“We give thanks to God for the presence of these media which, if used by believers with the genius of faith and in docility to the light of the Holy Spirit, can facilitate the communication of the Gospel and render the bonds of communion among ecclesial communities more effective. (The Rapid Progress, No. 6)

With these grateful words from John Paul II’s Apostolic Letter to those Responsible for Communications, Rapid Progress, I greet the Editorial Staff of Bicol Mail on its 52nd Anniversary.

Its suppression during the Martial Law years did not put an end to its vision of doing service to the Truth. Rather, it has resurfaced with a noticeable effort to keep pace with the rapid development of communications technology.

As I congratulate the staff, I repeat the challenge of the John Paul II: “The mass media can and must promote justice and solidarity according to an organic and correct vision of human development, by reporting events accurately and truthfully, analyzing situations and problems completely, and providing a forum for different opinions.” (RP, #3). It is my prayer that Bicol Mail, and all those responsible for communication, will continue to keep this important mission to heart.

Thank you once again. I commend Bicol Mail for its important service to our community. May your endeavor yield a rich harvest in the coming years.