Cebu NGOs Join Archbishop Uy’s Call for a Simple and Compassionate Christmas

In response to recent catastrophic disasters impacting Cebu and surrounding communities, two Cebu-based organizations have aligned themselves with Archbishop Alberto Uy’s call for a simple and meaningful Christmas celebration in 2025. The Action for Nurturing Children and Environment (ANCE), dedicated to child development and environmental stewardship, and the EcoWaste Coalition, an environmental network advocating for zero waste and toxics-free living, are emphasizing simplicity, compassion, and solidarity during the holiday season.

Archbishop Uy issued a pastoral appeal on November 24, encouraging the faithful to celebrate Christmas with "greater simplicity, deeper compassion, and more intentional solidarity with the poor." This call comes amid the widespread destruction caused by recent earthquakes and floods that devastated homes, churches, and livelihoods.

Rhoy L. Dizon, Executive Director of ANCE, expressed full support for the Archbishop’s message, stating, "As a community-based NGO here in Cebu, we are deeply aware of the hardships faced by millions of our fellow citizens due to these tragic calamities. We stand with Archbishop Uy in urging everyone to embrace simplicity this Christmas to bring hope and cheer to disaster-affected families."

Echoing this sentiment, Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition, emphasized the urgency of the appeal: "As survivors strive to rebuild their lives, refraining from excessive consumerism honors the true spirit of Christmas and helps reduce trash generation during the festivities. It also allows us to provide meaningful support to those in need."

The EcoWaste Coalition had previously advocated for a modest and eco-friendly holiday season, urging the reuse of decorations, simple celebrations, and caution against spending on fireworks and other polluting activities. The funds saved through these measures could be redirected to uplift the needy during the season of giving.

Archbishop Uy further advised parishes, communities, and families to avoid extravagant displays, loud fireworks, and wasteful consumption. Instead, he called for gatherings centered on gratitude, prayer, and togetherness. "Let our homes shine not with lights but with love. Let our parishes be filled not with noise but with prayer. Let our celebrations focus not on abundance but on presence—God’s presence and each other’s presence," he said.

Concluding his appeal, the Archbishop expressed hope that these simple observances would bring profound joy, healing, and true reverence for the birth of Christ during this challenging season.