Muslim Personnels from the PNP was given a chance to have their special leave privileges in observance of Ramadan that started last Friday, August 21, 2009. PNP chief Director General Jesus A. Verzosa gave this direction as they joined our Muslim brothers in this annual tradition. It is also an appropriate gesture of inter-faith solidarity among police personnel who share a common mission and professional calling as law enforcers. PNP Chaplain Service will also hold series of activities in celebration of Ramadan in police regional offices nationwide, especially in Mindanao.

Bro. Mike Velarde, one of the most influential religious leader, celebrated his 70th Birthday yesterday together with his El Shaddai members. It is also the day that he inaugurates the new El Shaddai International House of Prayer, located at Brgy. San Dionisio in Paranaque City. Together with President Macapagal-Arroyo, they inaugurated the P1-billion structure with a floor area of one hectare on the Velarde-owned Amvel City in San Dionisio. CBCP President Archbishop Angel Lagdameo officiated the mass and said that the structure was so big that he needed six eyes to address the crowd. VIP’s like Sen. Loren Legarda, Representatives Roilo Golez, Cynthia Villar, Del de Guzman, and Dan Fernandez, and NBN-ZTE whistleblower Jose de Venecia III were also present during the event. Bro. Mike also announced his dream of becoming a President that draw different reactions from his followers.

Mindanao-born missionary Bishop Nereo Odchimar, was elected as the new CBCP President. Ochimar, together with the other newly elected officers of CBCP will officially assume office on Dec.1. Preparation for the transfer of responsibilities will soon begin as the Permanent Council convenes later in the year. Odchimar was elected president by an overwhelming majority of bishops from 86 dioceses nationwide during the 99th CBCP Plenary Assembly at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Paco, Manila last Saturday.

Iglesia Ni Kristo is about to celebrate their 95th anniversary this year, July 27, 2009. And with that, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo declared that day a special non-working Holiday. She also thanked INC for its significant role as a spiritual and moral formation of people as well as nation- building through its members nationwide.