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Archdiocese issues Oratio Imperata amid Duterte ICC trial

Gabriela Baron

The Archdiocese of Manila has released an Oratio Imperata (Obligatory Prayer) for the Nation amid "emotionally intense events and discourses in the nation's political spectrum."

Cardinal Jose Advincula on Friday enjoined all parishes and communities to use the prayer after post-communion prayer in Holy Masses.

"We have heard different opinions and viewpoints on various platforms. Our country is in a time of crisis, conflict, and confusion," Advincula said.

"During this turning point in our nation's history, our faith invites us to transcend our differences and be open to continuous conversion towards truth, justice, and peace, i.e. the values of the Kingdom of God, which every person aspires for," he added.

According to Circular No. 2025-19, Advincula said the archdiocese must offer daily prayers beginning Saturday, 22 March.

The cardinal issued the Oratio Imperata amid the detention of former President Rodrigo Duterte at The Hague, Netherlands.

Duterte is under the custody of the International Criminal Court where he will be trialed for charges against crimes against humanity in relation to his war on drugs which killed 6,000 individuals, according to government data.