New museum in Philippines honors Cardinal Jaime Sin, a ‘voice’ against corruption

CNA Staff, Sep 14, 2024 / 06:00 am

An archdiocese in the Philippines opened a museum this month in honor of Cardinal Jaime Sin, a Filipino cardinal who was the people’s “voice against corrupt forces” during difficult times in the country’s history. 

Sin’s family residence will be home to the museum, called the “Museo Kardinal,” according to the Archdiocese of Manila. The project was a collaboration between the local diocese of Kalibo and the Serviam Foundation. 

“Jaime Cardinal Sin was the archbishop of Manila during critical times in Philippines history,” said Father Rufino Sescon Jr., the former personal secretary to the cardinal. “At a time when the people were looking for leaders who could be their voice and defense against abusive and corrupt forces, Cardinal Sin rose to the occasion.”

Sin left a legacy behind as an important figure during the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution, which ousted the dictator Ferdinand Marcos, restoring democracy in the Philippines. He is remembered as a driving force behind two revolts that ousted two dictators.

In his address to the people in 1986, the cardinal spoke on Radio Varitas to the Philippines, saying: “My dear people, I wish you to pray, because it’s only through prayer that we may solve this problem.” 

In his address, Sin called for a nonviolent protest, inspiring 20,000 people to rally peacefully at Camp Aguinaldo on Feb. 22, 1986,  to protect “our two good friends”: defense minister Juan Ponce Enrile and vice military chief Fidel Ramos, who defected from Marcos’ regime. 

“He led two people power revolutions. He was not afraid to be unpopular and criticized if only to denounce the evils of society,” Sescon explained. 

The museum is located in New Washington in Aklan and holds a collection of archival materials and Church artifacts, such as the mitre used by Sin, according to the Archdiocese of Manila. Sescon donated memorabilia to the museum as well. 

The first floor of the museum had already been turned into a chapel in honor of St. John Paul II. Sin hosted both of John Paul II’s visits to the Philippines in 1981 and 1995. 

The new museum was unveiled and blessed on Aug. 31, on what would have been Sin’s 96th birthday, and opened to the public the following day. 

The cardinal was born Aug. 31, 1928, and appointed archbishop of Manila by Pope Paul VI in 1974. In 1976, at the age of 48, he became the youngest cardinal in the world. Sin died on June 21, 2005, of complications from diabetes. 

“Hopefully, the museum in his hometown will instill to the people, especially the youth, the importance of good citizenship and morality in public office, that a good Christian is also a good citizen and leader,” Sescon noted. 

“May his life and legacy inspire more Filipinos to be more concerned and participative in the plight of the country and the need to choose righteous leaders,” he added.

An inscription on the wall of the museum reads: “My duty is to put Christ in politics. Politics without Christ is the greatest scourge of the nation,” a quote attributed to Sin.

“Cardinal Sin showed that love for country is also an expression of love for God,” Sescon said. “Our Catholic faith should also impel us to work for justice, peace, and good governance.”