The Pastoral Guidelines on Sexual Abuses and Misconduct by the Clergy, issued in 2003 by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, laid down a framework for how bishops and religious superiors should handle cases of clerical abuse.

The document, found online after media reports claimed it was missing, includes the following key directives:

• Immediate action on complaints: Clergy accused of sexual abuse must be relieved of ministry during the investigation process.

• Cooperation with civil authorities: Church leaders are instructed to respect and cooperate with criminal proceedings and report abuse when required by law.

• Psychological assessment: Both victims and the accused should be referred for psychological evaluation and support.

• Victim support: The Church must offer pastoral care and healing to victims, including counseling services and financial assistance when necessary.

• Seminary reform: Vocation directors are urged to screen seminarians for “sexual maturity and emotional balance” to prevent future abuse.

• No tolerance for cover-ups: The guidelines emphasize transparency, stating that “secrecy must not hinder justice.”

While praised on paper, the guidelines have been criticized by advocates for lack of implementation and public dissemination in the two decades since their release.