caritas philippines logo 2024

Caritas Philippines, the development and advocacy arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), is set to hold the 3rd Caritas Bike For Kalikasan in Cagayan de Oro, bringing together communities, environmental advocates, and the faithful in a powerful demonstration of commitment to environmental stewardship.

The event is in partnership with the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, Ecology Care, Ad Extra Ministries, and Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro – Social Action Center.

Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, President of Caritas Philippines, emphasized the significance of this event in the context of the ongoing ecological crisis. “The Earth, our common home, is groaning as in childbirth, suffering from the exploitation and degradation we have inflicted upon it. As people of faith, we cannot stand idly by. The Caritas Bike For Kalikasan is our way of showing that we are ready to act with hope and responsibility, striving to renew and restore Creation,” said Bishop Bagaforo.

The bike ride, which will begin at Xavier University and end at Gaston Park, is part of the global Season of Creation 2024 celebration, themed “To hope and act with Creation.” The event builds on the momentum of the first two rides held in Quezon City and Batangas and highlights the growing movement within the Church to address environmental issues.

Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, Vice President of Caritas Philippines, spoke about the importance of hope in the face of environmental challenges. “Hope, in the biblical sense, is not passive. It is an active force that compels us to engage in the work of creation care. Through this bike ride, we are not just raising awareness; we are fostering a deeper sense of responsibility and urgency in caring for our common home,” Bishop Alminaza explained.

In July 2024, the 128th CBCP Plenary Assembly identified six critical eco-actions that Caritas Philippines is championing:

  1. Strengthening integral ecology ministries across dioceses.
    2. Supporting the global Season of Creation alongside other faith traditions.
    3. Divesting from extractive industries by 2025.
    4. Implementing policies to reject donations from unethical sources.
    5. Eradicating plastic pollution.
    6. Promoting the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge to transition to renewable energy.

These actions represent our collective hope and our commitment to ensuring a just and sustainable future,” added Bishop Bagaforo. “As we pedal together through the streets of Cagayan de Oro, we are making a statement that we are ready to partner with Creation and work tirelessly for its preservation.”

The 3rd Caritas Bike For Kalikasan is not just a ride; it is a call to action, a declaration of hope, and a testament to the Church’s unwavering commitment to environmental justice.

Register online via https://tinyurl.com/3rdCaritasBike4Kalikasan.

Facebook event page: 3rd Caritas Bike For Kalikasan.

For inquiries, please email kalikasan@caritas.org.ph or contact Ms. Donna Echalico (09950969175) / Ms. Jing Rey Henderson (09055469977).