Diocese of Antipolo Bishop Ruperto C. Santos has mandated all parishes under his jurisdiction to conduct a second collection in holy masses this Sunday, July 30.
Bishop Ruperto Santos (Facebook)
The amount, the newly installed bishop said, will be used to help the families of those who perished in the boat that capsized In Laguna Lake on the early afternoon of Thursday, July 27.
“The mission appeal will be used to help the families of the 27 passengers who died after the MBCP Princess Aya capsized while on its regular route from Binangonan to Talim Island in Rizal,” said Bishop Santos.
“We understand that times may be tough for many, but any assistance you can provide will go a long way in offering hope and healing to those affected by this tragedy,” he added.
The Church leader assured the families of the victims of his prayers and holy masses. The bishop said he is also offering his prayers and masses for the victims of typhoon Egay which battered Northern Luzon.
“I am calling on the faithful to pray for strength for all those who were orphaned by this tragedy that killed fathers, women and children,” the bishop said.
“I hope my prayers reach you despite the challenging weather conditions that have been affecting our region. As we have been praying for the safety and well-being of our brothers and sisters in Northern Luzon who were battling the fury of Typhoon Egay, a tragic incident unfolded right here in our Diocese, leaving us in a state of profound grief and despair,” Bishop Santos said over Radio Veritas.
Data from the Philippine Coastguard showed 27 passengers died from the incident while 40 people were rescued. The small boat reportedly carried 70 passengers but only 22 names were listed in the passenger manifesto.