Religious group speaks out on drug-related deaths

Along with other concerned groups and organizations, the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines (AMRSP) expressed that they are alarmed by the public’s neutrality or support to the spate of extrajudicial killings, which, according to them, seemed “to go unchecked, without trial, or investigation.:”

The group supports President Rodrigo Duterte’s war against illegal drugs. However, they said that the authorities should “follow the procedure and operate within the bounds of law.”


“Ubi boni tacent malum prosperat. Evil prospers where good men are silent. Is this lack of public outcry a tacit approval of what is happening? Is it fear that prevents people from speaking out?”

Since Duterte assumed office on July 1 and declared the war, already 1,916 people have lost their lives to legitimate police operations and summary executions. More than 700 of this number, 700 were killed in police ops.

Among the other groups that expressed their critcicisms are the United Nations, United States, and other international human rights organizations. 

The issue could possibly lead to a culture of impunity, the group warned Filipinos.

“The drug problem is a complex and deeply-emotional issue that needs to be addressed holistically, with great understanding and compassion for both victim and perpetrator for we all dehumanized by this culture of death,” they explained.

The police, they said, should continue the arrest of people involved in illegal drugs and also the vigilantes responsible for the killings.

In line with their statement, the AMRSP would be holding Masses and prayer vigils for peace and justice. In solidarity with the poor and to uphold the seemingly forgotten sacredness of life, they toll their bells at 3 pm every day. They also offered counselling to the families of slain victims. ASCS

Source: Inquirer

Love this article? Sharing is caring!