By Genalyn Kabiling
Australian missionary nun Patricia Fox must comply with the deportation order of the Bureau of Immigration since it is the law, Malacañang said Thursday.
Patricia Fox
(Mark Balmores / MANILA BULLETIN)
“That's the law. Dura lex, sed lex,” Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said in a text message, referring to the Latin verse the means “The law is harsh but it is the law.”
The immigration bureau has reportedly ordered the deportation of Fox for allegedly violating the conditions of her missionary visa. Fox was earlier accused of involvement partisan political activities, a violation of her stay in the country.
President Duterte earlier lashed out at Fox for interfering with the country’s political affairs, saying only Filipinos have the right to criticize or insult the government.
Recently, Duterte admitted that his “stupid” God comment was directed at Fox who was critical of the government. He said it was "not proper” for religious leaders to use God or the church pulpit to hurl attacks or criticisms against the government.