Two Filipino CM’s quietly providing help their government is not providing.A national paper in the Philippines writes as follows about two graduates of Adamson University (CM sponsored)…
When criticized by Church people, the government, through its smart spokespersons and astute political allies, is quick to invoke the Church-State separation doctrine. When needed most by its citizens, the government is many steps behind what Church people are doing — basic tasks and obligations that the government should be the first to do.
Although it is not his intention, the many good things Fr. Agustin “Gestie” Advincula, C.M., has done to ease the plight of overseas Filipino workers in Lebanon, should mortify many of our government officials who seem to habitually fail in the quick delivery of services and assistance. Unmindful of the risks, Father Gestie is doing everything he can to help his compatriots.
With nothing to lose, Fr. Nonong Fajardo, C.M., a.k.a. “Fr. Riles” (Inquirer, 7/25/06), helps the impoverished residents along the rail tracks get a fair deal in the relocation process.
If any common thread binds the two C.M. priests, it is perhaps their concern for the socially disadvantaged and, if we may add, a “background-hugging” work attitude. The humane gestures and the no-nonsense, pro-poor bias are values imbibed way back in college. That these are happening on the cusp of something big is no small matter.
Father Gestie and Father Nonong happen to be among the countless alumni who will add meaning and inspiration to Adamson University’s Diamond Jubilee celebration in February 2007. While they are protective of their “self-effacing rights,” the university can’t help feeling proud of them.
Tags: Advocacy
