Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula joined Pope Leo XIV in calling for an “unarmed and disarming” peace as the country welcomed New Year 2026.
“I echo with deep conviction that peace is not achieved by force or fear, but by a disarmed heart and a disarming way of life,” Advincula said.
He emphasized that “true peace begins within us, rejects violence and domination, and grows through humility, dialogue, mercy, and trust.”
The cardinal said the Philippines and the world need “the peace of the ‘unarmed and disarming’ Emmanuel in the manger, which gives joy and hope to all.”
Reflecting on national struggles, he noted, “Like most of you, I often feel the scourge of a people who have been wanting peace and progress, but to no avail.”
Despite setbacks, Advincula urged hope.
“But we are a people of hope. We believe in God who walks with us and remains faithful to us,” he said, pointing to Mary as a model of trust.
“Like Mary, let us face the New Year not with answers and solutions but with courage and faith.”
He concluded with a call to action: “Let us continue to pray for peace and justice, for truth and accountability, for the conversion of hearts and restoration of conscience in our society.”