MANILA -- Catholic prelates on Wednesday lauded the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) junking the petition to allow same-sex marriage in the country, noting that the ruling strengthens the sanctity and stability of marriage.
According to Bataan Bishop Ruperto Santos, the decision of the High Court affirms what is just, natural, and ethical nature of marriage.
“Truly that is indeed legal, right and moral decision of SC. With its decision, our justices decide and affirm on what is just, natural and ethical nature of marriage. The dismissal of same sex marriage strengthens the sanctity and stability of marriage,” he said in a statement.
“We, CBCP-ECMI (Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines – Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People), are grateful and appreciative to SC, manifesting their independence and truthfulness,” the CBCP-ECMI chairman added.
For his part, Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes said the Catholic Church is contented with the ruling.
“Of course, the Catholic Church is very happy with the decision of the Superior Court to dismiss an immoral plea to legalize same sex marriage in our country,” he said.
“Cheers to the Supreme Court which defends the true nature of marriage as defined by our present Constitution! Viva Philippines, the most Christian and Catholic country in the whole world!” the Catholic prelate added.
Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo also welcomed the High Court’s decision.
“This is a good development. Our Constitution and our laws do not allow same sex marriages. The fight against same sex marriage will be in the legislature. I hope the lawmakers will give weight to strengthening families rather than weakening them,” he said.
Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez is pushing for a civil union bill at the lower house, allowing the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) legal rights and status.
On Tuesday, the SC unanimously dismissed the petition filed by lawyer Jesus Falcis III for lack of legal standing to initiate the petition and also for failing to comply with the principle of hierarchy of courts and for "failing to raise an actual, justiciable controversy".
The petitioner is challenging the provisions of the Family Code limiting marriage to unions between a man and a woman. (PNA)
