Manila: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Saturday urged the faithful to join a collective act of penance and prayer after the country was struck by a series of calamities including typhoons, volcanic eruptions, fires, and earthquakes.

According to Philippines News Agency, in Circular No. 25-14, CBCP president Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David asked the people to pray for the nation's renewal, and to wear white every Sunday in October and November. He also encouraged the display of white ribbons in homes, churches, and public spaces.

Cardinal David emphasized, "Let our white garments be a symbol of the purity we seek for our land and our hearts. May this season of prayer and repentance lead us to hope, healing and the restoration of our common life in truth and justice."

He further expressed concern over the recent string of disasters, stating, "For the past few days now, we have been experiencing terrible calamities -- one after another! Let us beg the Lord's mercy on our people."

Cardinal David reiterated the bishops' earlier "National Call to Prayer and Public Repentance," where they urged Filipinos to pray every Sunday and, if possible, daily, until the Solemnity of Christ the King in November. This feast in the liturgical year emphasizes the true kingship of Christ.