(We yield this space to the statement of Most Rev. Gerardo Alminaza, Bishop of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, due to its timeliness. – Ed.)
LET US NOT counter violence with violence!
This is our appeal to both the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) that threatened of declaring Martial Law; and the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP), that recently announced intensification of offensives.
Our people have suffered more than enough. Let us stop the cycle of violence by going back to the negotiating table and pursue a just and lasting peace. The GRP and the NDFP must always think of the poor, now living in fear for being caught in the crossfire.
Yes, we understand the animosities and anger between the state forces and rebels. Both sides are burning with rage and desire for revenge. Thus, all the more I appeal to all – please think of our people, especially the poor who are now and will continue to be affected by the bloody conflicts.
Please listen to our consistent call for an integral climate of peace in the island of Negros, and in the whole country. Let’s devote our energy, efforts and resources in looking for a lasting solution to end the prevailing social injustice.
This call cannot be achieved by a militarist approach of governance, or by pessimism to the attainment of peace.
Moved by the pleadings and prayers of our people for an end to this growing climate of fear and bloodshed, as your pastor, I appeal to the GRP and the NDFP, let us give peace a chance in our island of Negros.
Let us pursue the peace of Jesus!
