FEBRUARY 18, 2026 — The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has once again stirred reflection this Lenten season with a call that feels both timely and challenging: digital media fasting. In its pastoral letter “Fasting Beyond Food: Inviting Christ into Digital Media Use”, the bishops remind us that fasting isn’t just about skipping meals — it’s about detaching from anything that distracts our hearts from God. And in today’s world, that distraction often comes in the form of glowing screens.

The CBCP explains: “True fasting, as Jesus teaches, is not an external performance but an interior conversion. Digital media fasting, therefore, invites a rediscovery of silence, prayer, contemplation, and authentic relationships.” 

Think about it: how many of us reach for our phones the moment we wake up, or scroll until our eyes blur before sleep? 

The bishops suggest simple practices — device-free meals, limiting social media time, even trying a 24-hour digital detox. Replace that screen time with prayer, Scripture, or simply talking to loved ones. The promise? Greater mental clarity, emotional peace, stronger family ties, and a renewed sense of God’s presence.

Filipinos rank among the world’s heaviest social media users, so this call hits close to home. According to recent studies, the average Filipino spends nearly four hours a day on social platforms. Imagine reclaiming even half of that time for silence, service, or genuine connection. Lent, after all, is about renewal — and maybe unplugging is the modern sacrifice we need.

Technology is a blessing when used responsibly, but it must serve human life — not dominate it. And perhaps this Lent, the challenge isn’t just giving up meat or sweets, but giving up the endless scroll.

Can we truly rediscover silence by fasting from digital media this Lent? Can you do it?

(Image: CBCPNews)