MANILA, Dec. 1, 2009- Catholic bishops yesterday opposed calls for the revival of the death penalty, for whatever purpose it may be.
Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco said that no society has the right to take life.
"If a criminal needs to be jailed, so be it. But let's not take away his right to live. Life is a gift from God which has to be respected," Ongtioco said.
The talks in restoring the capital punishment afloat following the gruesome killings of 57 civilians composed of women, lawyers and journalists last week in Maguindanao province.
Retired Bishop of Novaliches, Teodoro Bacani, said he understands the sentiment of the people but reminded them "not to be carried away by their emotions".
"The death penalty should not be used in most cases because it doesn't solve the case any better," Bacani said.
The death penalty law was abolished on June 24, 2006 by President Arroyo after it was revived by the Ramos administration in 1994. (CBCPNews)