Cebu: Two advocacy groups on Friday expressed support for Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy's call for a simple and meaningful Christmas celebration amid the series of calamities that recently devastated communities across the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Action for Nurturing Children and Environment (ANCE) and the EcoWaste Coalition issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of the archbishop's pastoral appeal. They described it as a timely reminder to promote compassion and solidarity with families affected by disasters.
Archbishop Uy's appeal follows a series of destructive earthquakes and floods that have displaced thousands, damaged homes and churches, and disrupted livelihoods in Cebu province and other regions. He urged the faithful to observe Christmas "with greater simplicity, deeper compassion, and more intentional solidarity with the poor."
ANCE, a Cebu City-based non-governmental organization, focuses on children's development and environmental integrity, while the EcoWaste Coalition, based in Quezon City, advocates for a zero-waste and toxics-free society.
"As a community-based NGO here in Cebu, we are fully aware of the challenges facing millions of our kauban (companions) following the heartbreaking calamities," ANCE Executive Director Rhoy Dizon stated. "We therefore support the very timely appeal for solidarity by Archbishop Uy and similarly encourage everyone to let the simplicity of Christmas bring cheer and hope to the disaster survivors."
EcoWaste Coalition national coordinator Aileen Lucero echoed this sentiment, suggesting that a modest celebration could help communities focus on genuine acts of kindness while reducing holiday waste. "Through a simple Christmas, we defy the consumerism that has overshadowed the true meaning of the Redeemer's birth in the manger, while enabling us to help the survivors and lessen the generation of trash during the festive season," she said.
Previously, the EcoWaste Coalition urged the public to observe "a kinder no-frills" Christmas and New Year by reusing old decorations, repurposing materials for holiday displays, choosing eco-friendly gatherings, and avoiding dangerous firecrackers. The group suggested that savings from these practices may be used to assist those in need.
Archbishop Uy emphasized that Christmas should not revolve around "extravagance, noise, fireworks, or lavish food." He appealed to parishes, institutions, and families to avoid excessive decorations and unnecessary expenses, refrain from fireworks and loud celebrations, and keep gatherings simple and mindful of waste.
"Let our homes shine not with lights but with love. Let our parishes be filled not with noise but with prayer. Let our celebrations focus not on abundance but on presence - God's presence and each other's presence," he said. The archbishop expressed hope that a simpler observance this year would "bring deep joy to our homes, healing to our land, and true honor to the newborn King."
