THE Social Action Networks of all Archdioceses and Dioceses on Sunday, May 17, 2026, expressed support for the call of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to hold the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Statement of Support
In a statement signed by 36 bishops and archbishops, as well as Social Action Directors, they declared strong support for holding the impeachment trial as soon as possible. "We appeal to the members of the Senate to abide by what the Constitution directs: to proceed with the trial," the Social Action Networks said.
Mobilization Activities
To demonstrate this support, they committed to mobilizing their communities through various activities. "To this end, we will mobilize our respective communities and invite all Filipinos, regardless of faith denomination or church affiliation, to organize activities that will manifest our support," the statement read.
These activities include organizing communal prayer while encouraging individual prayer; organizing Masses and/or prayer rallies in plazas; ringing bells in churches, homes, and communities at 12 noon and/or 6 pm to signal the start of communal prayer; or lighting a candle during the 6 p.m. prayer.
"Let us bring this effort to as many communities as possible all over the country and pray that we will truly be united in prayer and action in our hopes and dreams for our country and people," the Social Action Networks urged.
Reason for Action
They emphasized that such activities are necessary given recent events in the Senate. "The events in the Senate in the past days make it more important that we peacefully organize as a nationwide network and be vigilant in safeguarding our democratic institutions and upholding the rule of law," the statement added.
On Monday, May 18, the Senate is set to convene as an impeachment court to hold the trial for Duterte. (Anton Banal/SunStar Philippines)
