Catholic prelate to students: Studies first before love, say no to vices

An official of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (CBCP-ECCCE) on Thursday urged students to prioritize studies instead of engaging in vices and romantic relationships. (PNA photo)

MANILA—An official of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (CBCP-ECCCE) on Thursday urged students to prioritize studies instead of engaging in vices and romantic relationships.

Bishop Roberto Mallari, chairman of CBCP-ECCCE said these things may hinder students from finishing their studies.

“It is best that they leave out courtships and relationships as they may not be able to finish their studies,” he said over Church-run Radio Veritas.

The Catholic prelate added, “Similarly, they should set aside bad vices and other attractions in the world and instead focus more on learning.

Mallari said that focusing on their studies is not only showing gratitude to God but also to their parents, who are doing all their best to provide for their children.

“We hope that they will really understand that this is also God’s way of expressing His love for them, and to give back to their parents,” he said.

The CBCP-ECCCE official noted that students should enjoy their days in school as there are some who cannot afford to pursue their studies.

“Right from the beginning of the school year, we hope that they will really treasure it for every day of the (school) year,” Mallari said.

“It’s an opportunity to learn and an opportunity to know a lot of things. It’s an opportunity to be enriched as a person and we hope every student shall understand the importance of being in school everyday,” he added.

The Department of Education earlier announced that the school year 2017-2018 will open on June 5, and shall end on April 6, 2018.