CBCP - ECMI LUZON

PAMINOVA Calls for Prayer and Support for OFWs Amid Middle East Conflict

The Pastoral Care for the Families of Migrants and Itinerant People of Novaliches (PAMINOVA) has called on the faithful to pray and extend support to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who may be affected by the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

In a statement, PAMINOVA expressed deep concern for the safety and welfare of Filipino migrant workers currently in areas experiencing unrest. The PAMINOVA also acknowledged the sacrifices of OFWs who continue to work abroad to support their families despite the risks.

Fr. Leo Laguilles, Priest Director of PAMINOVA, urged communities to remain united in prayer and solidarity during this time of uncertainty.

“Our Overseas Filipino Workers are modern-day heroes who sacrifice so much for their families and our nation. In this time of conflict, we entrust their safety to God and stand in solidarity with them and their loved ones,” Laguilles said.

PAMINOVA also encouraged families who may have relatives working in conflict-affected areas to stay in close communication with their parishes and with the organization, particularly if there is a need for assistance or emergency repatriation.

“We encourage migrant families in the Diocese of Novaliches to coordinate with us through their parishes so we can assist them and connect them with the appropriate agencies. PAMINOVA maintains linkages with government and non-government organizations to support migrant workers and their families,” Laguilles added.

The group noted that it works closely with agencies such as the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and local government units in cities of Caloocan and Quezon City to help address the needs of migrant families.

PAMINOVA likewise called on the Catholic faithful to include migrant workers and their families in their prayers.

“Let us continue to pray for the protection of our OFWs, for strength for their families, and for peace in regions affected by conflict. God remains our refuge and strength in times of trouble,” Laguilles said.

As uncertainty continues in the region, PAMINOVA reaffirmed its commitment to accompany migrant families through pastoral care, guidance, and support.

𝗣𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗔 𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗡 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗦𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗥

The Archdiocesan Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People – Pampanga (ACMIPP), through the initiative of the Parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción de Guagua, hosted a Human Trafficking Awareness Seminar on February 8, 2026, in observance of the Feast of Saint Josephine Bakhita and the National Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking.

The activity opened with a Holy Mass honoring Saint Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of trafficking survivors, followed by an orientation program emphasizing the Church’s mission to protect human dignity.

Atty. Jewel Dela Cruz presented the human trafficking situationer, discussing trends, legal protections, and the importance of reporting and community vigilance.

Mr. Edmund Ruga followed with a talk on Church concerns on human trafficking, highlighting the role of parishes and faith communities in protecting the vulnerable and promoting safe communities.

The seminar concluded with an open forum, strengthening awareness and reaffirming the Church’s commitment to justice, compassion, and the protection of human life.

𝗣𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗔 𝗦𝗗𝗢 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗠𝗕𝗟𝗬 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

The Archdiocese of San Fernando, through its Archdiocesan Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People of Pampanga (ACMIPP), successfully conducted the 𝗣𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗔 𝗦𝗗𝗢 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗠𝗕𝗟𝗬 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 (Sons and Daughters of OFW Pampanga) on February 6, 2026, held and hosted by the University of the Assumption (UA), bringing together student representatives from 15 partner schools.

The event commenced with registration at 7:30 AM, followed by an opening prayer led by Ms. Shirley Gañon and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Ms. Rolei Lazatin delivered the rationale, emphasizing the importance of supporting and empowering children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Welcome remarks were delivered by Ms. Lorna Basmayor.

An intermission performance by the UA JHS Dance Troupe energized the participants ahead of the Inspirational Message from the Gawad Anak OFW Awardees 2025. Ms. Daniella Galang and Dr. Renato shared inspiring testimonies, encouraging fellow youth to remain resilient and grateful despite the sacrifices of their OFW parents.

The celebration of the Holy Mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Regnel C. Fuertez, served as the spiritual highlight of the assembly, reminding participants that faith remains the foundation of strength for migrant families.

Following the break, a plenary session was conducted by Ms. Angienette Evangelista, MA, RGC, RPm, focusing on guidance, emotional resilience, and youth empowerment.

The program also featured a TikTok Video Making Contest, showcasing the creativity and advocacy of the youth participants. Bro. Edmund Ruga, CBCP-ECMI Luzon Coordinator, delivered a message reaffirming the Church’s continuing commitment to accompany migrant families and their children.

The assembly concluded with the awarding of the Migration Quiz Bee 2025 winners and closing remarks delivered by Ms. Mylene Soberano. The event was hosted by Francis Jasper Hontanosas.

𝐂𝐁𝐂𝐏-𝐄𝐂𝐌𝐈, 𝐕𝐅, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐌𝐀𝐇𝐓 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲-𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦

With the presence and full support of Bishop Roberto O. Gaa of the Diocese of Novaliches, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines – Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI), through its Luzon Regional Migration Desk (LRMD), together with Voice of the Free (VF) and the Diocesan Ministry Against Human Trafficking of the Diocese of Novaliches (DMAHT Novaliches), formally initiated a community-based human trafficking prevention program in the National Capital Region (NCR).

The initiative advanced during the coordination meeting held on February 11, 2026, at the Chancery Office of the Diocese of Novaliches in Fairview, Quezon City. The meeting outlined the initial strategic directions and operational framework for the phased rollout of Community PROTECT across participating NCR dioceses.

This development builds on the successful Ugnayan Forum held on January 30, which brought together NCR dioceses, selected pilot parishes, and counterpart barangays to align commitments and strengthen grassroots collaboration against human trafficking.

Community PROTECT seeks to establish structured parish- and community-based mechanisms integrating Church ministries, schools, youth organizations, barangay officials, and civil society partners. The program promotes awareness, prevention, reporting pathways, and coordinated action to protect vulnerable sectors.

As the program rolls out in identified pilot parishes, it marks a concrete step toward a grassroots, multi-sectoral, and mission-driven response to human trafficking—anchored in collaboration, strengthened by partnerships, and guided by pastoral leadership.

Through this initiative, the Church in NCR reaffirms its commitment to defend human dignity and act decisively against human trafficking.