Photo by Lhiera Nicole Trinidad/ THE FLAME
THE CATHOLIC Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has urged Filipinos to abstain not just from food, but also from digital media during the Lenten season, saying constant connectivity “leaves little room for silence and reflection.”
A pastoral letter dated Feb. 13 and signed by CBCP Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera said limiting digital consumption creates time for prayer, reading Scriptures, Eucharistic devotion, works of mercy. and meaningful encounters with others.
Fasting redirects attention from self-centered habits to the loving service of others, the letter added.
“In our present time, fasting must also address the new realities shaping human life. One of the greatest influences today is digital media. Thus, we invite the faithful to undertake a Digital Media Fasting as a contemporary expression of conversion and renewal,” the CBCP said.
According to the bishops, excessive media use often leads to distraction, fatigue, loss of focus, weakened relationships and diminished spiritual awareness.
“Many struggle to be present to God and others because screens constantly demand attention. Digital media fasting helps restore balance and reminds us that technology must serve human life—not dominate it,” the CBCP said.
“True fasting, as Jesus teaches, is not an external performance but an interior conversion. Digital media fasting, therefore, invites a rediscovery of silence, prayer, contemplation, and authentic relationships. It is not meant to punish the body but to free the heart.”
The CBCP noted that fasting has traditionally meant abstaining from food as an act of repentance and spiritual focus. But the act also involves a detachment from whatever distracts one’s hearts from God, the bishops added.
“Digital media fasting helps restore balance and reminds us that technology must serve human life – not dominate it,” the CBCP said.
During the Lenten season, Catholics aged 18 to 59 are required to fast and abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday as an act of repentance for their sins.
Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of the Lenten season, is observed by placing ashes on the foreheads of Catholics to remind them of their mortality.
Good Friday, meanwhile, commemorates the passion and death of Jesus Christ.
The CBCP reminded the faithful that digital media fasting does not aim to discourage media use, but allows technology to become tools for good rather than a source of distraction.
“Fasting redirects attention from self-centered habits to the loving service of others. It is not deprivation but transformation,” the bishops said.
“The Lord calls us to fast not with gloomy faces but with joyful hearts seeking renewal. In stepping back from digital excess, we reclaim interior silence, deepen relationships, and rediscover God’s presence in daily life.”
The Thomasian community will observe Ash Wednesday on Feb. 18 through a 5 p.m. University-wide mass at the Plaza Major. Before the mass, a community confession will be held at the plaza from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. F – Dave Justine Desilos
