THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Monday urged the public to limit their screen time and observe digital media “fasting” ahead of the Lenten season, which begins on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18.
In a pastoral letter, the CBCP said that fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and stressed the importance of detaching from digital media consumption to foster a deeper relationship with God.
“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. It is not meant to punish the body but to free the heart,” the CBCP said.
While recognizing the positive impact of modern technology, the CBCP said that excessive media consumption can lead to fatigue, distraction, weakened relationships, and diminished spiritual awareness.
“Constant connectivity leaves little room for silence and reflection. Many struggle to be present to God and others because screens constantly demand attention. Digital media fasting helps restore balance and reminds us that technology must serve human life, not dominate it,” the CBCP said.
It outlined several practical steps for incorporating digital media fasting into daily life during Lent, such as avoiding using phones before sleep and upon waking, limiting time spent on social media and streaming platforms, observing device-free meals and gatherings, practicing occasional 24-hour or weekend digital fasts, removing distracting apps from devices, and replacing screen time with prayer, service, reading, or meaningful conversations.
The CBCP also clarified that digital media fasting is not anti-technology but a call to use technology responsibly.
“Digital media fasting is not simply about giving something up. It is about making room for something better,” it noted.
