By Leslie Ann Aquino
The Diocese of Cubao, led by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco, expressed concern over the death threats that some clergymen have reportedly received.
In a statement, the diocese said these shepherds are being threatened for speaking the truth.
"We are deeply concerned about shepherds, who are threatened when they exercise their role as prophets,” read the statement.
Bishop Honesto F. Ongtioco (Diocese of Cubao / MANILA BULLETIN)
"These threats to the life of our shepherds are not empty nor unfounded,” it further read.
"Their fault? They spoke the truth!" the statement read.
Earlier, Fr. Robert Reyes, a priest under the diocese, came out with two other priests and revealed the death threats they received.
The three are staunch critics of the administration's bloody war on drugs.
In the past, three priests were also murdered namely; Fr. Marcelito Paez in Jaen, Nueva Ecija on December 4, 2017; Fr. Mark Ventura in Gattaran, Cagayan on April 29, 2018; and Fr. Richmond Nilo in Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija on June 10, 2018.
The diocese then issued this appeal to those intent on committing violence against others: “Remember we are all children of God and each life is precious and important in the eyes of God, whether a bishop of a tambay.”
Meanwhile, the Cubao diocese also lamented how the traditional and sacred values Catholics hold dearly such as respect for life, honesty, truthfulness, and the dignity of the human person are now also being threatened.
“The young know what is right as what has been taught to them. But they are now confused. Why? Because a different set of values and examples are being pushed or promoted,” the statement read.
"Such a climate must call us to witness to our faith...our faith calls us to be prophets-to speak against all kinds of injustice and to uphold the commandments," it further read.
READ MORE: Running priest slams Panelo for belittling death threats, Three more priests receive death threats