Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales said Tuesday that natural disasters are there because God wants to awaken in the people their love and compassion for others.

“He’s waking up our dormant compassion,” Rosales said.

He cited the recent typhoons that hit the country and the latest volcanic activity of Mt. Mayon in Albay, Bicol.

“Look at the positive side of the disaster. God wants us to live in compassion, love, mercy and sharing. Without these events we would totally forgot about our less fortunate brothers and sisters,” Rosales said.

Cardinal Rosales said that even scientists are saying that disasters are necessary so that the people may live longer.

“Scientists are telling us that inside the earth is a fire. Liquid fire and that’s the one building up pressure. It has to find an exhaust through volcanic eruptions, earthquakes. It’s so happen that we are in the rim of fire. It’s good that we have these otherwise the world has long exploded. So for the safety of all somebody have to make a sacrifice. God is all knowing,” he said.

Rosales also viewed disasters as God’s way of testing the spirit and endurance of the people.

“He’s sharpening not only our body but our spirit of endurance, of sacrifice, the spirit of discipline,” he said.

“Although some people might be affected in the process but let us always remember that we are just borders here on earth. We don’t owe the earth…All of these belong to God. He calls the shots,” Rosales added.