Cagayan de Oro: The Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro has denied reports of holding a “special Mass” for former president Rodrigo Duterte at the Saint Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral in Cagayan de Oro City. In a statement on Wednesday, Archbishop Jose Cabantan clarified that the Mass at 5:30 p.m. Thursday is not intended for a specific individual and is open to all.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cabantan addressed a recent report from a media outlet claiming that the Cathedral is conducting a special daily Mass for Duterte’s health and release back to the Philippines. Cabantan categorically stated that this information is incorrect. The 5:30 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral, like all Eucharistic celebrations, is open to all and for all. The Holy Mass is a sacred act of worship where the faithful gather to lift up their personal and communal intentions to God, and it is never exclusive to any one person, group, or political cause.
Cabantan also noted the presence of banners outside the Cathedral put up by supporters of the former president, who is currently detained at The Hague in the Netherlands following an arrest order by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last week. Concerns were raised regarding placards with pro-Duterte messages displayed outside the Cathedral. These were placed by individuals or groups attending the Mass to pray for their intentions. While the Church welcomes all to bring their prayers before God, it remains committed to its mission of universality and neutrality, ensuring that places of worship remain spaces of faith, reflection, and unity.
Additionally, Cabantan reminded the faithful of their duty to pray for “peace, unity, and justice.” The Church remains a mother to all, embracing everyone with pastoral care without taking sides in political conflicts. Followers of Christ are urged to rise above divisions and be instruments of reconciliation and truth. Cabantan also urged the faithful not to support those spreading misinformation. He emphasized the importance of seeking truth from official Church sources and rejecting misinformation that sows discord. As Lent approaches, he encouraged the renewal of hearts, setting aside hostility, and committing to prayer and works of mercy for the nation’s good.
