CBCP welcomes return of Balangiga Bells

December 11, 2018

Calling it a “priceless religious treasure”, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) welcomed the return of the Balangiga Bells 117 years after it was taken by American soldiers.

In a statement, CBCP President Archbishop Romulo Valles said they are happy with the return of the Balangiga Bells considering its historical value.

“It is with great joy and deepest gratitude that we, in the CBCP, receive the good news that, after 117 years, the three Bells of Balangiga shall now be returned to their rightful place in the Parish of St. Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr, of the Diocese of Borongan, in the town of Balangiga, Eastern Samar,” said Valles.

“We join Bishop Crispin Varquez and all our brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Borongan, especially those in the Parish of St. Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr, in thanking and glorifying God, for He has, once again, done marvelous deeds in our midst today,” he added.

Valles added that the return of the bells shows the path to healing and reconciliation may be arduous but is never impossible.

Valles thanked the Philippine government for its “years of vigorous efforts” to reclaim the three bells.

Valles said the Church appreciates the “very wise gesture” of the US Government in finally bringing back the Bells of Balangiga as it provides the people the “experience of a deeper sense of justice and respect between our peoples“. DMS