As Typhoon Pepito intensifies, several Catholic dioceses across the Philippines have called for public prayers and vigilance, offering church spaces as shelters for those in need.
Churches as Safe Havens
The Diocese of Virac in Catanduanes announced that its parish and mission churches would be open as evacuation centers.
“For generations, our churches have been a place of refuge and safe haven for everyone, regardless of religion,” the diocese stated in a social media post.
However, they cautioned that not all churches are suitable for evacuation due to structural concerns or risks from floods and landslides.
“The safety of our evacuees is our utmost priority,” the diocese added.
Calls for Prayer and Vigilance
In Eastern Samar, the Diocese of Borongan urged residents to stay alert while praying for protection and strength for those in Pepito’s path. Similarly, the Archdiocese of Caceres in Camarines Sur issued an oratio imperata, or mandatory prayer, seeking divine intervention to be spared from dangers.
Typhoon Pepito’s Strength
According to PAGASA, Typhoon Pepito may reach the super typhoon category upon its expected landfall on Saturday night or Sunday morning. It is the 16th tropical cyclone to hit the Philippines this year and the fourth in November alone, following Typhoons Marce (Yinxing), Nika (Toraji), and Ofel (Usagi).
As Pepito approaches, the Church continues to provide both spiritual and physical refuge, embodying its role as a sanctuary during crises.