Antipolo bishop honors Filipino social workers

LUCENA CITY — Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Antipolo paid tribute to Filipino social workers, recognizing their dedication to serving society’s most vulnerable sectors.

In his reflection for the observance of Filipino Social Workers’ Day on Friday, June 19, Santos highlighted the vital role social workers play in uplifting those in need and upholding human dignity.

“Today, we remember in a special way our Filipino social workers whose daily work places them at the service of the most vulnerable members of society,” Santos said in a message posted on the diocese’s official Facebook page.

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The bishop said the ministry of social workers reflects a fundamental Gospel truth: that every person possesses inherent dignity because each is created in the image and likeness of God.

Recalling Christ’s ministry, Santos noted that Jesus consistently reached out to those often neglected by society.

“He welcomed children, comforted the afflicted, healed the sick, fed the hungry, and restored dignity to those who had been excluded and rejected. His mission was not only to preach but also to accompany, heal, and uplift,” he said.

“This same spirit is reflected in the work of social workers,” the bishop added.

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Santos likened social workers to the Good Samaritan, the compassionate figure in one of Jesus’ best-known parables.

“They refuse to walk past those who are wounded by life’s difficulties. They stop. They listen. They care. They accompany. They advocate. They help restore hope where despair has taken root,” he said.

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The bishop noted that although many of those assisted by social workers may never receive public recognition, in every child protected, family supported, victim comforted, and struggling individual guided, “the face of Christ is present.”

He said the profession serves as a reminder that compassion requires commitment, mercy demands action, and love is demonstrated through service.

Santos also urged Filipinos not only to pray for social workers but also to emulate their example.

“Each of us is called to become attentive to the needs of others. Each of us is called to be a neighbor, a helper, and a source of hope,” he said.

The bishop prayed that Filipino social workers would be blessed with strength, wisdom, courage, and joy as they carry out their mission.

“And may all of us, inspired by their witness, become instruments of God’s compassion in our homes, communities, and society. Amen,” he added.

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Filipino Social Workers’ Day is observed every June 19 under Proclamation No. 1176, signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte, in recognition of the indispensable role of social workers and their contributions to nation-building, particularly in advancing the government’s social protection programs. INQ