On the Philippine State and the Church

The State and the Church

Fact, the Philippines is predominantly Roman Catholic.

One of the primary reasons why any divorce bill has not been passed in the Philippines is due to the persistent efforts of the Catholic Church in opposing anything that smells or hints of divorce.

I personally admire the efforts of the Church in forever believing the capacity of Filipino families to do the right thing, to make the good choice. That is an admirable trait for anyone to have, especially in the Philippines. The Catholic Church believes that there are certain things that should not be touched or influenced by any form of legislation, one of which is divorce (and the RHB). I too would like to believe that people need not a much “stronger” or “potent” form of legislation that mediates marital dispute and separation.

But I also believe in research, and the reality of bad choices and decisions. I believe that there is always a constant population dealing with a variety of problems leading to different degrees relationship discomfort. I believe in the changing of time and tides, and how social research helps point these trends out. Such trends show that the Philippine population is booming, and that times are (for most of us) harder, and that marital separation rate is increasing. 

People differ from one another. “Different folks, (have) different strokes.” This should be addressed and acknowledged by the government. The Philippine population does not consist only of Roman Catholics. For all intentions and purposes, the government should also be able to acknowledge the presence of these other factors. I’m not saying that the RHB and Divorce bill be passed. But there should be a very clear division on the matters of the state, and the matters of the church. And I believe that legislation resides firmly on the side of the State.

Yes, the Church has a voice. It is indeed one of the strongest institutions. It loves the people, and is equally loved. The Church is able to influence and reach a great number and variety of people. Its opinion respected by the many. Prayer rallies have been great, both in number, and successful interventions. Its motives are both good and pure (at least until proven wrong). Its teachings go a long way, and have been the foundation of the earliest and most essentials laws. But let us not forget, that the consideration given by the State to the Church isn’t absolute.

One role of the Government is to provide a series of possible well thought decisions for its people. The country’s legislature should honor its citizens without exceptions, even non-Christian denominations. And for that reason should the Government make decisions that may or may not stray away from Church or public opinion. There should be a fine line, no offense to the Church, but the government should be able to decide in silence, without the loudness of other opinions. I’d like to believe (although others may strongly disagree) that the State knows what it’s doing, and the Church should also.