Cardinal David, nagsalita na ukol sa Easter Salubong issue: “It is regrettable”

• Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David issued a public apology over the controversial Salubong pigeon incident
• He admitted he would not have approved the act had he known about it beforehand
• The Cardinal also acknowledged concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact
• He called for a broader and consistent moral concern for both creation and human life

Pablo Virgilio David has publicly apologized following the controversy surrounding the use of a pigeon during a Salubong ritual he attended, an incident that sparked widespread criticism online.

In a statement posted on social media, Cardinal David addressed the issue directly, expressing regret over what had occurred during the Easter tradition, particularly the way the pigeon was used in place of a child during the unveiling of the image of the Sorrowful Mother.

“People have reacted strongly—and rightly so—to the use of a pigeon… especially the way it was bound and released with balloons carrying the black veil,” he wrote.

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The Cardinal acknowledged that the method used was inappropriate and clarified that he had not been informed about the details of the activity beforehand.

“It is regrettable. Had I been aware of this beforehand, I would not have approved,” he stated.

The incident drew backlash from various groups, including animal welfare advocates, who raised concerns over the treatment of the pigeon, whose wings were reportedly tied as part of the ritual. Environmental concerns were also highlighted, particularly regarding the release of balloons that could harm marine life once deflated.

Cardinal David expressed appreciation for the public’s concern, emphasizing that he shares the same values when it comes to protecting animals and the environment.

“I sincerely appreciate the concern expressed for the well-being of the pigeon, as well as for the environment… I share this concern for the care of creation, and I have directed our communities accordingly,” he said.

Beyond addressing the immediate issue, the Cardinal also used the opportunity to reflect on a broader moral perspective. He pointed out that while outrage over animal welfare is valid, society should also demonstrate the same level of concern for human life.

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“At the same time, I cannot help but wish that we showed the same moral urgency and collective outrage for the loss of human life,” he wrote.

He cited ongoing issues such as killings related to drug suspicions and the impact of war on innocent civilians, including students, urging people to expand their compassion beyond isolated issues.

“Our compassion should not be selective… all the more should we be moved—consistently and passionately—by the suffering and destruction of human lives,” he added.

Cardinal David concluded his message by emphasizing the importance of having a holistic sense of moral responsibility—one that values all forms of life with equal dignity.

“Only when our sense of moral concern becomes whole… can we truly say that we are defending life in all its dignity,” he said.

Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David is a prominent leader in the Catholic Church in the Philippines. He currently serves as the president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and is known for his strong stance on social justice issues, including human rights, ethical governance, and the protection of life. As bishop of the Diocese of Kalookan, he has been vocal on national concerns, often encouraging critical reflection among the faithful on moral and societal issues.

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In an earlier development, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) condemned the use of the pigeon during the Easter display at the Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception. The group expressed alarm after learning that the bird’s wings were restrained and manipulated as part of the ceremony. While recognizing the intention to make the celebration more engaging, PAWS stressed that causing harm to animals contradicts humane principles. They called on churches to explore more ethical and compassionate alternatives for religious practices.

Previously, the Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception issued its own apology after the video of the Salubong ritual went viral online. The parish rector and priest acknowledged the mistake and expressed regret over the incident. Even before the controversy escalated, Cardinal David had already been advocating against the use of live animals and balloon releases in church activities. The parish reiterated that religious devotion should always be guided by compassion, responsibility, and respect for all forms of life.

Source: KAMI.com.gh