Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Manila (Fides Service) - “The words of Christ: ‘There is no greater love than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends’ were exemplified by the heroic act of Father Carlito Colendres who lost his life while helping typhoon victims to safety” Filipino Divine Word Missionary, father Bel San Luis, said in a message to Fides referring to the priest killed on 29 November during a recent typhoon in the Prelature of Infanta northern Philippines.
Local sources reported that before succumbing to the floods Father Colendres, aged 48 and Chancellor of the Prelature rescued 200 people and drove them to safety with his truck. While making second rescue attempt for which he had tied a rope around a tree and thrown it in the direction of people trying to stay afloat, the priest was dragged away by the current.
“Father Colendres was totally dedicated to the poor. His heroism reflects the solidarity shown by the local Church in Infanta and the Bishop Rolando Tria Tirona, to assist the victims of the disaster”, Father Bel San Luis told Fides.
Father Colendres’ body was taken to Midayap, near Cotabato, on the island of Mindanao, where he was born. Muslims joined Catholics in paying tribute to the priest at the funeral and the mayor of Midayap declared a week of mourning.
In a message recalling the courageous priest, Bishop Rolando Tria Tirona spoke of tireless his work of catechesis, social work and his splendid witness. The Bishop also launched an appeal for food, clothing and medicines and also volunteers to assist the homeless. A collection centre has been opened at Mount Carmel church in Quezon City and parishes are arranging accommodation for the families in need.
The Archbishop of Manila, Mgr Gaudencio Rosales, also issued a message calling on Catholics to show solidarity with those in need and taking food and clothing to the local Caritas centres.
It is estimated that at least 1,500 people died and about 40,000 were made homeless in the tropical storm which hit the eastern part of the Island of Luzon at the end of November.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 10/12/2004 Righe: 27 Parole: 334)
