The Diocese of Kalookan on Tuesday has issued an apology following widespread criticism over the treatment of a live dove during the Easter Salubong ritual at a parish in Malabon.
The controversy stemmed from a viral video showing a pigeon with its wings restrained and tied to a cluster of balloons before being released during the ceremony at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of the Immaculate Conception. The footage drew concern from animal welfare groups and netizens.
“We extend our sincere apology for what transpired,” the diocese said in a statement.
Church officials clarified that the use of a live pigeon has been a long-standing practice in the parish, adopted decades ago—even after the Second World War—as a safer alternative to having a child portray an angel during the ritual. Traditionally, the dove is released immediately after the unveiling portion of the ceremony.
However, the diocese acknowledged that this year’s execution deviated from that practice.
“It has since been brought to our attention that the pigeon was instead tied to a cluster of balloons, with its wings restrained, and released into the air," the statement read.
“This act is regrettable,” it said.
In response to the incident, parish authorities have committed to "discontinue the practice" and that there will be "no more balloon-flying in future celebrations."
The diocese also emphasized that the incident occurred without the knowledge of Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David beyond the unveiling portion of the ceremony.
"The Bishop has expressed his objection to this practice, noting that it is not only harmful to the animal but also to the environment, particularly to marine life that may ingest deflated balloons," the diocese noted.
The diocese underscored the importance of aligning religious practices with compassion and environmental stewardship.
“[W]e are reminded that our expressions of devotion must always be guided by compassion and responsibility,” the statement added.
Church officials said they have already instructed organizers at the Malabon parish to ensure that similar incidents will not happen again in future observances.
