In disputed sea, priest calls for 'prayer power' vs China

PAG-ASA ISLAND, Palawan — In a Mass held Wednesday,  Puerto Princesa Apostolic Vicariate Bishop Pedro Arigo called on residents of the disputed Pag-asa Island to keep their faith in God despite the looming external threats posed by China.

"We cannot match their military power but we have a power that they [the Chinese] do not know about. We have prayer power," the bishop said.

Arigo noted that prayers gave courage to protestors who joined the 1986 People Power Revolution. He said Filipinos should keep their faith strong as the country faces territorial disputes.

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"How can China fight the power of God?" he said in Filipino.

Arigo also cited the need for unity and to prioritize common good over selfish interests.

"We should continue to call on God so that the freedom and human rights that were fought for during the People Power revolt will remain," he said.

Aside from the celebration of the Holy Mass local officials and the Armed Forces Western Command brought gifts and food to residents of the Philippine-controled territory on Wednesday.

The residents and visitors also celebrated with parlor games and a cultural presentation to commemorate the People Power Revolution.