Philippines Cardinal Jaime Sin dies

Roman Catholic Cardinal Jaime Sin, an outspoken advocate of democracy who played a key role in the “people power” revolts that ousted two Philippine presidents, died today. He was 76.

Sin had been ill with kidney problems and diabetes for years and was unable to attend the Vatican conclave that chose a new Pope in April, although colleagues said he desperately wanted to go, even if he needed a wheelchair.

Known for his dedication, engaging personality and sense of humour – he often referred to his residence as “the house of Sin” – the cardinal was one of Asia’s most prominent religious leaders.

When he spoke, presidents listened.

Sin served as the moral compass in the overwhelmingly Catholic Philippines, where he took vocal, sometimes controversial stances on everything from birth control to poverty, politics and the US-led war in Iraq. He once apologised for church neglect of the poor.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who continued to seek his counsel even after he retired in November 2003, called him “a blessed man who never failed to unite Filipinos during the most crucial battles against tyranny and evil”.

“Cardinal Sin leaves a legacy of freedom and justice forged in deep personal courage,” Arroyo said in a statement.

Aides had to help a weak-looking Sin to the altar toward the end of his tenure as Manila archbishop.

But he remained a staunch defender of democracy after he stepped down as head of the archdiocese that he served for nearly three decades.

Hours before hundreds of soldiers and officers staged a failed coup against Arroyo in July 2003, he urged Filipinos to be vigilant against groups plotting to violently overturn the country’s democratic institutions. The 19-hour uprising failed.