June 1, 2007—The Catholic bishops’ leadership said they are “shamed and saddened” the country continues to record high in corruption and cases of human rights abuses.
In a message for the celebration of the 109th anniversary of Philippine Independence, CBCP president Archbishop Angel Lagdameo stressed the said issues that continue to haunt the current administration are “negative” notes to the celebration of Independence Day.
Ironically, he said, “while we have been liberated from the control of foreign invaders, we are victims of the abuses and exploitation of fellow Filipinos.”
“On ‘Kalayaan Day’ we join the clamor for the restoration or return of the victims of disappearances. Our prayer is that they will be allowed to return safe and sound to their grieving and anxious families, to enjoy basic freedom,” said Lagdameo.
The CBCP head called on the government to uphold and defend people’s basic human rights and freedom and ensure justice for all victims of human rights violations.
“We are ashamed and saddened by comments that our country ranks among those with most records of graft and corruptions, unresolved cases of heinous crimes and mysterious disappearances and unabated extra-judicial killings,” he said.
Lagdameo cried foul the many unresolved killings and enforced disappearances in the country that targets especially activists and journalists. He said there is so much demand for restitution to helpless and violence victims, especially so their appeals fall on “deaf ears.”