DO THESE ISSUES REMAIN PERTINENT IN THE PRESENT DAY?

Yes, these issues and interest were not only present during the 1950’s backwards
but also in this 21st century. In fact, this social issue between the government and the
church is really evident at this present moment. Noting the different controversial bills
and laws implemented in the Philippines in the past years, to name some the
Reproductive Health Law and the divorce bill, the 1987 constitution, Article II of Section
6 was manifested, that separation of Church and State shall be inviolable, stating No law
shall be made respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise
thereof. To relate further, knowing that social justice and respect for life have been at the
core of Catholic social doctrine. The conduct of Duterte’s anti-drug war, which has
resulted in the extrajudicial killings of thousands of suspected drug peddlers and addicts,
go against Catholic doctrine. Likewise, Church pronouncements regarding the
inadmissibility of the death penalty directly opposes the Duterte government’s proposal
for the return of capital punishment. And lastly, with this recent enacted Anti-terrorism
Law, intervention of religious organization is clearly perceived. Bishop Jose Colin
Bagaforo of Kidapawan said that the bill attempts to silence critics that disagrees with the
government. He also added that the bill prevents people’s freedom of expression,
academic freedom, right to organize for human and social development, and even
freedom of the press. Although, Catholic Church of today, had always been in the middle
of authorities and the people, there are still times when the Church could not help but act
upon the things they think is not right, for the good of many.
Just like in the debate for the Rizal Law, the government or state and the church
have their own stands that may varies in points and perspectives but one thing is for sure,
these are stands of good and purposeful reasons, and that by the end of the day, as the
used to say to end a debate, everyone coincides and compromises for a single stand, that
will surely bring change and betterment in our country.