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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Catholic bishop on SONA: 'Listen to the cries of the people, present concrete solutions'

Catholic bishop on SONA: 'Listen to the cries of the people, present concrete solutions'

Published Jul 25, 2020 04:06 pm

A Catholic prelate urged President Duterte to reveal the country's true condition during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 27.

San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza (CBCP / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO
San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza (CBCP / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)

“In his upcoming SONA, we appeal to the President not to turn a blind eye on the dire state of our people,” said San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza in a statement on Sunday, July 25.

“Today, the spate of deaths continues not only through state endorsed killings, but also through rampant hunger, loss of livelihood, and environmental degradation, among many others,” he added. 

The prelate also called on the government to focus on addressing the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) situation in the country, saying that the "pandemic calls for restraint and discerning governance."

"All efforts must be centered in addressing the COVID-19 crisis with integral medical solutions, and not focused on disguised approaches that are making our people suffer more," said Alminaza. 

Alminaza urged the President to listen to the needs of the public. 

"We are tired of hearing unwarranted jokes and threats in his speeches; we call on the President to listen to the cries of the people, present concrete solutions in his SONA, and serve in the interest of the public," he said. 

“Our people, too, must discern, act, and speak...We call for all to participate in a people’s SONA, just as we will. Let us unite and defend our rights. Let us unite in caring for Life and protecting humanity,” he added. 

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