Hustisya Unity Statement: '0 Day of Wrath, 0 Day of Mourning'

September 11: A day to remember what terrorism means

A Statement of Concern by the University Council of the University of the Philippines Baguio: END ABDUCTIONS AND POLITICAL KILLINGS

Statement from the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues Chairperson

We received the message of the Most Reverend Bishop Alberto Ramento’s brutal death in the Parish of San Sebastian, Tarlac City last Tuesday morning.

With the rest of the nation, we strongly condemn and deeply mourn his passing and remember what he has done for the people.

In our recent video production with the Aglipayan Central Theological School (ACTS) Media entitled Santuaryo (Sanctuary), he spoke about the life and martyrdom of Fr. William Tadena who was gunned down by motorcycle-riding men after he said mass in Tarlac last March 13, 2005. He strongly condemned the killings that have been happening in the country. He challenged the people to continuing working for justice.

Like Fr. Tadena, Bishop Ramento was outspoken against the ills in society. He lived a life of faith and was an active witness for truth and justice. He was unwavering in his advocacies for the poor, oppressed and exploited. He was at the forefront of the struggle for the respect of human rights and was a staunch peace advocate. He was also a straightforward critic of the Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo regime and its anti-people policies.

It is difficult to believe that his death was a simple criminal case as being stated by the Philippine National Police (PNP). We believe the statements issued by the Iglesia Filipina Independiente and Bayan Muna - that the beloved Bishop was murdered not because of robbery but because of political motives. Those who ordered his killing meant to silence him.

We join his family, friends and church in grief and rage. We join them in calling for justice for Bishop Ramento and all the victims of state terrorism.#


Reference:

Audrey Beltran
Program Coordinator
Tan-aw Multimedia Collective