Manila: The parish priest of Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Shrine and Parish (NSDPSP) in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro, issued an apology on Thursday following backlash over a fund-raising concert held inside the church that went viral on social media. Rev. Fr. Carlito Dimaano took full responsibility for the October 6 concert, titled “Heavenly Harmony in Concert (Harana para kay Maria),” which drew criticism from some members of the faithful.
According to Philippines News Agency, the concert, which featured secular music, was a “wrong decision” on the part of the parish. He admitted that holding a secular concert inside the church had offended the religious sentiments of many, and he accepted full accountability for the incident. The concert included performances by singers Julie Anne San Jose and Jessica Villarubin, who were criticized online for performing songs such as “Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga, “Dancing Queen” by ABBA, and “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus in front of the church’s altar.
The Apostolic Vicariate of San Jose also apologized to the faithful, acknowledging that the event had offended devout individuals. San Jose Bishop Pablito Tagura called for “Christian forgiveness” and expressed regret over the incident in a separate statement, asking the community to understand the parish’s sincere remorse.