The Philippines has lost a beloved and respected figure with the passing of Arturo Bastes. As a prominent bishop and a voice for the marginalized, Bastes dedicated his life to serving his community and advocating for social justice. This blog post will explore his life, legacy, and the impact he had on the Philippines.

A Life of Service

Arturo Bastes was born on April 1, 1944, in Loboc, Bohol. He joined the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) and was ordained a priest in 1970. Bastes’s dedication to his faith and his commitment to serving others quickly became evident. He served in various parishes and communities, ministering to the spiritual and temporal needs of the people he encountered.

In 1997, Bastes was appointed as the bishop of Romblon. He served in this role until 2003, when he was appointed as the bishop of Sorsogon. As a bishop, Bastes was known for his compassionate leadership and his unwavering commitment to social justice. He was a strong advocate for the poor and marginalized, and he used his position to speak out against injustice and inequality.

A Voice for the Oppressed

Bastes was a vocal critic of the government’s policies, particularly those that affected the poor and marginalized. He was a strong advocate for environmental protection and human rights. He was also a proponent of land reform and social justice, and he fought tirelessly to improve the lives of the Filipino people.

One of Bastes’s most notable contributions was his advocacy for the rights of indigenous peoples. He was a strong supporter of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) and worked to ensure that the rights of indigenous communities were protected. He also spoke out against the exploitation of indigenous lands and resources.

A Legacy of Compassion and Courage

Arturo Bastes was a man of deep faith and compassion. He was a dedicated servant of the Church and a tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to stand up for what is right and to work for a more just and equitable society.

Conclusion

The passing of Arturo Bastes is a great loss for the Philippines. He was a visionary leader, a champion of social justice, and a man of deep faith. His legacy will continue to inspire us to strive for a better world, a world where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and respect.