The Contemporary Philippine Church’s Engagement in Ecological Advocacy (1988-2019)

Karl Gaspar

The Contemporary Philippine Church’s Engagement in Ecological Advocacy (1988-2019)

Authors

Karl Gaspar St. Alphonsus Theological and Mission Institute

Keywords:

Ecological Advocacy, Laudato Si’, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference, Mining, Human Rights Violations

Abstract

This article documents the historical roots and progress of the Philippine Church’s engagement in ecological advocacy from 1988- 2019, highlighting especially the pioneering role of the Mindanao Church. It concludes with the account of the deepened and expanded engagement as the official teachings (Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines documents and Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’) journeyed with the worldwide campaign toward ecological integrity.

Author Biography

Karl Gaspar, St. Alphonsus Theological and Mission Institute

Dr. Karl M. Gaspar, CSsR, is a Redemptorist Brother who serves as Academic Dean of the St. Alphonsus Theological and Mission Institute (SATMI), based in Davao City where he also teaches Cultural Anthropology and Missiology subjects. He also teachers Anthropology at the Ateneo de Davao University Anthropology Department. He finished A.B. Sociology at Ateneo de Davao University, M.A. Economics at the Asian Social Institute, and PhD Philippine Studies at the University of the Philippines, Diliman Quezon City. Among his published books are: Manobo Dreams in Arakan (won the 2012 National Book Award for Social Sciences) and Desperately Seeking God's Saving Action (won the CMMA Cardinal Sin Award, Best in Ministry and Spirituality). His recent books are: A Hundred Years of Gratitude, and Panagkutay: Anthropology Interfacing Theology in the Mindanao Uplands.

The Contemporary Philippine Church’s Engagement in Ecological Advocacy (1988-2019)