Through concerted efforts of concerned people including his family, Staff Cadet Joel Cabides has been granted permanent residency. Prime Minister John Howard and related cabinet members have facilitated the process so that even the parents and siblings of Joel have received permanent residence.
The compassionate and humanitarian face of the federal government has been highlighted once more. Back in August of this year the Filipino Chaplaincy heard about the situation of Joel (a 23 year old quadriplegic) who was confined at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick. After a pastoral visit to Joel by the coordinators of the Chaplaincy, it was decided to embark on a pro-active stance. A petition letter on behalf of Joel seeking the best medical care for him as well as a request for permanent residency was drafted. The Filipino Chaplaincy Chatswood Parish launched a signature campaign last September during their monthly Eucharistic Celebration.
After two months of visiting various chaplaincies at Mascot, Waitara and Dee Why, close to three hundred signatures were gathered including friends of these chaplaincies from around NSW. The petition letter with the supporting signatures was sent to Prime Minister Howard. Ministers Kevin Andrews, Tony Abbott, Joe Hockey and Brendan Nelson were furnished a copy.
Eventually, a family member spoke to the pastoral care coordinator and briefed him on the successful outcome of their combined efforts. Last November 13 the office for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship sent a letter to Deacon Elect Roberto Corpuz, Pastoral Care coordinator. In part it reads: “I am pleased to advise you that Staff Cadet Joel Cabides and his family have recently been granted permanent visas. Thank you for bringing this matter to attention.”
We have since visited Joel in hospital and he has been fitted with the frenetic implant device that assists him in his breathing. He was in great spirits as we chatted to him, his mum and brother. They wish to thank everyone who has supported them in the petition letter and most importantly in prayers.