THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has reiterated its long-standing concern over the celebration of Halloween’s trick-or-treat tradition, calling it a practice that aligns with “the work of the devil,” and urging families to emphasize faith-centered observances during Undas instead.
In a radio interview, Fr. Jerome Secillano, executive secretary of the CBCP Commission on Public Affairs, said the Church cannot compel everyone to follow its teachings, but hopes that Catholics will reflect on the meaning of the season.
“Well, basically, kapag halimbawa Katoliko ka, ay ‘yon naman ang gusto namin sanang gawin,” Secillano said. “Hindi naman namin maipipilit. At the end of the day, it’s all about people receiving our message… But of course, we’re going to be very happy kung nasusunod pa rin ‘yong mga pangaral namin.”
Secillano explained that Halloween trick-or-treat festivities often veer into themes associated with the occult. He said this distracts from the traditional Christian commemoration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
“Yung mga sinasabi nating Halloween trick or treat, parang occult ‘yan e. It’s all about the work of the devil, na parang ine-encourage pa natin? Huwag naman sana,” he said. “What we should encourage is the good thing… our devotion to the saints and our adherence to faith.”
He added that the public should recognize the Church’s efforts to highlight values embodied by saints rather than to promote fear or spectacle.
“So sana, makita ng tao… if you are having this parade of saints, e makita nila na ito na. Pinopropagate natin dito ‘yong virtues ng mga santo: humility, obedience, simplicity, holiness of life,” he said.
The priest encouraged families to observe time-honored Undas traditions such as praying for the departed, attending Mass, offering intentions, visiting cemeteries, and lighting candles as acts of remembrance and spiritual reflection.
