Churches serve as safe havens

The Catholic Church has stepped up to help those displaced by super typhoon "Uwan" (international name: Fung-wong), opening parishes, schools and church facilities across Metro Manila and the Bicol Region as temporary shelters.

On Sunday, the Archdiocese of Manila, Archdiocese of Caceres, Diocese of Kalookan, and Diocese of Virac all directed their institutions to welcome evacuees.

“The Archdiocese of Caceres encourages everyone to prepare for super typhoon "Uwan" with prudence, calmness, and a spirit of prayer. We are called to walk together in mutual care. This is a time for co-responsibility,” the archdiocese said.

In Catanduanes, one of the first areas hit by the typhoon, the Diocese of Virac instructed priests to open parish churches to provide safe and prayerful refuge. “This initiative aims to offer warmth, prayer, and hope to evacuees during the storm,” the diocese added.

According to PAGASA, the Bicol Region is under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 5, while Metro Manila is under Signal No. 3. In response, the Archdiocese of Manila encouraged schools, churches, and other institutions with available space to open their doors to those in need.

The Diocese of Kalookan echoed the call, saying, “In times of rain and fear, let us trust in God, who always cares for His people.”

Meanwhile, Caritas Philippines, the humanitarian arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with diocesan social action centers to provide emergency assistance.

“Let us remain alert, prepared, and follow the advisories of local government authorities,” Caritas urged.