21/05/2026
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The separation of Church and State was never intended to silence the Church. Rather, it was established primarily to protect the Church from interference and control by the State β not the other way around.
Many people immediately invoke the phrase βseparation of Church and Stateβ whenever Church leaders speak against human rights abuses, corruption, extrajudicial killings, or laws that violate the sanctity of life. Sadly, this often comes from a misunderstanding of what the Constitution truly means.
The constitutional principle does not prohibit the Church from speaking on moral, social, or political matters. Instead, it prevents the State from controlling religion or establishing one over another. As repeatedly emphasized by jurists and constitutional scholars, this principle exists to preserve religious freedom and protect the Church from state domination.
It is also important to remember that the Church is not only composed of priests, bishops, and religious leaders. The Church is also made up of lay people β ordinary Filipino citizens who possess the same rights and responsibilities as everyone else. As citizens, members of the Church have every right to participate in the democratic process, speak on moral issues, and oppose policies or bills that undermine human dignity and the sanctity of life.
As Fr. Amando Picardal once said:
βIt is really important to have a proper understanding of what separation of Church and State really means.β
The Church does not seek political power. It seeks to defend truth, protect human dignity, and guide consciences according to moral principles. Speaking against injustice is not unconstitutional β it is part of the Churchβs mission.
May we never use the βseparation of Church and Stateβ as an excuse to silence the Church. Instead, may it become an opportunity for people to better understand the Constitution and recognize that Church leaders and faithful are also Filipino citizens with rights, voices, and responsibilities.
Tumindig tayo β hindi lang bilang bahagi ng Simbahan, kundi bilang mamamayang may konsensya at malasakit sa bayan.
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