Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Sorsogon Bishop Emeritus Arturo Bastes, a passionate missionary known for his strong stances on national issues, passed away at the age of 80 on October 20. Born in Loboc, Bohol, Bastes was ordained a priest of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in 1970. He later became the bishop of Romblon in 1997 and Sorsogon in 2003.
Throughout his career, Bastes was not afraid to speak out on controversial topics. During the Aquino administration, he urged Catholics to resist measures he deemed immoral, such as the reproductive health law. He also criticized mining operations in Bicol and questioned President Aquino’s policies on the matter.
In more recent years, Bastes continued to be a vocal critic, calling out President Duterte for various decisions. He condemned the firing of Vice President Leni Robredo as anti-drug czar and opposed the proposal to declare martial law during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bastes’ passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church in Sorsogon. He retired in 2019 and was succeeded by Bishop Jose Alan Dialogo. Despite his retirement, Bastes remained an influential figure in the community, known for his unwavering dedication to social justice and advocacy for the marginalized.
His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and the causes he championed. The Catholic Church has lost a fearless leader, but his impact will continue to be felt for years to come. Rest in peace, Bishop Bastes.
Retired Sorsogon bishop Arturo Bastes dies at 80
When looking at the life and legacy of Sorsogon Bishop Emeritus Arturo Bastes, one question that comes to mind is: What were his strong positions on national issues? Bastes, a missionary from Loboc in Bohol, was known for his outspoken nature when it came to sociopolitical matters such as mining. He passed away at the age of 80 on October 20, leaving behind a legacy of standing up for what he believed in.
The news of Bastes’ passing was confirmed by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), who announced it in a Facebook post. While details surrounding his death were not immediately provided, it is clear that Bastes made a significant impact during his time as a bishop.
Born in Loboc, Bohol, on April 1, 1944, Bastes was ordained as a priest of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) on November 28, 1970. The SVD is a group of missionaries with a rich history, founded in the Netherlands in 1875 and now spread across 79 countries, including the Philippines.
In 1997, Pope John Paul II appointed Bastes as the bishop of Romblon, and later in 2003, he became the bishop of Sorsogon. The Diocese of Sorsogon, located 516 kilometers away from Manila, is home to more than 770,600 Catholics. Bastes served the community faithfully until his retirement at the age of 75 in 2019, under Pope Francis, and was succeeded by Bishop Jose Alan Dialogo.
Another question that arises is: What made Bastes an outspoken shepherd? Bastes was not one to shy away from controversial topics. During the Aquino administration, he encouraged Catholics to resist what he deemed as immoral measures, such as the reproductive health law. Despite the eventual passing of the law under President Benigno Aquino III, Bastes stood firm in his beliefs.
Bastes was also a vocal critic of mining operations in Bicol, particularly during the Aquino presidency. He chaired a fact-finding body that investigated controversial polymetallic mines in Rapu-Rapu, Albay, recommending the cancellation of the operation permit of Lafayette Philippines Incorporated. His strong stance on environmental issues and social justice earned him a reputation as a fearless advocate for the marginalized.
Under the Duterte administration, Bastes continued to speak out against perceived injustices. When then-President Rodrigo Duterte removed Vice President Leni Robredo as his anti-drug czar, Bastes condemned the decision, calling it shameful. He also opposed Duterte’s proposal to declare martial law to combat rebel attacks during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, showcasing his unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and democratic values.
In conclusion, Bishop Arturo Bastes leaves behind a legacy of speaking truth to power and standing up for the marginalized and oppressed. His fearless advocacy for social justice and environmental protection will be remembered by those he inspired. As we reflect on his life, let us continue to uphold the values he championed and strive for a more just and equitable society. [Source: Rappler.com]