CBCP: Over 20,000 people join anti-RH rally in Bulacan

Over 20,000 pro-life Catholics attended a rally against the reproductive health (RH) bill in Bulacan province last weekend, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said. According to an article on the CBCP website, the police estimated that between “20,000 to 25,000" people gathered at the provincial capitol in Malolos City and marched to the Basilica Minore of the Immaculate Conception. “Bulacan local officials as well as legislators came to support the event’s cause, all addressing the huge crowd with short messages," the CBCP said. Among those who attended the rally were Bulacan Governor Willy Alvarado, and Reps. Ma. Victoria Sy-Alvarado (1st district), Pedro Pancho (2nd district), Joselito Mendoza (3rd district), and Linabelle Ruth Villarica (4th district). Also present were were Rep. Arturo Robes (District of San Jose del Monte City) and Valenzuela Reps. Rex Gatchalian (1st district) and Magtanggol Gunigundo (2nd district). The CBCP said the participants brought streamers and signs expressing their “pro-life, anti-RH bill sentiments." Those who delivered talks during the rally were Episcopal Commission on Family and Life (ECFL) Executive Secretary Fr. Melvin Castro, Sen. Vicente Sotto III, Parañaque Rep. Roilo Golez, former Senator Francisco Tatad, and former Manila Mayor Jose Atienza Jr. The event ended with the Mass presided over by Malolos Bishop Jose Oliveros. - VVP, GMA News