompting public outrage. Authorities, including the Cagayan de Oro City Animal Welfare Society, investigated and located the dog’s owner, as reported by GMA Integrated News. The owner claimed they had not realized the dog was still tied and immediately instructed their child to untie it. A veterinarian examined the animal, confirming it was healthy except for minor scratches, and the dog was returned with a formal warning issued.

Source: KAMI.com.gh