Catholic bishop condemns killing just outside plenary meeting

July 10, 2017

Outgoing Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Archbishop Socrates Villegas Monday condemned the killing allegedly on Sunday night outside the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center, where the bishops are holding a plenary assembly. In his Facebook page, Villegas said bishops were outraged. "Last night, in front of the very place where the bishops are meeting as shepherds of the Philippine Church, a man known in these parts, was gunned down, yet another victim of extra judicial execution," said Villegas. "We demand answers. Shepherds must sometimes raise their voices when wolves prey on God's flock. Does the death squad, any death squad, own up to this latest travesty?" he furthered. Police said an unidentified male, estimated between 40-45 years old, was gunned down by two motorcycle-riding suspects in front of the Pope Pius Catholic Center. Police said no one was able to identify the victim. Villegas said this is clear proof unexplained killings remain. “Let the public outcry reach all concerned, for there must be an outcry. To us all is addressed that voice from heaven: 'The blood of the brother you have slain calls out from the earth'," said Villegas. DMS