Twelfth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

Christianity, especially Roman Catholicism, is an important dimension of Philippine culture, where about 85% of the population identify as Christian. Many Filipinos practice Christian religious activities as integral parts of their personal, familial, and communal lives. Moreover, overseas Filipino workers and migrants vitalize the Christian Faith in other countries. The year 2021 marked the fifth centenary of Christianity’s arrival in the archipelago. Over the previous five centuries, Christianity has played a significant role in shaping Philippine society. We reflect on 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines by reviewing major socio-political events and trends in Philippine history up to the present which are examples of Christianity’s influence on Philippine society. Special attention is given to the Catholic Church’s advocacy of human rights. Afterwards, suggestions are made on how Christianity can better thrive in the country’s future.