The Military Ordinariate of the Philippines has expressed its support to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s move to dismantle the private armies following the killing of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo.
In a statement, Military Ordinariate Chancellor Harley Flores that this move can help ensure peace and security.
“Private armies and illegal firearms only serve to promote lawlessness and instability, and they threaten the peace and security of the communities they operate in,” said Flores.
“It is therefore the responsibility of the government to take strong action to dismantle these groups and confiscate their weapons,” he added.
Flores also condemned the killing of Degamo.
“These violent acts have no place in a civilized society governing a responsible citizenry under just laws. All the perpetrators must be brought to justice,” he said.
Degamo was shot by armed men while he was meeting his constituents inside his residential compound in Pamplona, Negros Oriental last Satuday, March 4. Aside from Degamo, eight other people died during the incident.