TARLAKENYO (Feb. 22, 2026) — In a pastoral response to the challenges of the digital age, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has released its Lenten message for 2026, calling on the faithful to observe a “Digital Media Fasting” as a modern expression of conversion and renewal.
The pastoral letter, titled “Fasting Beyond Food: Inviting Christ into Digital Media Use,” was signed by CBCP President Archbishop Gilbert A. Garcera, D.D., of Lipa and dated February 13, 2026.
It encourages Catholics to go beyond the traditional practice of abstaining from food and to examine how constant engagement with digital media such as social media, streaming platforms, and online entertainment that can distract the heart from God and weaken authentic human relationships.
Citing Matthew 6:18, the bishops remind the faithful that true fasting is not for show but an intimate offering to God. “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 letter reads.
The CBCP offers practical suggestions for observing the fast, including avoiding phone use upon waking and before sleep, limiting time on social media, keeping meals and gatherings device-free, removing distracting apps, and even practicing occasional 24-hour or weekend digital fasts.
The goal, according to the bishops, is not mere deprivation but transformation, making room for prayer, Scripture, works of mercy, and genuine connection with others.
A Unified Call Across the Diocese of Tarlac
The message takes on a more specific and unified character in the Diocese of Tarlac. Most Rev. Roberto C. Mallari, D.D. , Bishop of Tarlac, has issued a directive that the CBCP pastoral letter on digital media fasting serve as the basis for the homily in all parishes and chapels within the diocese on the First Sunday of Lent.
Bishop Mallari’s initiative ensures that the faithful across the Diocese will receive a unified message calling them to reflect on their relationship with digital media and to embrace this timely form of fasting as they begin their Lenten journey.
By anchoring the Sunday homily on this theme, Bishop Mallari aims to make the “digital detox” a central pillar of Lenten observance for every Catholic family and community in the province.
Fruits of the Fast
The pastoral letter emphasizes that digital media fasting is not anti-technology but an invitation to let Christ guide one’s use of media. The fruits of such a practice, the bishops explain, include a deeper relationship with God, greater mental clarity, emotional peace, improved rest, and stronger family and community ties.
“The Lord calls us to fast not with gloomy faces but with joyful hearts seeking renewal,” the bishops conclude. “In stepping back from digital excess, we reclaim interior silence, deepen relationships, and rediscover God’s presence in daily life.”
As Lent 2026 begins, the faithful in Tarlac and across the Philippines are invited to unplug from the digital world to reconnect with their faith, their loved ones, and themselves.
Here is the link of the pastoral letter as published on the CBCP website: https://cbcpnews.net/cbcpnews/fasting-beyond-food-inviting-christ-into-digital-media-use/
