Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu Archdiocese. (Photo by Joe Torres)
The archbishop of the central Philippine province of Cebu has joined a priest in waging war against a town mayor who has scheduled a music festival during Holy Week.
"Our point is we will try to defend the right of the church," said Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu, who expressed support for Father Roy Bucag, parish priest of Bantayan Island.
The priest drew the ire of the town mayor for organizing a dawn prayer rally opposing the "Isla Music Festival" that is scheduled to take place from April 13 to 15.
The mayor threatened to sue the priest for holding the protest action without a permit.
Archbishop Palma, however, said the priest did not do anything wrong. "It’s up to [the mayor] if he will file a case," said the prelate.
"It is clearly improper for any entity to hold any gathering that would disrupt the solemn nature of Holy Week," said the prelate.
"During the most sacred time of the liturgical year, I hope we will ponder upon everything that our Lord has done for our sake," he added.