In response to the call of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, the Diocese of Maasin, in support of the moral cause, held a local prayer gathering entitled “Penitential Walk with Mary in Reparation for the Evils in Our Country and the Whole World” on November 30, 2025.
Religious congregations, parish youth, parish representatives, SJC college students, and SJC employees participated in this penitential walk as an act of standing against the pervasive corruption that plagues the nation.
The clergy and laity first gathered in front of the Maasin Cathedral-Shrine to prepare for the Penitential Walk. The procession began along the designated route, carrying the Canonically Crowned Image of the Mahal nga Patrona and the Jubilee Crossโboth adorned with fresh flowers and presented with solemn dignity as they were brought through the streets of Maasin.
Once the procession made its way back to the Maasin Cathedral-Shrine, the Paraliturgy commenced. The Canonical Image of the Mahal nga Patrona was enthroned, followed by an opening prayer and reading of the Gospel.
Then, a short talk was given by His Excellency, Most Rev. Precioso D. Cantillas, SDB, DD, stating the urgency of acting against corruption. “Ang Diyos sa kahayag nga mao magbuntog sa kangitngitโog ang tanang buhat sa kangitngitโmao ang maghatag og tinuod nga kabag-ohan sa atong nasud og sa kalibutan. Ug ang kabag-ohan sa atong nasud og sa kalibutan magsugod kanako, kanimo, kanato, sa atong tagsa-tagsa nga kasingkasing ug kinabuhi nga naa sa kahayag sa pagtuman sa kabubut-on sa Diyos.”
His Excellency gave a Communal Penitential Rite, a national cry for mercy and renewal, then the Candle-lighting Ceremony commenced; each flame symbolized our hope, our solidarity against the evils plaguing our country. Thereafter, a Pontifical Mass was held inside the Maasin Cathedral-Shrine, presided over by His Excellency.
Tonight’s gathering simply calls for all of us to unite as one Filipino nation in prayer and solidarity.
Corruption robs the poor, mocks the sacrifices of our forebearers, and discriminates honest labor. We demand accountability. We demand justice.
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Words: Manuel Francis Corollo | The Josephinian
Photos: Dan Rughie Cadano | The Jospehinian
Levi Zhain Lambonao | The Josephinian
Mark James Calucin | The Josephinian
Adrian Cedric Mancera | The Josephinian
