Over 250 cyclists and environmental advocates gathered on October 5 for the 3rd Caritas Bike For Kalikasan, where the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro declared a climate emergency, signaling a step forward in the Catholic Church’s call for urgent climate action.
Organized by Caritas Philippines in partnership with the Archdiocese, the event aimed to mobilize communities and strengthen the Church’s climate advocacy. Participants, including representatives from the Diocese of Malaybalay and local biking groups, cycled through the city to stress the need for environmental responsibility.
“Our 3rd Caritas Bike For Kalikasan was a success, embodying the Season of Creation’s theme of ‘Hope and Act for Creation,’” said Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, president of Caritas Philippines. “The enthusiasm shown by participants from the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, the Diocese of Malaybalay, and various biking associations demonstrates our collective commitment to environmental stewardship,” he added.
A highlight of the event was the launch of the Koalisyon sa Nagkahiusang Lihuk para sa Kinaiyahan (KINAIYAHAN), a coalition of civil society groups and NGOs advocating for environmental policies and pushing the climate emergency agenda in the region.
Archbishop Jose Cabantan of Cagayan de Oro emphasized that the bike event is part of broader efforts to “care for our common home.” He expressed hope that it would “spark more activities, programs, and advocacies that focus on protecting our environment, as this is the call of our time.”
Caritas Philippines said it is promoting six key eco-actions endorsed by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, which include “strengthening integral ecology ministries, supporting the global Season of Creation, divesting from extractive industries, implementing ethical donation policies, eradicating plastic pollution, and promoting renewable energy through the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge.”
The cycling event marked the conclusion of Caritas’ nationwide Bike For Kalikasan campaign, which previously held rides in Quezon City and Batangas, spanning Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The organization plans to continue its climate advocacy with future events in the Visayas.
“To those who witnessed our cycling event today, the message is simple: we ride for the sake of our environment. May this be the time for us to act decisively to save our common home,” Bishop Bagaforo said.
