CBCP Issues Statement on Clergy Sexual Abuse, Reaffirms Commitment to Victims and Safeguarding Measures

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued a solemn and comprehensive statement reaffirming its commitment to justice, healing, and accountability in response to cases of sexual abuse committed by members of the clergy.

Expressing “profound sorrow and solidarity with all victims and survivors,” the CBCP acknowledged the deep trauma inflicted on individuals and communities by such abuse and vowed to continue on a path of reform and protection. The statement emphasized the Church’s ongoing efforts to ensure that every Catholic institution in the country becomes a safe space for minors and vulnerable persons.

Historical Steps Toward Reform

The CBCP noted that its efforts to address clerical sexual abuse began as early as the early 2000s, with the drafting and circulation of the Pastoral Guidelines on Sexual Abuses and Misconduct by the Clergy in 2003. These guidelines outlined the process for responding to allegations, assessing the accused, offering pastoral care to victims, and imposing appropriate sanctions.

The statement also highlighted the role of Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, who, during his time as Bishop of Imus and later as Archbishop of Manila, actively contributed to the development and implementation of these safeguards. He consistently called for a humble and compassionate Church that listens to victims and acts with urgency and integrity.

Strengthening Safeguarding Structures

In alignment with Vatican directives, the CBCP has established the Office for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Persons, currently headed by Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias. This office assists dioceses nationwide in putting protective policies into practice and promoting safeguarding best practices. Each diocese is now mandated to maintain its own safeguarding office.

Clarifying Jurisdiction and Accountability

The CBCP clarified that diocesan bishops bear the primary canonical responsibility for handling allegations of abuse involving clergy under their jurisdiction. Similarly, religious superiors are responsible for members of their congregations, while Filipino priests assigned abroad are under the authority of local bishops in those foreign dioceses.

The statement also addressed the current role of Cardinal Tagle, affirming that since his full-time assignment to the Roman Curia, he no longer exercises jurisdiction over any diocese in the Philippines and is therefore not involved in disciplinary matters related to the local clergy.

Toward Transparency and Healing

The CBCP concluded its statement by pledging continued cooperation with the Holy See and civil authorities in ensuring justice and transparency. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to the protection of all members of the Church, especially the most vulnerable,” the bishops said, adding that they seek to make the Church a “beacon of hope and safety for all.”

The CBCP's renewed message comes at a time of growing global scrutiny of clerical abuse and underscores the Philippine Church’s ongoing efforts to confront a painful past while building a culture of accountability and care.